Top 10 trivia nights in Madison
Trivia nights in Madison bring locals together for brainy fun and friendly rivalry. Whether you’re a whiz at obscure history or the master of pop culture, trivia nights in Madison cater to all. Gather your sharpest friends—trivia nights in Madison offer lively competition, laughter, and a vibrant social scene for everyone.
1. Lazy Oaf Lounge
Home of Madison’s friendliest trivia nights and great outdoor seating.

The Lazy Oaf Lounge brings a relaxed charm to its nightly entertainment, featuring Team Trivia on both Mondays and Tuesdays. The venue offers a comfortable setting for casual gatherings, with the trivia nights drawing a lively crowd without feeling overcrowded. Service remains efficient even during peak times with multiple groups placing orders.
The food consistently impresses with quality and variety, elevating the overall experience. Outdoor seating adds another layer of appeal, especially during warmer evenings. With a welcoming atmosphere and well-run events, the lounge stands out as a reliable choice for group outings and friendly competition.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- Hidden Gems
- Dinner
- Fusion Cuisine
- Vegetarian Options
- Mid-Range
2. Brass Ring Bar & Restaurant
Home to Madison’s top live trivia and a vibrant community vibe.
A visit to this spot in Madison guarantees a vibrant atmosphere, with a team known for genuine friendliness and attentive service. Both the drinks and food stand out, making this place a worthwhile destination even when trivia isn’t on the schedule. Regular patrons find the experience consistently enjoyable, thanks to quality service and a welcoming environment.
Trivia nights, in particular, draw a lively crowd, keeping participants engaged with well-crafted questions. The buzz of competition combined with excellent hospitality creates an energetic night out. Whether one seeks a spirited game or just a casual evening, this venue consistently delivers a memorable experience.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Late Night
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3. SconnieBar
Legendary trivia nights with energetic hosts and generous team prizes weekly.

Shelby resumes hosting duties for a lively general knowledge game that spans multiple categories, including movies, music, history, geography, science, Disney, TV, and more. The event is open to everyone at no cost, making it an accessible night out for trivia fans of all levels.
The live trivia takes place at Sconnie Bar, where participants receive pens and scoresheets upon arrival. Music played between questions can sometimes double as a clue, adding an extra layer of fun. Top-performing teams are rewarded with gift certificates valued at $40, $20, and $10.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Downtown Spots
- Dinner
- Affordable Nightlife
4. Come Back In
All-day events: trivia, karaoke, spelling bees, art shows, Badger shuttles.

Come Back In stands out as a lively German tavern that offers an impressive 26 beers on tap and attracts a colorful, energetic crowd. Events such as the Buzzed Spelling Bee and themed trivia nights keep the atmosphere fun and engaging, making it a reliable spot for those looking to mix a sense of play into their night out.
In addition to its signature trivia and spelling bee competitions, the venue regularly features karaoke, open mic nights, and art shows, creating an inviting environment for both performers and spectators. Free shuttles to Badger football games add extra value, drawing in a broad mix of patrons with varied interests and backgrounds.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
5. Lucky's 1313 Brew Pub
Madison’s go-to sports bar for local brews, great food, and trivia nights.

Andy stands out behind the bar with a personable and engaging approach, making the experience at Lucky’s lively and enjoyable. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, perfect for catching a Badgers basketball game or just hanging out. Silent Night, the new brew, impresses with its smooth flavors, and the selection on tap never disappoints.
The menu offers a range of tasty options, with the fish earning special praise for its freshness and flavor. Sports fans will appreciate the numerous TVs tuned to various games, creating a dynamic yet comfortable setting. Whether it’s the attentive service or the quality drinks, Lucky’s delivers on every front.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
6. Up North
Madison’s go-to spot for nightly live music and easygoing, social vibes.
This venue boasts an impressive schedule of live music, regularly featuring local bands with no cover charge. The beer selection caters to a wide range of tastes, making it an attractive spot for beer enthusiasts. Visitors will also appreciate the laid-back, slightly divey atmosphere, which adds a touch of authentic character.
Guests are treated to complimentary popcorn and peanuts, elevating the casual vibe and providing a perfect snack to accompany the performances. Ample seating ensures a comfortable experience, whether attending a show or meeting friends for a relaxed evening.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Mid-Range
- American Cuisine
- Social Gatherings
- Dinner
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7. Starkweather Brewing Company
Weekly themed trivia nights and music bingo with crafted local brews.

Starkweather Brewing’s 2000s Music Trivia night offers a lively mix of nostalgia and friendly competition. Teams compete for gift certificates, and there's always an extra incentive for those who check the website for a free answer clue. The event brings together regulars and new faces, all eager to test their pop culture knowledge over good drinks and food.
Themed trivia shows run every Wednesday at 7 PM, drawing a dedicated crowd with topics ranging from Harry Potter to hit songs of the early 2000s. Arriving early is advised, as the best seats fill up fast, but the atmosphere stays fun and welcoming for groups of all sizes.
TOPICS
- Downtown Spots
- Happy Hours
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Late Night
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8. Garth's Brew Bar
Known for legendary trivia nights and inviting craft beer community feels.

Garth’s Brew Bar hosts America’s Pub Quiz every Tuesday at 6 p.m., drawing an energetic crowd eager for some friendly competition. The venue buzzes with the excitement of trivia night, making it a social highlight among Madison’s many pub quiz spots. Clever questions, great beer selections, and a welcoming atmosphere combine for an entertaining evening that appeals to regulars and newcomers alike.
Each week brings new teams vying for victory, adding a fun challenge to the brewery’s laid-back environment. The event consistently features lively banter, creative themes, and an engaging format that keeps participants invested until the very end. Perfect for trivia enthusiasts and casual players, it’s an experience worth returning for.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Affordable Nightlife
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
9. BarleyPop Tap & Shop
Ever-changing tap list, popular trivia nights, and knowledgeable, friendly staff.

BarleyPop Tap & Shop stands out for its diverse tap list and well-stocked carryout bottle selection. The range of beers caters to both casual drinkers and serious enthusiasts, while the staff consistently deliver friendly and knowledgeable service, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.
Every Tuesday at 6:30 PM, America's Pub Quiz brings an extra spark to the space. Teams compete for gift cards amid a consistently upbeat crowd, and the combination of well-chosen beers with lively trivia makes for an engaging night out.
TOPICS
- Happy Hours
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night
- Social Gatherings
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10. The Rigby Pub, Grill, and Event Venue
Events all week: trivia, drag shows, live music, and rooftop fun.
Trivia on Tuesday nights at The Rigby is a standout, expertly organized by a staff known for their attentiveness. Specials such as $3 tater tots and $5 Moscow mules provide added value and draw a lively crowd. The environment buzzes with friendly competition and patrons appreciate the energetic atmosphere that trivia brings to the establishment.
Reviews for The Rigby Pub, Grill, and Event Venue in Madison reveal a range of experiences. While criticism appears occasionally, praise often centers on the engaging schedule of themed events. Trivia sessions, karaoke, comedy shows, and drag bingo collectively offer something for every guest, ensuring the venue remains a social hub.
TOPICS
- Social Gatherings
- American Cuisine
- Mid-Range
- Downtown Spots
- Late Night