If you’re moving to Charleston and plan on exploring the nightlife scene, you’ll be glad to learn Charleston has something for everyone. From venues that offer hundreds of specialty craft beers to upscale lounges and dance clubs, you are guaranteed to find a place to call your own. You don’t have to buy a home in one of the trendiest neighborhoods to enjoy the best bars in Charleston or immerse yourself in the rhythm of the city.
No matter where you settle in, you’ll have access to beach bars, upscale clubs, comedy venues and sports bars scattered throughout the region for your enjoyment. Here are 16 of the best Charleston bars recommended by travel experts, locals, and tourists.
?Bin 152 has an extensive wine list boasting more than two dozen wines available by the glass and more than 130 international selections by the bottle. Enjoy a wide selection of cheeses and charcuterie and fresh-baked bread with your beverage.
Bin 152
152 King Street
You always get a pure draw when you order one of the 100+ craft beers at Craft Conundrum whether you prefer a fruity flavor, a robust dark brew, a nutty undertone or a regional favorite. Fun, friendly atmosphere. Try one or try them all. Full- and half-pours and flights available. Plus, the owner and staff know everything there is to know about brews and brewing – just ask. Great hang out bar with a food truck on Thursday, Friday and Saturday or BYO. Open mic and live music nights. Consistently rated 5 stars on Yelp.
Craft Conundrum
630-A Skylark Drive
Not your average sports bar, BSB takes it to another level. You won’t find huge crowds or shoulder-to-shoulder standing room only in this “hidden” bar. You will find a huge selection of local craft beers and snack items like pretzels with a delicious smoked cheese sauce, pimento cheese sticks and bourbon-beer wings, along with brats and gourmet burgers that make you want to settle in for the evening. Communal tables and booths give you plenty of opportunities to meet new friends.
Bay Street Biergarten
549 East Bay Street
If you’re looking for top-shelf, high-quality brown spirits, stop by The Whiskey Bar at Henry’s. Open Wednesday through Saturday only. Patrons enjoy live original Jazz and Experimental music with their beverages and access to the rooftop dining area with spectacular city views.
Henry's House
54 N. Market Street
Catering to Lowcountry young professionals, Mynt is the place to stop off on the way home after a grueling day on the job for cocktails and appetizers. When the weekend rolls around the venue transforms itself into a wild and crazy venue where you can dance the night away and really let your hair down. Live music and DJ’s. Bring your attitude and enjoy the upscale atmosphere and exclusive Mojito menu, but don’t expect to get in if you aren’t dressed for the occasion – no jerseys, hats, baggy jeans, or tennis shoes allowed.
Mynt
135 Calhoun Street
Billed as the best place to have a bachelor/bachelorette party, Market Street Saloon isn’t the typical place you’d drop in for an after work cocktail. But, if you’re looking for a raucous crowd, show girls and turn up the volume atmosphere, this is it.
Market Street Saloon
32-D North Market Street
Charleston CVB recommends this lounge as THE destination for creative cocktails, fine cuisine and generous hospitality. Elegant, Hemingway-esque surroundings and fine spirits.
Victor Social Club
39-F John Street (Hutson Street)
Impressive comes to mind when people mention the Trio. Expansive dance floors, over-sized outdoor patio, VIP tables, premier bands on stage downstairs every night and skilled spin-masters upstairs.
Club Trio
139 Calhoun Street
Casual, laid-back atmosphere combined with stunning views of downtown Charleston and the harbor. Voted “Best Rooftop Bar” every year since 2007. Live music. Recently renovated to emphasize the regional “cultivated” art community.
The Rooftop Bar at Vendue
19 Vendue Range
Offerings include a wide selection of rare liquors, infusions, and “farm-to-shaker” beverages. Upscale setting, rooftop terrace that doubles as a garden for in-house beverage garnishes, and a light menu make the Cocktail Club a great date-night venue and happy hour hangout. Memberships available if you want to cash in on 50 percent off happy hour specials.
The Cocktail Club
479 King Street
Blind Tiger Pub, once shrouded in secrecy during speakeasy days, is now a “legitimate” establishment near Waterfront Park and Broad Street. Whether you want to take a break from sightseeing or just relax in a cozy, tavern-like atmosphere, you’ll find the Blind Tiger is budget friendly with daily specials. Charleston has a rich history, and you can experience that history first hand by sipping on a cold brew in this landmark building erected in 1803! Check the website for live band schedules and specials.
Blind Tiger Pub
36/38 Broad Street
There’s a reason Closed for Business is one of the most popular bars in Charleston, and the Upper King. With approximately 50 bottled beers, plus a seasonal beer menu, rotating weekly specials and more than 40 brews on tap, CFB offers a varied beverage lineup for those looking for more than just an everyday favorite. For non-beer drinkers, they offer premium liquor and wine choices. Rustic décor sets the tone and feel of a neighborhood bar with a southern flair. Upscale pub fare and unique daily dessert options, too.
Closed for Business
453 King Street
The Alley offers a one-of-a-kind experience in Charleston. Popular with the college crowd, this place is a great “first-date” option without the pressure to impress with a fat wallet. Grab a drink at the 40-foot bar, hit the arcade or practice your 7-10 split on one of eight bowling lanes.
The Alley
131 Columbus Street
Every body deserves a burst of fresh ingredients and energizing nutrients once in a while. Right? At Whisk, you can create your own vitamin packed juice drink in one of five fruit bases (green or red apple, coconut water, pear or orange juice. Add your favorite veggies and fruits; then top it off with a zesty splash of turmeric, ginger, or citrus. Take it with you or enjoy your personal creation with a meal and friendly conversation.
Club Pantheon is rated one of the best LGBT dance clubs in Charleston. Each night offers a different flavor. Pick your pleasure with a VIP lounge, Drag Shows, Male Revues, and more.
Club Pantheon
28 Ann Street
Charleston Sports Pub is one of the newcomers to the Charleston area that garners praise as West Ashley’s premier place to catch the sports action on the tube. Great snacks, specials, and happy hour fun keeps the place jumping. Slightly more expensive than some other bars in the area, but so far locals are saying it’s worth it.
Charleston Sports Pub
1124 Sam Rittenberg Blvd
There are dozens of bars, clubs, pubs and other venues to experience Charleston up close and personal after dark. This list of the best bars in Charleston is a great starting place for newcomers to explore entertainment venues. If you need help finding a new home in the Lowcountry, give Movoto.com agents a call. We have the info about Charleston market trends to help you find the best deals on houses for sale.
