Club Charles
Cocktail Lounge · Dive Bars · Baltimore, MD
About
A red-lit 1940s art deco cocktail lounge with period furnishings and a scarlet mural sets the scene. The crowd leans 30s and 40s, largely local regulars, and while the vibe is straight-presenting at times, it's genuinely trans-friendly and mixed LGBTQ+. Drinks are reasonably priced, though some say a bit high for a dive.
Open Wednesday through Sunday from 7pm to 2am, it straddles casual and after-work energy. The jukebox plays Beatle-era rock and avant-garde tracks. Upper level has vintage booths and a darker second bar. You can also walk to nearby Cat's Eye Pub or The Horse You Came In On Saloon .
Club Charles is located in the Charles Village neighborhood, known for its eclectic mix of students, artists, and longtime residents.
Features
- ✓Art deco interior with scarlet mural and period decor
- ✓Trans-friendly, mixed LGBTQ+ crowd of 30s and 40s locals
- ✓Open late 7pm-2am Wed-Sun
- ✓Jukebox with classic rock, alternative, and avant-garde tunes
- ✓Upper level with vintage booths and second bar
Good for
Practical
What people say
Rated from 97 reviews. 19 community ratings. View this venue on Yelp
From the community
My girlfriend and I visited this place based on great reviews. It started off fun but we quickly felt uncomfortable and disgusted. The bar manager, who we met that night, was heavily intoxicated and shoved his dirty fingers into my mouth, finding it amusing. I had just met him. He supposedly manages the place. It was completely disgusting and unexpected; I felt assaulted and ashamed. I tried reporting it to the police but they didn't believe me because they knew him. How unlucky and disgusting is that? It was our first time at Baltimore bars, and we're never returning. We'll warn all our friends and family to avoid this place. Avoid this place at all costs.
A visitor · Over a year ago
“Nice Alternative, Friendly Patrons!”
Club Charles is a very cool spot. It has an art-deco feel, like a Miami rock vibe combined with a futuristic TV studio. Classic and upscale in spirit. Mostly white and straight crowd, but also includes African American, Asian, Latino, etc. -- no drama, an evolved urban scene. Great prices and themed drink specials. The jukebox is retro with classic rock, avant-rock, alternative, Beatles, Milton Nascimento, and James Brown. Upstairs has vintage booths, a second bar, and a darker 1940s intimacy. Staff and bartenders are friendly and acknowledge you. During school, it's more college and scenesters. Lots of artists, writers, and bohemians in their 20s. Give this place a try!
A guest · Over a year ago
“John Waters style kitsch”
I love Club Charles! It has a cool 1940s Art Deco lounge atmosphere. It can get a bit crowded, and the drinks are somewhat pricey, but it's totally worth it. I've heard a rumor that John Waters has been seen there, though I can't confirm it.
A recent visitor · Over a year ago
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Club Charles a gay bar? +
It's a mixed LGBTQ+ venue with a trans-friendly atmosphere, though the crowd can include a straight presence.
What's the dress code? +
Casual is fine; no specific dress code reported.
Is there a cover charge? +
No cover charge reported.
What are the hours? +
Club Charles is open Wednesday through Sunday from 7pm to 2am (overnight). Closed Monday and Tuesday.
Is Club Charles 21+? +
No age restriction is listed; Yelp categorizes it as a dive bar but doesn't specify an age requirement.
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