It's "Madness" in March at 5 Great Sports Bars around Denver

Just how popular is the NCAA Basketball Tournament, aka "March Madness?" An estimated 70 million people are expected to participate in tournament pools across the country for a total of more than $2 billion in wagers.

We recommend that you avoid the risk and increase the fun by watching the tournament action with friends at one of our favorite sports bars near our Springs Denver luxury apartment communities.

1. Sports Station American Grill
409 N Railroad Ave, Loveland
970.461.8825
6.2 miles from Springs at 2534

You can't go wrong with a place that has "Sports" built right into its name! Sports Station is housed in downtown Loveland's historic train station, and the original platform and benches are still included in the decor. Kids can enjoy the game room that's fully visible to parents in the dining room, and there's a separate bar area for more vocal fans. Sports Station is open seven days a week, with dining room hours until 10 p.m. and bar hours until midnight.

2. Parry's Pizzeria & Bar
4874 Thompson Pkwy, Johnstown
970.541.1775
0.5 miles from Springs at 2534

Pizza, beer and sports make a classic combination, and you'll find the best of all three at Parry's. The menu includes 19 specialty varieties of traditional New York style pizza along with calzones, sandwiches and chicken wings. Each month features a rotating selection of five craft beers for $4 a pint all day. Hours are 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m. daily.

3. Pumphouse Brewery
540 Main St, Longmont
303.702.0881
3.4 miles from Springs at Sandstone Ranch

While the building was never actually a fire station, Pumphouse Brewery's home does have a long history dating back to the early 1900s. The brewpub opened in 1996, and the Red Zone was added in 2004 to offer a more casual sports bar venue. Opening weekend of the tournament coincides with St. Patrick's Day, so the Red Zone will run specials on Irish food and beer. Hours begin at 10 a.m. from Thursday until Sunday throughout the tournament.

4. Legends of Aurora Sports Grill
13690 E Iliff Ave, Aurora
303.671.0560
14.2 miles from Springs at Eagle Bend

With 33 TVs, there's not a bad seat in the house at Legends of Aurora. Their signature Philly cheese steaks are a customer favorite, but the menu features something for everyone. Catch the early games on Thursday and Friday over all-you-can-eat pizza for $8 between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Legends of Aurora is open until 2 a.m. seven days a week.

5. The Sportsbook Bar & Grill
9660 E Arapahoe Rd, Greenwood Village
303.799.1300
10.5 miles from Springs at Eagle Bend

The Sportsbook puts a modern spin on traditional bar food. Try the popular totchos — tater tots topped with green chili, queso and bacon, or the Colorado Melt burger with pepper jack, fried jalapeños and chipotle aioli on brioche. Enjoy Happy Hour menu and pricing from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. The Sportsbook is open until 2 a.m. daily.

Did we miss your favorite spot? Let us know in the comments!