Indianapolis, often known as the Circle City, boasts a vibrant nightlife scene that goes beyond its modest downtown area. From the heart of Indy to the eclectic Broad Ripple cultural district, you’ll find a diverse array of nightclubs, each offering unique experiences from craft cocktails and pulsating dance floors to renowned DJs and live music performances. If you’re seeking the best “Indy Dance Clubs,” look no further. This guide highlights the top venues where you can immerse yourself in Indianapolis’s energetic after-dark atmosphere.
BLU: Downtown Indy’s Premier Nightclub Experience
BLU stands out as a leading nightlife destination in downtown Indianapolis, consistently drawing crowds with its dynamic club atmosphere. This venue features a sleek, industrial-chic design, creating a modern and sophisticated backdrop for an unforgettable night. BLU offers multiple spaces to explore: the main dance floor and bar area where the energy is always high, a mezzanine level for a different perspective, exclusive VIP lounges for a more private experience, and an outdoor patio that opens during warmer months, perfect for cooling down and socializing. From Tuesday through Sunday, BLU’s stage comes alive with some of Indy’s most talented DJs, spinning tracks from 10 PM until 3 AM, ensuring the party keeps going late into the night.
BLU, 240 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN, USA
The Red Room: Upscale Nightlife in Broad Ripple
For a more refined nightclub experience, head to The Red Room in the Broad Ripple district of Indianapolis. This upscale venue is celebrated for its premium offerings, including a curated selection of top-shelf wines, champagnes, and spirits. Early evenings at The Red Room offer a sophisticated lounge ambiance, ideal for enjoying expertly crafted martinis and engaging in conversation. As the night progresses, the atmosphere transforms into a high-energy dance club, showcasing some of the city’s most sought-after DJs. The Red Room’s operating hours cater to different nights of the week, opening Wednesday (7 PM – 1 AM), Thursday (10 PM – 3 AM), and extending into the weekend on Friday and Saturday (8 PM – 3 AM), making it a versatile choice for any night out.
The Red Room, 6335 Guilford Ave, Indianapolis, IN, USA
Metro: Diverse Vibes on Mass Ave
Located in the vibrant Mass Ave district, Metro is a multi-story nightclub and restaurant that promises a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Known for being gay-friendly and incredibly cozy, Metro provides distinct experiences across its different levels. The downstairs area is perfect for dining and enjoying drinks in a relaxed setting, with a bar that gradually becomes more lively as the evening unfolds. Upstairs, you can engage in a game of darts or witness the bar area morph into a dynamic dance party as the night peaks. Adding to its diverse appeal, Metro hosts karaoke every Tuesday night, making it a unique destination any night of the week. Metro welcomes guests Monday through Friday from 3 PM – 3 AM, and extends its hours on Friday and Saturday from noon – 3 AM.
Metro, 707 Massachusetts Ave, Indianapolis, IN, USA
The Vogue: Live Music and Dance Parties Combined
The Vogue, a renowned live music venue in Broad Ripple, seamlessly transitions into an electrifying dance club, offering the best of both worlds. Featuring multiple bars and a spacious layout, The Vogue is not just about live bands; it’s a hub for parties, special events, burlesque shows, and holiday celebrations. Whether you’re there for a live band performance or a set by a local DJ, an unforgettable dance party is always on the agenda. Given its varied schedule, it’s best to check their website for specific event and club timings to plan your visit to The Vogue.
The Vogue, 6259 N College Ave, Indianapolis, IN, USA
Greg’s: A Downtown Indy Gay Bar Legend
Greg’s, a downtown gay bar with decades of history, is an Indianapolis institution and a welcoming spot for everyone seeking a fun night out. Operating as a cash-only establishment, Greg’s consistently offers a lively atmosphere, from dart tournaments and line dancing to themed nights like Show Tunes Sundays. Expect to dance the night away to sets from some of the city’s hottest DJs. Greg’s is open daily from 4 PM – 3 AM, making it a reliable choice for late-night entertainment.
Greg’s, 231 E 16th St, Indianapolis, IN, USA
Subterra Lounge: Underground Elegance and Beats
Subterra Lounge offers a unique underground nightclub experience, marked by style and exclusivity. This intimate venue combines a sophisticated martini lounge with a vibrant dance club, featuring both live music and top DJs. An early evening visit to Subterra provides a relaxed, low-key setting, while later hours bring a more authentic and energetic club atmosphere. Subterra attracts a diverse crowd, appealing to both younger and more mature patrons (21+). Subterra Lounge is open Friday and Saturday from 8 PM – 3 AM, making it a prime weekend destination.
Subterra Lounge, 250 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN, USA
Howl at the Moon: Dueling Pianos and Drink Specials
For a night filled with entertainment and value, Howl at the Moon is a must-visit. Known for its dueling piano shows and live music, this club guarantees a high-energy experience. Howl at the Moon also boasts some of the best drink specials in Indianapolis, making it a budget-friendly option for a night out. With multiple levels and varied seating arrangements, you can choose to dance the night away or enjoy the show while socializing. Howl at the Moon operates Tuesday and Wednesday (8 PM – 2 AM), Thursday (8 PM – 3 AM), and Friday and Saturday (7 PM – 3 AM).
Howl at the Moon, 20 E Georgia St, Indianapolis, IN, USA
Revel: The Newest High-Energy Nightclub in Indy
Revel is among Indianapolis’s newest nightclubs, quickly establishing itself as a high-energy destination. Featuring two levels, a vast dance floor, three bars, comfortable lounge areas, VIP sections, large video screens, and bottle service, Revel elevates the nightclub experience in Indianapolis to new heights. Enjoy a mix of top Indy DJs and a selection of expertly mixed specialty cocktails. Revel is open Thursday through Saturday from 10 PM – 3 AM, making it a prime spot for weekend nightlife.
Revel, 225 S Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN, USA
Indianapolis’s dance club scene offers something for every taste, from upscale lounges to energetic dance floors and live music venues. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these “indy dance clubs” promises memorable nights filled with music, dance, and the vibrant spirit of the Circle City. Remember to check the venues’ websites or social media for the most up-to-date schedules and any special event information to make the most of your Indianapolis nightlife experience.
