Tailgating is a cherished tradition for sports fans, and having the right grill can make or break your pre-game festivities. As a seasoned griller and tailgate enthusiast, I’ve spent years testing various portable grills to find the best options for parking lot cookouts. In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share my top picks for the best tailgate grills of 2025, breaking down their pros and cons to help you choose the perfect grill for your next game day party.
Quick Roundup List
- Best Overall: Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand Up Propane Grill
- Best Budget: Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill 18 Inch Black
- Best Compact: Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill
- Best Premium: Weber Q 2800N Liquid Propane Grill
- Best Versatile: Blackstone Tailgater Portable Gas Grill and Griddle Combo
What is a Tailgate Grill?
A tailgate grill is a portable cooking appliance specifically designed for outdoor cooking at sporting events, concerts, and other gatherings where traditional full-size grills aren’t practical. These grills combine mobility with cooking power, featuring compact designs that can be easily transported in vehicles while still providing enough cooking space to feed a group of hungry fans.
Unlike standard backyard grills, tailgate grills emphasize features like collapsible legs, carrying handles, and secure locking mechanisms for safe transport. Modern tailgate grills come in various fuel types, from propane to charcoal, with sizes typically ranging from 145 to 285 square inches of cooking space.
Why You Need a Tailgate Grill
Before we dive into the reviews, let’s look at some key reasons to invest in a quality tailgate grill:
- Portability: Designed for easy transport and setup in parking lots or fields.
- Compact size: Ideal for limited tailgating spaces.
- Quick heating: Gets hot fast so you can start cooking shortly after arrival.
- Versatility: Many models offer multiple cooking surfaces or fuel options.
- Durability: Built to withstand frequent transport and outdoor use.
The 5 Best Tailgate Grills for 2025
Coleman RoadTrip 285 Portable Stand-Up Propane Grill – Best Overall
The Coleman RoadTrip 285 is our top pick for tailgating, offering an excellent balance of portability, cooking power, and convenience. This propane grill is designed with the tailgater in mind, featuring easy setup and breakdown for hassle-free transport.
Highlights
- 285 square inches of cooking space
- Three adjustable burners for precise temperature control
- Collapsible design with wheels for easy transport
- Interchangeable cooktops for versatile cooking options
Specifications
- Dimensions: 30.25″ x 19.19″ x 16.13″
- Weight: 46.7 lbs
- Fuel Type: Propane
- Total BTUs: 20,000
Customer Reviews for Coleman RoadTrip 285
- “We are full-time RVers and needed a sturdy, well-built portable grill. The Coleman RoadTrip 285 fits perfectly and is built to last!”
- “After three years of frequent use, it still works like new. Love the easy cleanup and fast heating!”
- “Perfect for tailgating. The fold-up design makes it so easy to transport, and the three burners provide great heat control.”
Weber Q 2800N+ Liquid Propane Grill – Best Premium
For those seeking premium build quality and reliable performance, the Weber Q 2800N+ is an outstanding choice. This compact propane grill offers excellent heat distribution and durability in a portable package.
Highlights
- Superior heat retention
- Porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates
- Compact design with a single burner
- Flame red color for standout style
Specifications
- Dimensions: 19.7″ x 30″ x 16.7″
- Weight: 51.2 lbs
- Fuel Type: Propane
- Cooking Area: Comparable to previous Weber models
Customer Reviews for Weber Q 2800N+
- “Perfect size for tailgating—enough room to grill for a small group without taking up too much space.”
- “Fantastic build quality! Heats up quickly and retains heat very well. Worth every penny!”
- “Best camping and tailgate grill I’ve owned. Super easy to clean and transport.”
Blackstone Tailgater Portable Gas Grill and Griddle Combo – Best Versatile
For ultimate versatility in your tailgate cooking, the Blackstone Tailgater offers a unique combination of a gas grill and a griddle. This 2-in-1 cooking station allows you to prepare a wide variety of foods to satisfy all your tailgating guests.
Highlights
- Dual cooking surfaces: grill box and griddle
- Independently adjustable legs for uneven terrain
- Two burners with separate controls
- Removable cooking surfaces for easy cleaning
Specifications
- Dimensions: 52″ x 24″ x 38.5″
- Weight: 75 lbs
- Fuel Type: Propane
- Total BTUs: 35,000
Customer Reviews for Blackstone Tailgater
- “Great grill! Super versatile for cooking everything from breakfast to steaks at tailgates.”
- “The griddle feature is a game-changer. Pancakes, eggs, and bacon in the morning, then burgers for lunch!”
- “Well built, sturdy, and perfect for tailgating. Love that I can use both a griddle and a grill!”
Weber Jumbo Joe Charcoal Grill 18 Inch Black – Best Budget
For traditionalists who prefer the smoky flavor of charcoal, the Weber Jumbo Joe offers classic grilling performance in a portable package. This compact charcoal grill brings the authentic BBQ experience to your tailgate party.
Highlights
- 240 square inches of cooking space
- Tuck-N-Carry lid lock for easy transport
- Aluminum ash catcher for easy cleanup
- Porcelain-enameled bowl and lid for durability
Specifications
- Dimensions: 19.75″ x 20.5″ x 19.75″
- Weight: 17.42 lbs
- Fuel Type: Charcoal
- Cooking Grate Material: Plated steel
Customer Reviews for Weber Jumbo Joe
- “Perfect small charcoal grill for tailgating. Easy to transport and gets that true BBQ flavor!”
- “Great for camping and tailgates. Love how it keeps heat well, and the locking lid is a nice touch.”
- “Super lightweight yet sturdy. Perfect for small gatherings, and it cleans up easily.”
Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit Gourmet Portable Tabletop Gas Grill – Best Compact
For tailgaters looking for ultimate portability, the Cuisinart CGG-180T offers a compact and lightweight solution. This tabletop gas grill is designed for easy transport and quick setup, making it ideal for tailgate parties.
Highlights
- Compact and lightweight design
- Folding legs for easy storage and transport
- Porcelain-enameled grate for easy cleaning
- Precise temperature control
Specifications
- Dimensions: 12″ x 18″ x 13″
- Weight: 13.5 lbs
- Fuel Type: Propane
- Cooking Surface Area: 145 square inches
Customer Reviews for Cuisinart CGG-180T
- “Great little grill for small tailgating parties! Heats up quickly and cooks evenly.”
- “Super lightweight and easy to carry. Fits perfectly in my trunk for tailgates and camping.”
- “Perfect for two to four people. Love how portable it is, and the setup is a breeze!”
Tailgate Grill Buying Guide
When choosing the best tailgate grill for your needs, consider the following factors:
- Portability: Look for grills that are lightweight, compact, and easy to transport. Features like folding legs, carrying handles, and wheels can make a big difference.
- Cooking Capacity: Consider how many people you typically cook for at tailgates. Larger grills offer more cooking space but may be heavier and harder to transport.
- Fuel Type: Decide between propane, charcoal, or electric grills. Propane is convenient and offers quick heat-up times, charcoal provides traditional flavor, and electric grills are easy to use but require a power source.
- Durability: Tailgate grills should be built to withstand frequent transport and outdoor use. Look for sturdy materials like cast aluminum or stainless steel.
- Heat Output: Check the BTU rating for gas grills to ensure sufficient cooking power. Higher BTUs generally mean faster heating and higher maximum temperatures.
- Additional Features: Consider extras like side tables, built-in thermometers, and easy-clean systems that can enhance your tailgating experience.
- Price: Determine your budget, but remember that investing in a quality grill can pay off in longevity and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I grill for a tailgate?
A: Popular tailgate grilling options include burgers, hot dogs, bratwurst, chicken wings, kebabs, and vegetables. Consider items that are easy to eat without utensils and can be prepared quickly.
Q: Can you pre-grill brats for tailgating?
A: Yes, you can pre-grill brats partially at home and finish them at the tailgate. Cook them until they’re about 3/4 done, then cool and refrigerate. At the tailgate, finish grilling them to heat through and achieve the desired char.
Q: How do I make a grill for tailgating?
A: While it’s possible to DIY a tailgate grill, it’s generally safer and more convenient to purchase a purpose-built portable grill. These are designed for safety, efficiency, and ease of use in tailgating situations.
Q: What is the best portable grill for tailgating?
A: Based on our testing, the Coleman RoadTrip 285 is the best overall portable grill for tailgating due to its combination of cooking power, portability, and convenient features.
Q: What should I grill out for a tailgate?
A: In addition to traditional grill fare, consider unique items like grilled pizzas, quesadillas, or even desserts like grilled fruit. Variety can make your tailgate menu stand out.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tailgate grill can elevate your game day experience, allowing you to serve up delicious food while enjoying the pre-game festivities. Whether you prefer the convenience of propane, the flavor of charcoal, or the versatility of a grill/griddle combo, there’s a tailgate grill out there to suit your needs.
Our top overall pick, the Coleman RoadTrip 285, offers an excellent balance of portability, cooking power, and convenience. However, each of the grills we’ve reviewed has its own strengths, so consider your specific needs and preferences when making your choice.
Remember to prioritize safety, follow proper food handling procedures, and check your venue’s tailgating rules regarding grill use. With the right grill and a bit of culinary creativity, you’ll be well on your way to becoming the MVP of your tailgating crew.
No matter which grill you choose, the key to a successful tailgate is good food, good company, and team spirit. So fire up your grill, don your team colors, and get ready for an unforgettable game day experience. Happy grilling and go team!
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