The Rise of Women’s Sports Bars in the U.S.
In an exciting shift for the sports culture landscape, women’s sports bars are gaining prominence in the United States, a phenomenon that began gaining traction only in 2022. Recent estimates from NBC News suggest that the number of these venues could increase fourfold by the end of 2025.
Current Landscape
As it stands, there are just six women’s sports bars operating in the country. Notably, three new establishments opened just in time for March Madness: 1972 Women’s Sports Pub in Austin, Texas; Title 9 Sports Grill in Phoenix, Arizona; and Set the Bar in Omaha, Nebraska. By the close of 2023, projections indicate that the total will rise to approximately 24, according to NBC News.
The expansion of women’s sports bars is not confined to metropolitan areas traditionally known for nightlife. New openings are set for cities such as Columbus, Ohio—with Raise the Bar anticipated this fall—and Kansas City, Missouri, where The Dub is also in the pipeline. Pittsburgh will see a new Title 9 bar join the roster as well.
Inspiration Behind the Movement
The trend is largely inspired by The Sports Bra, located in Portland, Oregon, which holds the title of being the first women’s sports bar in the U.S. It launched in 2022, paving the way for subsequent establishments. Jax Diener, co-owner of Watch Me! Sports Bar in Long Beach, California, expressed her aspiration of owning a sports bar for decades, encouraged by The Sports Bra’s successful model.
Growing Interest in Women’s Sports
The surge in women’s sports bars coincides with a rising interest in women’s athletics. Recent data showcases significant milestones: the 2023 Nebraska Huskers Women’s Volleyball match attracted over 92,000 attendees, the largest crowd for a women’s sporting event in the U.S. The National Women’s Soccer League also reported an impressive viewership increase, with 18.7 million people tuning in across platforms for the 2024 season, five times higher than the previous year. Additionally, the WNBA Finals featuring the New York Liberty and Minnesota Lynx recorded the highest viewership in 25 years.
A Welcomed Addition to the Bar Scene
This emergence of women’s sports bars arrives while traditional lesbian bars are in various stages of recovery from a prolonged decline. The new venues, many owned by members of the LGBTQ+ community, represent an important development in creating inclusive spaces for sports fans. As these bars continue to pop up, they promise to bring a refreshing atmosphere that emphasizes support for women’s achievements in sports.
Conclusion
The evolution of women’s sports bars reflects a broader cultural shift towards recognizing and celebrating women’s contributions to sports. As this trend grows, it is likely to transform not only the sports bar industry but also enhance visibility and attendance at women’s sporting events nationwide.
