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4 min read
Published On30 Aug 2025
Introduction
USA Today just confirmed what Tampa Bay locals have known for decades – Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill in St. Petersburg is officially the best local sports bar in America! With over 90 TVs spread across two downtown blocks and a history dating back to 1992, this family-owned powerhouse beat out competitors nationwide to claim the top spot.
From Rays games at the Trop to Lightning playoff runs and Bucs championship celebrations, I’ve watched countless games at Ferg’s over the years. The energy here during big games is absolutely electric. We’re still building our methodology and this is an initial list – please provide comments to help us improve our recommendations. But when USA Today’s expert panel and reader votes align to crown a champion, you know you’re dealing with something special.
The Champion
Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill
Location: Edge District – 1320 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
What Makes It Special: When former teacher Mark Ferguson transformed an old Sunoco station in 1992 into what would become Tampa Bay’s sports mecca, he created more than just a bar – he built a community institution. This place has grown from that single building to encompass nearly two blocks of prime St. Pete real estate right across from Tropicana Field.
Sports Setup: Over 90 high-definition TVs guarantee you’ll never miss a play, whether you’re in the main dining room, on the rooftop bar, or lounging in the outdoor patio with the dog park. The sheer scale is staggering – 11 separate areas can host different groups simultaneously. During Rays home games, the pre and post-game crowds pack every corner, but the layout handles massive crowds without feeling cramped.
Food & Drink: Classic pub fare done right – their chicken wings and potato skins have been crowd favorites since the ’90s. The menu sticks to sports bar essentials but executes them perfectly. Beer selection covers everything from domestic basics to craft options, with pricing that won’t destroy your wallet despite the prime downtown location. I learned years ago that their game day specials are worth timing your arrival for.
Atmosphere: This is ground zero for Tampa Bay sports culture. When the Lightning are in the playoffs, when the Bucs are fighting for the division, or when the Rays are making a run, Ferg’s transforms into the city’s beating heart. The mix of die-hard locals and curious tourists creates an energy that’s impossible to replicate. CNN didn’t rank this among America’s top 101 sports bars by accident – the atmosphere during big games rivals being at the actual stadium.
Special Features:
- Ferg’s Backyard venue accommodates up to 3,000 people for concerts and major events
- Golf simulator for entertainment between games
- Dog-friendly outdoor bar with dedicated dog park area
- Axe throwing lanes add unique entertainment beyond traditional sports viewing
Website: https://www.fergssportsbar.com Phone: (727) 822-4562
Other Top-Ranked Sports Bars in America
While Ferg’s claimed the crown, USA Today also recognized these exceptional venues:
2nd Place: JJ’s Restaurant and Sports Bar – Virginia 3rd Place: Flora-bama Ole River Grill – Pensacola, Florida
Conclusion
Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill didn’t just win USA Today’s award – it dominated the competition through a combination of reader votes and expert reviews. No chains or franchises were considered, making this a true victory for independent, local sports bars everywhere.
From its humble beginnings as a converted gas station to becoming what USA Today calls “a juggernaut within the St. Pete drinking and dining scene,” Ferg’s represents everything a great sports bar should be. The massive viewing options, the authentic Tampa Bay sports atmosphere, and three decades of serving the community have created something truly special.
Whether you’re catching a Rays game, celebrating a Bucs touchdown, or watching the Lightning chase another Stanley Cup, Ferg’s delivers an experience that now officially ranks as America’s best. Comment to help us improve our lists – what’s your favorite memory at Ferg’s or your go-to sports bar in Tampa Bay?