It’s almost that time of year – when the leaves begin to change, you can buy pumpkin-flavored everything, and some people get very, very excited about football.
Whether you bleed gold or blue, say “War Eagle” at the end of every sentence, or if you’re just along for the beer and chicken wings, here are some football cities that will fill you with a love of the game. When you’re visiting these places in the fall, be sure to choose your wardrobe colors carefully.
Auburn Tigers @ Alabama Crimson Tide, Nov. 29
University of Alabama – Tuscaloosa, AL
Go sightseeing: The Paul W. Bryant Museum, a tribute to Bama football and the famous coach Paul “Bear” Bryant
Where to watch a game: Bob’s Victory Grille, with over 60 HDTVs and a huge menu of wings, coal-fired pizzas, sandwiches and more.
Auburn University – Auburn, AL
Where to eat: Niffer’s has been serving up delicious food at awesomely low prices since 1991. Check out their trivia night, wing night, kids night, and burger night for the best deals.
Where to watch a game: Quixote’s downtown not only has awesome drinks and cool live entertainment, but it also has a huge projector screen for game days.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish @ USC Trojans, Nov. 29
University of Notre Dame – South Bend, IN
Go sightseeing: It’s a must when visiting South Bend to see the Basilica of the Sacred Heart at the university. Learn about the history of Notre Dame and see the incredible chapels and architectural details.
Where to watch a game: Whether you’re in South Bend or nearby Mishawaka or Elkhart, you can count on Between the Buns to offer great sports bar fare along with creative drink specials.
University of Southern California – Los Angeles, CA
Go sightseeing: Just a couple blocks south of USC you’ll find the Exposition Park, including the Air & Space Center, home to the Space Shuttle Endeavor; the Natural History Museum, including 20 complete dinosaur fossils; The African American Museum, showcasing art and history; and gardens to stroll outside in.
Where to watch a game: 901 Bar & Grill can get especially busy during games – probably because of the 2 for 1 drinks 7 days a week from 4-9 PM and other drink specials after 9 PM. If you’re here on game day, be sure to arrive early to snag a seat.
Florida Gators vs. Georgia Bulldogs
in Jacksonville, Florida Nov. 1
University of Florida – Gainesville, FL
Go sightseeing: Check out the Florida Museum of Natural History at UF. Be sure to see the Butterfly Rainforest, including orange and blue themed butterflies.
Where to watch a game: Mother’s Pub & Grill offers all of your favorite sports bar food at college budget pricing, without sacrificing quality.
University of Georgia – Athens, GA
Go sightseeing: Stop by the free Bear Hollow Zoo to see some of Georgia’s native species of birds, reptiles and predators including, of course, bears.
Where to watch a game: Once a movie theater and later a concert hall, following a 2009 fire the Georgia Theatre rebuilt as one of the area’s top venues. Check out UGA games for free (21+) on the big screen at the chic rooftop restaurant.
