Thinking of watching the Super Bowl at home alone?  That's practically un-American, considering the day has become a party and a chance to gather with others, eat, drink, ogle the fab commercials and celebrities and, oh yes, watch very large men throw a pigskin around somebody's grass.

Earlier: Fans lined up for Super Bowl 2011

So get your game strategy going by heading out to one of these six places.

• Kiddie Kingdom. Yes, you really can enjoy beer and wine, pizza and chicken while the smaller members of the family play arcade games in this family-oriented, brightly-colored environment
• St. John Brebeuf parish. The Super Sunday Football Party starts at 2 p.m. with a variety of foods, dessert, coffee, beer, wine and soda served starting at 4 p.m. $20 adults, $5 for ages 14 and under. There will be raffle prizes, bags games, beer pong, etc. Call 224-616-0753 or 847-966-6961 to reserve if possible.
• Playbook Sports Bar. Plan ahead, because it's going to be crowded at this nicely-appointed bar, which has flat screens galore and a full menu.
• Chasers Bar and Grill. Some patrons last year lined up their brews in a bucket, and ordered from the comfort-food menu before the game so they could cheer with the crowd.
• Morrison Roadhouse. This neighborhood place usually hosts a crowd of regulars for the big game.
• Brick House Tavern and Tap. They have beer bongs and a guy-centric environment, with sofas, a fireplace and lots of televisions.
• Howard Street Inn. Arrive early enough to this friendly-feeling bar and restaurant and you'll catch the sun setting over the adjacent golf course-- a nice view.

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