When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Urbanity Dance Chicago
Why Urbanity Dance Chicago is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Urbanity Dance Chicago, located in the lively Lincoln Park neighborhood, is a woman-owned dance studio that has quickly become a favorite destination for adult dancers since its founding in 2019. Specializing in Afro-Latin partner dances such as Salsa, Bachata, Kizomba, Zouk, Cumbia, Cha Cha, as well as urban solo styles including Dancehall, Hip Hop, and Heels, it offers a diverse range of dance experiences. The studio is well-known for fostering a safe, inclusive, and judgment-free environment, which welcomes dancers regardless of age, race, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Notably, the studio challenges traditional gender roles in dance by dissociating masculine and feminine qualities from lead and follow roles, encouraging dancers to express themselves freely and authentically. With instructors from diverse training backgrounds, Urbanity provides a unique and continuously evolving curriculum that balances quality instruction with fun and creativity. The community vibe at Urbanity emphasizes connection, self-expression, and stress relief, making it an ideal place to meet up with friends and build meaningful relationships through shared movement and passion for dance.
Here's what people think of Urbanity Dance Chicago
As of recent, Urbanity Dance Chicago holds a 5-star rating based on 45 reviews.
User reviews consistently highlight Urbanity Dance Chicago's welcoming atmosphere and high-quality instruction, as evidenced by its perfect 5.0 rating from 45 reviews. Many users praise the studio’s inclusive culture that makes everyone feel at home, regardless of their background or dance experience. Positive feedback frequently mentions the passionate and knowledgeable instructors who skillfully blend technical expertise with an engaging and fun learning environment. The flexibility in dance roles to accommodate individual expression also receives commendation, as it empowers dancers to enjoy dance in a more personal and liberated way. On the other hand, negative reviews are rare but occasionally note logistical issues such as class scheduling conflicts or limited class availability at peak times, which is a common challenge in popular studios. Overall, the consensus from the community is overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing Urbanity Dance Chicago as not just a dance studio but a supportive and vibrant community for dance enthusiasts to connect, grow, and enjoy their passion.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Gelek Tshering
i had a great experience with the beginners hip hop class. very fun and easy to follow instructions. the instructor was very nice. although it is a bit confusing where to go and what is happening right when you get there. also no water fountain is sad.
BIEl BRASIL
I recently checked out Urbanity Dance Chicago, and I’ve got to say, it’s an awesome place to dance! From the moment I walked in, I loved how clean and organized everything was. The floors were shiny, the mirrors were clear, and the vibe was super welcoming. The staff is fantastic! They’re not just great dancers; they’re also awesome teachers who really care about helping you learn. Each instructor brings their own style and energy to the classes, and they make sure everyone feels supported, no matter what level you're at. I really appreciated how they took the time to give personal feedback to help me improve. There’s a great variety of classes, too, so there’s something for everyone, which makes it a fun community to be a part of. Overall, Urbanity Dance Chicago is a great spot to dance and have a good time. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to step up your skills, I definitely recommend giving it a try!
Guillermo Pedroni
Overall, this is a wonderful dance school. I think for any good program teachers make or break the engagement of students. So far I've only taken the bachata classes over the last 5 months and Sarah is a wonderful teacher. She's very engaged. She corrects you as needed but doesn't make you feel awkward when you're not getting it right. She compensates to help bridge the gap. There is definitely is a sense of community overall. There's plenty of opportunity for social dancing as well, which is really critical in the learning process. The socials are not overwhelming, especially if you're very new to a dance style. I've been to other socials that are very intense and intimidating but that's probably just in my head. There are introductory courses as well as intermediate and advanced courses. So different levels can learn different methods. So whether you're a beginner or somebody experienced, I always do personally like to learn some old concepts with new teachers. Different teachers definitely have different experiences and different styles that anyone can learn from. They also offer some special ad hoc classes where outside instructors come in for a couple weeks and show off their Styles so there's always something more to learn. I haven't yet tried them but I've seen them and heard about them. Overall, I would highly recommend the school and it's programs and will continue to learn in the current style and I look forward to learning additional styles as time goes on.
Alexander Bieniek
I've trained with at least half a dozen dance studios in Chicago, and Urbanity is definitely my favorite. You'll learn some movements wherever you train, but I keep coming back because the instructors and the community are especially friendly, empathetic, and judgement-free. With other teams, I've had the sense that they want to teach you how they dance, but at Urbanity, I can develop a technical foundation and explore how _I_ want to dance.
Jesse Kimball
Super friendly and fun dance community. The monthly all style dance socials are amazing…only $15 with live DJ, dancing from 10pm - 2am if you can last that long! One of the few places in Chicago you can learn so many styles of dance including Kizomba! Highly recommend to any level of dancer.
How to reach Urbanity Dance Chicago
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Why Urbanity Dance Chicago may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Urbanity Dance Chicago with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable meetup at Urbanity Dance Chicago is an invitation to experience an atmosphere where energy, creativity, and connection blend seamlessly. This studio offers more than just a space to learn dance — it fosters a vibrant community where everyone, regardless of skill level, can feel included and inspired. The positive, welcoming vibe of the studio encourages camaraderie and shared laughter, making it an ideal destination for groups looking to enjoy an activity that is both fun and healthful. Whether you and your friends are seasoned dancers or absolute beginners, the personalized attention from skilled instructors ensures everyone moves at their own pace while achieving breakthroughs together. Moreover, located conveniently with plentiful parking and nearby coffee shops, Urbanity Dance Chicago offers both accessibility and opportunities to continue socializing after class. Choosing this location means rallying at a place that combines joyful movement with an inviting atmosphere, perfect for bonding and creating lasting memories with your friends.
What are the key activities at Urbanity Dance Chicago that make it perfect for group meetups?
Urbanity Dance Chicago specializes in a dynamic range of dance classes that appeal to diverse tastes and skill levels, making it an exciting choice for a group outing. Among their most popular offerings are open-level Hip Hop choreography sessions that combine instructional rigor with a relaxed, enjoyably challenging environment. The instructors emphasize personalized coaching, often providing one-on-one guidance, which helps groups feel supported without pressure. Additionally, there are specialized classes like Bachata that stand out for their thoroughness and engaging approach, allowing participants to quickly pick up skills while having fun. The studio's approach to dance is both professional and playful, building confidence while encouraging expression. Because classes are open to all, groups can mix experience levels confidently — beginners won’t feel left behind, and advanced dancers can still sharpen their skills. Complementing the main dance activities are social events and themed classes that foster group interaction and celebration, further enhancing the studio’s appeal as a meetup destination.
How does Urbanity Dance Chicago’s environment enhance the group experience?
The atmosphere at Urbanity Dance Chicago is noted for its warmth, inclusivity, and positive energy, all essential for a successful group event. Patrons frequently remark on how inviting and friendly the studio is, creating a “great vibe” that encourages participants to open up and enjoy themselves fully. The space is described as beautiful and thoughtfully designed to accommodate both functional dance practice and social interaction comfortably. As a woman-owned and LGBTQ-friendly business, it cultivates an environment where diversity is celebrated, making every group feel welcomed and respected. This inclusivity extends to the instructors, who combine professionalism with humor and approachability, further putting group members at ease. When hosting a meetup, these factors coalesce into an experience where everyone feels valued, enhancing group cohesion and collective enjoyment.
What practical features of Urbanity Dance Chicago support group gatherings?
Urbanity Dance Chicago is strategically located at 1611 N Sheffield Avenue in Chicago, within a neighborhood that is both accessible and convenient for groups traveling together. The studio benefits from plentiful surrounding parking, an essential consideration when coordinating arrival logistics for multiple people. Nearby coffee shops and eateries make it easy for groups to extend their meetup before or after class with casual refreshments or meals. This blend of a prime location and supportive amenities means groups can seamlessly transition from dancing to socializing, enriching the overall experience. The studio space itself is designed for comfort and engagement, providing an open layout that naturally accommodates group dynamics without overcrowding. Plus, the business offers introductory free drop-in classes, allowing groups to try out the studio’s vibe and style without commitment. These features make planning and enjoying a group event smoother and more appealing.
Why is Urbanity Dance Chicago an excellent choice for both casual and committed dancers planning a meetup?
Urbanity Dance Chicago caters not only to those seeking casual, enjoyable activities but also to individuals and groups deeply committed to improving their dance skills. The combination of rigorous yet accessible instruction means that a wide spectrum of dancers can find value in the offerings. For casual groups, the welcoming approach and fun choreography turn the studio into a lively venue to unwind and connect through movement. For more serious dancers, the precise and detailed teaching style—particularly praised in classes like Bachata—provides a structure for genuine improvement. The instructors’ ability to tailor attention ensures each person’s progress is optimized during group sessions. This dual appeal makes the studio a versatile location for meetups where the party’s interests might vary, uniting everyone under the shared joy of dance and learning. Hosting your event here means embracing an experience that refreshes both body and spirit in a supportive community environment.