Brass Monkey • If you're looking to dance on the St. Mary's Strip, then the place to be is Brass Monkey. With a combination of '80s new wave, indie and dance music, this oddball venue knows how to pack the dance floor. Here, hipsters and dancing queens unite to pay tribute to the worst-dressed decade, one most of these patrons are too young to remember. There is never a cover and the drinks are always cheap. 2702 N. St. Mary's St., (210) 480-4722, facebook.com/brassmonkeytx.
Club Rio • Club Rio offers a truly international vibe with spacious dance floors, club lighting and thumping music. The main room features EDM, hip-hop and Top 40. To hear the best in Latin music head to the Latin room where DJs play salsa, merengue and bachata. From Paul Oakenfold to Skrillex and Steve Akoi, Club Rio brings in some of the top performers from around the country. Come here to catch a show or simply to dance the night away. 13307 San Pedro Ave., (210) 403-2582, club-rio.net.
Bonham Exchange • The stories about the Bonham Exchange are legendary. If only the walls here could speak! From celebrity sightings to drag performances to sexy male dancers, the Bonham has always given its clientele a reason to come back. In the 34 years since it was established, the club has evolved while managing to stay true to its mission: "To maintain a space where all individuals can get along and enjoy each other's company regardless of sex, race, ethnicity, age or sexual preference." Today the club caters to a diverse clientele both gay and straight. Saturday nights are its busiest night when the radio station Energy 94.1 broadcasts live from the dance floor. 411 Bonham St., (210) 224-9219, bonhamexchange.com.
Cowboys Dancehall • This joint offers more than just a spacious dance floor. With over 70,000-square-feet, it's one of the largest entertainment venues in the city with seven different bars, an indoor rodeo area for bull riding and cage fights, and monthly concerts featuring some of the biggest DJs and names in country music. On nights when there are no concerts, get here early for free dance lessons ranging from the "Cha Cha" to "East Coast Swing." Thursdays are ladies' nights, when women 21 and up get in free. 3030 NE Loop 410, (210) 646-9378, cowboysdancehall.com.
Industry Nightclub • If you're feeling nostalgic, then Industry Nightclub is the place for you. Here, the DJs play a mix of '80s, '90s and "y2k." The crowd here tends to be 30 plus and the dance floor gets packed. Many come for the "freestyle" music the club has become known for. The décor here could use a little updating, but who's really paying attention when you're here to dance? This year marks the 10th anniversary for the club. 8021 Pinebrook Drive, (210) 374-2765.
