The best bars & nightlife in Kanawha County

If you want a quick escape close to Hurricane, Mardi Gras Casino & Resort packs the fun into one spot with slots, table games, poker, and live greyhound racing, plus multiple bars and eateries. Bring friends, join Ember Rewards, then crash upstairs in comfy rooms when luck runs late.

From the Hurricane newsletter, October 9, 2026

The Empty Glass is Charleston’s come-as-you-are creative haunt where open-mic Mondays showcase locals from guitar slingers to stand-up goofballs to poets. Swing by for live tunes, Friday jazz, and that rowdy, friendly energy only a neighborhood stage can pull off… maybe your name ends up on the list.

From the Charleston newsletter, October 6, 2026

Wandering Wind Meadery keeps things fresh with rotating flavors that swing from Irish Sailor’s Mead with juniper and citrus to Mango Jalapeño and Cherry Hibiscus. Settle in this week with local music, open mic vibes, and a few Atari games while Dave and Dawn pour... plus pretzels.

From the Charleston newsletter, October 4, 2026

Live at The Shop keeps the focus on the music, the kind of show where you actually hear every note and maybe leave with a new favorite band. Tight lineups, easygoing vibe, and plenty of locals in the room who care about live sound.

From the Charleston newsletter, September 4, 2026

GRÜV turns the humble smashburger into the main event with signature stacks, unique apps, and homemade sauces built for reckless dipping. Grab a friend, mix and match a few flavors, and let those lively bar vibes rescue your midweek appetite.

From the Charleston newsletter, October 13, 2026

If you need a midweek morale boost, The Bucket is serving deep-fried pepperoni rolls that are crispy outside, melty inside, plus wings, traditional, sauced up, or dry-rubbed, and burgers, including the legendary Sasquatch Burger Challenge.

From the Charleston newsletter, October 21, 2026

Ursus Brew Works keeps a rotating taplist of IPA, lagers, stouts, and porters, plus from-scratch burgers, sandwiches, and shareables inside the historic Strand Building. When you want a low-fuss spot downtown with consistently good food and a fresh pour every time, this is an easy yes.

From the Charleston newsletter, October 11, 2026

The ROQ keeps your week lively with salsa classes, themed nights, and live bands, plus potent, well-made cocktails and bar bites. Make it a plan this week, bring a friend or roll solo, then keep the party going with a private event they’ll customize from the drinks to the playlist.

From the Charleston newsletter, October 27, 2026