Tampa is the largest city in west central Florida, and as such, has much to offer its denizens and visitors in terms of nightlife. If you favor retro sounds, then you are in luck; there is quite a lot to choose from when it comes to nightclubs spinning oldies.
Located on Harbor Island, Jackson’s Bistro first opened its doors in 1997. It is one of the few beachfront nightlife venues you’ll find in Tampa. The club caters to a decidedly up market crowd comprised mostly of singles on the prowl. Oldies fanatics are advised to come here on Fridays for “Fantasy Fridays,” when a variety of top 40 hits and tunes from the ‘80s are spun. Occasional live music is also featured. You can dance inside on the main floor or on the outdoor terrace. Jackson’s Bistro also offers a variety of VIP tables and cabanas, which can be reserved in advance. The club is open from 9 p.m. until 3 a.m. on Fridays.
Jackson’s Bistro
601 S. Harbor Island Blvd.
Tampa, FL 33602
813-277-0112
jacksonsbistro.com
Howl at the Moon is a piano bar that allows you and your friends to sing along with the crowd to your favorite oldies hits. The club opens its doors on Friday and Saturday nights at 7 p.m.; the piano fun starts at 8 p.m. Throughout the rest of the week, Howl at the Moon is open for private parties, offering special packages for bachelor(ette) parties, corporate fundraisers for charity, birthdays, anniversaries, promotions and office parties. It is staffed by an array of professional musicians from Tampa and beyond.
Howl at the Moon
615 Channelside Drive
Tampa, FL 33602
813-514-9378
howlatthemoontampa.com
Located in the midst of Ybor City, Tampa’s famous clubbing district, The Castle has been going strong since 1992. Here, you can hear some of your favorite oldies classics, such as tunes by David Bowie, Boy George, Siouxsie and the Banshees, Madonna, Blondie, Duran Duran, Depeche Mode and New Order. The club caters on most nights to a gothic/dark wave clientele, though on Sundays, it opens its doors to the gay community with S.I.N., a party spinning indie and alternative hits. The Castle contains two floors and five different dance spaces. The club is available for rentals, as well.
The Castle
2004 N. 16th St.
Tampa, FL
813-247-7547
castleybor.com
