Best places to dance and make new friends in indianapolis
Indianapolis is full of life, music, and people who love to have a good time. Whether you just moved here or you’ve lived in Indy for years, finding places to meet new people can be tough. Dancing is one of the best ways to break the ice and connect without needing the perfect words. You can show up, move to the beat, and before you know it, you’re surrounded by new friends who are just as excited to be there as you are.
At FIND Indianapolis, we’ve pulled together some of our favorite spots around the city where you can dance, laugh, and make real connections. These places aren’t about being the best dancer in the room. They’re about showing up, having fun, and feeling part of something bigger.
Dance Studios in downtown IndY
Downtown Indianapolis is home to a variety of dance studios where you can learn new moves, stay active, and connect with great people.
1. SWING ERA STEPS
Photo courtsey of Swing Era Steps
Swing Era Steps is a community-focused dance studio based in Indianapolis, Indiana, dedicated to keeping the spirit of Lindy Hop, Balboa, Charleston, and Solo Jazz alive. Their classes are open to everyone—no partner or experience required—and focus on helping people build confidence, get active, and make new friends through swing dancing. Rooted in the joyful energy of 1920s Harlem and brought to life in the heart of Indy, Swing Era Steps offers a welcoming space where anyone can learn to dance and be part of a vibrant local community.
View their upcoming classes here.
2. LATIN EXPRESSIONS
Photo courtsey of Latin Expressions
Latin Expressions is Indianapolis’ longest-running Latin dance studio, founded in 2011 and located at 502 North Capitol Avenue on the second floor in downtown Indianapolis. Led by founder and owner Kyle Culmann, the studio offers high-quality instruction in salsa, bachata, mambo, cha cha cha, cumbia, and merengue for dancers of all levels, from beginners to competitors. The atmosphere is fun, welcoming, and structured to help students build confidence, learn new skills, and connect with others who share a love of dance.
View their upcoming classes here.
3. 8 SECONDS SALOON
Photo Courtsey of 8 Seconds Saloon
8 Seconds Saloon is known as Indy’s home for country music and line dancing. With live bands, DJs, and line-dancing nights, there’s always energy on the dance floor. It’s a fun, social spot to meet fellow country music and dance lovers. Located on the west side of Indianapolis, the space originally served as a bowling alley. Now it features a large dance floor and live-music stage, making it a go-to destination for folks who love to move, groove, and meet new people. They offer line dancing classes every Wednesday night starting at 9 p.m.
View their events calendar here.
4. DANCE WORKS
Photo Courtsey of Dance Works
DanceWorks Indy is a studio built around the idea that dance works for everybody and every body.
Whether you are looking for a new hobby, returning to an old passion, or seeking new ways to cultivate a healthy lifestyle, they have something for you! Their warm, welcoming, and supportive space along with affordable pricing, makes dance accessible to all in a central location.
View their upcoming classes here.
5. NAPTOWN STOMP
Naptown Stomp Lindy Hop Society is Indy’s longest-running organization devoted to teaching and spreading enthusiasm for vintage swing dances – Lindy Hop being the primary form. They teach a variety of vintage swing dances as they are socially danced in the worldwide swing dancing community today.
View their upcoming classes here.
DANCE STUDIOS IN BROAD RIPPLE
Whether you’re looking to learn new moves, find your rhythm, or just meet fun, creative people, Broad Ripple’s dance studios offer the perfect mix of energy, community, and self-expression.
6. JAZZ KITCHEN LATIN DANCE
Photo Courtsey of The Jazz Kitchen
The Jazz Kitchen transforms into a Latin dance hotspot every Thursday night from 8 pm - 2 am. Free salsa or bachata lessons kick off the evening, followed by a DJ spinning Caribbean and Latin American beats all night. It’s the ultimate mix of music, movement, and social energy.
Learn more here.
7. the red room
Photo Courtsey of The Red Room
On Wednesday nights, The Red Room in Broad Ripple comes alive with salsa dancing. The night kicks off with free salsa lessons at 8:30 pm, then opens into a lively social where the dance floor stays packed. It’s a fun, upbeat way to meet new people midweek.
Learn more here.
dance studios north of indy
From Carmel to Fishers, the dance studios north of Indy bring together welcoming communities and top-notch instructors, making them perfect for anyone eager to move, connect, and have fun.
8. DANCE FAM
Photo Courtsey of Dance Fam
DanceFam creates a welcoming, high-energy environment where adults can learn hip-hop, heels, and contemporary moves. Their classes emphasize confidence, community, and expression through dance. It’s a great way to connect with others while getting a killer workout.
View their upcoming classes here.
9. Carmel ballroom dance studio
Carmel Ballroom Dance Studio is a community-focused dance venue that welcomes everyone. The studio’s mission is to make dance lessons easy and accessible for all ages and skill levels, especially for those who consider themselves “awkward,” “not-so-good dancers,” or “two left feet.” The instructors are dedicated to making each lesson fun and stress-free. Client reviews highlight what the studio stands for—and what dancers love to twirl, spin, and chasse for.
View their upcoming classes here.
10. 31svn street dance academy
At 31Svn Street Dance Academy, our mission is to share the heart of HipHop—its energy, values, and creative voice. Rooted in the core principles of Peace, Love, Unity, and Having Fun, we empower dancers of all ages to grow, express themselves, and connect through the art of street dance.
View their upcoming classes here.
dance studios in fountain square/south of indy
From laid-back social dances to high-energy classes, the studios in Fountain Square and the south side of Indy bring people together through movement, music, and a welcoming community vibe.
11. Daytime coffee clubs
Photo Courtsey of Find Fun Indy
Join our coffee clubs! Who says dance floors are only for after dark? Let’s gather in community spaces we love with the people we love. Caffeinate with unlimited coffee, take an art break, dance, vibe, and make a new friend all before lunch.
Learn more here.
12. Swing Night at Fountain Square Theatre
Photo Courtsey of the Fountain Square Theatre
Swing Dancing at Fountain Square Theatre occurs on the 2nd and 4th Friday of every month featuring a rotating line-up of the top swing & jazz bands in the area. Swing dance lessons start at 7:30 pm and live swing dancing begins at 8:30 pm.
View their upcoming classes here.
@ Fountain Square Theatre Building
13. dance2connect
Dance2Connect is an innovative community outreach program designed to bring the transformative power of dance to underserved communities. They aim to foster inclusivity, empowerment, and accessibility and are dedicated to making dance accessible to everyone by eliminating financial barriers to quality dance education. T Their mission is to provide affordable classes, scholarships, and community support, ensuring that the joy of dance is within reach for all.
View their upcoming classes here.
Looking to make fun adult friends? Come to a Find Fun event or check out these friend groups in Indianapolis.
