Portland, Oregon, often celebrated for its thriving indie music scene and craft breweries, also boasts a vibrant and diverse dance club culture. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just looking to let loose and have some fun, the city offers a rhythm for everyone. If you’re searching for a “Dancing Club Near Me” in Portland, look no further – this guide will lead you to the best spots to move your feet, categorized by neighborhood and style.
Dance Clubs by Neighborhood
Portland’s nightlife is spread across distinct neighborhoods, each offering a unique vibe. Finding a “dancing club near me” is easier when you know where to look.
Old Town Chinatown: The Heart of Portland’s Dance Scene
For the highest concentration of dance clubs, Old Town Chinatown is your destination. This historic district comes alive at night, pulsating with energy from various venues. Stag PDX and Dixie Tavern, known for their lively atmosphere, are central hubs of activity. For the LGBTQ+ community and allies, CC Slaughters is a legendary gay nightclub that keeps the dance floor packed seven nights a week, with Wednesday nights dedicated to all-request dance tunes.
Downtown Portland: Neon Lights and Intimate Spaces
Downtown Portland offers a mix of options, including Lola’s Room, easily spotted by its prominent neon “Dance” sign. Located beneath the iconic Crystal Ballroom, Lola’s Room provides an intimate setting with regular themed nights. Their ’80s and ’90s nights are particularly popular, offering a nostalgic trip back in time and a guaranteed fun night out.
Central Eastside: Industrial Chic and Diverse Beats
The Central Eastside neighborhood is known for its converted industrial spaces that now house some of Portland’s most innovative clubs. Holocene stands out, having transformed a former auto-parts warehouse into a sprawling 5,000-square-foot venue for art and audio. Here, you can experience everything from DJ sets to live performances, often blending music 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 welcoming atmosphere and eclectic music selection, ranging from funk to dubstep. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a night of dancing and good vibes on their hardwood dance floor.
Northeast Portland: Latin Rhythms and Cozy Corners
Venture into Northeast Portland, and you’ll find different flavors of dance. Aztec Willies, located in the Lloyd neighborhood, is the go-to spot for salsa and Latin music, offering various Latin dance nights throughout the week. For a cozier and more unique experience, Church, an ironically named Roman Catholic-themed bar on Sandy Boulevard, hosts live music and DJ sets in an intimate setting.
Dance Clubs by Style
Beyond neighborhoods, Portland’s dance clubs cater to diverse musical tastes and dance styles. If you’re looking for a specific type of “dancing club near me,” Portland likely has it.
Country: Bushwackers
For country music and line dancing enthusiasts, Bushwackers is the premier destination. Located in Tualatin, just a short drive south of downtown Portland, this honky-tonk haven features a massive dance floor perfect for two-stepping, line dancing, and waltzing. Embrace the country spirit – cowboy boots are optional but encouraged!
Goth/Industrial: The Coffin Club
For a darker, more alternative dance experience, The Coffin Club (formerly Lovecraft Bar) is your spot. This horror-themed bar offers a unique atmosphere with a steady stream of industrial, goth, and darkwave music. Embrace your inner goth and dance the night away in this uniquely Portland venue.
80s & 90s Throwbacks: Lola’s Room
Lola’s Room, in addition to its general appeal, is particularly famous for its themed dance nights. Every Friday, “80s Video Dance Attack” transports you back to the MTV era with classic music videos projected on large screens. On Saturdays, “Comes As You Are: 90s Dance Flashback” celebrates the hits of the grunge and hip-hop decade, ensuring a weekend of nostalgic dancing.
Tango: Tango Berretin
Portland boasts a significant Argentine tango community, and Tango Berretin in the Foster-Powell neighborhood is at its heart. Owned by renowned tango instructor Alex Krebs, this intimate venue evokes the charm of old-world Spanish salons. They offer lessons, practicas, and milongas (social dances). The Saturday night milonga, preceded by a beginner lesson and often featuring live music, is a highlight for tango lovers.
Salsa & Latin: Trio Lounge
If you’re craving Latin rhythms, Trio Lounge brings a slice of Miami’s nightclub vibe to Portland. With three dance floors and DJs spinning everything from traditional mambo to Latin EDM, their Salsa Sunday nights are legendary, keeping the party going until the early hours of Monday morning.
Tips for Finding Your Perfect “Dancing Club Near Me”
With so many options, finding the ideal “dancing club near me” in Portland is about considering your preferences:
- Music Preference: Are you into EDM, hip-hop, country, Latin, or retro hits? Portland has clubs specializing in various genres.
- Atmosphere: Do you prefer a high-energy nightclub, a laid-back lounge, or a themed bar?
- Neighborhood: Consider the convenience of location and the overall vibe of the neighborhood.
- Dance Style: If you want to learn or practice a specific dance like tango or salsa, look for clubs that offer lessons or specialize in those styles.
- Events and Themed Nights: Check club calendars for special events, themed nights, and guest DJs to enhance your experience.
Conclusion
Portland’s dance club scene is as diverse and dynamic as the city itself. Whether you’re searching for a “dancing club near me” for a specific genre, neighborhood vibe, or just a fun night out, Portland offers a range of options to get you moving. Explore these neighborhoods and styles to find your perfect rhythm and discover your new favorite dancing spot in Portland. Get ready to dance the night away!
