
10 Best Nightlife in Charlotte
Where to Go at Night in Charlotte
You’ll hardly find a shortage of different ways to have a good time after sunset in Charlotte. The North Carolina city has just about everything, from taphouses with draft beers as far as the eye can see to historic speakeasies slinging whiskeys you might've never even heard of. There are also plenty of dinner spots so fancy you'll want to dress up before going.
If you want your night out to have a bit more flair, you're in the right town. There's a bar in Charlotte where you can bring your dog to mingle with other canines, a bar or arcade for hardcore gamers, and a few lively spots catering to the colourful LGBTQ crowd. Whatever you're into, Charlotte is ready to show you an unforgettable evening. Find out where to go at night in Charlotte, below.
The Cotton Room at Belfast Mill
Where spirits come with plenty of spirit

- Nightlife
The Cotton Room brings to Charlotte a modern speakeasy experience. It has all the charm of a place off the beaten path. The close quarters are cosy without feeling cramped, and the Southern-style furnishings are just the right mix of classy and comfortable.
The bartenders are experts at mixology – they’re also friendly and inviting, ensuring a warm and memorable experience. The Cotton Room has monthly whiskey-tasting and a menu that’s constantly updated. If you're more of a beer person, you’ll love their rotating craft beer selection.
Location: 144 Brevard Court Suite B, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA
Open: Tuesday–Thursday from 5 pm to midnight, Friday–Saturday from 4 pm to 2 am, Sundays from 1 pm to midnight
Phone: +1 704-333-7160
Abari Game Bar
Relax with some friendly competition

- Nightlife
Abari combines a classic dive bar with retro gaming. They serve local beer and boast a selection of games that both connoisseurs and novices will enjoy. The price to play is always 50 cents, 25 cents or free, depending on the machine, so bring your quarters.
There's plenty to gawk at for the nerds, but Abari is also a nice change of pace for those of us who aren't gamers. The bar hums with activity and multi-coloured lights, creating a vibrant atmosphere. With so many different games, you're bound to find something you're good at. A food truck is stationed outside in the evenings, should you ever need a break.
Location: 1721 N Davidson St, Charlotte, NC 28206, USA
Open: Monday–Friday from 5 pm to 2 am, Saturday–Sunday from noon to 2 am
Phone: +1 980-430-4587
Duckworth's Grill & Taphouse
Enjoy some good old-fashioned pub fare

- Food
- Nightlife
The pub food at Duckworth's Grill & Taphouse in Charlotte Uptown will truly hit the spot. They've got chicken wings with an array of different sauces, fish and chips, steaks, barbecue pork ribs, Philly cheesesteaks… you name it. Pair your meal with a pint of craft beer – with so many to choose from, you won't have a problem finding one you like. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the game on one of the huge HDTVs.
Not into the sports pub scene? You might want to venture down the basement, where the Cellar at Duckworth's offers a classier gastropub experience with its speakeasy-style interior.
Location: 330 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA
Open: Daily from 11 am to 10 pm
Phone: +1 980-939-1166
Howl at the Moon Charlotte
Dance the night away

- Nightlife
Howl at the Moon Charlotte is a famous local haunt for music lovers. The unassuming bar doesn’t try to be anything it’s not. A live band plays hits while the bar serves beer and cocktails. What's not to like? It will be hard not to join in with a singalong to your favourite song – that's just how infectious and upbeat the energy is.
The band, usually composed of 6 talented musicians, knows how to draw in the crowds. It's up to you whether you want to dance or stand at the back and relax. Wherever you start the night, Howl at the Moon is a high-energy spot to end it.
Location: 210 E Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA
Open: Wednesday–Thursday from 8 pm to 2 am, Friday–Saturday from 7 pm to 2 am (open for events from Sundays to Tuesdays)
Phone: +1 704-936-4695
Sir Edmond Halley's
A little piece of England in Charlotte

- Food
- Nightlife
Sir Edmond Halley's is a place where you can sit around the table and chat while knocking back pints in Charlotte. No deafening music here and no pretentiousness either. It's decorated like an English pub, and as such, they've got fish and chips, as well as ales and stouts on draft. Plenty of easy-to-drink beers ensures lively conversation will continue well into the night.
Patio seating provides a cosy atmosphere, especially when it's warm. The kitchen stays open until closing time, so you won't have to end the night on an empty stomach. If dancing isn't in the cards tonight, bring the lads and lassies to Sir Edmond Halley's.
Location: 4151 Park Rd A, Charlotte, NC 28209, USA
Open: Sunday–Friday from 11 am to 2 am, Saturday from noon to 2 am
Phone: +1 704-525-7775
The Dog Bar
A bar for man's best friend

- Nightlife
The Dog Bar is a typical American-style bar with one big difference: it's where you can drink in the company of dogs. Here, you can have a drink at a well-stocked bar and get to know other pet owners. Just think, instead of showing a picture of your dog to new people you meet, you can bring it along with you.
Don't have a furry friend? Nobody minds, as long as you're courteous. You and your pup are also in safe hands as owners must verify that their pet has been vaccinated. With décor featuring most egregious dog puns, it's clear that the Dog Bar is run by only the most avid of dog lovers.
Location: 3307 N Davidson St, Charlotte, NC 28205, USA
Open: Monday–Thursday from 6 pm to 10 pm, Friday from 6 pm to 1 am, Saturday from noon to 1 am, Sunday from noon to 10 pm
Phone: +1 704-370-3595
photo by James Willamor (CC BY-SA 2.0) modified
Alexander Michael's
Make yourself at home

- Food
- Nightlife
Alexander Michael's (Al Mike's) is a tavern full of Southern charm in Charlotte. You can tell right from the start when you notice that it's inside of a house on a residential street. They don't take reservations but even if you have to wait for a table, it's worth it. Inside, the atmosphere is charming without being too fancy. Old wood and furnishings decorate the place while dim lighting puts you at ease.
The menu boasts a spicy crab soup which is to die for, and it's even better when paired with a local craft beer. Other standouts include jerk chicken quesadillas, London Broil, and plenty of seafood. You can also walk off your meal with a stroll around the 4th Ward residential district.
Location: 401 W 9th St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA
Open: Monday–Thursday from 11 am to 10 pm, Friday–Saturday from 11 am to 11 pm (closed on Sundays)
Phone: +1 704-332-6789
photo by James Willamor (CC BY-SA 2.0) modified
Thirsty Beaver Saloon
Casual attire only
- Nightlife
Thirsty Beaver Saloon is a dive bar where you can go for $2 brews and cheap shooters when you’re thirsty but light on cash in Charlotte. It's the kind of bar that veers away from the cleaner side of things, but what it lacks in polish it makes up for in character. The bartenders are friendly and no-nonsense, making this a great place to come as you are.
The Thirsty Beaver is by locals and for locals. The crowds can get big, so you might be hard-pressed to get one of the pool tables to yourself, but that's a small price to pay for an evening in such a lively spot.
Location: 1225 Central Ave, Charlotte, NC 28204, USA
Open: Wednesday–Sunday from 4 pm to 2 am (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Phone: +1 704-332-3612
Tilt on Trade
A local favourite with good vibes
- Nightlife
Tilt on Trade is a bar's bar in Charlotte – not too divey or grungy and offers plenty of diversions like beer pong tables and darts. Whether you want to drink tallboys or take Cinnamon Toast Crunch shots – yes, really – you'll find what you need.
Tilt on Trade is the kind of bar that appeals to all people, and as such, you’ll find a good mix of Charlotte locals here. For many, it's considered the go-to or the reliable fallback in case plans fall through. Charlotte takes a lot of pride in this one – bring your good vibes and Tilt on Trade will gladly pay them back double.
Location: 127 W Trade St, Charlotte, NC 28202, USA
Open: Daily from 4 pm to 2 am
Phone: +1 704-347-4870
Woodshed Lounge
Bring your wild side
- Nightlife
Woodshed Lounge is a simple and unpretentious example of Charlotte's famous LGBTQ establishments. The dive-bar atmosphere makes this a great place to dance, play pool, or talk to new people. There are plenty of events throughout the year, as well as various happy hour deals.
The theme of the bar is backwoods shed, while the dress code is very risque. Expect a fun time if you come with an open mind. Everyone is welcomed at Woodshed Lounge, as long as they are respectful and kind.
Location: 3935 Queen City Dr, Charlotte, NC 28208, USA
Open: Monday–Saturday from 5 pm to 2 am, Sunday from 3 pm to 2 am
Phone: +1 704-394-1712
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