Pop's Tavern got the second Baltimore County liquor license after the end of Prohibition in 1933 and they're the oldest tavern still running continuously. Check out some charming vintage Art Deco touches, such as the restroom sign lights. Its popularity no doubt rose when nearby Bethlehem Steel - now closed - was operating at full blast 24/7. Live bands still play on Saturday nights to a packed, older crowd. Back in the day, bands such as Danny and the Juniors, as well as The Platters played there. Today, dance bands get people to their feet. This is a place to have casual fun, as opposed to being on display.
Recommended for Dance Clubs because: Lovers of classic rock, southern rock and country will appreciate this come-as-you-are venue.
Tamar's expert tip: Saturday's the best night at Pop's. If you want a table, best come early.
Hampden's Ideal Arts Space has been through several incarnations, starting out as an Art Deco era movie theater, through a couple of different vintage store markets. Though the markets were beloved and sorely missed, Hampden neighbors are happy that the prominent and architecturally interesting space is newly occupied by an arts group that hosts regular dance events. It fits in well with the rest of the nightlife on 36th Street. This venue focuses on West Coast Swing dance classes and events, but also has Salsa and Bachata dances, as well as other non-dancing events, such as cabarets and special vendors. All ages and genders are quite welcome in this hip, artsy, gentrifying neighborhood.
Recommended for Dance Clubs because: People looking for dancing on the north side of town or near the Baltimore County suburbs will appreciate this venue in a safe neighborhood.
Tamar's expert tip: Check their calendar for free practice nights. Otherwise bring $10 for the evening's festivities.
Right at the heart of "Pigtown" is a re-purposed 1870's church hosting all kinds of fun things to do that require lots of space. There's dancing at many of their special events, as well as EVERY Monday and Friday night – it's not always easy to find something to do on Monday nights in most cities. Their regular Monday and Friday dances go on as late you want to stay. No experience or partner required. Their dance nights highlight several styles of swing dancing, including moves that originated in Baltimore. After much effort from Mobtown Ballroom, they've secured a full liquor license. Among other things, they had to get a law changed that prohibited liquor from being sold within 300 feet of a church!
Recommended for Dance Clubs because: Before each dance night – for a nominal additional cover charge – they have swing dance lessons in West Coast, Lindy Hop and East Coast styles.
Tamar's expert tip: Get there plenty early to secure a nearby parking space. You can ask a staffer to walk you back.
Though not a "dance club" per se, The Windup Space's dance club nights are legendary. "Four Hours of Funk" is one of their regular events that features local musicians that's very popular with area college students. Special nights, such as fundraisers and New Year's Eve, have formal dress, but in a much grittier atmosphere than the staid hotel parties your parents attend. Some people feel best taking Uber or a cab here. Even when there's no dancing, they've got fun events going on: each night is different at The Windup Space: between burlesque sketch nights, urban indie bands, tribute bands, lectures and board game nights, there really is something for all ages, all tastes.
Recommended for Dance Clubs because: The Windup Space, in the ever-developing Station North neighborhood, isn't pretentious at all. Members of Baltimore's artsy, diverse population love it.
Tamar's expert tip: They have an upscale selection of beer and liquor at the bar.
Located in downtown Baltimore's Power Plant Live! entertainment complex, Mosaic is a sophisticated lounge and nightclub featuring chic modern decor, a lovely outdoor area and plush VIP couches, perfect for resting heel-clad feet after tearing up the dance floor. This is a very popular place for groups to head for fun. The music changes from night to night, with everything from DJs to country bands in the surrounding Power Plant Live area. For luxurious or special nights, they've got VIP tables and a substantial bottle service menu. For extra adult fun, they also sell glow in the dark necklaces, body sprays and "pleasure packs."
Recommended for Dance Clubs because: This is a place for that classic lounge feel, no matter what type of music you like.
Tamar's expert tip: As the Power Plant is located between the Inner Harbor and Harbor East, you're as likely to meet out of towners as locals.
Not your typical dance club, Baltimore's Lithuanian Hall is a real local's insider secret. On the first Friday of each month is SAVE YOUR SOUL, a popular underground dance party: DJs spin the rarest Soul and R&B. Admission is $5 plus $5 for an annual membership to the hall. The dance party serves as a fundraiser. The hall dates from 1921, built from existing buildings to suit the city's burgeoning Lithuanian population. There are gorgeous architectural and design details on the main floor, with two other floors as well. Their bar stocks Lithuanian beers and their very own honey liqueur, Viryta!
Recommended for Dance Clubs because: The nights that they do have dancing, it's very special. There's an ambiance of joy rarely seen elsewhere and that quirky Baltimore quality shows.
Tamar's expert tip: The first Saturday of December is Night of 100 Elvises, one of the most popular and quirky parties of the year!
Everything from cute local college garage bands to well-known names on their way up (or a shade past their prime) are booked at Ottobar. With a main stage downstairs and a casual spot with pool tables upstairs, you can hear your music anyway you like . . . even if that includes being able to get to know your date better throughout the evening. You'll also find a wide range of music, each night bringing in its own kind of crowd. If you can snag main stage balcony sofa seats, you'll feel like a VIP at no extra cost.
Recommended for Dance Clubs because: Ottobar's two floors have different vibes, with the upstairs being more intimate. Downstairs has lots of energy and welcomes a diverse crowd.
Tamar's expert tip: Some dance nights are 18+ and others 21+.
