Football season is back, and San Antonio is ready for kickoff. On Saturday, September 6, the University of Texas at San Antonio and Texas State will collide in the I-35 rivalry game at the Alamodome. Whether you're a Roadrunner, a Bobcat, or just love college football, the Alamo City has you covered with high-energy sports bars to family-friendly ice houses.
While the game-day party is reason enough to show up, the football itself promises plenty of drama. Separated by just 50 miles, UTSA and Texas State have built one of Central Texas' fiercest rivalries. The Bobcats' upset win last season — their first ever against the Roadrunners — has fans on both sides fired up.
Of course, you don't have to know a first down from a field goal to enjoy the action. San Antonio's game-day hangouts are packed with lawn games, cold beers, and plenty of game-day snacks. Whether you're a die-hard fan or want to get caught up in the gridiron fun, here's where to watch the I-35 rivalry this weekend and football all season.
Atlee's Rally
This St. Paul Square newbie may have a basketball theme, but it's rushing into football season with drink specials and game day menus. At publication time, it hasn't announced programming for the UTSA-Texas State clash, but the spot always has something up its sleeve, whether it's discounted beer buckets or post-touchdown entertainment. Did we mention it has a giant row of screens behind the bar?
The Block SA has plenty of space to stretch out during game day.The Block SA/ Facebook
The Block SA
Just steps from UTSA's campus, this open-air food truck park is a student favorite. With giant outdoor screens, cold drinks, and a campus crowd, it feels like an extension of the Dome. Picnic tables keep the atmosphere chummy and provide a handy perch for a spread of tacos, doughnuts, and pizza.
The Friendly Spot Ice House
A Southtown institution with more than 250 bottled beers and one of the largest outdoor screens in San Antonio. It's relaxed during the week, but full-on football central on Saturdays. Get there early to secure the best table and don't forget to grab your sunglasses. If the gameplay lags, the grounds offer some of the best people watching in the city.
Gimme Gimme
This Southtown haunt isn't exactly a sports bar, but it's never been easily pegged. While the TV sets will be tuned into the game, it probably won't be overrun with fans wearing orange and blue. That makes it the ideal spot for a mixed crowd of football fans and skeptics. Surely, the whole group can agree to order another round of duck fat waffle fries for the table.
Howdy, Sore Loser brings yeehaw vibes to sports.Howdy, Sore Loser/ Facebook
Howdy, Sore Loser
This woman-owned newcomer proves that sports bars don't have to sacrifice vibes to make it to first down. Get decked out in a jersey and prepare to take some selfies during timeouts. The Beyoncé-style mirrored horse is the hands-down favorite backdrop.
McIntyre's North Star
A massive 13,000 sq. ft. venue featuring a 600-inch LED screen and a spacious dog-friendly patio with over 600 free parking spaces. Known for its lively atmosphere and extensive drink menu, it's a favorite among sports fans who don't want to travel downtown to cheer on their favorite team.
The Roo Pub
An Aussie-themed sports bar offering 20 beers on tap and over 70 bottled selections. With three 200-inch HD projectors and a full menu of fresh, house-made dishes, it has earned a spot in the sports bar hall of fame. Yes, they have alligator bites, lightly breaded and served with remoulade.
Slackers Sports Bar
With multiple locations around the city, Slackers is rowdy, casual, and perfect for big groups. Arcade games and pub grub keep the energy high when the action slows down. The outpost on St. Mary's Strip turns any watch party into a bar crawl.
