1885 Taproom in Charleston: Craft Beer and Low Country History

What 1885 Taproom offers

1885 Taproom is a craft beer bar in downtown Charleston that pairs rotating local and regional drafts with the building's own Civil War–era history. The space occupies a structure that dates to the 1880s, and the bar leans into that setting with exposed brick, period details, and a straightforward approach to beer service. You'll find 24 taps that change regularly, focusing on breweries from South Carolina and the Southeast, plus a small selection of bottles and cans.

The bar sits on King Street, the main commercial corridor through downtown, so it's walkable from the Historic District and near other restaurants and shops. The atmosphere is casual—no dress code, no pretense—and the space works equally well for a solo visit to the bar or a group gathering in one of the side areas. Food is limited to bar snacks and charcuterie boards, so most people eat elsewhere and come here for the beer.

Key Takeaways

• 1885 Taproom keeps 24 rotating taps focused on South Carolina and Southeast breweries, so the selection changes week to week.
• The building dates to the 1880s and sits in downtown Charleston's Historic District, within walking distance of other dining and entertainment.
• The bar serves charcuterie and snacks but not full meals, so plan to eat dinner elsewhere if you're hungry.
• Hours and tap selections are posted on their social media, which is the fastest way to check what's on before you visit.

The building and its history

The structure housing 1885 Taproom dates to the 1880s, a period when Charleston was rebuilding after the Civil War and Reconstruction. The bar's name references that era, and the interior preserves original architectural details—brick walls, timber framing, and the bones of a commercial building from that time. The space feels lived-in rather than restored, which is part of its appeal to people who want to drink beer in a room with actual history rather than a themed recreation of one.

King Street itself has changed dramatically since the 1880s. What was once the city's main commercial and warehouse district became neglected in the mid-20th century, then began a slow revival in the 1990s and 2000s. Today it's one of Charleston's most active neighborhoods for restaurants, bars, galleries, and shops. 1885 Taproom fits into that revival as a place that respects the building's past while serving the present-day neighborhood.

Beer selection and local breweries

The 24 taps rotate regularly, with a strong emphasis on South Carolina breweries. You'll typically find beers from Charleston-area producers like Westbrook Brewing, Revelry Brewing, and Tradecraft Brewing, along with selections from breweries across the Lowcountry and the broader Southeast. The bar also carries a smaller selection of bottles and cans, which gives you options if nothing on tap appeals to you.

Because the taps change, there's no fixed menu to memorize. The bar staff can tell you what's currently pouring and what's coming next. If you have a favorite local brewery or a particular style you're looking for, it's worth asking—they often know what's in the pipeline and can point you toward something similar if your first choice isn't available that day.

When to visit and what to expect

1885 Taproom draws a mix of tourists, locals, and people working or shopping nearby. Weekday afternoons tend to be quieter, while evenings and weekends fill up, especially Thursday through Saturday. The bar has high-top seating along the front windows, a main bar counter, and a back room that works for larger groups. There's no reservation system, so it's first-come, first-served.

The dress code is casual—you'll see people in work clothes, athletic wear, and everything in between. The noise level is moderate; you can have a conversation at the bar or in the back room without shouting. If you're visiting during warm months, the bar sometimes opens the front windows or doors, which brings in street-level energy from King Street.

Food and pairing options

The kitchen doesn't serve full meals. Instead, you can order charcuterie boards with cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments, plus bar snacks like nuts or olives. These pair well with beer and are meant to complement a drink rather than replace dinner. If you're planning a longer visit or coming with a group, many people eat at one of the nearby restaurants first, then come to 1885 for beer and dessert or a nightcap.

King Street has dozens of restaurants within a five-minute walk, ranging from casual sandwiches and pizza to fine dining. That proximity is part of what makes the bar work—you can plan an evening that includes dinner elsewhere and drinks here, rather than trying to do everything in one spot.

Getting there and parking

1885 Taproom is located on King Street in downtown Charleston, between Broad Street and Queen Street. If you're staying in the Historic District or downtown, it's walkable from most hotels and attractions. Street parking is available on King Street and nearby side streets, though it can be tight during peak hours and weekends. There are also paid parking garages a block or two away if street parking is full.

If you're using public transportation, CARTA buses run along King Street, and the downtown area is compact enough that most destinations are within a 10-minute walk. Rideshare services operate throughout Charleston and can drop you directly outside the bar.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to make a reservation?

No. 1885 Taproom operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservations. Weekday afternoons are typically less crowded than evenings and weekends, so if you prefer a quieter visit, those are better times to go.

What are the hours?

Hours vary by season and day of the week. Check their social media or call ahead to confirm current hours before you visit, especially if you're planning an evening trip or visiting on a holiday.

Can I bring food from outside?

Most bars in Charleston allow outside food, but it's worth asking the staff when you arrive. If you're planning to eat a full meal, ordering from a nearby restaurant and having it delivered is another option.

Are there other beer bars nearby?

Yes. King Street and the surrounding downtown area have several other bars and restaurants with craft beer selections. 1885 Taproom's focus on local and regional breweries sets it apart, but you have options within walking distance if you want to explore multiple spots in one evening.

Is there a cover charge or minimum?

No cover charge. You pay for what you order—beer, snacks, or both. There's no minimum purchase required.