Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill in St. Petersburg topped USA Today’s list as the best local sports bar.

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — With football season approaching, Tampa Bay area residents won’t have to go far to enjoy the games at the best sports bar.

Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill in St. Petersburg was voted as the best in the United States for a local sports bar, beating more than a dozen other nominees across the country.

The bar, which encompasses nearly two blocks, was named No. 1 by USA Today’s 10Best list. It’s located right across from Tropicana Field in St. Pete’s Edge District, featuring inside tables, outside covered seats, an expansive patio and even an upstairs. 

Writers called Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill a “juggernaut” within St. Pete’s drinking and dining scene, offering plenty of room to roam for visitors. 

“More than 90 TVs can be found around the space, and it’s also a top spot for classic pub fare, with dishes like chicken wings and potato skins available on the open-air patio or in the main dining room,” the company said, describing the bar’s indoor scenery.

It opened in 1992, when resident and teacher Mark Ferguson transformed a Sunoco gas station into the bar’s first building.

Since then, it has expanded to become an extremely popular spot and is often packed with sports fans on gamedays. It features a golf simulator, a stage with concerts, trivia nights and much more. 

“Eleven separate areas can host parties and events. Ferg’s Backyard can host 3,000 for concerts, pep rallies, ESPN’s St Petersburg Bowl tailgates, fundraising activities, and more,” the website reads. 

The only other Florida bar that was mentioned on the list was Flora-Bama Ole River Grill, which placed No. 3, and is in Pensacola.Â