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San Francisco Dance Clubs: Discover Details of the 8 Hottest SF Nightclubs
By: Jill Loeffler • Updated: March 19, 2024 • Published: August 23, 2011
Let your hair down and dance the night away at one of these San Francisco dance clubs. SF night clubs are popular and a great option if you are looking for a fun, energy-filled night out on the town.
Dance clubs are a great entertainment option, but it can be hard to choose from the many you'll find around the city. Below are some recommendations for the best ones to check out during your stay.
Most of the clubs in the city charge a cover, sometimes up to around $20. They also usually have pretty expensive drinks. If you plan on heading to any club in the city, plan on these additional expenses since they're just part of the club scene.
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1. DNA Lounge
DNA Lounge has been an institution of San Francisco nightlife since 1985. With two stages, four dance floors, and seven bars, this place offers plenty of space and entertainment for everyone.
The range of music and events hosted here is eclectic. They've also got DNA Pizza next door, a full-service restaurant and cafe that is open late.
Open every day from 7 pm to 11 pm, and Mondays until 2:30 am. On any given night, you could find live music, popular DJs, themed parties, or burlesque shows here.
Address: 375 11th Street
District: SOMA
2. F8
The reason I love F8 is because they offer two rooms of dance music in a more casual dance club environment. Whenever I go, the people tend to be friendly and the music is always great.
The DJ selection changes by the day, and they always do a great job of playing what the crowd loves. They also focus on art, so you will see several great pieces hanging throughout the club.
F8 opens Tuesday through Sunday. Find some happy hour specials on weekdays before 10 pm.
Address: 1192 Folsom Street
District: SOMA
3. The Great Northern
The Great Northern is a cool spot in the Mission District. It's a bit smaller than some of the city's other clubs, but the atmosphere is unbeatable.
This venue has an art deco-inspired design with fun lighting, a giant disco ball, and an incredible sound system. With top DJs and popping music, you should come here ready to dance the night away.
Open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 pm to 3 am.
Address: 119 Utah Street
District: Mission
4. Bootie Mashup SF
Bootie Mashup hosts some of the largest bootleg dance parties in the US.
These themed parties—including Retro Remix, Indie Dance & Electro, Dragon Con, Lovers Ball, and more—are an experience you will never forget.
Find them at different venues, including the popular Cat Club and the fabulous queer and drag club Oasis. Check out their website to see where they'll be.
Address: 1190 Folsom Street / 298 11th Street.
District: SOMA
5. Monroe
If you want to check out the nightlife in a different part of town, head over to Monroe in North Beach. The classy decor in this club is inspired by 1920s Hollywood.
Although it might get a little crowded, there is plenty of space on the dance floor and in the booths and tables, depending what you're in the mood for. Enjoy happy hour specials on Fridays.
Monroe is open Fridays from 5 pm to 2 am, Saturdays from 10 pm to 2 am, and Sunday mornings (for the after-after party) from 6 am to 12 pm.
Address: 473 Broadway Street
District: North Beach
6. Raven Bar
Raven Bar is one of the best SF dance clubs offering throwback music that will lift your mood and get your feet moving. Groove to your favorite R&B, hip-hop, and pop hits.
They have great bartenders and tasty signature cocktails. You can sign up on their Guest List online to get in free before 11 pm.
Raven Bar is open Thursday through Saturday from 8 pm to 2 pm and Sundays from 9 pm to 2 am.
Address: 1151 Folsom Street
District: SOMA
7. Hawthorn
At this night club, you'll step into a cool, elegant brick basement with luxurious lounge seating, making it a great place to chill for cocktail hour before the dance crowd. The place is pretty spacious, with another room in the back that has more of a 1930s Hollywood feel.
Hawthorn offers delicious craft drinks with great service, and the DJs are always popular. They open Fridays and Saturdays from 9 pm to 2 am.
Address: 46 Geary Street
District: Financial District near Union Square
8. Make-Out Room
I know the name sounds a little questionable, but this quirky retro place in the Mission District is so much fun. It's got a 70s vibe with a disco ball, and it's open every night of the week except Monday.
The music is awesome if you love soul, rock and roll, Latin, and anything oldies. The Make-Out Room also stands out from other San Francisco dance clubs because they often host live bands, too.
They are open Tuesday through Sunday from 6 pm to 2 am.
Address: 3225 22nd Street
District: Mission
Other Fun San Francisco Nightlife Options
San Francisco dance clubs are a fun way to spend an evening in the city, but if you're looking for something different, there are many other San Francisco nightlife options:
Hi, I'm Jill!
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