Looking for a spot to watch the big game this Saturday? Grab some Northern Michigan food and beer at these sports bars and tailgate bashes as the Michigan Wolverines (5-1) host the Michigan State Spartans (6-0) at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor.

The Little Fleet 

448 E. Front St., Traverse City, 231.943.1116

Traverse City’s biggest weekend tailgate bash ever is set to kickoff Friday, October 16 at 3:30 p.m. This BBQ Blowout in the lot will go until Saturday, October 17 at 11:30 p.m. All of Northern Michigan’s best BBQ joints will be there — Pigs Eatin’ Ribs, Cordwood BBQ, Sparks Barbecue, Smoke and Porter, Ham Bonz, Bone Shack BBQ. Play corn hole, watch the game on multiple screens and have a drink from Traverse City Whiskey.

Garden Theater

301 Main St., Frankfort, 231.352.7561

Watch the big game on the big screen. This Northern Michigan event is being hosted by the Benzie County MSU Alumni Association. A $5 donation toward the association’s scholarship fund is appreciated. Doors will open at 3:00 p.m., and the game starts at 3:30 p.m.

Vernales Restaurant, Chop House, Wine Cellar & Sports Bar

3018 M-119, Harbor Springs, 231.242.4777

Voted “best steakhouse” by MLive, see what all the talk is about while you watch the game. The sports bar menu has plenty of options, too.

Geno’s Sports Bar & Grill

14848 Thompson Ave., Thompsonville, 231.378.2554

Wear your colors with pride and cheer on your favorite team over great burgers, pizza, soups and salads.

Blue Tractor

423 S. Union St., Traverse City, 231.922.9515

List of burgers you must try: Tractor Burger, Black & Blue Burger, Cuban Burger, Chipotle Black Bean Burger and the Hay-Baler. Start this Saturday.

The Villager Pub

427 Bridge St., Charlevoix, 231.547.6925

Sit at the bar and enjoy the game at the local hotspot. Get a mouthwatering look at the menu.


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