Dallas, a city known for its vibrant energy, truly comes alive when the sun goes down, especially when it comes to dance clubs. From upscale lounges to high-energy dance floors, the Dallas nightlife scene offers something for every taste. Whether you’re a seasoned clubber or looking for a fun night out, Dallas has a dance club to get you moving. Forget what you thought you knew; the Dallas dance scene is constantly evolving, with legendary spots enduring and exciting new venues popping up. Let’s dive into some of the best places to dance the night away in and around downtown Dallas.
Sambuca 360
Located in Plano’s upscale Shops at Legacy, Sambuca 360 is the perfect blend of dining and dancing. This trendy spot is a consistent favorite for those seeking a high-energy night out. Known for featuring some of the best DJs and cover bands in the Dallas area, Sambuca 360 boasts a dance floor that is always packed with people ready to party. The atmosphere is stylish and sophisticated, making it ideal for birthday celebrations, happy hour gatherings, or themed parties. If you’re looking for a guaranteed fun night with great music and a lively crowd, Sambuca 360 in Plano is a top choice, even if it’s a short drive from downtown Dallas. It’s a destination in itself, promising a memorable night of music and dancing.
Cowboys Red River
For a taste of Texas honky-tonk culture, Cowboys Red River is the place to be. While not strictly a downtown Dallas club, this iconic country dance hall is a Dallas institution and worth the trip. Famous for its motto, “Where the most beautiful women in Texas come to dance,” Cowboys Red River delivers a truly authentic country experience. The welcoming atmosphere immediately draws you in, and the combination of live country music and a vibrant dance culture keeps people coming back for more. Even if you’re new to country dancing, don’t worry! Cowboys Red River offers easy-to-learn country dance lessons on weekends, making it accessible and fun for everyone. Step into the heart of Texas dance culture at Cowboys Red River and experience a night unlike any other.
Café Salsera
Located in the heart of Deep Ellum, Café Salsera keeps the party going until 2 AM every night. This lively spot is a favorite for its impressive dance floor and consistently fun atmosphere. With signature nights like Ladies’ Night on Wednesdays and Throwback Thursdays, there’s always a reason to hit the dance floor at Salsera. Regulars create a welcoming vibe, inviting everyone to join in the dancing fun, whether it’s your first stop of the night or the last. The dance floor typically fills up around 11 PM, with dancers of all levels enjoying the colorful and energetic space. Beyond the dancing, Café Salsera is also known for its excellent food and outstanding service, making it a complete nightlife destination in Deep Ellum, a short distance from downtown Dallas.
5AM
For those who want to keep the party going late into the night (or early morning!), 5AM is the ultimate destination. This INcrowd-owned establishment is known for hosting concert afterparties, attracting a stylish and energetic crowd. As the name suggests, 5AM keeps the music pumping until 5 AM, making it one of the latest-night dance spots in Dallas. It’s not uncommon to find yourself dancing alongside big names in music at 5AM, drawn by the club’s reputation and late-night vibe. The staff are known for their high-profile service, ensuring that every event is a memorable experience. If you’re looking for a truly late-night dance experience in Dallas, 5AM is where the party continues long after other clubs have closed.
The Nines
The Nines, situated in Deep Ellum, embodies the raw and energetic spirit of the neighborhood. Owned by Allen Falkner, also known as the “Father of Modern Suspension,” The Nines offers a unique dance experience. Hosting popular emo nights and DJs spinning city classics, this club is a place to let loose and groove. The two-story venue exudes a funky, nostalgic vibe, often inspiring throwback dance moves like the dougie or the woah. The Nines is a place to embrace the energy of Deep Ellum and dance like no one’s watching, with a soundtrack that spans genres and eras, making it a standout dance destination near downtown Dallas.
Lava Cantina
While located in The Colony, a bit north of downtown Dallas, Lava Cantina’s Sunday day parties are legendary and frequently take over Dallas social media feeds. This expansive venue becomes a magnet on Sundays, drawing crowds for its Neo Soul Sunday events. DJs provide the soundtrack for “swag surfing,” cha-cha slides, and electric slides, creating a communal and joyous dance atmosphere. Lava Cantina’s day parties are known for attracting a beautiful crowd, adding to the vibrant and energetic scene. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure your spot and experience the full energy of Lava Cantina’s popular Sunday dance events, a notable destination in the wider Dallas dance scene.
Round Up Saloon
Round Up Saloon in Dallas is unique for being one of the few places in the DFW area where you can line dance to today’s pop hits. This well-known LGBTQ+ saloon has cultivated a distinctive vibe, blending country themes with trendy music. Round Up’s inclusive and energetic club experience attracts a diverse crowd from all over. Beyond line dancing, Round Up Saloon also features drag performances, adding to its refreshing and entertaining atmosphere. It’s a place where everyone can feel welcome and have a great time, offering a unique blend of country and pop dance culture in Dallas.
Double D’s
Located in the Design District, Double D’s has quickly become a highly recommended dance destination since its opening. Recognized as the “Best Dance Club” by local publications, Double D’s is known for its relaxed yet swanky atmosphere. While the drinks and chill vibe are a draw, the dance floor is the main attraction, consistently packed with patrons eager to dance to sets by some of Dallas’ best DJs. Double D’s is steadily gaining a reputation as the “it” club in DFW, attracting a stylish crowd and delivering a high-energy dance experience in a sophisticated setting, located just outside downtown Dallas.
Escapade 2001 Dallas
Escapade 2001 Dallas is the go-to destination for lovers of ranchera, cumbia, and bachata music. This large, multi-layered venue boasts a spacious dance floor, providing ample room to showcase your best Latin dance moves. With multiple dance floor options within the club, you can find the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the rhythms of the night. Escapade 2001 promises a night of dancing until the early morning hours, offering an authentic and energetic Latin dance club experience in Dallas.
Te Deseo
Te Deseo, an Uptown Latin restaurant that transforms into a rooftop nightclub, is consistently one of the hottest spots in Dallas. Every weekend, lines stretch around the corner as people wait to experience the vibrant atmosphere. Once you reach the rooftop dance floor, you’ll find yourself in a wall-to-wall crowd dancing to DJ sets that blend Top 40 hits, traditional Latin favorites, and hip-hop. Despite Uptown’s competitive dance club scene, Te Deseo stands out as a top choice for a high-energy and diverse dance experience, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a vibrant night out in Uptown Dallas, near downtown.
Candle Room
Candle Room offers a different kind of Dallas dance club experience – exclusive and ritzy. This small, almost hidden club off Central Expressway has a distinctly LA vibe, attracting a specific, upscale clientele. While opinions may vary, Candle Room is undeniably a place for those seeking an exclusive and sophisticated night out. The music sets the mood, and the atmosphere is all about exclusivity and bottle service. Candle Room offers a taste of high-end nightlife, appealing to a particular segment of the Dallas club scene seeking a more private and luxurious experience.
It’ll Do Club
It’ll Do Club fills a unique niche in the Dallas dance scene as a no-frills venue dedicated to house music. With a large dance floor and a top-notch sound system, It’ll Do has become a destination for serious house music lovers and internationally respected DJs. This club has played a crucial role in reviving and celebrating the legacy of house music in Dallas. It’ll Do’s calendar is consistently packed with renowned DJs from the underground and mainstream house music scenes, making it a must-visit for those seeking authentic house music and a dedicated dance atmosphere in Dallas.
Dallas’s dance club scene is diverse and dynamic, offering a range of experiences from country to Latin to house music and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for a casual night out or an upscale VIP experience, Dallas has a dance club to match your style. So put on your dancing shoes and explore the exciting nightlife that Dallas has to offer!
