College Basketball Comes to Chicago This March
Where to Watch the Big Games Across Chicago and the Suburbs
March is one of the most exciting times of the year for college basketball fans, and Chicago is right at the center of the action this season.
The Big Ten men’s postseason basketball tournament is currently taking place at the United Center, bringing together programs from across the conference including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Michigan, Michigan State, Minnesota, Nebraska, Northwestern, Ohio State, Penn State, Purdue, Rutgers, Wisconsin, Oregon, UCLA, USC, and Washington.
The excitement continues later this month when the national college basketball championship tournament regional rounds return to Chicago, also hosted at the United Center. These games are part of the annual national championship tournament that determines the college basketball champion each spring and draws fans from across the country.
Whether you are attending the games downtown or simply enjoying the atmosphere around the city, Chicago offers countless places to catch the action on big screens with fellow fans.
Below are some great spots to watch the games across Chicago, the North Shore, West Suburbs, and Southwest Suburbs.
Where to Watch the Games in Chicago
Chicago’s sports bar scene is one of the best in the country, and tournament season brings packed rooms, alumni gatherings, and game-day food and drink specials.
River North / Downtown
• Theory
One of Chicago’s premier sports bars featuring dozens of screens and stadium-style viewing. Known for wings, burgers, and an energetic game-day atmosphere.
• Timothy O'Toole's Pub Chicago
A longtime favorite with 70+ TVs and plenty of space for large groups. Often runs game-day drink specials and classic pub food.
Wrigleyville
• DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field
A two-level sportsbook and sports bar experience adjacent to Wrigley Field. Expect huge screens, stadium seating, and a lively crowd during major sporting events.
Logan Square
• The Moonlighter
Neighborhood favorite with a rooftop patio, great tacos and burgers, and TVs throughout the bar.
West Loop
• Kaiser Tiger
A West Loop staple with a large beer garden and strong beer selection. Great for watching games indoors or outside on warm spring days.
• Haymarket Pub & Brewery
Local brewery with excellent craft beer and a fun sports crowd during big tournaments.
North Shore Watch Spots
For fans watching from the North Shore, several excellent neighborhood sports bars host tournament viewing.
• Buffalo Joe's
A North Shore institution known for its wings and casual sports atmosphere.
• Ten Mile House
Neighborhood tavern with excellent burgers and a welcoming sports crowd.
• Tap House Grill
Spacious bar and restaurant with a wide beer list and plenty of TVs for tournament games.
West Suburbs
If you are watching from the western suburbs, these spots are popular during big sporting events.
• Old Town Pour House
Known for its massive TV wall and large craft beer selection.
• Two Brothers Roundhouse
Historic brewery venue with multiple viewing areas and a lively sports crowd.
• Burger Antics
Great burgers and a relaxed neighborhood vibe while catching the games.
Southwest Suburbs
Sports fans in the southwest suburbs also have several great options to watch the games.
• Durbin's of Tinley Park
Local favorite known for pizza and a casual sports bar atmosphere.
• Bailey's
A lively neighborhood bar with lots of TVs and frequent game-day crowds.
• Hailstorm Brewing Co.
Popular craft brewery that regularly shows major sporting events.
Pregame Spots Near the United Center
If you are heading to the games at the United Center, there are several excellent restaurants and bars just minutes away for food and drinks before tipoff.
• The Ogden
A go-to spot for fans attending Bulls, Blackhawks, and major tournament games.
• Billy Goat Tavern & Grill
Classic Chicago tavern famous for burgers and casual game-day dining.
• Kaiser Tiger
Another strong option just a short ride from the arena with great beer and plenty of seating.
Chicago and College Basketball
Chicago has long been a host city for major college basketball events thanks to the United Center’s central location, passionate sports culture, and strong alumni presence from Big Ten universities across the Midwest.
When the conference tournament and national championship tournament come through the city, fans from across the Midwest travel to Chicago to watch the games and celebrate with fellow alumni.
The result is a citywide atmosphere filled with watch parties, packed sports bars, and a lively sports energy throughout Chicagoland.
FAQ: College Basketball Tournaments in Chicago
Where is the Big Ten basketball tournament being played in Chicago?
The Big Ten men’s postseason tournament is currently being hosted at the United Center on Chicago’s Near West Side.
Will Chicago host games from the national college basketball championship tournament?
Yes. Chicago is hosting regional round games at the United Center as part of the national championship tournament.
What are the best sports bars in Chicago to watch college basketball?
Popular options include Theory in River North, DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field, Moonlighter in Logan Square, and Kaiser Tiger in the West Loop.
What neighborhoods are near the United Center for pregame food and drinks?
The Near West Side and West Loop neighborhoods offer several great restaurants and bars just minutes from the arena.
Chicago Lifestyle
One of the many reasons people love living in Chicago is the energy that major sporting events bring to the city.
From packed arenas to neighborhood sports bars filled with alumni and fans, the city truly comes alive during major college basketball events.
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