Finding the right spot to catch a kickoff, watch extra innings, or sweat out a March Madness bracket shouldn't be left to chance. If you're hunting for the best sports bars in Ankeny, you want more than just a wall of static screens and lukewarm macro brews. You need places with the right audio setups, reliable sports packages, solid scratch-made food, and crowds that actually care about the game.
Ankeny features a fast-growing culinary and social scene, and its local watering holes have stepped up far beyond basic pub grub. Whether you're chasing the Sunday NFL ticket, looking for a family-friendly restaurant with enough monitors to track your fantasy roster, or trying to find a vibrant local hangout for a rivalry Saturday, this guide breaks down where you should actually go.
What Makes a Great Game Day Destination
Not every tavern with a television qualifies as a proper sports bar. To earn a spot on a serious fan's rotation, a venue needs to hit specific operational marks.
First, screen placement and audio zoning matter. If you can't see a monitor from your barstool, or if the house music completely drowns out the play-by-play during a playoff game, it's a failure. Top-tier spots invest in multi-screen sightlines so you don't have to crane your neck, and they know how to route sound dynamically when multiple major games happen at once. Analysts at Bloomberg have shared their thoughts on this trend.
Second, the menu has to hold up through a four-hour college football Saturday. Nobody wants to survive on stale popcorn. Look for kitchens turning out hand-breaded tenderloins, fresh wings with house-made sauces, smash burgers, and shareable appetizers that arrive hot.
Finally, package access defines a true sports sanctuary. Casual diners carry basic cable, but real spots pay for dedicated packages like the NFL Sunday Ticket, Big Ten Network, SEC Network, and out-of-market MLB or NBA passes.
Top Spots to Watch and Eat in Ankeny
Ankeny hosts several standout local establishments tailored specifically to sports enthusiasts. Here is where you should pull up a chair.
The Chicken Coop
Located on SW Oralabor Road, The Chicken Coop has anchored Ankeny's sports scene for over a decade. It functions as a classic neighborhood sports grill featuring a heavy lineup of flat-screen TVs positioned to catch every angle.
- The Vibe: Casual, high-energy, and welcoming to both hardcore fans and families.
- The Menu: Famous for fresh wings, burgers, and scratch-made comfort food ranging from ribs to steaks.
- Game Day Advantage: They carry an extensive lineup of sports packages, including the NFL Sunday Ticket, Big Ten Network, Golf Channel, and SEC Network, making it a reliable bet for college football Saturdays and NFL Sundays.
Benchwarmers Sports Bar & Grill
Situated on S Ankeny Blvd, Benchwarmers leans heavily into traditional sports bar culture with daily drink deals and an active local crowd.
- The Vibe: Loud, social, and packed during major sporting events.
- The Menu: Classic American tavern fare featuring heavy appetizers, loaded baskets, and cold draft beers.
- Game Day Advantage: Outstanding happy hour windows (Monday through Friday plus late-night specials) give you great value while you watch the evening slate of games.
Cabaret Sports Bar & Grille
Operating on the local scene with a veteran-owned pedigree, Cabaret Sports Bar & Grille blends scratch-made American classic food with an expansive entertainment calendar.
- The Vibe: Lively, community-focused, and versatile—shifting smoothly from a relaxed lunch spot to a high-energy night out.
- The Menu: Reliable pub favorites, hearty burgers, and comforting hot plates built for dine-in or takeout.
- Game Day Advantage: Beyond sports on the screens, they frequently feature local events, live entertainment, and a spacious layout that accommodates groups easily.
Strategic Tips for Big Game Days
If you plan to walk into a popular Ankeny sports bar ten minutes before kickoff of a major rivalry game or playoff matchup, you're likely going to stare at a standing-room-only crowd near the door. Winning game day requires a bit of planning.
- Arrive early for high-profile slots: For NFL early games, college football rivalry weeks, or the Super Bowl, aim to grab your table at least 45 to 60 minutes before opening kickoff.
- Call ahead about game audio: If your team plays at the same time as a local favorite (like the Iowa Hawkeyes or Iowa State Cyclones), call the bar ahead of time to verify which game gets main audio priority over the house speakers.
- Confirm package availability: Don't assume every venue carries niche out-of-market streaming packages. If you're tracking a specific MLS, NHL, or college program, ring the bar beforehand to confirm they have the subscription.
- Utilize carry-out for home watch parties: If crowded rooms aren't your style, tap into large-party carry-out menus from spots like The Chicken Coop to build an effortless home tailgate spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Ankeny sports bars require reservations for major games?
Most local sports bars operate on a strict first-come, first-served basis, especially for regular season games. However, for massive events like the NCAA Tournament opening rounds or the Super Bowl, some locations take group reservations or sell ticketed entry. It's always best to call ahead during game week.
Where can I watch college football games with sound in Ankeny?
Spots with dedicated multi-zone audio setups like The Chicken Coop are your best bet. When multiple major games air simultaneously, ask your bartender or server which section has the audio feed for your specific matchup.
Are children allowed in Ankeny sports bars?
Yes. Most local sports grills operate as family-friendly restaurants during lunch and early evening hours, offering kids' menus alongside standard pub fare. As the night progresses into late-evening weekend hours, the atmosphere shifts more toward a traditional bar crowd.
Can I find local Iowa craft beers on tap while watching the game?
Absolutely. Ankeny bars heavily feature regional favorites from craft breweries across the Des Moines metro area and Iowa, ensuring you can pair your game-day basket with a local IPA or seasonal draft.
