Backbooth 37 W. Pine St., 407-999-2570, backbooth.com
Sometimes sleazy, other times legendary, Backbooth’s personality comes from its wildly varying atmosphere – on Mondays, Midnight Mass features pop, rock and Motown, while Sundays are for Shake ’n’ Bass, a moombaton dance party that’s off the hook. Every night offers a different vibe, but the common denominator is that it always makes for an interesting night out.
Firestone Live 578 N. Orange Ave., 407-872-0066, firestonelive.net
Is it a venue or a club? With some of the best EDM nights in town (don’t miss Ignition on Thursday nights), it doesn’t matter which way Firestone swings, because there’s no other place like it in Orlando and the crowds always come.
Lux 5688 International Drive, 407-352-8838, luxorlando.com
Orlando’s permanent high decibel DJ dance party spot has a staggering number of revolving events and performers. If you’re just sitting at home staring at your lollipop/soother/glow-stick collection, you should probably spray on some glitter, slap your do and get on over there.
Ono Nightclub 1 S. Orange Ave., 407-701-9875, ononightclub.com
This is a new arrival on the Orlando dance club scene, and it seems to be doing just fine. The club’s got a super chic design, the lighting is great and the DJs are top notch.
Roxy 740 Bennett Road, 407-898-4004, roxyorlando.com
If you like house music and good-looking people, then this place is for you. Consistently busy on Saturday nights, and Takeovr Tuesdays are a huge favorite with the college set.
Sky Sixty 60 N. Orange Ave., 407-318-4688, skysixty.com
One of the best rooftop bars in Orlando. This lofty spot is super romantic and always a chill place to sip on a fancy drink while looking down your nose at the plebes on the street. The DJ dance parties are always a good excuse to put on your pearls and straighten your hair, too.
Vain 22 S. Magnolia Ave., 407-835-3590, vainorlando.com
If you happen to be wearing your heels, just got your hair did and you’re smelling good … and you happen to be walking around downtown looking for a party, you should definitely hop into Vain. The crowd is always a mix of young and old, and the DJs, some of whom are VH1 reality celebs – we’re looking at you, Brian Dawe – are always spinning the right tracks.
Tier 20 E. Central Blvd., 407-317-9129, tiernightclub.com
This massive, 10,000-square-foot club features open-format music Tuesdays through Saturdays, and it specializes in the VIP experience. If you’re a local celeb, or just want to feel like one, Tier is the place to go to make yourself feel fancy.
