Where to Watch College Football in Amsterdam

If you're in Amsterdam and want to catch college football games, you have several options to enjoy the action. Here’s a detailed guide to the best places and ways to watch college football in this vibrant city:

1. Bars and Pubs with Sports Channels Amsterdam offers a variety of bars and pubs where you can watch college football games. Many of these establishments have multiple TVs and large screens, making them ideal for catching the action with fellow fans. Some notable ones include:

1.1. The Bulldog Located in the heart of Amsterdam, The Bulldog is a well-known chain with a lively atmosphere. They often show major sports events and might have college football games on their screens. It’s a great spot if you enjoy a bustling pub experience.

1.2. Café de Jaren A popular café with a relaxed vibe and large windows overlooking the canal. They offer a good selection of international sports, including college football, on their big screens. The atmosphere here is more laid-back, making it a great place for a casual viewing.

1.3. The Irish Pub An authentic Irish pub experience, The Irish Pub is a favorite for many expats and locals alike. With a wide range of sports channels, you can expect to find college football games featured prominently, especially during peak game times.

2. Sports Bars Specializing in American Sports For a more focused experience on American sports, including college football, consider these dedicated sports bars:

2.1. The Sports Bar Amsterdam This venue is specifically tailored for sports fans and features a comprehensive array of sports channels. They cater to American sports enthusiasts, so college football games are regularly shown. The bar has multiple screens and a lively environment.

2.2. The Waterhole A well-known sports bar that features a variety of sports events on multiple screens. The Waterhole is popular among locals and tourists for its vibrant atmosphere and its commitment to showing major American sports events, including college football.

3. Streaming Services and Online Options If you prefer watching from the comfort of your accommodation or if the local bars are not showing the game you want, online streaming is a viable option. Here’s how to stream college football games in Amsterdam:

3.1. ESPN ESPN offers live streaming of college football games through their website and app. If you have an ESPN subscription, you can access games live or on demand.

3.2. Hulu + Live TV Hulu’s live TV option includes channels that broadcast college football games. This can be a good option if you have a subscription or are willing to sign up for one.

3.3. YouTube TV YouTube TV provides access to several sports channels that broadcast college football. This can be a flexible option if you are staying in Amsterdam for an extended period.

4. Local American Expatriate Communities Connecting with local expatriate communities can also be a great way to find out where to watch college football games. Many American expats gather at specific venues to enjoy their favorite sports, and you might find informal gatherings or watch parties happening.

4.1. Expat Clubs and Meetups Check out local expat clubs or online forums where American expatriates gather. These communities often have information on where to watch college football games and may even organize group viewings.

4.2. Social Media Groups Join social media groups or online communities dedicated to American expatriates in Amsterdam. These groups frequently share information about sports events and viewing locations.

5. Tips for Watching College Football in Amsterdam When planning to watch college football in Amsterdam, consider the following tips to enhance your experience:

5.1. Check Time Zones College football games are broadcast in the U.S. time zones, so be aware of the time difference. Amsterdam is typically 6 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET), so adjust your viewing schedule accordingly.

5.2. Make Reservations If you plan to watch a big game at a popular bar or pub, it’s a good idea to make a reservation in advance. This ensures you have a spot and can avoid long waits.

5.3. Be Prepared for Local Variations Some bars may not show every game, especially less prominent matchups. It’s helpful to call ahead or check the venue’s schedule to confirm that they’ll be showing the game you’re interested in.

5.4. Enjoy the Local Culture While watching college football, take the opportunity to enjoy Amsterdam’s local culture. Many sports bars and pubs offer traditional Dutch snacks and drinks that can enhance your game-watching experience.

6. Conclusion Whether you’re a die-hard college football fan or just looking to catch a few games while in Amsterdam, there are plenty of options available. From lively sports bars to convenient streaming services, you can find a way to enjoy the games no matter where you are in the city. Embrace the local atmosphere and enjoy the excitement of college football while exploring all that Amsterdam has to offer.