Check out the best grills for tailgating in 2024 to enhance your game day.
Tailgating is a beloved tradition for sports fans, offering a chance to connect with fellow supporters and enjoy delicious food before the big game. A key element of any successful tailgate is a reliable grill, capable of cranking out tasty burgers, sizzling hot dogs, and mouthwatering sides. But with so many options available, choosing the right grill can be a daunting task.
This year, we’ve scoured the market to bring you our picks for the 16 best grills for tailgating in 2024. We considered factors like portability, ease of use, cooking performance, and durability to ensure that our recommendations can handle the demands of a tailgate party. Whether you’re looking for a compact charcoal grill for a solo adventure or a full-featured gas grill to feed a crowd, we’ve got you covered.
From portable charcoal grills to innovative gas grills with side burners and built-in smokers, our list includes a diverse range of options to suit every taste and budget. We’ll guide you through the pros and cons of each model, highlighting their key features and helping you decide which grill is the perfect fit for your tailgating needs.
So gather your friends, grab your favorite game-day snacks, and get ready to fire up the grill. Our comprehensive guide will help you find the ultimate tailgating companion, making your next game day experience even more enjoyable.
Weber Spirit II E-210 Gas Grill
A reliable and versatile gas grill that's perfect for tailgating, with two burners and a spacious grilling area.
Specifications :
- 2 Burners
- 393 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates
- Electronic ignition
- Fold-down side tables
Reasons to buy :
- Reliable and durable construction
- Even heat distribution
- Plenty of grilling space for a variety of foods
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit heavy and bulky to transport
- Not as portable as some other grills on this list
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You want a reliable and well-built grill with plenty of grilling space.
- You are willing to sacrifice some portability for durability and features.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a truly portable grill that's easy to transport.
- You're on a tight budget.
Bottom Line:
The Weber Spirit II E-210 is a solid choice for tailgaters who want a reliable and versatile gas grill. It's well-built, heats evenly, and has plenty of grilling space. It's not the most portable grill on the market, but if you're willing to sacrifice some portability for durability and features, it's a great option.
Char-Broil Performance 300 3-Burner Gas Grill
This 3-burner gas grill offers plenty of power and grilling space for large groups. It's a great option for those who want a more powerful grill for tailgating.
Specifications :
- 3 Burners
- 424 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates
- Electronic ignition
- Built-in thermometer
- Folding side tables
Reasons to buy :
- Powerful 3-burner system
- Plenty of grilling space for larger groups
- Easy to use and clean
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit heavy and bulky to transport
- Not the most portable option
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You want a powerful gas grill with plenty of grilling space.
- You're often cooking for large groups.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a truly portable grill that's easy to transport.
- You're on a tight budget.
Bottom Line:
The Char-Broil Performance 300 3-Burner Gas Grill is a great option for tailgaters who want a powerful and versatile grill. It's got plenty of cooking space to feed a crowd and it's easy to use and clean. However, it's not the most portable grill on the market and it can be a bit pricey, so it's important to weigh the pros and cons before you decide if it's right for you.
Coleman RoadTrip LXE Portable Grill
This portable gas grill is perfect for tailgating, with a compact design and easy setup. It's easy to transport and set up, making it a great option for tailgating.
Specifications :
- 2 Burners
- 285 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates
- Electronic ignition
- Built-in carrying case
Reasons to buy :
- Compact and lightweight design
- Easy to transport and set up
- Comes with a carrying case
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited grilling space
- Not as powerful as some other grills on this list
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a truly portable grill that's easy to transport and set up.
- You're on a budget.
Don't buy it if:
- You often cook for large groups.
- You need a grill with lots of power.
Bottom Line:
The Coleman RoadTrip LXE Portable Grill is a great option for tailgaters who are looking for a compact and portable grill. It's easy to transport and set up, and it comes with a carrying case for convenient storage. However, it has limited grilling space and isn't as powerful as some other grills on this list. If you're cooking for a small group and need a grill that's easy to transport, the Coleman RoadTrip LXE is a solid choice.
Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle Station
This griddle station is perfect for tailgating, with plenty of space for cooking up a variety of foods. It's a great option for those who want a versatile grill that can be used for a variety of dishes.
Specifications :
- 36-inch cooking surface
- 2 independent burners
- Built-in grease management system
- Optional accessories, such as a griddle cover and a stand
Reasons to buy :
- Plenty of cooking space for large groups
- Versatile enough to cook a variety of foods
- Easy to clean
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit bulky to transport
- Not as portable as some other grills on this list
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You want a grill that can be used for a variety of foods.
- You often cook for large groups.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a truly portable grill that's easy to transport.
- You're on a tight budget.
Bottom Line:
The Blackstone 36-Inch Griddle Station is a great option for tailgaters who want a versatile and spacious grill. It's perfect for cooking up a variety of foods for large groups and it's easy to clean. However, it can be a bit bulky to transport, so it's not the best choice for those who need a truly portable grill.
Traeger Pro Series 22 Tailgater Pellet Grill
This pellet grill is perfect for tailgating, with a compact design and easy setup. It's a great option for those who want to cook with wood pellets for a smoky flavor.
Specifications :
- 220 square inches of cooking space
- Digital temperature control
- Built-in thermometer
- Fold-down side tables
Reasons to buy :
- Unique smoky flavor
- Easy to use and clean
- Convenient digital temperature control
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit slow to preheat
- Not as portable as some other grills on this list
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You want to cook with wood pellets for a smoky flavor.
- You're looking for a grill with convenient digital temperature control.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a grill that heats up quickly.
- You need a truly portable grill that's easy to transport.
Bottom Line:
The Traeger Pro Series 22 Tailgater Pellet Grill is a great option for tailgaters who want to cook with wood pellets for a smoky flavor. It's easy to use and clean, and it has convenient digital temperature control. However, it can be a bit slow to preheat and it's not as portable as some other grills on this list, so it's important to consider your needs before making a decision.
Camp Chef Everest 2X Portable Grill
This portable grill is perfect for tailgating, with a compact design and a powerful 2-burner system. It's a great option for those who want a grill that's easy to transport and powerful enough to cook for a crowd.
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Specifications :
- 2 Burners
- 275 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates
- Built-in carrying case
Reasons to buy :
- Compact and lightweight design
- Powerful 2-burner system
- Built-in carrying case
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited grilling space
- Not as durable as some other grills on this list
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a portable grill that's easy to transport and set up.
- You're looking for a grill with a powerful 2-burner system.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a grill with lots of grilling space.
- You're looking for a grill that's built to last.
Bottom Line:
The Camp Chef Everest 2X Portable Grill is a great option for tailgaters who need a portable grill that's easy to transport and set up. It's got a powerful 2-burner system that can handle cooking for a crowd. However, it has limited grilling space and it's not as durable as some other grills on this list. If you're looking for a portable grill that's affordable and easy to use, the Camp Chef Everest 2X is a good choice.
Napoleon TravelQ PRO285 Portable Gas Grill
This portable gas grill is perfect for tailgating, with a compact design and a powerful 2-burner system. It's a great option for those who want a grill that's easy to transport and can handle cooking for a small group.
Specifications :
- 2 Burners
- 285 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates
- Electronic ignition
- Fold-down side tables
- Built-in carrying case
Reasons to buy :
- Compact and lightweight design
- Powerful 2-burner system
- Easy to transport and set up
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited grilling space
- Not as durable as some other grills on this list
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a portable grill that's easy to transport and set up.
- You're looking for a grill with a powerful 2-burner system.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a grill with lots of grilling space.
- You're looking for a grill that's built to last.
Bottom Line:
The Napoleon TravelQ PRO285 Portable Gas Grill is a great option for tailgaters who need a portable grill that's easy to transport and set up. It's got a powerful 2-burner system that can handle cooking for a small group. However, it has limited grilling space and it's not as durable as some other grills on this list. If you're looking for a portable grill that's affordable and easy to use, the Napoleon TravelQ PRO285 is a good choice.
Cuisinart CGG-180T Portable Gas Grill
This portable gas grill is perfect for tailgating, with a compact design and a powerful 2-burner system. It's a great option for those who want a grill that's easy to transport and can handle cooking for a small group.
Specifications :
- 2 Burners
- 180 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates
- Electronic ignition
- Built-in carrying case
Reasons to buy :
- Compact and lightweight design
- Easy to transport and set up
- Affordable price
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited grilling space
- Not as durable as some other grills on this list
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a portable grill that's easy to transport and set up.
- You're on a tight budget.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a grill with lots of grilling space.
- You're looking for a grill that's built to last.
Bottom Line:
The Cuisinart CGG-180T Portable Gas Grill is a great option for tailgaters who need a portable grill that's easy to transport and set up. It's got a powerful 2-burner system that can handle cooking for a small group. However, it has limited grilling space and it's not as durable as some other grills on this list. If you're looking for a portable grill that's affordable and easy to use, the Cuisinart CGG-180T is a good choice.
Weber Q 1200 Gas Grill
This portable gas grill is perfect for tailgating, with a compact design and a powerful 2-burner system. It's a great option for those who want a grill that's easy to transport and can handle cooking for a small group.
Specifications :
- 2 Burners
- 199 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates
- Electronic ignition
- Fold-down side tables
Reasons to buy :
- Compact and lightweight design
- Powerful 2-burner system
- Easy to transport and set up
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited grilling space
- Not as durable as some other grills on this list
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a portable grill that's easy to transport and set up.
- You're looking for a grill with a powerful 2-burner system.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a grill with lots of grilling space.
- You're looking for a grill that's built to last.
Bottom Line:
The Weber Q 1200 Gas Grill is a great option for tailgaters who need a portable grill that's easy to transport and set up. It's got a powerful 2-burner system that can handle cooking for a small group. However, it has limited grilling space and it's not as durable as some other grills on this list. If you're looking for a portable grill that's affordable and easy to use, the Weber Q 1200 is a good choice.
Pit Boss Tailgate Portable Grill
This portable grill is perfect for tailgating, with a compact design and a powerful 2-burner system. It's a great option for those who want a grill that's easy to transport and can handle cooking for a small group.
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Specifications :
- 2 Burners
- 200 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates
- Electronic ignition
- Built-in carrying case
Reasons to buy :
- Compact and lightweight design
- Powerful 2-burner system
- Easy to transport and set up
Reasons to avoid :
- Limited grilling space
- Not as durable as some other grills on this list
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You need a portable grill that's easy to transport and set up.
- You're looking for a grill with a powerful 2-burner system.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a grill with lots of grilling space.
- You're looking for a grill that's built to last.
Bottom Line:
The Pit Boss Tailgate Portable Grill is a great option for tailgaters who need a portable grill that's easy to transport and set up. It's got a powerful 2-burner system that can handle cooking for a small group. However, it has limited grilling space and it's not as durable as some other grills on this list. If you're looking for a portable grill that's affordable and easy to use, the Pit Boss Tailgate Portable Grill is a good choice.
Royal Gourmet 3-Burner Gas Grill
A solid, affordable option with plenty of cooking space and a convenient side burner.
Specifications :
- 3 stainless steel burners
- 375 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates
- Side burner
- Foldable side shelves
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price point
- Plenty of cooking space
- Convenient side burner for extra prep
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit flimsy
- Some users report inconsistent heat distribution
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You're on a budget and need a grill with good cooking space.
- You appreciate the convenience of a side burner.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a heavy-duty grill that will last for years.
- You're looking for consistent heat distribution.
Bottom Line:
The Royal Gourmet 3-Burner Gas Grill is a great value for the price. It offers a good amount of cooking space, a convenient side burner, and easy assembly. While it's not the sturdiest grill on the market, it's a solid choice for casual tailgaters who are looking for a reliable and affordable option. If you're a serious griller who needs consistent heat distribution or a grill that will last for years, you might want to consider a higher-end model. But for the average tailgater, the Royal Gourmet 3-Burner Gas Grill is a great way to get the job done without breaking the bank.
Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 Digital Charcoal Grill
A high-tech charcoal grill with precise temperature control and convenient features.
Specifications :
- Digital temperature control with Wi-Fi connectivity
- Gravity-fed charcoal system
- 560 square inches of cooking space
- Removable ash catcher
Reasons to buy :
- Precise temperature control
- Convenient Wi-Fi connectivity
- Large cooking area
Reasons to avoid :
- Relatively high price
- Some users report issues with the digital controller
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You want the convenience of precise temperature control and Wi-Fi connectivity.
- You need a grill with plenty of cooking space.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You prefer the traditional charcoal grilling experience without digital features.
Bottom Line:
The Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560 Digital Charcoal Grill is a game-changer for charcoal enthusiasts. It offers precise temperature control, convenient Wi-Fi connectivity, and a large cooking area. It's definitely a more expensive option, but if you're looking for a high-tech charcoal grill that takes the guesswork out of grilling, this is a great choice. However, if you prefer the traditional charcoal grilling experience without digital features or you're on a tight budget, there are other more affordable options available.
George Foreman 15-Serving Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill
A versatile grill that's perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
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Specifications :
- 15-serving capacity
- Removable drip tray
- Adjustable temperature control
- Indoor/outdoor use
Reasons to buy :
- Versatile indoor/outdoor use
- Large capacity for feeding a crowd
- Easy to clean
Reasons to avoid :
- Not ideal for serious grilling
- Can be a bit bulky
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a grill that can be used indoors or outdoors.
- You want a grill with a large capacity for feeding a crowd.
- You prefer the convenience of an electric grill.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a grill for serious grilling.
- You're looking for a compact grill.
Bottom Line:
The George Foreman 15-Serving Indoor/Outdoor Electric Grill is a versatile and convenient option for tailgating. It's perfect for feeding a crowd and can be used both indoors and outdoors. While it's not ideal for serious grilling, it's a great choice for casual gatherings or smaller events. If you need a grill that can handle a large volume of food and you don't want to deal with propane or charcoal, this is a great option. But if you're a serious griller or you need a compact grill, you'll want to look elsewhere.
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Dyna-Glo Signature DGSS480SLP-D 4-Burner Gas Grill
A powerful and feature-rich gas grill that's ideal for large gatherings.
Specifications :
- 4 stainless steel burners
- 480 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates
- Side burner
- Foldable side shelves
Reasons to buy :
- Powerful 4-burner system
- Large cooking area
- Convenient features like a side burner and folding shelves
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be a bit bulky
- Some users report inconsistent heat distribution
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You need a grill with plenty of cooking space.
- You want the convenience of a side burner.
- You appreciate the sturdiness of a larger grill.
Don't buy it if:
- You need a compact grill.
- You're looking for consistent heat distribution.
Bottom Line:
The Dyna-Glo Signature DGSS480SLP-D 4-Burner Gas Grill is a powerful and feature-rich option that's ideal for large gatherings. With its 4-burner system, large cooking area, and convenient features like a side burner and folding shelves, this grill can handle any tailgating challenge. However, it's not the most compact grill on the market, and some users report inconsistent heat distribution. If you're looking for a sturdy grill with plenty of cooking space, this is a great choice. But if you need a compact grill or you're looking for consistent heat distribution, you might want to consider a different model.
Brinkmann 810-4000-S 4-Burner Gas Grill
A classic 4-burner gas grill with a focus on simplicity and affordability.
Specifications :
- 4 stainless steel burners
- 400 square inches of cooking space
- Porcelain-coated cast iron cooking grates
- Foldable side shelves
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price point
- Simple design
- Durable construction
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as feature-rich as some other options
- Can be a bit heavy
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You're on a budget and need a reliable 4-burner gas grill.
- You appreciate a simple design.
- You need a durable grill that will last.
Don't buy it if:
- You're looking for a grill with a side burner or other extra features.
- You need a lightweight grill.
Bottom Line:
The Brinkmann 810-4000-S 4-Burner Gas Grill is a classic option that offers simplicity, affordability, and durability. It's a solid choice for casual tailgaters who need a reliable grill with plenty of cooking space. It may not be the most feature-rich grill on the market, but it's a solid value for the price. If you're looking for a grill with a side burner or other extra features, you'll want to look elsewhere. But if you need a reliable and affordable grill that will get the job done, the Brinkmann 810-4000-S 4-Burner Gas Grill is a great option.
PK Grill & Fire Pit Portable Grill
A versatile and durable grill that can be used for both grilling and fire-pit cooking.
Specifications :
- Made from cast aluminum
- Large cooking surface area
- Portability for easy transport
- Can be used as a fire pit
Reasons to buy :
- Extremely durable and long lasting
- Versatile for grilling and fire pit cooking
- Easy to transport and set up
Reasons to avoid :
- Relatively expensive
- Requires a bit of know-how to properly use
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You want a grill that's durable and can last for years.
- You appreciate the versatility of being able to use it for grilling and fire pit cooking.
- You need a grill that's easy to transport and set up.
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget.
- You want a grill that's easy to use for beginners.
Bottom Line:
The PK Grill & Fire Pit is a premium choice for serious tailgaters who want a durable and versatile grill. It's made from cast aluminum, which means it's built to last, and it can be used for both grilling and fire pit cooking. It's also easy to transport and set up, making it a great option for tailgating or camping trips. However, it's a bit expensive and it requires a bit of know-how to properly use. If you're willing to invest in a high-quality grill that will last for years and you don't mind learning the ropes, the PK Grill & Fire Pit is a great option. But if you're on a tight budget or you want a grill that's easy to use for beginners, there are other more affordable options available.
Tailgating is an essential part of any sporting event, and a good grill is a must-have for any tailgater. With so many great grills on the market, it can be tough to choose the right one for your needs. We've compiled a list of the 16 best grills for tailgating in 2024, based on factors such as portability, ease of use, and cooking performance. Whether you're a seasoned tailgater or just getting started, we're confident you'll find the perfect grill for your next game day.
From portable charcoal grills to full-featured gas grills, there's a grill on this list for everyone. No matter your budget or grilling style, you're sure to find the perfect grill to elevate your tailgating experience. So gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy the game!
Remember that each grill has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the best one for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. When choosing a grill for tailgating, consider factors such as portability, ease of use, cooking performance, and price. With a little research, you can find the perfect grill to make your next game day a success.
We hope this list has helped you find the best grill for your tailgating needs. Now, get out there and enjoy the game!
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