Best Dance Clubs in Minneapolis

Sometimes the thing to do is sit at a bar, and sometimes the thing to do is dance. These are the best dance clubs in Minneapolis.

Things to Do in Minneapolis: Dance Clubs

1. Gay 90’s – As hard as it is to put it on the list, Gay 90’s really is the best dance club in Minneapolis. Don’t be fooled by the name, there was a time in its history when it was a gay bar, but it is no longer. The Gay 90’s hosts an incredibly diverse crowd, predominantly 20 something women who want to party. Established in 1975, The Gay 90s is a sprawling, multi-level entertainment complex. It is gay friendly but not a gay bar. Open Thursday-Sunday, 5 PM – 2 AM. Closed Monday-Wednesday. Events: Burlesque shows, drag queen performances, themed dance parties, live music nights, and special events like holiday celebrations. Check their website for the latest calendar. They have an extensive bar menu featuring cocktails, beers, wines, and spirits. Happy hour specials run Tuesday-Thursday, 5-7 PM. Pub fare served until midnight, including burgers, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers. Weekend brunch available from 11 AM – 3 PM. Lively and diverse atmosphere, with multiple bars, dance floors, and seating areas. Dress code is casual but respectful. Elevator access to the second floor (showroom and La Femme stage). Gender-neutral restrooms available. Admission varies depending on the event. Some nights have cover charges, while others are free entry. The Gay 90s was originally a burlesque club, then a strip club in the 1970s before transitioning to a disco and eventually evolving into its current iteration.
2. Jetset Underground – This IS a gay bar, but a lot of straight women show because of the incredible dancing. It is underground both literally in the basement and euphemistically a little hard to find. This blog has location directions. It really is an incredible club. For More info on Jetset as a gay bar go here.
3. Ground Zero Nightclub – Imagine Lollapalooza if it was a dance club, and then you have Ground Zero. This is a really cool alternative club that plays great music you don’t hear elsewhere, and has shows too. Weird and wild shows. Ground Zero in Northeast Minneapolis isn’t your typical bar. Operating as a nightclub primarily on Fridays and Saturdays (10 PM – 2 AM), it caters to a specific crowd with dance floors, themed events, and a cash-only bar. ATMs are available nearby for convenience. The dress code leans towards alternative styles, with no full nudity allowed. While drinks are offered, the focus is on dancing, performance art, and community within a gothic, horror-inspired atmosphere. Specific events vary, with regular features like “Bondage a Go Go” for fetish enthusiasts and “Friday Night Libertine Social” for exploring the darker side of nightlife. Food options are limited. While there’s no dedicated menu, occasional food trucks park outside, offering a chance to grab a bite before hitting the dance floor. If you’re looking for a unique, alternative nightclub experience in Minneapolis, Ground Zero might be your spot, but be prepared for the specific dress code, cash-only policy, and event-driven atmosphere. Remember, it’s 21+ only.
4. Bar Fly – If you like to dance, then you will love Bar Fly. The entire Skyway Theater facility is designed for it. There are multiple dance floors, at the Skyway Theater, and Bar Fly is the main bar and dance club. The energy in the place is electric and you won’t want to leave. If you get tired or want to talk, you can get away from the crazy in the lounge or Boom Boom Room. Bar Fly, located within the recently renovated Skyway Theatre in downtown Minneapolis, boasts three distinct areas to cater to varying preferences. The Boom Boom Room offers a stylish bar and cozy nooks for conversation, while the Main Bar transforms into a dance floor with DJs and live music on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Sidewalk Patio provides a vibrant atmosphere to soak in the city vibes. Bar Fly caters to a diverse crowd with events ranging from electronic music nights and DJ sets to live bands and themed parties. Hours of operation vary depending on the event, but typically run from 5 PM to 2 AM on Thursdays and Fridays, and 8 PM to 2 AM on Saturdays. Beverage options include a wide selection of cocktails, craft beers, and wines, with prices starting around $8. Light bites like pizzas, nachos, and pretzels are available, ranging from $10-$15. Bottle service is also offered for groups and special occasions.
5. Pourhouse: The Exchange and Alibi Lounge – In the basement of the Lumber Exchange building is a really cool space. There is VIP seating around every corner and a thumping dance floor with elevated dance platforms. The Exchange has an exclusive upscale vibe but everybody is there to have fun. The Exchange & Alibi Lounge, located in downtown Minneapolis, is a two-in-one nightlife destination offering distinct experiences under one roof. The Exchange, open Thursdays-Saturdays from 10 PM to 2 AM, caters to dance enthusiasts with two full bars, a state-of-the-art sound system, and live DJs spinning everything from Top 40 to EDM. Entry fees vary depending on the event and night, typically ranging from $10-$20. Next door, Alibi Lounge provides a more relaxed atmosphere with handcrafted cocktails, craft beers, and wine Wednesdays. Open Tuesdays-Saturdays from 4 PM to 1 AM, it boasts a swanky vibe with plush seating and a focus on socializing. Reservations are recommended for Fridays and Saturdays. Food options are limited but cater to late-night cravings. The Exchange offers shareable bar bites like nachos and wings, while Alibi features a small menu of appetizers like charcuterie boards and seafood plates. Both venues offer non-alcoholic drinks and accept major credit cards. For more information on upcoming events, dress code, and specific drink and menu offerings, it’s best to consult their website or social media pages.

Minneapolis Trolley Tours, we know things to do in Minneapolis!