Game Night Plan: How to Pair Happy Hour with a Big Game

A great game night starts well before the opening whistle.

Work backward from start time

Check the start time, in local time, and plan to be seated a couple of hours earlier. That gives you time to eat, relax, and get to the venue without rushing.

Pick a spot on your route

Choose a place near the venue or along your transit line. Avoid anywhere that makes you double back.

Eat first

If you want to eat before the event, leave enough time for the meal and the trip to the venue. Check the venue's entry and outside-food policies.

Mind the window

Specials usually end at a set time. If you want them, plan around that end time, not the game's.

Think about the ride home

Crowds and surge pricing can hit when events let out. Decide your plan before you go: transit, a designated driver, or a ride booked with some buffer.

Make a backup

Popular spots near arenas can fill up. Have a second option.

Find a pregame spot: Search near your venue on Joy Finder.