Whether you want to party under neon lights, two-step with cowboys, or get lost in house beats, these seven Fort Lauderdale nightclubs are each the place to be in their own right. Below, in alphabetical order, are New Times' recommendations for where to dance the night away in Fort Lauderdale.
Searching for fun after dark further south? Check out New Times' list of the best Miami nightclubs.
Backyard
100 SW Third Ave., Fort Lauderdale954-449-1025
backyardftl.com An open-air playground for partyers, Backyard is exactly what its name implies — a massive, laid-back outdoor venue with a high-energy twist. Expect LED screens, games, and a lineup of DJs dropping everything from EDM to hip-hop. This isn't your typical buttoned-up nightclub; it's more of a free-for-all where flip-flops and fist-pumping coexist. It's attached to concert venue Revolution Live, which, on some evenings, hosts nightclub-esque shindigs of its own.
Daer Nightclub & Dayclub
1 Lucky St., Hollywood954-779-4750
hardrocknightlife.com Tucked inside Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Daer is the pinnacle of South Florida nightlife. The nightclub and adjacent dayclub bring in a revolving door of world-class DJs (think Zedd, the Chainsmokers, and Tiësto), top-tier bottle service, and some of the wildest parties you'll see in Florida and beyond. The cutting-edge sound system and mind-blowing lighting make every beat hit harder, while a generally upscale crowd brings their A-game in both energy and fashion.
Hunters Nightclub
2232 Wilton Dr., Wilton Manors954-630-3556
huntersftlauderdale.com Hunters is the crown jewel of Wilton Manors' LGBTQ+ nightlife scene, offering a dance floor that stays packed from open to close. With a top-notch JBL sound system, always poppin' light displays, and an upstairs lounge that overlooks the action, this club keeps the party going every day of the week. Expect themed parties, drag performances, and feel-good DJs. Pro-tip: Happy hour runs from 3 to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 2 to 7 p.m. on weekends if you want to start the party early.
Kemistry
307 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale954-282-9169
kemistrynightclub.com If you're into sleek interiors and an intimate dance floor pulsing with house music, Kemistry is the vibe. The club prides itself on top-notch hospitality and a curated experience, from the DJs spinning fresh tracks to the premium bottle service. On a given night, headliners have included everyone from Joyhauser to Talib Kweli. The intimate upper balcony area and central disco ball only add that much more to the sultry vibe.
Nowhere Lounge
204 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdaleinstagram.com/nowhereloungeftl Despite its name, Nowhere Lounge is exactly where you want to be for a lounge-meets-nightclub experience. This hidden gem in Fort Lauderdale's Himmarshee District leans into moody aesthetics — think deep greens and dangles of greenery and flowers above — offering an alternative to some of the city's bigger clubs. The venue regularly hosts DJ sets, ranging from techno to house, acting as the hub of the city's underground dance music scene.
Round Up Nightclub
9020 W. State Rd. 84, Davie954-423-1990
roundupnightclub.com Ready for a little country flair? Round Up is where honky-tonk meets high-energy, giving South Florida its fix of cowboy boots and line dancing. This Davie hotspot has been serving up country hits, whiskey shots, and boot-scootin' good times since 2001. Whether you're a seasoned two-stepper or just there to soak in the Southern charm, Round Up is always a rowdy and welcoming party. Plus, with free line dancing lessons most nights, even first-timers can find their groove before the night really gets kickin'.
Sway Nightclub
111 SW Second Ave., Fort Lauderdale954-761-8686
swaynightclub.com Sway may very well be where Fort Lauderdale's nightlife scene reaches peak intensity. The massive 14,000-square-foot club has VIP sections, a booming sound system, and some of the city's best local DJs spinning everything from hip-hop to electronic bangers. Add in themed parties, premium bottle service, and a crowd that's always ready to turn up, and it's no surprise Sway is a go-to for both locals and tourists. Come spring break, it's undeniably the thumpin' epicenter of the city's nightlife.
