Where to Watch American Football in Zurich: Best Spots and Tips

Zurich, Switzerland, while known more for its cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes, is also a city where American football fans can enjoy their favorite sport. Whether you're an expat living in the city, a traveler passing through, or simply someone who loves American football, Zurich has a variety of places where you can catch the games. From sports bars to local clubs, this guide will offer you the best options for watching American football, along with some helpful tips.

Best Places to Watch American Football in Zurich

1. Paddy Reilly's Irish Pub

   • Location: Talstrasse 82, 8001 Zurich
   • Why it’s great: One of Zurich's most famous Irish pubs, Paddy Reilly's is a favorite among sports fans, especially when it comes to international sports like American football. It boasts a cozy atmosphere and plenty of screens, ensuring you'll always have a good view of the game. They broadcast NFL games, particularly the playoffs and the Super Bowl, and serve a wide variety of drinks and traditional Irish pub food.

2. Lady Hamilton's Pub

   • Location: Bahnhofstrasse 35, 8001 Zurich
   • Why it’s great: Known for its lively atmosphere, Lady Hamilton's Pub is another excellent spot to watch American football in Zurich. With several large screens and an energetic crowd, it’s perfect for both regular season games and major events like the Super Bowl. The pub offers a mix of local and international beers, and its central location makes it easily accessible.

3. McGee's Irish Pub & Restaurant

   • Location: Birmensdorferstrasse 83, 8003 Zurich
   • Why it’s great: McGee's is a well-established Irish pub in Zurich that shows various sports, including NFL games. The pub is known for its friendly vibe, hearty meals, and well-stocked bar. Whether you're there for a regular Sunday game or a playoff showdown, you'll find a welcoming environment with fellow American football fans.

4. Sports Bar 1904

   • Location: Schanzengraben 19, 8002 Zurich
   • Why it’s great: As part of the Swissôtel Zurich, Sports Bar 1904 is a sleek and modern venue to watch American football. With numerous screens and a range of seating options, it's perfect for groups. The bar serves a wide array of drinks and light snacks, making it a comfortable spot to catch the latest NFL action.

5. Nelson Pub

   • Location: Beatengasse 11, 8001 Zurich
   • Why it’s great: A favorite among Zurich’s sports fans, Nelson Pub is known for its casual and relaxed setting. They regularly show NFL games, including the Super Bowl, and attract a diverse crowd of locals and expats alike. The pub offers a wide selection of beers, including craft options, and serves classic pub fare.

6. Old Crow Sports Bar

   • Location: Talacker 41, 8001 Zurich
   • Why it’s great: This bar is a haven for sports enthusiasts. Known for its excellent cocktail selection, Old Crow Sports Bar is a great place to watch American football in a more sophisticated setting. The bar features multiple screens and a knowledgeable staff who cater to the sports crowd. Their cozy seating and great service make it an ideal spot for a quieter but immersive game-watching experience.

Local Clubs and Events

1. Zurich Renegades

   • Overview: For those looking to go beyond just watching and getting involved in the sport, the Zurich Renegades, one of Switzerland's top American football teams, provide opportunities to watch live games and even participate. They play in the Swiss American Football League, and their matches are held at different venues across Zurich. If you're a die-hard football fan, attending one of their games offers a different experience compared to watching on TV.

2. American Football Viewing Parties

   • Overview: Some bars and pubs in Zurich host special events for significant American football games, such as the Super Bowl or key NFL matchups. These events often include themed drinks, food, and sometimes even competitions. Paddy Reilly's and McGee's are known to host such events during the NFL season.

Key Tips for Watching American Football in Zurich

1. Time Difference

   • One of the main challenges of watching American football in Zurich is the time difference. Zurich is typically six to nine hours ahead of the United States, depending on whether it’s East or West Coast games. This means that most games, especially Sunday Night Football or Monday Night Football, will be broadcast late in the evening or even early in the morning. Plan your schedule accordingly, especially for playoff games or the Super Bowl.

2. Finding the Right Bar

   • Not all sports bars in Zurich show every NFL game, so it's important to check the schedule ahead of time. Most bars will advertise their NFL coverage on their websites or social media pages. You can also call ahead to confirm if they are showing the game you’re interested in.

3. Making Reservations

   • Some bars, especially the more popular ones like Paddy Reilly's and Lady Hamilton's, can fill up quickly during major games. It's a good idea to make a reservation if possible, especially for events like the Super Bowl. This ensures that you have a spot with a good view of the screen.

4. Connecting with Fellow Fans

   • Zurich has a vibrant community of American expats and international students who are passionate about American football. Joining social media groups or forums dedicated to American football in Zurich can help you stay informed about where to watch the games, as well as connect with other fans for group viewing.

5. Streaming Services

   • If you prefer to watch the game from the comfort of your own home, there are several streaming services available in Switzerland that broadcast NFL games. Options include DAZN, which offers comprehensive coverage of NFL games, and NFL Game Pass, which provides live streaming of every game for international viewers. Both services require a subscription, but they are reliable options for dedicated football fans.

Conclusion

Zurich may not be the first place you think of when it comes to watching American football, but the city has a thriving sports scene that caters to NFL fans. Whether you're looking for a lively pub atmosphere, a quiet bar, or even live football action with local clubs, Zurich offers a variety of options to enjoy the sport. From iconic Irish pubs to sleek sports bars, and from live games to streaming at home, Zurich has something for every American football enthusiast. Just be sure to check the time difference and plan accordingly for those late-night games!