Are you ready to experience Tampa’s electrifying nightlife? If you’re searching for the perfect place to dance the night away, look no further. Tampa boasts a vibrant and diverse dance club scene, offering everything from high-energy DJ sets to live music venues. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s a dance club in Tampa to match your style and keep you moving until the early hours. Forget spending precious time wondering where to go; we’ve curated a guide to the top Dance Clubs In Tampa, ensuring your nights are unforgettable.
Ybor City has long been synonymous with Tampa nightlife, especially its dynamic dance clubs. Since its revitalization in the 90s, Ybor City has remained a nightlife epicenter, continually evolving with new venues and experiences while maintaining its energetic spirit. But the dance scene isn’t limited to Ybor; exciting clubs are popping up throughout Tampa, including the revitalized downtown area and the trendy SoHo district. Even North Tampa is getting in on the action. While SoHo was always known for its bars and restaurants, now it’s also home to fantastic dance destinations like The Kennedy, giving you even more options to get your dance fix.
Here’s a rundown of some of the best dance clubs Tampa has to offer:
Hyde Park Cafe
Located in the heart of SoHo, Hyde Park Cafe has been a cornerstone of Tampa’s nightlife for over a decade. This expansive venue offers three distinct areas, ensuring there’s something for everyone. In the Velociti Room, you can lose yourself in DJ-led dance parties featuring everything from pulsating salsa rhythms to hip-hop beats. If you prefer a different vibe, WB’s Room often offers a contrasting musical experience. For those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere, the Biergarten provides a laid-back space with an impressive selection of over 60 brews and classic bar food like burgers, wings, and hot dogs. For a premium experience, the VIP area is highly sought after, so reservations are recommended to secure your spot.
Why it’s a top dance club in Tampa: Hyde Park Cafe’s longevity and popularity stem from its ability to cater to diverse tastes, offering a mix of music and ambiances that appeal to a wide range of club-goers. It’s a reliable choice for a great night out in SoHo.
Expert Tip: Don’t let the “Cafe” in the name fool you; while they do offer food in the Biergarten, Hyde Park Cafe is primarily a high-energy dance club experience.
The Kennedy
Situated on the northern edge of SoHo, The Kennedy offers an upscale dance lounge experience that attracts a sophisticated crowd. This club is a favorite among young professionals from the SoHo area and students from the nearby University of Tampa, creating a vibrant and stylish mix. The interior is lavishly decorated with rich red and black velvet lounge seating, setting a tone of elegance and comfort. Musically, The Kennedy offers a diverse range, from Latin rhythms and house music to popular pop hits. Keep an eye out for occasional appearances by nationally recognized acts, adding an extra layer of excitement. Being associated with Hyde Park Cafe, promotions and cards are often interchangeable, making it easy to club-hop between these SoHo hotspots.
Why it’s a top dance club in Tampa: The Kennedy’s upscale atmosphere and trendy location in SoHo make it a go-to destination for those seeking a chic and energetic dance club experience in Tampa.
Expert Tip: Take note of the dress code – “No Sneakers” is clearly stated, indicating the club’s emphasis on a stylish and sophisticated ambiance.
Whiskey North
Whiskey North stands out as one of the premier dance clubs located in North Tampa. Over the past decade, it has cultivated a loyal following, thanks to its welcoming atmosphere, excellent happy hour specials, and engaging weekly events. The club’s design aims to evoke an Adirondack lodge feel, featuring warm wood beams and rustic furniture, creating a unique and cozy setting for a night of dancing. The dance floor spans two levels and is equipped with a state-of-the-art sound and light system, ensuring an immersive experience. VIP table service is available in Adirondack-themed seating areas, perfect for celebrating special occasions in style.
Why it’s a top dance club in Tampa: Whiskey North brings a high-quality dance club experience to North Tampa, offering a unique themed environment and consistently fun events that keep locals coming back.
Expert Tip: Enjoy yourself responsibly! Whiskey North offers complimentary cab rides home, promoting safety and preventing drunk driving, a thoughtful perk for its patrons.
Club Prana
In the ever-changing landscape of Ybor City’s club scene, Club Prana has maintained its prominence for over a decade by consistently reinventing itself and staying ahead of trends. This massive, multi-level dance club spans five floors, each offering a different vibe and musical genre, including a unique rooftop terrace. Expect an eclectic mix of music, from Latin and hip-hop to reggae and high-energy dance tracks. Club Prana is a popular stop for those exploring Ybor’s nightlife, known for its energetic DJs and attractive drink specials. The club boasts a top-tier sound and light system, designed to create a truly immersive and unforgettable party atmosphere. The rooftop bar provides a welcome escape to enjoy conversation or admire the Tampa skyline.
Why it’s a top dance club in Tampa: Club Prana’s multi-level structure, diverse music offerings, and consistent reinvention make it a staple in Ybor City nightlife, offering a dynamic and long-lasting dance club experience.
Expert Tip: The club fills up from the bottom up, so on quieter nights, not all levels may be open. Plan accordingly and check ahead if you have your heart set on exploring every floor.
The Orpheum
The Orpheum in Ybor City is dedicated to showcasing live musical acts, supporting both emerging local talents and established national performers. While primarily a live music venue, The Orpheum also features DJ nights with a dedicated dance floor for those who want to groove. The sound system is exceptional, ensuring a high-quality audio experience for both live bands and DJ sets. Drink specials are available throughout the week, and there’s a solid selection of draft beers to choose from. If you’re keen to discover Tampa’s music scene and enjoy dancing, The Orpheum offers a great blend of both. Notable acts like Juliana Hatfield, Make Up, and Michelle Malone have graced its stage.
Why it’s a top dance club in Tampa: For decades, The Orpheum has been a vital part of Tampa’s music scene, offering a space to dance to the sounds of both up-and-coming and established artists, making it unique among dance clubs in Tampa.
Local Expert Tip: Social media is the best way to get in touch with The Orpheum team, as they are primarily staffed during events. Check their social channels for event schedules and contact information.
Club Skye
For those with a passion for hip-hop and reggaeton, Club Skye in Ybor City is a must-visit. This high-energy club regularly hosts some of the best hip-hop and reggaeton DJs in the Southeast, creating a vibrant and rhythmic atmosphere. You might even catch surprise performances from national MCs, adding to the excitement. Club Skye features two levels, including a VIP balcony and an exclusive private champagne room for a more luxurious experience. An outdoor tiki bar offers a relaxing space to cool down and take a break from the dance floor. Club Skye is an 18 and up club, making it a popular destination for a younger crowd.
Why it’s a top dance club in Tampa: Club Skye is Tampa’s go-to destination for hip-hop and reggaeton lovers, consistently delivering high-energy nights with top DJs in Ybor City.
Expert Tip: While the cover charge is reasonable, be aware that Club Skye has a two-drink minimum, so factor that into your budget for the night.
The Ritz Ybor
Often hailed as Tampa’s premier live music venue, The Ritz Ybor is a poll-topping destination for nightlife enthusiasts. Originally built in 1917 and extensively renovated, The Ritz Ybor boasts three stunning rooms, a grand foyer, multiple full-service bars, and cutting-edge sound and lighting technology. This spacious venue attracts top names in the music industry, having hosted artists like Lady Gaga and Interpol, yet it maintains an intimate feel that allows for excellent views and strong artist-audience connection. Ticket prices are reasonable, and there is a good selection of drinks available. The venue is general admission only with no seating in the concert area, so arrive early and wear comfortable shoes ready for dancing.
Why it’s a top dance club in Tampa: Located in the heart of Ybor City, The Ritz Ybor offers an unparalleled nightclub experience with its grand venue, top-tier sound, and consistent lineup of high-profile musical acts.
Expert Tip: Be prepared for slightly higher drink prices compared to some other venues in Ybor City, reflecting the premium experience offered at The Ritz.
Gaspar’s Grotto
Gaspar’s Grotto, located in Ybor City’s historic district, is a popular bar and restaurant that offers a unique pirate-themed experience year-round, inspired by Tampa’s famous Gasparilla Celebration. It’s an ideal spot for visitors wanting to immerse themselves in Tampa’s unique pirate culture. Gaspar’s features three large bar areas, providing plenty of seating and entertainment options, with something always happening. Musically, Gaspar’s Grotto offers both live music and DJs to keep the energy up. If you get hungry, Gaspar’s serves up delicious bar food, including Tampa favorites like the Cuban sandwich and Devil Crab, as well as spicy hot wings.
Why it’s a top dance club in Tampa: Gaspar’s Grotto provides a fun, pirate-themed dance club experience in Tampa, combining live music, DJs, and a unique atmosphere that stands out in Ybor City.
Expert Tip: Don’t miss the Sunday brunch at Gaspar’s – it’s perfect for recovering pirates, featuring a full buffet, unlimited mimosas, and a Bloody Mary bar to kickstart your day.
The Castle
The Castle, a massive, multi-level nightclub in Ybor City, has been Tampa’s mecca for alternative music and culture for over 25 years. Known for its diverse and inclusive atmosphere, The Castle hosts frequent special events and themed nights on weekends, ranging from pop video nights to goth and trance events. Dressing up is a big part of the fun at The Castle, encouraging self-expression and creativity. With three distinct music areas and five areas to explore in total, each offering a unique experience, you’re guaranteed to encounter something new and exciting. Despite its alternative vibe, The Castle is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Given its eclectic nature, checking their website beforehand is a good idea to see what’s on for the night.
Why it’s a top dance club in Tampa: The Castle is Tampa’s premier destination for alternative nightlife, offering an eclectic and accepting environment with diverse music and themed nights in Ybor City.
Expert Tip: “Everyone is welcome, nothing is taboo” is the motto at The Castle, reflecting its open and accepting atmosphere. Come as you are and be ready for a unique experience.
Crowbar
Crowbar in Ybor City offers a diverse live music scene, featuring genres from rock and jazz to ska, dubstep, hip-hop, indie, metal, and reggae, making it one of Tampa’s most varied music venues. This local favorite, adorned with charming Christmas lights, provides a clean and intimate space where concertgoers can fully immerse themselves in the music. Bar service is consistently excellent, and a quiet outdoor patio offers a peaceful retreat for when your ears need a break. Open mic nights and karaoke are also popular events at Crowbar. Cover charges are very reasonable, ranging from free to around $10, making it an accessible option for enjoying live, original music.
Why it’s a top dance club in Tampa: Crowbar stands out for its intimate setting and incredibly diverse live music programming, offering something for almost every musical taste in Ybor City, open seven days a week.
Expert Tip: Check out the popular Ol’ Dirty Sundays party for a relaxed afternoon of great music and even free food – a perfect way to unwind and enjoy Tampa’s music scene in a laid-back setting.
Tampa’s dance club scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. From the historic nightlife hub of Ybor City to the trendy lounges of SoHo and beyond, there’s a dance club in Tampa to suit every taste and mood. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to explore the exciting nightlife that Tampa has to offer! Find your perfect Tampa dance club tonight and let the rhythm move you.
