The Best Hotel Bars to Watch the Super Bowl in Boston and New York City

There's nothing like a classic New York versus Boston sports game: There's the always-dueling Red Sox and Yankees; the formidable Celtics and decent (?) New York Knicks; and of course, the new rivalry of the New England Patriots and New York Giants. This year's Super Bowl also marks a rematch of 2008's Big Game . But if you couldn't afford to jet out to Indianapolis to catch your favorite football team in play (and who could, with hotel rates in the city hovering around $450/night), hole up a hotel bar local to your team. Not only will you have the camaraderie of fellow fans, but you'll also be able to watch in style, too. Bonus? If you get too drunk, you can stay in one of the hotel's available rooms. Just saying.

With 44 HD TVs strategically positioned throughout the bar, a 12’X24’ viewing screen, 36 beers on tap (we recommend one of the Dogfish brews) and a long list of cocktails, the Champions Sports Bar at the Marriott is one of the best places to catch the game. Whether you sit at the bar over a drink and a small bite, or at one of the tables enjoying a full meal -- order the Boston Lobster sliders -- you’re sure to get a good view of the screens. Plus, you're within a stone's throw of Fenway Park and the TD Garden -- two venues that'll make any sports afficionado feel right at home. (At least a Boston fan.)

Whether a fan of the Giants or a loyal supporter of the Patriots, you’ll find something to your liking at the Royal Senesta's popular ArtBar. The restaurant is turning into a Viewing Party Lounge for the Super Bowl with a wicked cool menu that has special cocktails named after both teams and yummy appetizers such as nachos, 3-cheese crab and artichoke dip and chipotle-glazed chicken wings, the Royal Sonesta’s bar is one of the top picks for the big day.

Cheer your lungs out at the lively Capiz Bar, where several well-placed flat-screen TVs will guarantee you can follow the game without straining your neck. If you’re alone or with a friend try to get the stools at the bar, where you’ll have the bartenders at hand (order up a Hummingbird cocktail and "Northern Fried" chicken wings for the menu's best) , but call the cozy couches by the window if you’re watching the game with the gang. It hardly gets any better -- or more comfortable.

The laid-back Rare Bar and Grill is a fun option if your ideal Super Bowl Sunday involves hanging with a bunch of rowdy friends and a lot of fist-pumping (No, not really the Jersey Shore kind. But maybe a bit.). It’s spacious, perfect for partying, and the burgers are outstanding. If you’re in for a getaway (or a staycation), check out the hotel’s “For the Love of the Game” package, which includes a room upgrade, a late check-out, a prepaid Metrocard and a 6-pack of beer or a bottle of wine.

Mingle with hotel guests and a young crowd at the Sheraton’s casual Grub Pub, located in the heart of Downtown Brooklyn (and nestled between chic neighborhoods Fort Greene and Boerum Hill). With four screens, a few tables, comfy ottomans that rest aside the floor-to-ceiling windows, and a contemporary vibe, this is a great alternative to the typical sweaty, dark bar.

Although Hoboken is technically across the Hudson River from New York City, it is in New Jersey, which is also where the Giants technically play (their stadium is in East Rutherford, NJ) -- so we had to give a little love to NYC's neighbor to the west. Plus, the hotel is offering special viewing-party through Gilt City. For $40, you can get VIP Entry to the W's Living Room Viewing Party (an always-plush place to knock back a few), which includes a choice of food dish with side (We'll have the Meatball Pizza, thanks), five drink tickets, and free hand and arm massages courtesy of in-house spa Bliss. Doesn't that just make you happy now?


RELATED LINKS:

• Boston vs. New York Hotel Face-Off
• Active Travel Hotels
• Where to Watch the Game: The Best Hotels for Sports Fanatics