Tailgate Touchdowns: Top BBQs for Game Day Grilling in 2025 | BBQing.com

What’s better than a big game? A big game with an epic BBQ, of course! Tailgating is the ultimate pre-game ritual, and if you want to make the most of your parking lot party, you need the right grill in your lineup. Whether you’re a die-hard charcoal fan or a pellet grill enthusiast, I’ve rounded up the best tailgating grills of 2025. These MVPs will have you grilling like a pro, no matter where you park. Let’s huddle up and check out the top portable BBQs for game day!

Why settle for traditional game day grilling equipment when you can bring the heat with the Gozney Roccbox Pizza Oven? This portable, stone-based oven is the ultimate tailgating game-changer. Its compact, portable design makes it easy to transport, while its gas burner ensures consistent heat for effortless cooking. But it doesn’t stop there—this versatile oven is also ideal for baking wings with a charred, smoky finish or even game day pizzas! If you’re looking to elevate your tailgating experience, this Gozney pizza oven delivers a win every time.

The MiniMax might be small, but it plays a big game. This Big Green Egg kamado-style grill retains heat like a champ, making it perfect for everything from low-and-slow BBQ to high-heat searing. Its compact size and sturdy nest make it easy to transport to the stadium, while its efficient design means you’ll use less charcoal without sacrificing performance. Whether you’re grilling burgers or whipping up some buffalo wings, this grill is the ultimate utility player.

Sleek, portable, and built to perform, the Napoleon Phantom TravelQ PRO 285 is the ultimate Napoleon barbecue for tailgaters who value style and substance. This compact BBQ is lightweight and easy to transport, with a folding scissor cart that makes setup and teardown a breeze. But don’t let its portability fool you—it’s a powerhouse. Featuring dual stainless steel burners, you get precise temperature control, whether you’re searing steaks, grilling kabobs, or slow-cooking ribs. Perfect for tailgating, this grill proves you don’t need a massive setup to bring big flavours to game day.

The Weber Original Kettle is a true tailgating classic—a barbecue that’s been delivering wins for decades. Its 22-inch cooking surface gives you plenty of room to cook for the whole team, and the built-in lid thermometer ensures you’re always on top of your game. The charcoal flavour it delivers is unbeatable, and the one-touch cleaning system makes post-game cleanup a breeze. Make sure you have the tailgate BBQ essentials like charcoal, a starter, and some sauce! Affordable, iconic, and reliable, this Weber grill is the running back you can count on for game day glory.

The Broil King Keg 5000 is my MVP of tailgating barbecues. This beast is not only a top-tier charcoal grill and smoker but also a tailgater’s dream. Why? Because it attaches directly to the hitch of your truck! Yep, you can literally tow your BBQ to the party. Its insulated steel body locks in heat and smoke, making it perfect for everything from smoked brisket to seared classic hotdogs. The spacious cooking surface gives you room to feed the whole squad, and the portability is unmatched. With the Keg 5000, you’re not just bringing a BBQ to the party—you’re bringing the ultimate game-day experience.

Pro tip: Don't forget the Super Bowl grilling gear! Make sure you have enough fuel, charcoal, starters, sauces and rubs to get the most out of your tailgate party!

About the Author
Phylicia Burd is a BBQ enthusiast and writer for BBQing.com, where she shares her journey of mastering BBQ, smokers, and outdoor cooking. She loves grilling at home with her husband and spoiling their two Alaskan Malamutes with delicious BBQ treats.
phylicia@bbqing.com