As summer comes to a close, that can only mean one thing: football season is in full swing! Planning a trip to town to catch a Buckeyes game? Consider making Dublin your home base. Just 20 minutes from Ohio Stadium, Dublin is the perfect place to eat, stay and make a full weekend out of game day.
Where to Watch
If you’re not heading to the stadium, no problem. Make your way to one of these Dublin hot spots to catch the game, grab a drink and cheer on the Buckeyes with a crowd.
Urban Meyer’s Pint House
This is the spot to spend game day in Dublin. Packed with Buckeye spirit, two bars and plenty of screens, Urban Meyer’s Pint House brings plenty of game day energy even if you’re not inside The Shoe. Reservations are available and recommended.
Tino’s Bar & Grille
With wall-to-wall TVs, great wings and a menu packed with all the game day favorites, Tino’s Bar & Grille is an easy place to settle in for kickoff. The casual, lively atmosphere makes it perfect for grabbing a table with friends, ordering a round and keeping your eyes on the game from just about anywhere in the room.
Fadó Pub + Kitchen
An Irish pub to watch American football? Why not! Grab a pint, order a Shepherd’s Pie and settle in for game day at Fadó Pub + Kitchen. With plenty of screens and games playing throughout the day, it’s a laid-back spot to catch the Buckeyes or keep up with the rest of the day’s matchups. Check out their game day schedule here to see what’s playing.
Where to Eat Before or After the Game
Whether you’re fueling up before kickoff or looking for a postgame bite, Dublin has plenty of easy, delicious options to keep the day going.
Dublin Village Tavern
Dublin Village Tavern is a local neighborhood gem serving up plenty of comfort food, including Irish-inspired favorites like the Irish Kettle Dinner, Irish Egg Rolls and Irish Sliders.
North Market Bridge Park
Can’t decide what you’re in the mood for? North Market Bridge Park brings 10+ dining options under one roof, with everything from ramen and Cuban cuisine to tacos and more.
101 Craft Kitchen
Comfy, casual and uncomplicated, save that energy for the game! 101 Craft Kitchen serves up approachable favorites in a relaxed setting that makes it an easy stop before or after kickoff.
Where to Stay
Turn game day into a full weekend and stay in Dublin, where comfortable hotels, easy access to Columbus and plenty to do before and after kickoff are all close by.
4475 Bridge Park Ave Dublin, OH 43017
5175 Post Road Dublin, OH 43017
5100 Upper Metro Place Dublin, OH 43017
Make a Full Weekend of It
Why stop at game day? Turn your trip into a full Dublin weekend with great food, drinks and plenty to do before and after kickoff.
Friday: Start the Weekend Right
Check into your hotel, then head to The Pearl for dinner before grabbing a drink and exploring more of Downtown Dublin.
Saturday: It’s Game Day
Fuel up, head to the stadium or your favorite Dublin watch spot, then keep the night going after the final whistle with games at PINS Mechanical Co. and a slice from Mikey’s Late Night Slice.
Sunday: Slow It Down
Wrap up the weekend with brunch, then spend the afternoon browsing the shops in Historic Dublin and Bridge Park before heading home.
Game Day Tips for Heading to Columbus
Before making your way from Dublin to Ohio Stadium, a little planning can make game day a whole lot easier.
Know the Bag Policy
Keep it small. Ohio Stadium allows only very small personal bags, so double-check the current bag policy before you head out.
Know Your Parking and Rideshare Options
Game day parking around Ohio Stadium can fill quickly, so it’s worth having a plan before you leave Dublin. Day-of parking is available in select campus lots on a first-come, first-served basis, while rideshare pickup and drop-off is limited to designated areas away from the stadium. Check Ohio State’s current game day parking and transportation information before heading out. Find all the parking and traffic information here.
Arrive Early
Besides beating the traffic, arriving early just means more time for game day fun. Ohio State has plenty of traditions worth experiencing before kickoff.
Tailgating: Tailgating is a huge part of game day at Ohio State, with fans setting up hours before kickoff. If you’re planning to tailgate, check current parking information ahead of time and arrive early for the best options.
Skull Session: Get a behind-the-scenes look at The Ohio State University Marching Band before they take the field. Held at St. John Arena before home games, Skull Session is free to attend and seating is first-come, first-served.
Find the Brutus Statues: While you’re exploring campus, keep an eye out for the life-size Brutus Buckeye statues scattered around the area. Snap a few photos along the way for an easy game day souvenir.
Check the Weather
Ohio weather can be unpredictable, especially during football season. Check the forecast before you head out and pack layers so you’re ready for whatever game day brings.
Whether you’re heading to The Shoe or cheering from a barstool in Dublin, game day is always better when you make a weekend of it. Come hungry, wear your scarlet and gray and stick around to explore everything Dublin has to offer before and after kickoff. Don't forget to share all your game day fun with us by tagging @VisitDublinOhio!
