Charleston Nightlife: Best Bars, Clubs, and Downtown Spots

If you're planning a bachelorette party in Charleston, you're in for a treat! This historic city is full of bars, clubs, and nightlife hotspots, so you and your girls will have no shortage of places to party the night away. And the best part is that all of these downtown spots are just steps from the Azaleas, the perfect place to stay for your Charleston bachelorette party.

Here are some of our favorite places to let loose in Charleston.

Rooftop Bars to Take in the View

• CITRUS CLUB - Located on the 8th floor terrace of The Dewberry Hotel, the Citrus Club is the highest rooftop in the city. The setting is chic, and the views can't be beat.
• THE ROOFTOP AT VENDUE - Catch a sunset and views of the Charleston Harbor from above or head here post-sunset for a rowdier environment. Either way, this rooftop bar is a well-known spot for open air city views and covered patio space.
• STARS ROOFTOP - This rooftop bar offers an easy and relaxed environment to settle in for a Sunday Funday. The bonus is it's located steps away from the Azaleas
• COCKTAIL CLUB - Rustic ambiance meets upscale features at this hidden cocktail lounge with a rooftop terrace. Go here for creative, craft cocktails in a lively atmosphere.

Dance the Night Away

• REPUBLIC GARDEN & LOUNGE - Modern and sophisticated is the vibe at this garden, lounge, and nightclub spot. With live DJ's every night, VIP tables, and bottle service available, you'll be able to keep the party going.
• TRIO - An upbeat atmosphere and Vegas-style club are what you'll find at this longstanding Charleston hangout spot.

Casual Spots to Grab a Drink

• THE ALLEY - The Alley has been a staple of the Charleston nightlife scene since 1991, and it's easy to see why. This massive three-story bar is decked out with pool tables, darts, foosball, and more, so there's something for everyone. There's also a huge dance floor where you can dance the night away to tunes spun by one of The Alley's live DJs. If you get hungry, The Alley has you covered there too – they serve up American comfort food classics like burgers, wings, and fries until 2am. And did we mention they have an expansive outdoor patio? It's the perfect spot to enjoy a few cocktails under the stars before heading back inside to dance the night away.
• BAR MASH - Go here for a cozy, classy experience. Formally known as an American whiskey and beer bar, they offer a thoughtfully crafted selection of wine and craft cocktails, too.
• BLIND TIGER PUB - This Charleston fixture is good for a group of any size. Wander to the back of this historic alehouse for a charming, brick-walled courtyard.
• BAY STREET BIERGARTEN - It's a Southern pub with Bavarian flair. Enjoy the high ceilings inside the German bier hall style building or stay outside at their outdoor bar and communal tables.

Best Downtown Breweries

• REVELRY BREWING CO. - This bustling brewery offers the only rooftop brewery in town. Matching the view is the craft beer and eclectic offerings of food.
• MUNKLE BREWING CO. - This casual, Belgian-style brewery offers an outdoor patio to soak up some sun and ample food trucks to soak up the brews.
• EDMUNDS OAST BREWING CO. - Situated on the uppermost part of Upper King Street, this brewery is worth the quick trip.
• PALMETTO BREWING - Taking the title of South Carolina's first brewery, you'll find their space and menu will fit whatever your mood. Their facility offers a warehouse taproom, speakeasy taproom, and courtyard with beverage selections from mainstay beers to hard seltzers and seasonal picks.

Catch Some Live Music or Laughs

• THE COMMODORE - Vintage jazz club. Need we say more? Head to this venue for a swanky atmosphere with a touch of funk while enjoying some fun libations.
• THE ROYAL AMERICAN - A little bit quirky, hipster, and low-key, this venue is a great place to hang with friends. You can find them featuring local and regional musicians, while you enjoy cold beers and tasty fare. Try the disco fries and finish off with a choco taco if you know what's good for you.
• THEATRE 99 - Known as Charleston's home for improv comedy, you can catch shows every Friday and Saturday night. Grab a drink, take a seat, and be prepared to laugh until it hurts.
• CHARLESTON MUSIC HALL - This live music venue covers everything from concerts to comedy, theater, and dance.

Charleston Insiders

• THE GIN JOINT - This 1920's inspired bar gives off speakeasy vibes. Select from their expansive list of classic cocktails or if you don't know where to start, ask for the "Bartender's Choice." Pick two adjectives that suit your fancy, and they'll serve up something to satisfy.
• THE GRIFFON - While the Charleston social scene has its selection of upscale establishments, sometimes all you want is a good dive bar. With its English pub interior and solid beer list, you can stop here to grab a cheap drink. Plus, you can leave a little token by signing a dollar bill to be added to their wall!
• CAMELLIA'S - Pretty in pink, this feminine, champagne lounge located inside Hotel Bennett is the perfect spot for a girls' night.
• FACULTY LOUNGE - A true Charleston insider's spot, this off the beaten path bar has a chill atmosphere. Ring the doorbell for the bartender to buzz you inside.

No matter what kind of experience you're looking for on your bachelorette weekend in Charleston, you'll find it downtown – many within steps from the Azaleas! Whether you want to dance the night away or relax with some good food and drink, there's something for everyone in this historic city. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your Charleston bachelorette party today!