Gay Bars, Hotels & Venues in Charleston, WV — 15 LGBTQ+ Spots

Bridge Road Bistro draws a refined crowd of locals and travelers looking for a special night out in South Hills. The vibe is upscale but not stuffy, with a diverse menu that highlights steak, seafood, and locally sourced ingredients. Owner Sandra Call, a 37-year hospitality veteran, has led the restaurant since 2010, and it has earned Wine Spectator's Award of Excellence for 20 years. The bistro also features live local musicians three days a week and serves water in locally made Blenko Glass. You'll want to make a reservation, especially for the Walnut Room or Ellis Room if you're with a group. Prime rib is a Monday special, and Wednesday offers a two-can-dine deal for $69. The full bar and outdoor seating make it a comfortable spot for any evening. While Yelp data suggests it may be permanently closed as of now, locals remember it as a top-tier dining choice in Charleston.

Bluegrass Kitchen sits in Charleston's East End, a neighborhood the owners helped revitalize. This family-run spot opened in 2006 after an 18-month renovation of an early 1900s building. It serves elevated comfort food made from scratch with local and organic ingredients. The menu includes a large selection of vegetarian-friendly items. The atmosphere is casual and family friendly, with a full bar and free WiFi. Tuesday through Saturday, Bluegrass opens at 3pm for dinner, with Sunday brunch on weekends. The owners also run Frütcake and Tricky Fish nearby. Note that Yelp currently lists this venue as temporarily or permanently closed, so check hours before heading out.

Lola's stands out in Charleston's pizza scene with its locally-sourced pies and cozy yet hip atmosphere. The Yelp community gives it 4.4 stars from 248 reviews, and one regular calls it the best pizza in the central Appalachians. Beer and wine only, plus free WiFi make it a laid-back spot. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs too. They're open from 4pm Tue-Thu, until 10pm Fri-Sat, and noon-9pm on weekends. The creative pizzeria vibe draws a mixed crowd looking for quality ingredients. If you're craving a slice after exploring, ask a local how to find it off Glen Road in South Hills.

The first thing you'll notice walking into First Watch is the smell of fresh coffee and sizzling bacon. This chain serves breakfast, brunch, and lunch with a chef-driven menu that changes with the seasons. They slice and juice fresh fruits and vegetables daily, and whip French toast batter from scratch. It's a relaxed spot with free WiFi, outdoor seating, and a casual vibe that works for solo diners or groups. You'll find it on Quarrier Street in Downtown Charleston, open every day from 7am to 2:30pm. Regulars appreciate the consistent quality and friendly service. For a quieter experience, try a weekday morning before the weekend rush.

Soho has been serving Italian cuisine at Charleston's Capitol Market since 2002, using original recipes from late founder Bill Sohovich. The owner-operated spot offers a modern take on Italian, Mediterranean, and American dishes in a renovated train depot with an elevated industrial feel. The space is casual and welcoming, with outdoor seating available. You'll find generous portions of scratch-made lasagna, artisan pizzas, and NY-style sandwiches here. The full bar is stocked for a drink with your meal. It's open for lunch and dinner most days, with earlier closing on Sunday. Reservations are accepted, which can help during busier weekend evenings.

You step inside a renovated train station from the 1800s. Capitol Market is an indoor farmers market run as a 501c3 non-profit since 1997. You'll find high-quality food, fresh produce, and shops like the Wine & Cheese shop, Holl's Swiss Chocolates, Capitol Roasters, and Soho. It was voted Charleston's Favorite Attraction in 2015 and 2016. The market is open daily year-round, with slightly shorter hours on Sunday (12pm to 5pm). It's a reliable stop for gifts and sundries in Downtown Charleston. If you're looking for more local flavor, you can walk to Taylor Books nearby.

Open daily from 7am (8am weekends) until 8pm or later, Taylor Books is an indie bookstore that's also a coffee shop, café, art gallery, and live music venue all rolled into one. Since 1995, this Capitol Street landmark has been a go-to for books, gifts, and local art in Charleston's downtown. The Annex Gallery rotates contemporary works and handmade crafts, while the cafe serves coffee, scones, and wine with free WiFi. You'll find an unsurpassed selection of regional books alongside board games and unique cards. Weekend evenings feature live music, and the Annex Studios run art classes for all levels. Sit outside on the patio when weather's good, or browse the shelves at your own pace.

A single Yelp review gives Buckle a perfect 5/5 rating. This mall store at The Shops at Trace Fork specializes in designer jeans, casual clothes, and accessories. You'll find both national brands and exclusive Buckle labels. The store emphasizes personal service with free hemming, layaways, and Get Fitted appointments. Buckle also offers a loyalty program and gift cards. It's part of the Charleston shopping scene near Taylor Books, a local favorite for books and coffee. Hours are consistent Monday through Saturday from 10am to 8pm, with shorter Sunday hours from noon to 6pm.

Open daily from 10am to 6pm (with a later 12pm start on Sundays), South Charleston Antique Mall fits easily into a day of browsing. With over 70 vendors packed into one space, it's a massive selection of antiques and collectibles. You can find everything from vintage decor to oddities. The mall has a welcoming, no-pressure vibe. It's not uncommon to spend an hour or two just wandering the aisles. Yelp reviewers give it 4.4 stars, noting the friendly staff and ever-changing inventory. If you're in South Charleston, it's a solid stop for treasure hunters.

A Yelp reviewer noted Roseland Resort & Campground as a place where 'you can be yourself' in the West Virginia wilderness. This gay-owned, men-only, adults-only campground spans 222 acres with clothing-optional policies, hiking trails, a heated underground pool, steam room, and dry sauna. It's run by owners who took over in 2010 and expanded the facilities, adding a leather shop, pizza bar, and theme weekends. You'll find the vibe lively, with a mix of 20-somethings and 30-somethings. The on-site general store stocks camping supplies and swimwear, so you don't need to pack everything. If you want a hotel stay instead, the Charleston Marriott Town Center is nearby.

In downtown Charleston, Best Western Charleston Plaza sits within walking distance of two malls. Rooms are decently sized, and the free continental breakfast is a nice perk. The hotel has a slightly outdated feel but offers solid value. It's a straightforward choice for a convenient stay.

The Charleston Marriott Town Center sits right next to the Town Center mall, giving you easy access to shopping and the Civic Center. This hotel aims for comfort with a fitness center, a restaurant that puts new twists on southern favorites, and craft cocktails. The property is dog-friendly and offers a complimentary shuttle to and from the airport. You'll find yourself in downtown Charleston, close to the State Capitol and local attractions. The hotel's Yelp rating is 2.7 out of 5 across 98 reviews, so expectations should be tempered. Hours are listed as open 24/7, which is convenient for late arrivals. If you prefer a more secluded stay, check out Roseland Resort & Campground for a different vibe.

The Clay Center draws a diverse crowd of culture seekers, science enthusiasts, and families, all mingling in the same downtown spot. It's a performing arts center with musical theatre, chamber music, opera, dance, comedy, and songwriters. The science museum offers hands-on exhibits that are fun and educational. The art gallery has an impressive permanent collection that rivals big city museums. It truly is a one-stop for culture.

Capitol Fitness was a small gym in Downtown Charleston that marketed itself as an upscale fitness club. It offered aerobic equipment, free weights, and machines, along with very nice showers. Its gay-friendly tag made it a potential option for queer locals. However, the venue's future is uncertain. Yelp data indicates it may be permanently closed. If you're looking for a gym in Charleston, you might want to confirm its status before planning a visit.

A Yelp review calls it a lovely memorial garden. This tranquil Downtown space honors those lost to AIDS. The Living AIDS Memorial Garden offers a quiet spot for reflection in Charleston, WV. It's a meaningful pause in the city's arts and culture landscape.