Whether you're a lifelong fan or are recently joining in on the excitement, it's nearly impossible not to root for the Indiana Hoosiers after their historic rise to the top of the college football world.
As the ultimate underdogs, they started the season with the most losses of any college football team on record. Now, they're riding into the 2026 College Football Playoff National Championship with a 15-0 season and two bowl game wins.
Here are best places in Festival Country to cheer on the Hoosiers during the national championship game on Jan. 19 at 7:30 p.m.
Breweries
Join fellow Hoosier fans for a watch party at MashCraft. Along with a festive environment, you'll find craft brew and good food.
Known for their craft brew and scratch-made menu, Oaken Barrel is a family-friendly spot to watch a game and enjoy great drinks and dishes.
SmockTown has craft beer, handmade cocktails, good food and game day specials.
Cheer on the Hoosiers with craft brew at Planetary, located in Old Town Greenwood.
Enjoy craft brew, wings and more at Nailers in Whiteland. Check their Facebook for game day specials.
Bars and Restaurants
Enjoy all the game day eats like wings, nachos, soft pretzels and more while sipping drinks and watching the game.
Watch the game and enjoy great game day food and cold drinks. They're known for their wings, so be sure to give those a try while you're there.
Head to Old Town Greenwood for craft brew, pizza, sandwiches and football.
Join the Hoosier watch party at Greek's in Franklin and enjoy pizza, cocktails, craft brew and more.
For brick oven pizza, tenderloins, drinks and a family-friendly environment, head to Main Street Grille in Greenwood.
Enjoy a new chef-inspired menu of elevated game day favorites, plus drinks and big screens to watch the game. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 317-641-0720.
Peppers is hosting an IU watch party and tailgate starting at 4 p.m. Watch the game on the big screens and enjoy good food and drinks.
Events
Nire Event Center is hosting a watch party at 7 p.m. Jan. 19. For $20, you'll get pizza, a drink ticket, and a prime spot to watch the game with fellow fans.
Places to Watch and Play
In honor of IU being in the national championship, 10 Pins is extending their hours and opening on Monday, Jan. 19 from 6:30 p.m. until the end of the game. Mini bowling will be closed, but you can still enjoy the arcade, Greek's Pizza, a full bar and snacks like hot dogs, walking tacos and pork nachos while watching the game.
Eat, drink and play while cheering on the Hoosiers at Dave & Buster's. This is a great spot for kids and adults alike, thanks to the wide selection of arcade games and a full food and drink menu. Plus, they often run specials on football game nights.
