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Where to Watch A Gator Game Other Than At The Swamp

by webmaster

October 7, 2021

Know Your Neighbor – Gustavo Rebello

Here are the best places outside The Swamp to watch the Gators play ball

It is officially fall — the time when avid Halloween enthusiasts begin unpacking spooky decor, stores stock up on the cinnamon broomsticks, pumpkin spice and, well, pretty much everything, and of course, football.

That is right, Gator football season has arrived upon Gainesville, and Saturdays are no longer just Saturdays, they are game days. Gainesville takes its Gators seriously in The Swamp, and in case fans cannot make it to the stadium to watch the game from Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, here are a few of the best viewing spots around town.

The Social at Midtown

The Social at Midtown is just about as close as fans can get to the action without being inside the stadium, and with 60 TVs, not a second will be missed. The Gator spirit radiates from the stadium located across University, with view of the stadium lights and earshot of the roaring crowd from the rooftop bar.

Lillian’s

Located in the heart of downtown Gainesville is Lillian’s Music Store, which, despite its name, is a full bar with cold beer, die-hard Gator fans and the best game day hot dogs around. Lillian’s is a charming little bar that turns up for the Gators, and better yet, fans are central to all downtown has to offer for any post-game shenanigans.

Spurrier’s Gridiron Grille

One of Gainesville’s newest hotspots, Spurrier’s not only offers an elevated dining experience but doubles as a football museum highlighting former Gator football coach Steve Spurrier’s achievements in the sport. Check out the rooftop bar, Visors, to catch an evening Gator game, grab a drink and enjoy the views.

First Magnitude Brewery

Sometimes the TV at home just cannot capture the excitement of the game — which is why First Magnitude blows it up on the 16-foot screen just for those die-hard sports nuts out there. Consider this a home base for Gator games, both home and away. With plenty of seating both in the brewing warehouse and out in the beer garden, a play zone for the kiddos and food trucks, First Magnitude is the perfect spot to bring friends and family.

Silver Q

Watching the Gators can really spark the competitive spirit, and Silver Q has got it covered. In addition to the 30 TVs and 13 pool tables, Silver Q offers a variety of games such as Golden Tee, darts and even a few arcade games. They are open early on game days, and better yet, there is no cover charge.

Gator Game Days start up Friday night as far as Gainesville is concerned, so here are a couple bonus spots to get the weekend started:

Celebration Pointe

Every Friday evening before a Gator home game from 6 to 10 p.m., Celebration Pointe and Gameday Vodka host Chomp the Block, the official block party of the Florida Gators. Chomp the Block offers a little something for every Gator with an entertainment zone for the kids, live music, cornhole and the Gameday Vodka Rooftop Party at Visor’s.

Swamp Head Brewery

Find live music, food trucks and new seasonal beer releases at Gainesville’s OG brewery for Football Fridays, with plenty of seating within the taproom or out on the patio and gorgeous green lawn. These events take place Fridays before a home game and will run throughout the season. Check out Swamp Head‘s Facebook for band and food truck lineups.