Winston-Salem has a solid mix of live music venues, bars, and lounges. Here are some staples of the city’s nightlife!
For more information, please visit our article library on Adult Beverages in Winston-Salem.
ALV Nightclub
ALV Nightclub is one of Winston-Salem’s (very few) spots for dancing and late-night entertainment. It offers a high-energy atmosphere with DJs, live music, and themed nights, making it a popular destination for party-goers.
Vibe: Vibrant and energetic, ideal for dancing the night away.
Bar Nola
Inspired by New Orleans, Bar Nola brings a taste of the Big Easy to Winston-Salem’s West End Millworks. With a selection of Southern-inspired cocktails and live jazz, it’s a lively spot that captures the spirit of NOLA.
Vibe: Vibrant and festive, perfect for those who enjoy live music in a lively setting.
Bar Piña
A rooftop bar offering panoramic views of downtown Winston-Salem, Bar Pina is known for its chic atmosphere, craft cocktails, and vibrant social scene. It’s a great spot to enjoy a drink and the cityscape.
Vibe: Stylish and scenic, perfect for a relaxed evening with a view.
Burke Street Pub
Burke Street is a classic neighborhood pub that’s been a staple in Winston-Salem for years. It offers a laid-back atmosphere with a full bar, pool, darts, cornhole, ping pong, arcade games, a patio bar, TVs inside and out, and regular live music events.
Vibe: Casual and lively, great for catching up with friends, late-night hangouts, or enjoying a game.
Dram and Draught
A stylish whiskey bar offering an extensive selection of whiskeys, craft cocktails, and beers. Dram and Draught is known for its knowledgeable staff and industrial-chic ambiance.
Vibe: Sophisticated and trendy, perfect for whiskey and cocktail enthusiasts and those looking for a sleek spot to unwind.
Earl’s
Earl’s is a laid-back bar with a country twist, offering live music, a great selection of beers, and Southern-style comfort food. It’s a go-to spot for those who enjoy a lively atmosphere with a touch of Southern hospitality.
Vibe: Relaxed and fun, perfect for a night of live music and good vibes.
Fair Witness Fancy Drinks
This cocktail bar downtown focuses on quality and creativity, offering a unique and carefully crafted drinks menu. The bar has a cozy neighborhood feel. Out front, you’ll likely find small fire pits surrounded by regulars with their dogs. The stylish and relaxed ambiance makes it a favorite for those who appreciate a well-made cocktail.
Vibe: Sophisticated yet laid-back, ideal for cocktail lovers.
Joyner’s Bar
Joyner’s has a speakeasy feel with the nostalgic smell of vintage books. It’s the perfect place to start or end an evening dinner downtown. The bar offers many private, cornered-off spaces with comfortable chairs and couches.
Vibe: Moody, quaint, and elegant.
The Ramkat
The Ramkat is a premier live music venue in the Industry Hill neighborhood of downtown Winston-Salem. They host a variety of performances, from local bands to nationally touring artists, making it a hotspot for music lovers.
Vibe: Energetic and eclectic, perfect for dancing and enjoying live music.
Click here for our full article review on The Ramkat.
Recreation Billiards
One of the oldest bars in Winston-Salem, Recreation Billiards combines historic charm with a laid-back atmosphere. The Bambalis family opened it in 1947 after WWII. Seventy years later, “Rec” is in its third generation of Bambalis and was voted one of the nation’s small wonder bars. It’s a favorite for pool players and those looking to unwind with a drink.
Vibe: Casual and nostalgic, perfect for a relaxed evening with friends.
Single Brothers Bar
Known for its craft cocktails, Single Brothers is a cozy spot in Winston-Salem’s Downtown Arts District. It’s a favorite among locals for its laid-back atmosphere and expertly mixed drinks. From the outside, it looks like a hole in the wall, and it is. Single Brothers makes some of the best drinks, has a diverse menu, and a laid-back ambiance. The inside is dark and cozy. Be sure to check out the outdoor area tucked away on the side of the building.
Vibe: Intimate, relaxed, dark, and cozy. Ideal for a low-key night out with friends.
6th & Vine
6th & Vine is a wine bar and restaurant in Winston-Salem’s Downtown with a cozy, bohemian atmosphere. It’s known for its extensive wine list, creative cocktails, and delicious small plates.
Vibe: Warm and inviting, ideal for wine lovers and intimate gatherings.
Tate’s Craft Cocktails
Tate’s is a sophisticated cocktail bar known for its creative and expertly crafted drinks. The downtown bar offers a cozy yet upscale atmosphere, making it a go-to for cocktail enthusiasts. In the back of the bar near the bathrooms, a staircase leads to a small, intimate nook with seating that overlooks the bar.
Vibe: Chic and intimate, ideal for a classy night or date.
The Trophy Room
Reminiscent of a dark prohibition-era speakeasy, The Trophy Room is Winston-Salem’s prime spot for bourbon lovers. The Trophy Room is an elevated whiskey experience that offers straight pours, whiskey flights, and craft cocktails.
Vibe: Elegant and refined, ideal for a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap.
Vintage Sofa Bar
A charming, vintage-inspired bar with eclectic decor, Vintage Sofa Bar offers a unique, cozy atmosphere. The bar serves craft cocktails and has become a local favorite for its quirky and comfortable setting.
Vibe: Retro and cozy, great for a relaxed and nostalgic night out.
Whisky Box
Tucked away down a hidden staircase beneath Recreation Billiards lies Winston-Salem’s speakeasy-style whiskey bar. Its prolific drink list highlights top-shelf whiskey brands and serves delightful cocktails. While at the bar, ask the bartender for a set of darts to play with friends. Whisky Box has live jazz every Wednesday night from 8:30-11:30ish.
Vibe: Speakeasy-style, relaxed, ideal for a night with friends.
>>Click here to view the digital guide to Winston-Salem’s Brewery Scene!
