For too long, women’s sports have been overlooked in mainstream media and public spaces. But that’s starting to change, and “A Bar of Their Own” in Minneapolis is leading the way. Located on Franklin Avenue, this unique sports bar is the first of its kind in Minnesota—dedicated entirely to women’s sports. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering the energy and excitement of women’s leagues, this bar offers a space where everyone feels welcome, seen, and celebrated.
If you’ve ever felt like your favorite WNBA highlight reel or the latest NWSL match wasn’t getting the attention it deserves, “A Bar of Their Own” might just be your new favorite hangout. The bar isn’t just about showing games—it’s about building community, supporting local causes, and creating a place where fans of women’s sports can finally feel at home.
From happy hour specials to charity events and live game screenings, “A Bar of Their Own” is more than just a bar. It’s a movement. So whether you’re a die-hard fan of the Lynx, the Gophers, or simply love the spirit of women’s athletics, this is a place you’ll want to know more about. Let’s dive into what makes this bar special, how it got started, and why it matters.
Table of Contents
- What Is “A Bar of Their Own”?
- Why This Bar Matters in Today’s Sports Culture
- Who Is Jillian Hiscock, the Founder?
- What You Can Expect When You Visit
- Community and Charity Efforts
- How to Find “A Bar of Their Own”
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What Is “A Bar of Their Own”?
Put simply, it’s a sports bar that only shows women’s sports. Think of all the sports bars you’ve been to—dark lighting, big screens, burgers, and beers. Now imagine that same energy, but with WNBA highlights, NWSL matches, college basketball, and even international women’s games on every screen. That’s “A Bar of Their Own” in a nutshell.
Founded by Jillian Hiscock, the bar opened its doors in 2023 and has quickly become a hotspot for fans, athletes, and locals alike. The idea came from a simple question: Why aren’t there more spaces that celebrate women’s sports the way men’s are celebrated? The answer, it turns out, was that no one had created one—until now.
While the concept is straightforward, the impact is anything but. This bar isn’t just about showing games—it’s about creating a culture where women’s sports are treated with the same energy, respect, and fanfare as men’s.
Why This Bar Matters in Today’s Sports Culture
There’s a shift happening in sports. More and more people are tuning into women’s leagues, and viewership numbers are climbing. But despite that, you’d be hard-pressed to find a bar that shows anything other than NFL or NBA games.
So, why does this matter? Because representation matters. When you walk into a bar and see your favorite athletes on screen, it tells you that you belong. That your interests matter. That your fandom isn’t niche or secondary—it’s just as valid and exciting as any other.
At “A Bar of Their Own,” you won’t find any debates about whether women’s sports are “entertaining enough.” You’ll find fans cheering, high-fives across the bar, and people bonding over shared love for their favorite teams and players. It’s a space where women’s sports aren’t just tolerated—they’re celebrated.
Who Is Jillian Hiscock, the Founder?
Jillian Hiscock is the visionary behind “A Bar of Their Own.” A lifelong sports fan, Jillian saw a gap in the market and decided to do something about it. She wanted a place where she and her friends could watch women’s games without having to explain why they cared. So, she built it herself.
Here’s a quick look at her background:
| Full Name | Jillian Hiscock |
|---|---|
| Location | Minneapolis, MN |
| Occupation | Bar Owner and Founder |
| Founded “A Bar of Their Own” | 2023 |
| Mission | Create a space dedicated to women’s sports and community |
Jillian’s goal was simple: make it easy for people to enjoy women’s sports in a social setting. And so far, she’s done just that. Her bar has become a hub for fans, athletes, and community organizers alike.
What You Can Expect When You Visit
Walking into “A Bar of Their Own” feels like stepping into a space made just for you—if you’ve ever felt overlooked in traditional sports bars, this place is for you.
Here’s what you’ll find:
- All-women’s sports on the screens—no debates, no compromises
- A welcoming, inclusive atmosphere for fans of all ages and backgrounds
- Regular game nights with live commentary and fan interactions
- Happy hour deals and signature drinks
- Live events with local athletes, teams, and organizations
And yes, they have wings. And yes, they have beer. And yes, you can watch your favorite WNBA or NWSL team on the big screen while you enjoy them.
Community and Charity Efforts
“A Bar of Their Own” isn’t just about sports—it’s about making a difference in the community. The bar regularly partners with local organizations to support causes like girls in sports, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and health awareness.
For example, they’ve hosted events to raise funds for the Aliveness Project, a nonprofit that supports people living with HIV/AIDS in the Twin Cities. They’ve also worked with togethxr, a platform dedicated to promoting women’s sports and gender equity in athletics.
One of their core values is removing financial barriers for girls and women in sports. So, if you stop by for a drink, you might also be supporting a scholarship fund or a local youth team.
How to Find “A Bar of Their Own”
If you’re in the Twin Cities and want to check out this one-of-a-kind spot, you can find them at:
Address: 2301 Franklin Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55404 Contact: hello@abaroftheirown.com | (612) 540-2574 Hours: Check their website or social media for the most up-to-date hoursAnd just like most sports bars, they don’t take reservations—so if you’re planning to go during a big game, it’s best to arrive early.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is “A Bar of Their Own” only for women?
Nope! The bar is for anyone who loves women’s sports. Whether you’re a guy, a woman, or nonbinary, if you enjoy watching women play, you’re welcome here.
Do they show international women’s sports too?
Yes! While the bar features a lot of U.S.-based leagues like the WNBA, NWSL, and NCAA women’s basketball, they also make sure to showcase international matches, especially during big tournaments like the FIFA Women’s World Cup or the Olympics.
Can I host a private event or watch party at the bar?
Most likely! They often host watch parties and community events. Reach out via email or phone to discuss options for group bookings or special screenings.
If you're curious about how this bar fits into the larger trend of women’s sports gaining more visibility, you can check out a recent NBC Nightly News story that highlights similar bars across the country.
And if you're looking for more ways to support women in sports beyond watching games, you can learn more about the bar’s community partnerships on their website. There’s also a page where you can find upcoming events and ways to get involved.
