Women’s Sports Bars to Quadruple Across the U.S. in 2026

Women’s Sports Bars to Quadruple Across the U.S. in 2026

The boom coincides with the soaring viewership and popularity of women’s sports

The sports bar industry, long dominated by screens showing men’s leagues — is on the verge of a cultural and economic shift. In 2026, the number of women’s sports-focused bars in the U.S. is projected to quadruple, reflecting both a surge in demand and a broader transformation in how fans consume live sports.

Fueled by skyrocketing viewership of the WNBA, NWSL, NCAA women’s tournaments, and women’s soccer on the global stage, a growing wave of entrepreneurs and investors is betting big on a space that was once considered niche: places built for fans of women’s sports first.

A Rapid Rise Fueled by Record-Breaking J

According to industry data compiled by Hospitality Market Group, there are currently about 45 women’s sports-themed bars operating across the country, a small but fast-growing number that’s expected to exceed 180 locations by the end of 2026.

The growth follows a year of milestones for women’s athletics:

• The WNBA’s 2024 season broke attendance and broadcast records, with viewership up more than 30% year-over-year.

• The NCAA Women’s Basketball Championship drew more than 18 million viewers, surpassing the men’s final for the first time.

• The National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) saw record sponsorship deals and expansion into new U.S. cities.

“Women’s sports aren’t just having a moment, they’re defining the future of fandom,” says Kelsey Whitman, co-founder of The IX Club, a women’s sports bar franchise planning to open 15 new locations in 2026. “Fans are hungry for spaces that reflect their interests, energy, and community.”

More Than Bars - Community Hubs for Fans

Women’s sports bars aren’t simply swapping out what’s on TV screens. Many are intentionally reimagining what a sports bar can be: inclusive, family-friendly, and focused on building a shared experience.

At Rally, a Portland-based women’s sports pub that opened in 2023, visitors can catch live WNBA games alongside youth soccer team watch parties and trivia nights featuring women athletes.

“The vibe is totally different,” says owner and former collegiate player Dana Kim. “It’s not just about drinking and watching, it’s about celebrating women in sport and making space for everyone to belong.”

In cities like Chicago, Austin, and Seattle, these venues are becoming gathering points for local teams, youth leagues, and advocacy groups promoting gender equity in athletics.

Why the Market Is Ready Now

Analysts point to several converging trends fueling the 2026 boom:

• Mainstream media coverage of women’s leagues has improved dramatically, with ESPN, Amazon, and CBS all expanding their broadcast deals.

• Brands and sponsors are investing at unprecedented levels, with Nike, Delta, and Google backing women’s sports campaigns.

• Younger audiences, particularly Gen Z, are showing equal enthusiasm for women’s and men’s sports, and expect parity in how they’re represented in public spaces.

“Five years ago, it was nearly impossible to find a bar showing the women’s NCAA tournament,” says sports marketing analyst Jordan Escobar. “Now, not only can you find them, you can find bars built around them. That’s a massive cultural shift.”

A New Playbook for the Industry

Major hospitality groups are taking notice. Some established bar chains are launching dedicated women’s sports nights, while others are partnering with local franchises to sponsor events and pop-ups.

Meanwhile, startups like ShePlays and GameHer Collective are developing apps to help fans locate women’s sports-friendly venues, another sign of how digital culture and community are merging to amplify visibility.

Industry forecasters say that if current trends hold, women’s sports bars could represent a $200 million segment of the hospitality market by 2027.

Beyond the Business: A Cultural Moment

For fans and athletes alike, the rise of these venues represents more than a market opportunity, it’s a validation of decades of progress toward equality in sports.

“This isn’t just about bars,” says ESPN commentator and former soccer star Julie Foudy. “It’s about creating spaces that say women’s sports deserve center stage, not the side screen.”

As 2025 approaches, that message is spreading fast. And with every new sports bar that opens its doors to women’s games, the sound of cheering fans grows louder, and the future of sports culture in America looks a little more inclusive.