Best Swing Dance Clubs In Detroit

Swing dancing is a style of dance popular in the 1920s through the 50s. Types of dances that fit into this genre include the Charleston, Lindy Hop, Balboa and West Coast Swing. Although its origins were almost one century ago, it remains a favorite of today, with swing clubs and dance meet-ups catering to the swinging dance set scheduled weekly. So, dust off your dancing shoes because it's time to get down at some Detroit-area locations. Although there's not a ton of clubs within the Detroit city limits, there are a fair amount of places hosting swing nights throughout the metro area. These spots are perfect for brushing up on the Charleston or for showing off your newly-acquired Lindy skills.

Rosie O'Grady's
279 West 9 Mile Road
Ferndale, MI 48220
(248) 591-9163
www.rosieogradysirishpub.com/ferndale

Wednesday Swing Night at Rosie O'Grady's is one of the best bets for swinging and socializing around Detroit. Dancing begins at 9 p.m. and complimentary dance lessons are offered for beginners starting around 8 p.m. The weekly dancing is hosted by Swing Detroit, a local crew comprised of avid swing dancers. There is absolutely no cover charge to attend this event. A massive dance floor is the place to be as a live DJ spins classics and modern beats including Big Band, East and West Coast Swing and Lindy Hop.

Ann Arbor Friday Night Swing
Anderson Room
1st Floor, Michigan Union
220 South Main St.
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
(734) 846-0661
www.swingannarbor.com

The University of Michigan has its own swing club. Known as "Swing Ann Arbor," this group has a massive following, making for some fantastic events around town. Ann Arbor Friday Night Swing is one of the most popular events in the area. Swing dancing meet-ups are held throughout the week, while Fridays continue to stand out as the best attended. This fun get-together includes reasonably-priced lessons that are certain to put an extra spring in your step. These swinging soirees usually meet from 9 to 11 p.m., but the night doesn't end there. More often than not, attendees head over to a local bar or club to partake in some post-dancing libations.

Virgo Bar
31925 Van Dyke Road
Warren, MI 48093
(586) 264-8877
www.facebook.com/ClubVirgoEntertainment

Virgo is where its at for swing dancing. This club hosts weekly gatherings every Thursday in Warren. A local group called Swing Detroit regularly meets up here to attend this event, which adds to the lively scene. The evening is set up to include lessons for beginning and intermediate dancers and concludes with hours of open dancing. Expect to learn the Lindy Hop and other Swing basics. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes with a low heel.

Related: Best Latin Dance Clubs In Detroit

Swinginfusion Farmington
Walter E. Sundquist Pavilion at Riley Park
33113 Grand River Ave.
Farmington Hills, MI
(313) 231-2046
www.facebook.com/groups/farmingtonswing

Although not a club, this large group of swing dancers meets regularly on Thursdays. Attendees are a mix of teenagers, college students and adults, ages 15 to 35, who all share the love of swing dancing. Lessons and dancing are held at the Farmington Pavillion and welcome new dancers with open arms. There is a nominal donation collected at each event. A DJ spins while dancers show off their moves to the exuberant spectators that often number in the hundreds. Expect to show and prove East Coast Swing, Country Swing, the Lindy Hop and the Charleston at this community-driven event. Lessons generally begin around 8 p.m. and ends by 11 p.m.

Related: Best Ballroom Dance Studios In The Detroit Area

After receiving a BA in Photography from Savannah College of Art & Design, Nicole Wrona began working with a diverse range of musicians. In addition, she is a freelance writer for numerous publications. Her work can be found at www.metalleaves.com and Examiner.com.