Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill, a cornerstone of downtown St. Petersburg’s sports and entertainment scene, has been officially named the #1 Local Sports Bar in the U.S. by USA TODAY’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards.
This national recognition highlights what Tampa Bay locals have known for years: Ferg’s isn’t just a bar — it’s an experience and destination like no other.
Mark Ferguson’s Vision: From Gas Station to St. Pete Landmark
When Mark Ferguson, a St. Petersburg native and former Pinellas County teacher, first envisioned opening a sports bar in the early 1990s, the area surrounding the now-Tropicana Field was still a rough, underdeveloped district. In 1991, Ferguson purchased a small, historic Sunoco gas station on Central Avenue and, with the help of friends and family, began transforming it into a neighborhood gathering spot.
What started as a modest local hangout quickly evolved into a 70,000-square-foot entertainment complex spanning nearly two city blocks, featuring:
- Over 100 TVs & a massive Jumbotron for game-day action
- A dog-friendly patio & park
- Multiple full-service bars and restaurants
- An outdoor concert and special events venue for crowds from 500 to over 5,000
- A vibrant nightlife scene with VIP party decks, private rooms, and open-air entertainment spaces
Today, Ferg’s stands as one of the most unique venues in the country, hosting Tampa Bay Rays Opening Day celebrations, ESPN tailgates, NFL watch parties, charity fundraisers, national concert acts, and community events — proudly serving as “St. Pete’s backyard.”
A Hub for Sports, Music, and Community
“From day one, Ferg’s has been about more than just food and drinks,” said Mark Ferguson, founder and owner.
“We built this place to be St. Pete’s gathering spot — where friends, families, and fans can come together to celebrate, connect, and make memories. Being recognized as the #1 sports bar in the nation is an incredible honor and a testament to the amazing community that’s supported us for more than 30 years.” Mark adds: “When people come to visit St. Petersburg, I tell them to check out The Pier, The Dali Museum, and Ferg’s!
Whether you’re here to catch the Rays, Buccaneers, Lightning, Rowdies, UFC fights, or your favorite band, Ferg’s continues to deliver non-stop entertainment and unforgettable experiences.
Upcoming Concerts & Special Events at Ferg’s
Celebrate Ferg’s being named the #1 Sports Bar in America with an incredible fall lineup of live concerts, sports watch parties, and special events at the Ferg’s Concert Pavilion and Ferg’s Backyard Stage:
- Sat, Sept 13 – UFC Canelo vs. Crawford Watch Party
- Fri, Oct 10 – HEAD EAST – 50th Anniversary Tour
- Fri, Oct 17 – PEARCY • DEMARTINI performing the music of RATT
- Thu, Oct 23 – A FLOCK OF SEAGULLS
- Fri, Oct 24 – PUDDLE OF MUDD
- Tue, Oct 28 – LENE LOVICH
- Wed, Oct 29 – MICRO WRESTLING 7 – “Big Little Brawlers Return!”
- Fri, Nov 14 – KING’S X
- Wed, Nov 19 – BLACK FLAG w/THE QUEERS
- Mon, Dec 8 – WANG CHUNG
Tickets available now at: TicketWeb.com — use keyword FERGS. For a full concert and events calendar, visit FergsEvents.com. All advance tickets for this show are sold online exclusively at: TicketWeb.com and Ticketmaster.com Ticket Link for all Ferg’s Events: https://www.ticketweb.com/search?q=ferg%27s
About Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill
Founded in 1992, Ferg’s Sports Bar & Grill has grown from a converted gas station into one of the nation’s premier sports bars and entertainment complexes. Located directly across from Tropicana Field, Ferg’s offers an unmatched atmosphere for sports fans, music lovers, and event-goers alike. With over 70,000 square feet of space, multiple venues within a venue, and a passionate local following, Ferg’s continues to define the downtown St. Petersburg experience.
1320 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL 33705
(727) 822-4562
www.fergssportsbar.com