🏀 Best Places to Watch March Madness in Ankeny, Des Moines & West Des Moines (2026 Guide)
March Madness is one of the best times of the year—buzzer beaters, bracket busters, and nonstop basketball all day long.
If you're looking for the best places to watch March Madness near Ankeny, Des Moines, and West Des Moines, I’ve rounded up the top local spots where you can catch every game, enjoy great food and drinks, and soak in the energy.
And if you’d rather skip the crowds… I’ve got something for you at the end 👇
Best Places to Watch March Madness in Ankeny
🍻 Benchwarmers Sports Bar & Grill
The go-to sports bar in Ankeny. Tons of TVs, strong game-day atmosphere, and exactly what you want for March Madness.
Best for: Die-hard basketball fans who want multiple games on at once
🍔 30hop
A more modern, elevated sports-watching experience with great food and a huge tap selection.
Best for: Watching games while still feeling like you’re out for a nice dinner
🔥 Whiskey River
Located in The District, this spot brings the energy. Expect a crowd, great drinks, and a fun atmosphere.
Best for: A lively night out + basketball
🍺 Boulder Tap House
Solid food, lots of TVs, and a consistent sports bar vibe that’s easy to enjoy.
Best for: Casual, reliable game watching
🍻 Firetrucker Brewery
A local favorite brewery with a laid-back vibe. Not a traditional sports bar, but still a great place to catch games.
Best for: Chill atmosphere + craft beer lovers
Best Places to Watch March Madness in Des Moines
🏀 Johnny's Hall of Fame
A downtown staple during big sporting events. Packed, loud, and full of energy.
Best for: That classic March Madness crowd
🍺 El Bait Shop
One of the best beer selections in the Midwest with TVs throughout.
Best for: Beer lovers who still want to catch the games
🍸 Des Moines Athletic Club
A more upscale sports viewing experience with great cocktails and a trendy vibe.
Best for: Watching games while still going “out”
🍻 Iowa Taproom
Huge Iowa beer selection, big space, and plenty of TVs.
Best for: Groups + local craft beer fans
🌿 Big Grove Brewery
A newer hotspot with great food, drinks, and a fun environment.
Best for: A mix of food, drinks, and basketball
Best Places to Watch March Madness in West Des Moines
🎉 Smash Park
The ultimate watch party destination—massive screens, tons of seating, and nonstop energy.
Best for: Big groups + full March Madness experience
🍹 Wellman's Pub & Rooftop
A fun, social atmosphere with rooftop space and plenty of TVs.
Best for: Watching games + socializing
📺 Tuddy’s Tavern
Overloaded with TVs and built for sports fans.
Best for: Seeing every game at once
🐶 Paws & Pints
A unique dog park + bar combo where you can watch games and hang with your pup.
Best for: Dog owners who don’t want to leave their pup at home
🍺 Barn Town Brewing
Great food, craft beer, and a comfortable setting to catch the games.
Best for: A more relaxed, high-quality experience
Skip the Crowds Join Our Sweet 16 Watch Party
If you’d rather avoid packed bars and actually enjoy the games…
👉 Join us for our Sweet 16 Watch Party at Flight Bar & Grill in Huxley
📅 March 26th (evening)
🍸 Great drinks
🏀 All the games
👥 Fun, laid-back atmosphere
This is the perfect way to watch the Sweet 16 without fighting for a seat.
🏀 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for:
A high-energy sports bar
A chill brewery vibe
Or a place to watch with friends
There’s no shortage of great options around Ankeny and Des Moines for March Madness.
And if you want the best of both worlds—great games and a great crowd—
👉 We’ll see you at Flight on March 26th.