Top Places to Go Dancing in Minneapolis
Minneapolis may be best known for its live music, but our musicians aren’t always the center of attention—sometimes the dancers are the draw.
Whether you’re a seasoned salsera or have never done more than sway back and forth at weddings, the city has plenty of places to show off your stuff, learn some new grooves, or simply work up a sweat and shake it off. With so many dance halls and gatherings throughout the year, you could pick a different style every night of the week without retracing your two-step. Note: event calendars change frequently, so be sure to check with each venue’s website before you head out with your dancing shoes.
Nightclubs
Ground Zero
This Northeast Minneapolis nightclub nightclub is open every Friday and Saturday night for dancing with a twist—the Gothic Horror-themed club hosts horror costume nights, cosplayer dance parties, and other alt dance events throughout the year. Ground Zero is cash only and 21+!
The Exchange & Alibi Lounge
Picture 7,200 square feet of space begging you to come dance the night away to Top 40, EDM, and hip hop on Hennepin—including two full bars, excellent sound and light systems, reservable VIP seating, and different DJs Thursday through Sunday from 10pm to 2am. Check Facebook for special events, from touring DJs to Bollywood nights, as covers vary.
Icehouse
In the industrial two stories of Icehouse you'll find American cuisine, drinks, drinks, and live music. Their calendar is filled with local performers and events to suit a range of tastes. Covers vary for events anywhere from Y2K dance parties to jazz bands. The stage is centrally-located, and seating and sound is well engineered for a great live music experience.
The Basement Bar
Located in the North Loop, The Basement Bar is the place to be if you want to dance, and they host rotating DJs who are great at getting the party started. The dance floor is small, but there is ample seating for groups and couples if you need a break. They're open every day but Sunday.
The Loop
Not exactly a nightclub, but on Thursdays-Saturdays, The Loop brings in a DJ after 10pm and the place turns into a dance party. There isn't a designated dance floor, so most of the dancing happens all around the 360 bar. Go for a nice dinner and stay for the drinks and dancing.
The Saloon
The Saloon is gay nightclub with plenty of great music, a spacious dance floor, fun lighting and a place where everyone can feel welcome. A downtown Minneapolis staple, it's all around great time for dancing and partying. And apparently the chicken fingers are a must try!
Swing Dancing
Aster Café Swing Brunch
Every Sunday from 11am to 2pm, dance to the swinging tunes of Patty & the Buttons, with musical inspirations ranging from New Orleans Traditional Jazz and Western Swing to Roma Melodies and Ragtime Piano Blues. Stop in and dance or simply enjoy the music from your table laden with corn flake-crusted French toast and malted waffles.
TC Swing
Turning the 301 on Main event space into a throwback dance hall with Late Night Swing every Thursday night from 10pm to 2am. New to swing? Head to a lesson beforehand and get into Late Night Swing for free. Lessons begin at 7pm and showcase East Coast Swing and Lindy Hop. On the first Saturday of every month have fun swinging the night away to a live band! Check the TC Swing calendar for special guests on First Saturdays and other events.
Want more Swing? Check out competitions, classes, and happening swing dance parties at The Uptown Swingout (August).
Latin & Salsa Dancing
La Dona Cerveceria
Heat things up with a Salsa, Bachata & Beer dance party every Saturday at this North Minneapolis brewery and taproom that specializes in brews and events celebrating the local Latinx community. A $10 cover is your ticket, and the night starts with salsa lessons with experienced teachers at 9 pm, after which the dancing — from live bands and/or DJs — doesn’t stop until 2am.
Folk Dancing
Tapestry Folkdance Center
Featuring classes and events most days of the week, Tapestry offers an international buffet of folkdance styles, from Scottish Country dance and line dancing to International Folk Dance. Got kids? Check out Family Dance on the second Saturday of the month, featuring British and American folk dances that are easy to learn for ALL ages (kid-friendly snacks included). Local tip: Most folk dances are social rather than coupled or solo, so it’s a great group activity—bring some friends!
Social Partner Dances
Tango Milonga at Dance with Lois Donnay
Dream of learning to Tango? This studio hosts beginner, intermediate, and expert group dance lessons available throughout the week. Classes are all drop-in, so you can go weekly or just once. (Private classes are also available.) When you’re ready to show off what you’ve learned, head to the studio’s Tuesday Milonga each week with talk, food, and wine with the local tango community for $5—BYOB and bring something to eat. For more Minneapolis Tango events, the Tango Society of Minnesota has the intel.
Four Seasons Dance Studio
Located in the Loring Park neighborhood of Minneapolis, Four Seasons Dance Studio is a relaxed place to learn social partner dancing through private lessons and group classes. Each series of group classes begins the first week of the month and progresses from the introduction of basics to combinations. Learn ballroom, swing, Latin styles, and more!
