Looking for a good time? Look no further than the best dive bars in Charlotte. These watering holes are perfect for those who are looking for a fun and casual night out.
From pool tables to jukeboxes, these places have everything you need to have a good time. So grab your friends and head to one of these local hotspots!
1. The Thirsty Beaver Saloon
The Thirsty Beaver is a dive bar par excellence. A large beaver image painted on a bright orange wall distinguishes this small brick box off the highway.
‘The Beav’ has framed photographs of Burt Reynolds, gag posters, and bras hanging from the ceiling, to name a few. 24-ounce Pabst Blue Ribbon ‘tallboys’ are discounted during live music concerts, and there are two pool tables in the rear room.
The Thirsty Beaver is a genuine dive pub sans the pretense of Plaza Midwood’s bar culture. The clientele is mainly blue-collar types and locals – no-frills, just cold beer, and good company. So if you’re looking for a dive bar that’s unpretentious and down-to-earth, the Thirsty Beaver is the place for you.
2. Tommy’s Pub
When people want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Uptown and Plaza Midwood, they often head to Tommy’s Pub.
The pub is decorated to look like an old garage, complete with NASCAR bumper stickers, sports memorabilia, and framed images of guests and musicians.
Live music is performed every day, and cold canned beer and a wide choice of beverages are available late into the night.
When the music stops, the proprietors frequently show vintage black-and-white movies, adding to Tommy’s inviting family vibe. So whether you’re looking for a place to relax with a cold drink or enjoy some live music, Tommy’s Pub is sure to have something for everyone.
3. Hattie’s Tap and Tavern
Hattie’s Tap and Tavern is one of the best places to enjoy a night out in Charlotte. The atmosphere is unrivaled, with a beautiful outdoor patio, a cornhole course, and a stunning hand-painted mural.
Inside, the bar is bright and airy, with a full bar, a live music stage, and various bar/video games. You can sample over 20 tap beers, as well as an impressive selection of craft bottles and cans.
Most evenings feature live music and open mics, and the pub is dog-friendly! Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a few drinks with friends or want to soak up the atmosphere, Hattie’s Tap and Tavern is the perfect spot.
4. The Sanctuary
The Sanctuary is a local bar in NoDa that is well known for its cheap cocktails. The walls are covered in graffiti, and the main bar features a mural.
There are TV screens to keep you entertained, and the pool table is free until 9 p.m. The Sanctuary also has an internet jukebox, bar games, and live music.
You can enjoy excellent beverages and even better company after a show at the neighboring Neighborhood Theater. The atmosphere at the Sanctuary is one of the things that makes it so special.
It’s not only a place to drink, but also a place to socialize and have fun.
Whether you’re looking for a place to watch the game or just want to relax with friends, the Sanctuary is the perfect spot. So next time you’re in NoDa, be sure to swing by and check it out!
5. Smokey Joe’s Cafe
Smokey Joe’s may not be the most attractive bar in town, but it more than makes up for it in the atmosphere.
This dive paradise is decorated in a kitschy, tropical getaway style, with an indoor waterfall in the rafters and a ping pong table on the outside patio. The live music stage features open mic nights every Tuesday, and the large full bar has tap beer and liquor.
The pool table and vintage beer signs on the walls are a nice touch, and the laid-back vibe is perfect for enjoying a cheap drink or two.
So whether you’re looking for live music, a relaxed atmosphere, or just a cheap night out, Smokey Joe’s is the place to be.
6. Midwood Country Club
When it comes to bars, Warren Stiles knows what he’s doing. After running Elizabeth Billiards for over 20 years, he decided to branch out and start his own business: Midwood Country Club.
Even though it’s a bit more upscale than your typical dive bar, it still has all the essential ingredients that make a great bar: weekly leagues for pool, poker, and darts, a long bar with plenty of space to sit and drink, and a great selection of craft beer on tap. Plus, the liquor shelves are fully stocked, so you can always find your favorite drink.
Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind after a long day or somewhere to watch the game with friends, Midwood Country Club is a great hangout location.
Final Note
There are countless dive bars in Charlotte, each with its own unique atmosphere and character.
Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy live music or just want to relax with a cheap drink, these bars are sure to have something for everyone. So next time you’re in town, be sure to check out one (or all!) of these.
