Portland, Oregon, celebrated for its thriving indie music scene, also boasts a diverse and energetic dance club culture that promises to move everyone. If you’re searching for “Dancing Night Clubs Near Me” in Portland, look no further – this guide will navigate you through the city’s vibrant nightlife.
Explore Dance Clubs by Neighborhood
Old Town Chinatown: The Epicenter of Portland Nightlife
For the highest concentration of dance clubs, Old Town Chinatown is your destination. This bustling nightlife district is home to iconic venues like Stag PDX and the Southern-inspired Dixie Tavern, where the energy is always high. For the LGBTQ+ community and allies, CC Slaughters is a must-visit gay nightclub, renowned for its live DJs every night of the week and the popular all-request dance nights on Wednesdays. Old Town Chinatown offers a dense and exciting array of options when you’re looking for “dancing night clubs near me”.
Downtown Portland: Intimate and Iconic Dance Spots
Downtown Portland offers a mix of intimate and iconic dance venues. Lola’s Room, located beneath the legendary Crystal Ballroom and marked by a prominent neon “Dance” sign, is an unmissable spot. This space is known for its regular themed nights, particularly the ’80s and ’90s nights, guaranteeing a nostalgic and fun dance experience. Downtown is easily accessible and provides great options when searching for “dancing night clubs near me” in the heart of the city.
Central Eastside: Industrial Chic and Diverse Sounds
The Central Eastside is where you’ll find dance clubs in converted industrial spaces, offering a unique and edgy vibe. Holocene, a 5,000-square-foot venue in a former auto-parts warehouse, has been a staple for over a decade, blending DJ sets and live performances with captivating visuals. Nearby, 45 East continues the industrial-chic theme, featuring an upstairs lounge and a downstairs dance floor that frequently hosts high-energy EDM shows. For a more laid-back, local experience, The Goodfoot Lounge is a favorite. This two-level dance hall is known for its festival-style atmosphere, hardwood dance floor, and eclectic music ranging from funk to dubstep, ensuring a night of great music and dancing. If you’re exploring “dancing night clubs near me” with a preference for unique venues, Central Eastside is worth checking out.
Northeast Portland: Latin Rhythms and Cozy Vibes
Venture into Northeast Portland and discover different flavors of dance nightlife. Aztec Willies in the Lloyd neighborhood is the go-to spot for salsa and Latin dance enthusiasts, with various Latin music offerings almost every night. For a more intimate and quirky setting, Church, an ironically named Roman Catholic-themed bar on Sandy Boulevard, offers live music and DJ sets in a cozy, unique atmosphere. Northeast Portland provides diverse options when your search for “dancing night clubs near me” includes Latin or more laid-back venues.
Dance Clubs by Style: Find Your Groove
Country Western: Bushwackers Saloon
If your idea of “dancing night clubs near me” involves country music and line dancing, Bushwackers is the place to be. Located in Tualatin, just a short drive south of downtown Portland, this premier honky-tonk venue is perfect for bass-thumping country dance. Whether you’re into two-stepping, line dancing, or waltzing, Bushwackers offers a Texas-sized dance floor and a true country experience. Cowboy boots are optional but highly encouraged to fully embrace the fun.
Goth/Industrial: The Coffin Club
For those seeking a darker and more alternative dance experience when searching for “dancing night clubs near me”, The Coffin Club is a must-visit. This horror-themed bar, formerly known as Lovecraft Bar, offers a unique goth and industrial atmosphere. Dance the night away to industrial and darkwave beats in a setting complete with macabre décor, including a child-sized coffin. It’s the perfect spot to embrace your darker side and enjoy a night of unique music and dancing.
80s & 90s Throwbacks: Lola’s Room
Lola’s Room, beyond its general appeal, is specifically renowned for its themed dance nights. Every Friday, the ‘80s Video Dance Attack transforms the space into an MTV flashback, complete with classic music videos projected on giant screens. Relive the era of scrunchies and high-top sneakers while dancing to iconic 80s hits. Saturday nights offer a different kind of nostalgia with “Comes As You Are: 90s Dance Flashback,” featuring the best of 90s music from Nirvana to Snoop Dogg. For a retro dance party, Lola’s Room answers your search for “dancing night clubs near me” with a blast from the past.
Tango: Tango Berretin
Portland boasts a significant Argentine tango community, and Tango Berretin in Foster-Powell is at the heart of it. Owned by renowned tango instructor Alex Krebs, this intimate dance hall exudes old-world charm, reminiscent of dimly lit Spanish salons, perfect for experiencing the sensuality of tango. The popular Saturday night milonga includes a beginner lesson and often features live music. Tango Berretin is ideal if your search for “dancing night clubs near me” includes exploring elegant and passionate dance styles.
For more tango, check out Norse Hall on the second Friday of each month, or immerse yourself in Portland ValenTango every February, featuring classes and milongas. Tango Berretin also hosts blues nights on Tuesdays with the Portland Blues and Jazz Dance Society, offering a soulful and sultry dance alternative with a free introductory lesson.
Salsa & Latin: Trio Lounge
For a taste of Miami nightclub vibes in Portland, Trio Lounge is the place to go when seeking “dancing night clubs near me” with a Latin flavor. This neon-lit venue might seem unexpected in Portland, but it’s a haven for salsa enthusiasts. With three dance floors and DJs playing everything from traditional mambo to Latin EDM, Trio Club’s Salsa Sunday extends into the early hours of Monday morning, keeping the party going until 4 a.m. It’s the ultimate destination for those looking to shimmy and shake to Latin rhythms.
Find Your Perfect Dance Night in Portland
Portland’s dance club scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. Whether you’re searching for “dancing night clubs near me” based on location, music style, or atmosphere, Portland has something to offer. From high-energy EDM clubs to intimate tango halls, explore the city’s nightlife and discover your perfect beat. Get ready to dance the night away in Portland!
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