If you can’t make it to Gainbridge Fieldhouse for a Pacers game – or they’re playing on the road – the next best place is a great sports bar filled with fellow Pacers fans. Needless to say, there are plenty of Indiana Pacers sports bars in Indianapolis. But you will also find Pacers-friendly sports bars in Bloomington, Evanston, and South Bend. There are even a few sports bars in Chicago, Cincinnati, and Louisville where Pacers fans gather to watch the Indiana Pacers play.
THIS POST IS BEING UPDATED FOR THE 2026/27 NBA SEASON
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Indiana Pacers Team History
The Indiana Pacers are a professional basketball team competing in the Central Division of the Eastern Conference in the National Basketball Association (NBA).
The team plays home games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, a state-of-the-art indoor sports arena in downtown Indianapolis, Indiana.
Founded in 1967, the Pacers originally competed in the American Basketball Association (ABA). After the NBA-ABA merger in 1976, they were one of four teams that transitioned into the NBA.
Over the years, the Pacers have built a strong legacy, winning nine division titles, a conference championship in 2000, and three ABA championships in 1970, 1972, and 1973.
While the team has yet to secure an NBA championship, its dedicated fan base and rich history make it a powerhouse in professional basketball.
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How Did The Pacers Get Their Name?
The Indiana Pacers name is deeply rooted in the state’s racing heritage. When the team was founded in 1967 as part of the ABA (American Basketball Association), the owners wanted a name that reflected Indiana’s identity. They decided on “Pacers” for two reasons:
1️⃣ Harness Racing – Indiana was known for its standardbred horse racing, where pacers—horses trained to maintain a specific gait—were a major part of the sport.
2️⃣ Indianapolis 500 Pace Car – Indiana is home to the legendary Indy 500, and every race begins with a pace car leading the pack around the track.
The name symbolizes speed, leadership, and tradition—perfect for a basketball team that’s always pushing the tempo!
Since then, the Pacers have built their own legacy, representing Hoosier pride, fast-paced play, and decades of unforgettable moments on the court. 🏀💙💛
📝 Blogger’s Note: “You’ll hear the term ‘Hoosier’ a lot when talking about Indiana, and if you’re wondering—it simply refers to anyone from the state. Where it comes from? Well, that’s a mystery historians have debated for centuries!
Best Indiana Pacers Sports Bars in Indianapolis
Here are 13 of the best Indiana Pacers bars in Indianapolis to cheer on the Pacers. They are the best place to root for the Pacers—next to Gainbridge Fieldhouse, of course.
BTW, bars can close, fans can migrate from one spot to another, and some locations may close for private events.
Therefore, always call ahead to avoid disappointment and a wasted trip.
- Ale Emporium – 8617 Allisonville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46250 🍽️ Must-Try: Famous Hermanaki wings and craft beer 🎉 Atmosphere: Packed with sports fans, especially on game nights. FACEBOOK
- Kilroy’s Bar n Grill – 201 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225 🍽️ Must-Try: Stuffed breadsticks and burgers 🎉 Atmosphere: Lively, energetic, and a favorite for Pacers fans. FACEBOOK
- High Velocity – 10 S West St, Indianapolis, IN 46204 🍽️ Must-Try: Burgers, wings, and cocktails 🎉 Atmosphere: Sleek, upscale sports lounge with massive screens, FACEBOOK
- The District Tap – 3720 E 82nd St, Indianapolis, IN 46240 🍽️ Must-Try: Huge beer selection and upscale bar food 🎉 Atmosphere: Modern, welcoming, and great for game nights, FACEBOOK
- Rockstone Pizzeria & Pub – 11501 Allisonville Rd, Fishers, IN 46038 🍽️ Must-Try: Wood-fired pizzas and craft beer 🎉 Atmosphere: Cozy, casual, and a strong NBA crowd. FACEBOOK
- Old Pro’s Table – 827 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220 🍽️ Must-Try: Classic pub food and cold beer 🎉 Atmosphere: Laid-back, great for catching a game with friends. FACEBOOK
- Kilroy’s Broad Ripple – 831 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220 🍽️ Must-Try: Stuffed breadsticks and Long Island iced teas 🎉 Atmosphere: Energetic sports bar with live music and plenty of TVs
- Coaches Tavern – 28 S Pennsylvania St, Indianapolis, IN 46204 🍽️ Must-Try: Pub fare and signature cocktails 🎉 Atmosphere: Cozy, inviting, and packed with sports fans. FACEBOOK
- Dugout Bar – 621 Virginia Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46203 🍽️ Must-Try: Wings and cold beer 🎉 Atmosphere: Neighborhood favorite with a casual, friendly vibe. FACEBOOK
- Chatham Tap – 719 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46204 🍽️ Must-Try: Burgers and craft beer 🎉 Atmosphere: Solid sports-bar vibe with great food. FACEBOOK
- Average Joe’s Sports Pub & Grub – 814 Broad Ripple Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46220 🍽️ Must-Try: Wings, burgers, and beer 🎉 Atmosphere: Fun, casual, and excellent for game nights. FACEBOOK
- Ralston’s Drafthouse – 635 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46204 🍽️ Must-Try: Hot Mess sandwich and waffle sweet potato fries 🎉 Atmosphere: Casual setting with indoor/outdoor seating and a great beer selection. FACEBOOK
- Brothers Bar & Grill – 255 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46225 🍽️ Must-Try: Classic bar food including burgers and wraps 🎉 Atmosphere: Large space with a fun sports-bar vibe and affordable drinks. FACEBOOK
Best Indiana Pacers Sports Bars in Other Indiana Cities
Indiana Pacers fans show up at sports bars across the state, bringing game-day energy far beyond Indianapolis.
If you can’t make it to Gainbridge Fieldhouse, these bars in Fort Wayne, Bloomington, Evansville, and more are great places to catch the action.
Bars change, fans relocate, and some locations host private events. Always call ahead to confirm that the game you want to watch will be on.
Bloomington, Indiana
Are there any sports bars in Bloomington, Indiana, that show Indiana Pacers games?
Yes, the following spot in Bloomington often shows Indiana Pacers games. But always check in advance!
- Kilroy’s Sports Bar – 319 N Walnut St, Bloomington, IN 47404. 🍽️ Must-Try: Long Island iced teas and classic bar food. 🎉 Atmosphere: Two-story bar with DJs, dance floor, and outdoor patios. FACEBOOK
Carmel, Indiana
Are there any sports bars in X, Indiana, that show Indiana Pacers games?
Yes, the following spot in X often shows Indiana Pacers games. But always check in advance!
- Noble Roman’s Craft Pizza & Pub – Carmel, IN. 🍽️ Must-Try: Craft pizza and pub-style food. 🎉 Atmosphere: Popular Pacers watch party location. FACEBOOK
Evansville, Indiana
Are there any sports bars in X, Indiana, that show Indiana Pacers games?
Yes, the following spot in X often shows Indiana Pacers games. But always check in advance!
- O’Brian’s Sports Bar & Grill – 1801 N Green River Rd, Evansville, IN 47715. 🍽️ Must-Try: American-style bar food and draft beer specials. 🎉 Atmosphere: Friendly service and a welcoming sports crowd. FACEBOOK
- Bar Louie – Evansville – 7700 Eagle Crest Blvd, Evansville, IN 47715. 🍽️ Must-Try: Scratch-made food and handcrafted cocktails. 🎉 Atmosphere: Upscale sports bar with a vibrant atmosphere. FACEBOOK
Fort Wayne, Indiana
Are there any sports bars in X, Indiana, that show Indiana Pacers games?
Yes, the following spot in X often shows Indiana Pacers games. But always check in advance!
- Mitchell’s Sports Bar & Grill – 6179 W Jefferson Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46804. 🍽️ Must-Try: Hand-crafted menu items, pizza, and full-service bar. 🎉 Atmosphere: Over 100 TVs, seasonal outdoor seating, and arcade games. FACEBOOK
- Chevvy’s Pizza & Sports Bar – 3740 W Jefferson Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46804. 🍽️ Must-Try: Bacon cheeseburger pizza, sausage rolls, and wings. 🎉 Atmosphere: Lively sports crowd with big screens and great beer specials. FACEBOOK
- The Pub at 1802 – 1802 Spy Run Ave, Fort Wayne, IN 46805. 🍽️ Must-Try: Classic pub food and cold beer. 🎉 Atmosphere: Friendly, relaxed, and great for sports fans. FACEBOOK
South Bend, Indiana
Are there any sports bars in X, Indiana, that show Indiana Pacers games?
Yes, the following spot in X often shows Indiana Pacers games. But always check in advance!
- Mitch’s Corner Sports Bar – 1516 N Ironwood Dr, South Bend, IN 46635. 🍽️ Must-Try: Wings, burgers, and classic bar food. 🎉 Atmosphere: Non-smoking, relaxed, and great for sports fans. FACEBOOK
Best Indiana Pacers Sports Bars in Illinois
Indiana Pacers fans don’t just gather in Indiana—some sports bars across the Midwest and beyond have become go-to spots for Pacers supporters, especially during key matchups and playoff games.
While these bars often attract Pacers fans, not all of them are full-fledged team hangouts. Some are general NBA-friendly locations where Pacers supporters show up for major games. Always call ahead to confirm the game will be on!
Chicago, IL
Are there any sports bars in X, Indiana, that show Indiana Pacers games?
Yes, the following spot in X often shows Indiana Pacers games. But always check in advance!
- Timothy O’Toole’s Pub – 622 N Fairbanks Ct, Chicago, IL 60611. 🍽️ Must-Try: Classic bar food and craft beer. 🎉 Atmosphere: Big sports bar with a strong NBA presence, including Pacers fans year-round. FACEBOOK
- The Fifty/50 – 2047 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622. 🍽️ Must-Try: Wings and gourmet sandwiches. 🎉 Atmosphere: Attracts Pacers fans for big matchups, especially playoffs. FACEBOOK
Best Indiana Pacers Sports Bars in Kentucky
Louisville, KY
Are there any sports bars in X, Indiana, that show Indiana Pacers games?
Yes, the following spot in X often shows Indiana Pacers games. But always check in advance!
- The Sports & Social Club – 427 S 4th St, Louisville, KY 40202. 🍽️ Must-Try: Wings, burgers, and bar favorites. 🎉 Atmosphere: Popular with Pacers fans throughout the NBA season. FACEBOOK
- Saints Pizza Pub & SkyBar – 131 Breckenridge Ln, Louisville, KY 40207. 🍽️ Must-Try: Pizza and specialty cocktails. 🎉 Atmosphere: Great spot for Pacers fans during the playoffs or rivalry games. FACEBOOK
Best Indiana Pacers Sports Bars in Ohio
Cincinnati, OH
Are there any sports bars in X, Indiana, that show Indiana Pacers games?
Yes, the following spot in X often shows Indiana Pacers games. But always check in advance!
- Rhinehaus – 119 E 12th St, Cincinnati, OH 45202. 🍽️ Must-Try: Craft beer and pretzels. 🎉 Atmosphere: NBA-friendly spot with Pacers fans frequently showing up for games. FACEBOOK
- Knockback Nats – 10 Seventh St W, Cincinnati, OH 45202. 🍽️ Must-Try: Signature smoked wings and BBQ. 🎉 Atmosphere: Pacers fans show up for major games and playoff runs. FACEBOOK
Best Indiana Pacers Sports Bars in Tennessee
Nashville, TN
Are there any sports bars in X, Indiana, that show Indiana Pacers games?
Yes, the following spot in X often shows Indiana Pacers games. But always check in advance!
- Jonathan’s Grille – 717 3rd Ave N, Nashville, TN 37201. 🍽️ Must-Try: Burgers, loaded fries, and cocktails. 🎉 Atmosphere: NBA-heavy crowd with Pacers fans often among them. FACEBOOK
- Corner Pub Downtown – 151 5th Ave N, Nashville, TN 37219. 🍽️ Must-Try: Barbecue sliders and local brews. 🎉 Atmosphere: Draws Pacers fans mostly for key matchups. FACEBOOK
What to Wear to a Pacers Watch Party
Fan apparel isn’t just for trips to the arena. When heading to a Pacers watch party, wear your colors with pride!
In case you didn’t know, the official team colors for the Indiana Pacers are navy blue, gold, and white, so wearing a combination of these colors will instantly show the world who you’re rooting for!
BTW, it doesn’t have to be official team merchandise to count. As the fan on the right demonstrates, she rocks the look with a leather clutch in a matching color!
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Must-Have Game Day Gear:
🏀 Indiana Pacers Jersey or T-Shirt – Whether it’s a classic Pacers jersey or a navy and gold tee, showing off the team logo is a must.
🧢 Pacers Hat – A snapback or beanie keeps the outfit casual while representing Indy’s finest.
🎽 Team Hoodies & Jackets – Great for cooler nights, a Pacers hoodie completes the look.
🍺 Fan Accessories – From team-logo socks to Pacers-themed drinkware, small touches keep the energy alive.
Looking for the perfect Indiana Pacers fan apparel? Check out the latest official gear here!
Final Thoughts: Where to Watch Indiana Pacers Games
Indiana Pacers fans have plenty of great options—from Indianapolis sports bars near Gainbridge Fieldhouse to Pacers-friendly spots across Indiana and beyond.
Whether you’re looking for the best NBA sports bars in Indiana or a Pacers hangout in another city, these locations are prime spots to catch every dunk, three-pointer, and buzzer-beater.
As one fan put it, “You can watch the game at home, but at a bar, you feel it. The energy, the high-fives, the collective groans—it’s like being in the stadium without the high ticket price!”
Call to Action!
💡 Know a great Pacers-friendly sports bar that should be on this list? Or know of a bar that has gone out of business? Drop a comment below! And don’t forget to share this post with other Pacer fans!
This list of the best Indiana Pacers sports bars is part of a series of posts on sports bars for fans of NBA teams.
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