When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
Dance With Joy Studios
Why Dance With Joy Studios is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Dance With Joy Studios, located at 8051 SE 16th Ave in Portland, Oregon, is a vibrant, welcoming dance studio that offers an exceptional environment for friends and dance enthusiasts to meet, connect, and move together. Established in 2011, the studio has built a strong reputation grounded in joy, community, and dance education. It specializes in an impressive variety of partner dances including Latin styles like Cha Cha and Rumba, classic Ballroom such as Waltz and Foxtrot, Nightclub dances like Salsa and Swing, and even Country Western styles. Beyond partner dancing, the studio also offers diverse classes including yoga, jazz lirico, belly dancing, tap, flamenco, hip-hop, Zumba, and more, accommodating all interests and skill levels. Its facilities are well-equipped with air conditioning, comfortable changing rooms, a children’s area, parking, sportswear shop, and free Wi-Fi, ensuring a convenient and pleasant visit. The studio fosters community spirit by occasionally hosting sessions where attendees contribute canned food for the Oregon Food Bank, reflecting its commitment to social good. With affordable pricing options such as class cards and drop-in rates, plus professional instruction led by passionate dance experts, Dance With Joy Studios creates an inviting atmosphere where friends can share memorable experiences while improving their dance skills and physical fitness.
Here's what people think of Dance With Joy Studios
As of recent, Dance With Joy Studios holds a 4.8-star rating based on 48 reviews.
Dance With Joy Studios enjoys a highly positive reputation among its patrons, reflected in its strong 4.8-star average rating across 48 reviews. Many users praise the studio for its friendly, supportive atmosphere, and the quality of instruction that caters to all levels, from beginners to advanced dancers. The diversity of dance styles available is frequently highlighted, with customers appreciating how the studio can meet varied tastes and interests. Positive reviews often mention the welcoming community vibe and the social opportunities the studio offers, making it a great place to meet people and make new friends. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional scheduling difficulties or limited class times for certain dance styles, which can be inconvenient for some attendees. A few users have requested more classes during weekends or evenings. However, these critiques are relatively minor compared to the overall satisfaction expressed. The balance of positive feedback, especially regarding the professionalism of instructors and the studio’s engaging environment, underscores that Dance With Joy Studios is widely regarded as a top choice for dance and wellness in the Portland area.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Stephanie Jacobs
My partner and I started attending this studio for dance lessons a couple months ago and have had the most wonderful experience. All the instructors and staff are so kind and welcoming - they've fostered a wonderful environment for newbs like us to learn and progress! Excited to continuing coming for the foreseeable future!
Madeline Buss
I cannot stop raving about Jack and Rachel and the amazing, beautiful work they do. My fiance and I took Rachel's classes through PSU, and after graduating kept in touch with more of her classes and Argentine Tango dance nights. We reached out on a whim to see if she and her husband would be willing to come and teach an intro dance lesson at our wedding reception, and it is possibly one of the best decisions we made while wedding planning. Not only are they wonderful, incredible people, but they are amazing dancers and even better teachers. Having them there to teach dances and lead during our reception was a game changer. It wouldn't have been nearly as fun, lively, or involved without the two of them. They went 100% above and beyond. I am so grateful for the incredible work they did, and our guests all raved about them! (photos by Hereafter Photography)
Elizabeth Hawkins
The friendliest dance studio in town! The community of dancers is welcoming to new dancers still figuring out their 2 left feet and experienced dancers alike. Very reasonable prices and fantastic teachers! I love dancing here 🥰
Alison Bradley
WONDERFUL dance instructors and super fun social dance events!!! Rachel and Jack are so kind and supportive. I cannot recommend them highly enough if you are looking for social dancing (tango, latin dances, swing and much more)!
Anna Marum
If you are planning your wedding and looking for dance lessons, I cannot recommend this studio enough. We nailed our first dance in front of 80+ guests, and had so much fun. Rachel is a fantastic teacher, and so kind, positive and patient. We took several private dance lessons with her and her husband Jack (also a wonderful teacher) in the months leading up to our wedding, and the lessons quickly became the best part of wedding planning. We had never really danced much before this, but we had the basics of a routine down after our very first lesson. Highly recommend!
How to reach Dance With Joy Studios
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Website: None
Why Dance With Joy Studios may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Dance With Joy Studios with your friends? This vibrant studio is more than just a place to learn dance; it is a lively hub of joy, connection, and community. With an impressive rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 48 reviews, Dance With Joy Studios offers an inviting atmosphere where friends and families can come together to share unforgettable experiences. Its spirit is rooted in uplifting people through dance and creative expression, making it the perfect venue for celebrations, meetups, or just a casual gathering. Unlike standard gyms or event spaces, this studio focuses on joyful movement and emotional connection, fostering an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and engaged. Whether you’re dancing to a high-energy Zumba class led by a skilled professional or attending a culturally rich workshop, you and your group will enjoy meaningful moments that blend fun, fitness, and friendship. The studio’s commitment to kindness, creativity, and community harmony makes it uniquely suited to be a gathering place where memories are born and social bonds are strengthened.
What activities can you and your group enjoy at Dance With Joy Studios? The studio offers a diverse range of dance classes and wellness activities designed to fit all age groups and skill levels. One of the standout activities is the Zumba class, praised for transforming exercise into genuine dance fun with instructors who are professional dancers themselves. This high-energy workout is ideal for groups looking to share laughter and movement in a spirited setting. Beyond Zumba, the studio hosts various dance styles and cultural classes that enable attendees to explore creativity and learn new skills in a supportive environment. The offerings don't stop at dance—participants can engage in workshops that emphasize mindfulness, music appreciation, and artistic expression. With dedicated spaces for artistic and recreational activities, the studio fosters a holistic approach to wellness and creative engagement. The venue also maintains a clean, well-ventilated environment, making it safe and comfortable for group meetups.
Why is Dance With Joy Studios ideal for hosting a group meetup? The studio’s layout and philosophy encourage social interaction and collaboration, making it an excellent choice for friend groups or families seeking a lively, engaging outing. Its team promotes a culture of respect and mutual support, with policies designed to ensure everyone’s comfort, such as optional mask-wearing, social distancing encouragement, and considerate partner-dancing rules. The space is equipped with amenities like ample parking and mats for comfort during activities, easing logistical concerns for attendees. Social dances, where you can enjoy dancing with different or fixed partners, offer a wonderful opportunity for groups to connect with others or keep the dynamic intimate. Also, the studio’s vision of building empathetic community bonds through dance resonates strongly with groups looking for meaningful, shared experiences. Whether for casual get-togethers, celebrations, or team-building sessions, the welcoming atmosphere and thoughtfully curated programs make every meetup special and memorable.
What makes the community at Dance With Joy Studios unique? This studio sets itself apart by embracing values that celebrate diversity, creativity, and inclusion. Its mission goes beyond just dance; it seeks to create a joyful community where members support each other’s expression and growth. The leadership emphasizes outreach and teamwork, fostering partnerships that enhance cultural experiences and educational opportunities. Dance With Joy Studios respects individual differences and encourages participants to fully express themselves, unlocking personal potential through creative movement and interaction. The community-oriented ethos transforms the studio from a simple dance space into a sanctuary of empathy and kindness. These powerful values translate into an environment where friendships deepen naturally and meetups become enriching and inspiring events.
How does Dance With Joy Studios ensure safety and comfort for everyone? The studio rigorously follows health and safety protocols to provide a safe environment for all visitors. Proof of vaccination is required for attendance, reflecting their commitment to community health. Mask-wearing is optional but recommended, creating a flexible yet cautious atmosphere that respects personal choices. In addition, the studio features strong ventilation and air-purifying systems that operate throughout classes and events, significantly reducing health risks. Their policies on social distancing and partner interactions prioritize respect and consent, ensuring comfort for all dancers regardless of their social preferences. This thoughtful approach to safety allows group meetups to unfold without worry, letting participants focus on having fun and connecting with one another.
How can you easily book and prepare for your meetup at Dance With Joy Studios? Convenience and accessibility are key priorities at the studio. The scheduling system is user-friendly, allowing groups to coordinate attendance easily via platforms like ClassPass, where you can also benefit from discounted rates. Clear guidance on preparing for classes, including what to wear and bring, is provided to optimize the experience. Parking availability and studio amenities like mats add to the ease of arrival and participation. Since the studio listens to customer feedback actively, every visit feels refined and personalized. This seamless booking and welcoming process means your friends and family can focus on enjoying the event without hassles or confusion.
What lasting memories can your group expect to create at Dance With Joy Studios? By blending physical activity with emotional engagement and cultural enrichment, the studio crafts experiences that linger long after the music stops. The friendly, supportive atmosphere invites everyone to let go of everyday stresses and immerse themselves in joy and creative expression. With diverse programs catering to different interests and ages, every group member can find moments of discovery and delight. The community focus encourages bonds that extend beyond the studio walls, fostering lasting friendships and shared stories. Gathering at Dance With Joy Studios means creating stories of laughter, accomplishment, and togetherness—making any meetup truly special and worth repeating.