2 min read
Published On24 Nov 2025
Introduction
The Washington Commanders fan experience? It runs deep through the heart of the DC, Northern Virginia and Maryland extending from the Washington Redskins, Joe Gibbs glory generation. From the historic rowhouses of Adams Morgan & Georgetown to the suburban havens of Northern Virginia and Maryland, Commanders Nation has built an incredible network of sports bars where the faithful gather every Sunday to collectively experience hope, despair, and everything in between. These venues prove that pride echoes far beyond the walls of Northwest Stadium.
I spent 10 years exploring the DC sports bar scene from my days in College and early career there, as well as frequent family visits, and the passion for the Commanders (when they win) is unmistakable — it’s the kind of passion that in the Joe Gibbs/ Redskins era devotion. Whether you’re celebrating a crucial division win or weathering another rebuilding season (hopefully no longer now with Jayden Daniels), these places understand what it means to bleed Burgundy & Gold. The camaraderie among Commanders fans is special — they’re all in this together through every positional controversy and front office shake-up (hopefully Daniel Snyder can be cleansed).
From Penn Quarter’s pre-game energy to Crystal City Sports Pub’s game day shuttles, these bars deliver the authentic Commanders experience with premium viewing setups, game day specials, and crowds that live and die with every play.
We’re still building our methodology and this is an initial list — please comment to help us improve our recommendations and find any hidden Commanders bars we might have missed! Because if there’s one thing Commanders fans are good at, it’s finding places to drink away their sorrows.
Downtown/Penn Quarter
1. Penn Quarter Sports Tavern
Ratings:
🍗 5/5 | 🍺 5/5 | 🏀 5/5 | 📺 5/5 | ⭐ 5/5
Notable Features:
- What Makes It Special: Penn Quarter Sports Tavern stands as one of DC's premier Commanders destinations with three levels of viewing areas and historic team memorabilia throughout. The venue has established itself as the downtown headquarters for Commanders’ faithful seeking a comprehensive game day experience.
- Sports Setup: Three levels of viewing areas ensure you'll find a prime spot even during the biggest rivalry games. The premium game-day sound system prioritizes Commanders audio, and multiple HD screens are strategically positioned throughout all three floors for optimal sightlines.
- Food & Drink: The full menu features elevated pub fare that goes beyond typical sports bar offerings. Game day specials cater specifically to Commanders fans, and the beer selection includes both local DC craft options and national favorites. Food quality remains consistent even during packed Sunday afternoons.
- Atmosphere: True Commanders community atmosphere where DC locals and visiting fans unite in their shared passion. The historic memorabilia creates a shrine-like environment that honors the team's rich history from the glory days to the present.
- Special Features: The venue boasts three levels of viewing areas with historic Commanders memorabilia displayed throughout, creating an immersive fan experience. A premium game-day sound system ensures you never miss a crucial play call or referee announcement. Multiple HD screens are strategically positioned for optimal viewing from every seat in the house. The Metro-accessible location at Gallery Place/Chinatown station makes it easy to arrive early and secure reservations, which are strongly recommended for rivalry games.
2. City Tap Penn Quarter
Ratings:
🏈 4/5 | 🍺 5/5 | 🍽️ 4/5 | 📺 4/5 | ⭐ 4/5
Notable Features:
- What Makes It Special: City Tap Penn Quarter has built a reputation as a craft beer destination that also delivers serious sports viewing. The venue attracts discerning Commanders fans who appreciate quality brewing alongside quality football, creating an elevated game day experience.
- Sports Setup: Multiple viewing zones throughout the spacious venue ensure comprehensive Commanders coverage with quality audio systems. The layout accommodates both large groups and intimate gatherings while maintaining clear sightlines to multiple screens.
- Food & Drink: The craft beer focus sets this venue apart with an extensive selection of local and national brews. Elevated pub fare goes beyond typical sports bar food, with menu items that pair perfectly with the premium beer selection and satisfy hungry Commanders fans.
- Atmosphere: The sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere attracts both serious beer enthusiasts and passionate football fans. Outdoor seating provides additional game day space during good weather, creating versatile viewing options for different group sizes.
- Special Features: The venue emphasizes craft beer with an extensive selection showcasing both local DC breweries and national favorites. Elevated pub fare features menu items specifically designed to complement the beer program. Multiple viewing zones throughout the establishment accommodate different group sizes and viewing preferences. Outdoor seating expands the capacity during beautiful fall Sundays, and the versatile space works for everything from intimate gatherings to large Commanders fan groups.
3. The Exchange Saloon
Ratings:
🏈 4/5 | 🍺 4/5 | 🍽️ 3/5 | 📺 4/5 | ⭐ 4/5
Notable Features:
- What Makes It Special: The Exchange Saloon serves as an official Commanders rally location with a rich history of hosting organized game day events. The classic DC sports bar atmosphere combined with the downtown location makes this a reliable destination for authentic Burgundy & Gold experiences. This place was booming as a student bar in the 80s & 90s, so happy to see it still packs em in on Sundays.
- Sports Setup: Multiple screens throughout the venue provide comprehensive NFL coverage with audio that prioritizes Commanders games. The setup ensures good viewing angles from most seats while maintaining the classic sports bar intimacy.
- Food & Drink: Classic sports bar menu with game day specials that keep costs reasonable for regular visits. The drink selection covers the essentials without pretense, focusing on serving fans who prioritize the game over gastropub experiences.
- Atmosphere: Official Commanders rally location status means organized events and consistent fan turnout throughout the season. The downtown location attracts a mix of office workers, young professionals, and die-hard fans creating diverse but united Commanders energy.
- Special Features: Regular game day events organized throughout the season. A classic DC sports bar atmosphere provides authentic experiences without pretense or excessive theming. The Metro-accessible location at Farragut West station ensures easy arrival for fans from across the region. Happy hour specials during games make multiple-visit affordability possible, though limited street parking means Metro is the preferred arrival method.
Columbia Heights/Adams Morgan
1. Lou's City Bar
Ratings:
Notable Features:
- What Makes It Special: Official Tennessee Titans Fan Club location crowned as the #1 most popular Titans bar on GameWatch.info, Lou's City Bar has reached mythical status among displaced Titans fans in the DC area. We hope they reopen for the season, please call to confirm.
- Sports Setup: Covered patio with screens extends the viewing party during DC's gorgeous weather while multiple TVs inside guarantee complete Titans coverage. Game audio gets Titans priority, creating that authentic gameday atmosphere for homesick fans.
- Food & Drink: Brick oven pizzas deliver quality eats while multiple screens and dedicated game sound create serious viewing conditions. The covered patio keeps the drinks flowing when Mother Nature cooperates.
- Atmosphere: For Titans fans who've claimed this as their regular Sunday sanctuary in DC.
- Special Features: This joint earned the crown as #1 most popular Titans bar on GameWatch.info, proving the passionate community of displaced fans who religiously gather here for Tennessee Titans games.
2. The Blaguard
Ratings:
🏈 4/5 | 🍺 4/5 | 🍽️ 3/5 | 📺 4/5 | ⭐ 4/5
Notable Features:
- What Makes It Special: The Blaguard brings authentic dive bar atmosphere to Adams Morgan's Commanders viewing scene. The Commanders flag flying outside signals the team loyalty within, where a strong local following creates genuine neighborhood game day energy.
- Sports Setup: Multiple screens throughout the intimate space provide solid Commanders coverage with audio that fans can actually hear. The smaller size means everyone's engaged in the game, creating shared experiences with every big play.
- Food & Drink: Basic bar menu focuses on the essentials rather than gastropub pretensions. Game day drink specials make regular attendance affordable, and the no-frills approach means your money goes toward beer and football rather than unnecessary amenities.
- Atmosphere: Adams Morgan dive atmosphere attracts locals seeking authenticity over polish. The Commanders flag outside serves as a beacon for Burgundy & Gold faithful, and the strong local following creates a community that extends beyond Sunday afternoons.
- Special Features: The venue proudly displays a Commanders flag outside, signaling its team loyalty to passing fans and creating a welcoming beacon for Burgundy & Gold faithful. An authentic Adams Morgan dive bar atmosphere provides genuine neighborhood character without pretense. A strong local fan following ensures consistent crowds and passionate game day energy throughout the season. Game day drink specials make regular attendance affordable for working-class fans, and the intimate space creates a shared experience where every play matters to the entire room.
H Street Corridor
1. The Big Board
Ratings:
Notable Features:
- What Makes It Special: The Big Board brings a unique dynamic beer pricing system to DC's Commanders viewing scene. Famous for burgers and innovative beverage pricing, the venue combines quality food with entertaining beer economics that keep fans engaged even during commercial breaks.
- Sports Setup: Multiple viewing zones throughout the venue accommodate different group sizes and viewing preferences. The flexible setup allows Commanders fans to claim territory while maintaining quality sightlines for crucial plays.
- Food & Drink: The burgers have achieved legendary status among H Street regulars and provide substantial game day fuel. The dynamic beer pricing system creates entertainment beyond the game, with prices fluctuating based on demand and creating strategic drinking decisions.
- Atmosphere: H Street Streetcar accessibility makes arrival easy for fans across DC. The neighborhood location attracts a mix of young professionals and long-time residents, creating diverse but passionate Commanders energy during games.
- Special Features: The venue features a dynamic beer pricing system that fluctuates based on demand, creating entertainment and strategy beyond the game itself. Famous burgers provide substantial game day fuel that justifies the venue's reputation for quality food. Multiple viewing zones throughout accommodate different group sizes and viewing preferences, and H Street Streetcar accessibility makes arrival easy. The best game day deals typically occur during non-primetime games when the dynamic pricing favors patient fans.
2. Duffy's Irish Pub
Ratings:
Notable Features:
- What Makes It Special: Duffy's has attracted displaced Panthers fans through its authentic Irish pub atmosphere and comprehensive sports coverage in Washington D.C. The venue is temporarily closed but stay tuned for what happens next with tis DC Panthers bar.
- Sports Setup: Multiple screens throughout the traditional Irish pub provide comprehensive NFL coverage with clear audio for Panthers games. The pub layout encourages community viewing among displaced supporters.
- Food & Drink: Traditional Irish fare alongside American sports bar classics provides hearty game day fuel for displaced Panthers fans.
- Atmosphere: Dupont Circle energy meets authentic Irish pub culture in a venue that attracts diverse crowds including NFL fans. The welcoming atmosphere creates DC community for Panthers supporters.
- Special Features: Duffy's provides authentic Irish pub atmosphere that creates welcoming environments for displaced Panthers fans seeking community in the nation's capital. Multiple screens ensure comprehensive NFL coverage with clear audio for Panthers games, guaranteeing proper coverage in Commanders territory.
Navy Yard/Capitol Hill
1. Walter's Sports Bar
Ratings:
🏈 4/5 | 🍺 4/5 | 🍽️ 4/5 | 📺 5/5 | ⭐ 4.5/5
Notable Features:
- What Makes It Special: Walter's Sports Bar brings modern innovation to DC's sports viewing scene with its unique rooftop viewing area and self-pour beer system. Located near Nationals Park, the venue combines contemporary amenities with serious sports presentation for an elevated Commanders experience.
- Sports Setup: The rooftop viewing area provides unique outdoor game watching during beautiful fall Sundays. Modern sports bar setup includes strategically positioned screens throughout multiple levels, ensuring quality viewing whether you're inside or enjoying the rooftop atmosphere.
- Food & Drink: The self-pour beer system allows fans to control their consumption and try multiple options without commitment. Full menu service accommodates groups planning extended viewing sessions, and food quality remains consistent during busy game days.
- Atmosphere: Navy Yard Metro accessibility makes arrival easy for fans across the DMV. The modern atmosphere attracts younger professionals and families, creating diverse crowds united by Commanders passion.
- Special Features: The venue features a unique rooftop viewing area that provides outdoor game watching during beautiful fall weather. A self-pour beer system allows fans to control their consumption and sample multiple options throughout the game. The location near Nationals Park makes it convenient for multi-sport fans and provides a walkable entertainment district. Navy Yard Metro accessibility ensures easy arrival, and reservations are recommended for big games as the rooftop fills quickly during prime weather conditions.
Arlington/Alexandria
1. Crystal City Sports Pub
Ratings:
🏈 5/5 | 🍺 4/5 | 🍽️ 4/5 | 📺 5/5 | ⭐ 4.5/5
Notable Features:
- What Makes It Special: Crystal City Sports Pub stands as one of the region's premier Commanders destinations with three levels of viewing, game day shuttles to Northwest Stadium, and historic sports memorabilia throughout. The venue has earned legendary status among DC-area sports bars for its commitment to fan experience. This was were I 1st observed how a sports bar SHOULD run NFL Sunday.
- Sports Setup: Three levels of viewing areas ensure you'll find the perfect spot regardless of crowd size. The extensive screen setup covers every angle, and the audio system ensures you hear every play call clearly across all three floors. Every TV is marked for their games (early and late) helping fans position themselves early before the crowds. I spent almost every NFL Sunday here in the 90s and it’s a national treasure.
- Food & Drink: Full menu with pregame buffet options fuels fans before heading to the stadium on shuttle buses. The food quality justifies the venue's reputation, and portions are sized for hungry football fans planning extended viewing sessions.
- Atmosphere: Game day shuttles to Northwest Stadium make this the ultimate pregame destination for ticket holders. Historic sports memorabilia throughout creates a museum-like environment celebrating DC sports history, and Crystal City Metro accessibility ensures easy arrival from across the region.
- Special Features: The venue features three levels of viewing areas with extensive screen coverage ensuring optimal sightlines from every seat. Game day shuttles run directly to Northwest Stadium, making this the perfect pregame destination for ticket holders who want to drink without driving. Historic sports memorabilia throughout celebrates DC sports history and creates an immersive fan environment. Crystal City Metro accessibility ensures easy arrival from across the DMV, and pregame buffet options provide substantial fuel before heading to the game. Parking validation is available for those who choose to drive.
2. First Down Sports Bar
Ratings:
🏈 4/5 | 🍺 4/5 | 🍽️ 4.5/5 | 📺 4/5 | ⭐ 4/5
Notable Features:
- What Makes It Special: First Down Sports Bar has built a reputation as Arlington's premier wing destination while delivering serious sports viewing. Clarendon used to have some great sports bars but hard to battle the rental costs. Multiple viewing zones accommodate dedicated fan groups, and the regular game day specials keep loyal customers returning throughout the season.
- Sports Setup: Multiple viewing zones allow Commanders fans to claim territory and create their own atmosphere within the larger venue. Screen placement ensures quality sightlines from every section, and audio can be adjusted for different areas.
- Food & Drink: The wings at First Down are renowned throughout Arlington and provide compelling reasons to visit beyond the game. Game day specials make regular attendance affordable, and the beer selection covers both craft and domestic options.
- Atmosphere: Ballston Metro accessibility brings fans from across the region. The local favorite status means consistent crowds and passionate energy, and the venue's reputation ensures you're surrounded by serious sports fans rather than casual viewers.
- Special Features: The venue is renowned throughout Arlington for having the best wings in the area, earning consistent praise from local food critics and fans alike. Multiple viewing zones accommodate dedicated fan groups who want to create their own atmosphere within the larger venue. Regular game day specials make attendance affordable for fans who want to catch every Commanders game throughout the season. Ballston Metro accessibility ensures easy arrival from across the region, and free parking is available after 4pm for those who prefer to drive.
3. The Greene Turtle
Ratings:
🏈 3.5/5 | 🍺 4/5 | 🍽️ 4/5 | 📺 4/5 | ⭐ 4/5
Notable Features:
- What Makes It Special: The Greene Turtle brings regional sports bar chain consistency to Arlington's Commanders viewing scene. Multiple locations provide reliable options regardless of which part of Arlington you're in, and the family-friendly atmosphere accommodates fans of all ages.
- Sports Setup: Consistent game day experience across all locations means you know what you're getting. Multiple screens throughout each venue provide comprehensive NFL coverage, and the audio systems prioritize major games.
- Food & Drink: Full menu with extensive food and drink options covers all game day cravings. Chain consistency means reliable quality, and the broad menu accommodates different dietary preferences within viewing groups.
- Atmosphere: Family-friendly atmosphere makes The Greene Turtle accessible for multi-generational Commanders viewing. The chain's regional presence means many fans grew up visiting these locations, creating nostalgic connections alongside current game day traditions.
- Special Features: The regional sports bar chain provides consistent game day experiences across multiple Arlington locations, ensuring you know what to expect regardless of which venue you visit. A full menu with extensive food and drink options accommodates diverse group preferences and dietary needs. The family-friendly atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for multi-generational Commanders viewing parties. Multiple locations throughout Arlington provide convenient options based on your starting point, and the chain's longstanding regional presence creates nostalgic connections for many DMV residents.
Maryland Suburbs
1. Wiley Gunters
Ratings:
Notable Features:
- What Makes It Special: Wiley Gunters brings extensive craft beer selection and unique entertainment to Baltimore's Commanders viewing scene. Shuffleboard and darts provide entertainment between plays, and the South Baltimore location attracts Commanders fans seeking quality experiences north of DC.
- Sports Setup: Multiple screens throughout the venue provide comprehensive Commanders coverage with quality audio. The setup maintains clear sightlines while preserving space for the shuffleboard and dart boards that add entertainment value.
- Food & Drink: Extensive beer selection showcases both craft and traditional options. The beverage program attracts serious beer enthusiasts, and the food menu covers game day essentials with quality execution.
- Atmosphere: South Baltimore location serves Commanders fans in the Baltimore area who maintain DMV loyalty. The strong Commanders following despite Ravens territory creates a special bond among patrons who represent Burgundy & Gold in enemy territory.
- Special Features: The venue features an extensive beer selection with both craft and traditional options that attract serious beer enthusiasts to pair with their football viewing. Shuffleboard and darts provide unique entertainment options between plays and during commercial breaks, adding value beyond pure game watching. The South Baltimore location serves a strong Commanders following despite being in Ravens territory, creating special bonds among fans who represent Burgundy & Gold behind enemy lines. Multiple screens ensure you never miss crucial Commanders action while enjoying the venue's unique entertainment offerings.
2. El Bufalo
Ratings:
🏈 4/5 | 🍺 4/5 | 🍽️ 4/5 | 📺 4/5 | ⭐ 4/5
Notable Features:
- What Makes It Special: El Bufalo brings tequila bar energy to Baltimore's Commanders viewing scene with a unique Mexican menu. The mixed fan base in Ravens territory creates interesting dynamics, and the energetic atmosphere makes every Commanders game feel like an event.
- Sports Setup: Multiple screens throughout the Canton tequila bar ensure comprehensive game coverage. The setup accommodates the energetic atmosphere while maintaining clear viewing angles for invested fans.
- Food & Drink: Mexican menu provides different game day dining options that stand out from standard sports bar fare. The tequila focus creates signature drink options, and the food quality validates the venue's culinary reputation.
- Atmosphere: Canton neighborhood location brings energetic crowds that appreciate the unique concept. The mixed fan base means you'll encounter Ravens supporters, but the Commanders presence remains strong and passionate.
- Special Features: The Canton neighborhood tequila bar concept provides a unique alternative to standard sports bar environments with Mexican-inspired menu options. Multiple screens ensure comprehensive coverage of all Commanders action throughout the venue, and the energetic atmosphere makes every game feel like an event rather than routine viewing. The mixed fan base in Ravens territory creates interesting dynamics and good-natured rivalry during NFL Sundays. Quality Mexican food elevates the dining experience beyond standard sports bar fare, and the tequila-focused drink program offers signature cocktails you won't find at generic venues.
Conclusion
The DC Metro Area offers incredible diversity in Commanders viewing experiences, from downtown Penn Quarter’s premium destinations (where you can cry into expensive cocktails) to suburban neighborhood favorites in Virginia and Maryland (where the beer’s cheaper but the pain’s the same). Whether you’re seeking the three-level grandeur of Crystal City Sports Pub, the wing perfection at Lou’s City Bar, the craft beer excellence at Wiley Gunters, or the shuttle convenience near the stadium, these venues prove that Burgundy & Gold passion runs deep throughout the DMV — deeper than the team’s playoff drought.
The variety of these locations reflects the diverse Commanders fan base — from young professionals in Adams Morgan to families in Arlington (passing down generational trauma from the post Joe Gibbs era), from Capitol Hill residents to craft beer enthusiasts in Baltimore. What unites them all is shared passion for a team that has weathered decades of ups and downs, name changes and stadium moves, but never lost its connection to the nation’s capital.
This is our initial list based on research and fan input, and we’re still working on our methodology for ranking Commanders bars in the DMV. What’s your favorite Commanders bar in the Washington area? Comment below and help us improve our list — we want to make sure we’re covering all the hidden gems where Commanders Nation gathers to collectively question their life choices!
Bibliography
Primary Sources:
- NFL UK & Ireland – “Where to watch the NFL in London” – https://www.nfl.com/ukire/bars
- 2nd Home Sports – “Best Washington Commanders bars in Washington DC and Virginia” – https://2ndhomesports.com/blogs/best-washington-commanders-bars-in-washington-dc-and-virginia/
- 2nd Home Sports – “Washington Commanders bars in Baltimore 2024” – https://2ndhomesports.com/blogs/washington-commanders-bars-in-baltimore-2024/
- Yelp – “All ‘redskins bars’ results near me in Washington, District of Columbia” – https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Redskins+Bars&find_loc=Washington%2C+DC
- Reddit r/Commanders – “Redskins bars across the country help us compile a list” – https://old.reddit.com/r/Commanders/comments/9b9bd9/redskins_bars_across_the_country_help_us_compile/
- TripAdvisor – “Washington DC Tourism” – https://www.tripadvisor.com/Tourism-g28970-Washington_DC_District_of_Columbia-Vacations.html
- Sport London – “Central London Sports Bars & Kitchens” – https://www.sportlondon.com/
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