You unpacked the boxes — now here is where students at University of Charleston (Charleston, WV) actually eat, shop, bank, and hang out. Bookmark this for your first month.
Daily Dose Cafe Coffee
Kanawha City coffee and breakfast spot minutes from campus; UC lists it as a go-to
Moxxee Coffee Coffee
Small-batch local roaster in Kanawha City with creative lattes and pastries
El Gallo Mexican Grill Mexican
Kanawha City favorite for carnitas tacos, fajitas, and queso dip on a budget
First Watch Breakfast
Daytime cafe near campus known for pancakes, avocado toast, and fresh juice
Pepperoni Grill Pizza
Independent Italian spot on MacCorkle Ave close to campus; pepperoni rolls and pasta
Black Sheep Burrito and Brews Burritos
Downtown student hangout for big creative burritos; food truck also roams Kanawha City
Kroger Kanawha City Groceries
Full grocery with pharmacy at 5717 MacCorkle Ave SE, the closest supermarket to campus
Target at Southridge Centre Big Box
Dorm essentials run; Southridge is about 10-15 min from campus off Corridor G
Walmart Supercenter Southridge Big Box
Cheapest one-stop for groceries, storage bins, and school supplies near Trace Fork
Capitol Market Market
Downtown year-round farmers market with local produce, coffee, and food vendors
The Shops at Kanawha Shopping Center
Short drive down MacCorkle with Gabes discount clothing, Dollar Tree, and phone stores
CVS Pharmacy Pharmacy
At 4205 MacCorkle Ave SE for prescriptions, snacks, and toiletries near campus
Walgreens Pharmacy
At 3801 MacCorkle Ave SE; second nearby option for meds and photo printing
UPMC GoHealth Urgent Care Urgent Care
Walk-in clinic in Kanawha City (former MedExpress) for sick visits and minor injuries
CAMC Memorial Hospital Hospital
Full hospital and ER on MacCorkle Ave SE, only a few minutes from campus
Kanawha State Forest
9000-plus acres of hiking and mountain bike trails about 15 min from campus
Magic Island Park
Riverfront green space downtown for frisbee, sunsets, and river views
Clay Center
Downtown science museum, art galleries, and concert hall with student-priced events
Haddad Riverfront Park
Levee amphitheater hosting free Live on the Levee summer concerts
Marquee Cinemas Southridge
Main movie theater for students, near Southridge shopping about 15 min away
Hand-checked August 2026. Hours and locations change — give places a quick look before you head out. Some links on this site earn us a commission at no cost to you.