- Published on:
- Updated on: September 25, 2026
8 Dance Studios in Ottawa to Explore in 2026
A practical 2026 guide to choosing dance classes in and around Ottawa
Looking for dance classes in Ottawa in 2026? This guide introduces eight studios offering different styles, age groups, and learning formats. Start with the style you want to try, then compare the current timetable, location, trial policy, and total cost before you register.
Updated September 2026: We refreshed this opening guide with a clearer way to compare studios and removed unsupported claims about calorie burn, surveys, and in-person visits. Class schedules, fees, and addresses can change; use the studio’s own website or contact the studio to confirm details before travelling.
Quick checklist for choosing a class
- Fit: Is the class designed for beginners, returning dancers, or experienced students?
- Format: Compare drop-in classes, terms, private lessons, and performance commitments.
- Practical details: Check the venue, accessibility, cancellation rules, footwear requirements, and all-in cost.
If you are returning after an injury or have movement restrictions, ask a qualified clinician which activities are appropriate for you.
Dance and fitness: what to consider
Dancing can be a way to add regular physical activity, practice coordination, and enjoy movement with others. The effort varies widely by dance style, pace, class length, and the individual. Instead of relying on a fixed calorie estimate, choose a class you can attend consistently and adjust the intensity to your ability.
Ottawa Public Health recommends reviewing the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines and seeking advice before increasing activity if you have health concerns.
| Style | Good questions for the studio |
|---|---|
| Ballet | Is there an adult or beginner level? What footwear is required? |
| Ballroom | Can I attend without a partner? Are private lessons available? |
| Hip-hop or street dance | Is the class age-specific, and is prior experience needed? |
| Salsa or swing | Are drop-in social classes offered? Is a partner required? |
| Tap | Do I need tap shoes for the first class? |
Pick a dance style you enjoy and a level that fits your experience. Regular movement can contribute to physical activity, but individual outcomes vary. If you have a health concern, ask a qualified clinician about suitable activity.
Contact Info
Address: 380 Flora Street, Carleton Place, ON K7C 3L7
Phone: (613) 253-2533
Email: [email protected]
What Is Mommy And Me Dance?
Parent-and-child dance classes give toddlers and caregivers a chance to move together. The sessions are meant to be enjoyable for both and can help children build confidence while spending time with a parent or caregiver. They also give adults a way to be active with their child.
What did we like about the dance studio?
Studio School of Dance calls its parent-and-tot program Baby Dance. It is listed for children 18 to 36 months old, and either parent can join. The class may suit children who need time to feel comfortable moving with others. Reviewers have described social, emotional, and physical benefits for their children.
The studio also lists classes for older children and adults.
Dance Styles
- Jazz
- Tap dance
- Ballet
- Acrobatic
- Lyrical
- Contemporary
- Hip hop classes
- Technique classes
Programs
- Kindersteps
- Small Fry
- Mini Elite Performance
- Part-Time Competitive
- Full Time Competitive
- Summer Classes
- Adult Classes
Fees Structure
2026 fees: Check the studio’s current price page or contact the studio before registering. Ask about term length, trial classes, registration fees, taxes, cancellation terms, and any recital or costume costs.
Pros
- Dance lessons for kids of all ages
- Relaxed and friendly environment for learning and improving self-confidence
- Over 30 years of experience
- Fall registration now open for 2025-2026 season
Cons
- No refunds after classes begin (except for Kindersteps with flexibility)
- Credit card required on file for tuition and costume fees
Contact Info
Address: 149 Second Avenue, Suite 203, Second Floor Ottawa, Ontario K1S 2H6
Phone: (613) 567-3237
Email: [email protected]
Operating Hours
Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
What is a Ballroom Dance?
Ballroom dance is a partnership dance. Couples use step patterns to move rhythmically on the floor. The two styles of ballroom dance are Smooth or Standard and Rhythm or Latin. Ballroom dances are immensely popular in Canada.
What did we like about the studio?
Fred Astaire Dance Studio Ottawa focuses on ballroom dancing. It is part of a franchise with locations in the US and Canada. The franchise runs competitions including the National Dance Championship, Cross Country Dance Championship, and Fred Astaire World Championship.
The Ottawa studio offers lessons for beginners and competitive dancers. It says its core lessons were designed by Fred Astaire and are used across franchise locations.
Dance Styles
- Ballroom dance
- Latin dances
- The Waltz
- Tango
- Foxtrot
- Rumba
- Cha-cha
- Line dancing
- Salsa
- Swing
- Mambo
Programs
- Dance classes (ballroom and Latin)
- Special events
- Fred Astaire-designed lessons
- Free introductory dance lesson
- Private lessons
- Group lessons
- Party lessons
- Solo social group lessons
- Wedding lessons
- Online private lessons
Fees Structure
2026 fees: Check the studio’s current price page or contact the studio before registering. Ask about term length, trial classes, registration fees, taxes, cancellation terms, and any recital or costume costs.
Pros
- BBB-accredited with A+ rating
- Well-trained and friendly dance instructors
- It is not necessary to register with a partner
- Free parking at the west side of building
- Flexible scheduling
Cons
- Open on weekdays only (Monday-Friday)
- No dance classes for teenagers and kids
- Walk-ins not accommodated at this time
Contact Info
Address: In-person classes at Fourth Avenue Baptist Church, 816 Bank St, Ottawa, ON K1S 3V8
Also at CDCC, 290 Lisgar Street, Rooms 15/16
Phone: (613) 233-3456
Email: [email protected]
What did we like about this studio?
Dance with Alana’s Beginner Swing class is an option for adults new to dance. Lessons work on coordination, linking steps, and feeling more comfortable on the dance floor.
Established in 1999, the studio lists weekly group classes, private lessons, and in-person and online classes through Zoom. Adults can choose from swing, tap, and other styles on its program list.
Dance Styles
- Swing
- Lindy Hop
- Tap
- Zumba
- Belly dance
- 90s hip-hop
- Vintage jazz dance
- Fit and fierce
Programs
- Weekly dance classes
- Wedding dance lessons
- Private dance lessons
- Beginner swing
- Pre-or intermediate Lindy Hop
- Beginner and intermediate tap lessons
- Beginner and Intermediate Zumba
- In-person and Virtual classes via Zoom
- Fitness Sessions
- Vernacular Jazz classes
Fees Structure
2026 fees: Check the studio’s current price page or contact the studio before registering. Ask about term length, trial classes, registration fees, taxes, cancellation terms, and any recital or costume costs.
Pros
- Reasonable rates
- Well-trained instructors
- Virtual classes available
- Lessons for special events offered
- Reasonable drop-in and weekly fees
- Very beginner-friendly atmosphere
- Payment plan options available
Cons
- No at-home private lessons
- No classes for younger students (adult-focused)
From diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation, we're here to support you every step of the way.
D.C
Contact Info
Address: 2664 Lancaster Road, Ottawa, ON K1B 4T7
Phone: (613) 601-5254
Email: [email protected]
Operating Hours
(Office hours)
Monday-Friday 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM, Saturdays 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
What is an acrobatic dance?
Acrobatic dance is a style of dance that combines classical dance techniques with acrobatic elements. This dance seamlessly blends dance and acrobatics into a fine presentation.
What did we like about this studio?
Kali Andrews Dance Company teaches acrobatic dance alongside stunting, tumbling, contortion, and aerial acrobatics. Its students have participated in and won awards at acrobatic dance competitions. The competitive program includes five competitions, one of them national; its dancers also competed at OTF Nationals in 2025.
The school offers ballet, jazz, contemporary dance, and hip-hop as well.
Dance Styles
- Ballet dance
- Pointe
- Jazz
- Lyrical
- Contemporary dance
- Hip-hop
- Tap
- Limbering
- Acrobatic dance
- Stunting
- Tumbling
- Contortion
- Aerial Arts
Programs
- Competitive dances
- Recreational dances
- Tiny tots for children as young as 3 years
- Summer dance camps (July & August sessions)
- Private dance lessons
- Teachers Training Program
Fees Structure
2026 fees: Check the studio’s current price page or contact the studio before registering. Ask about term length, trial classes, registration fees, taxes, cancellation terms, and any recital or costume costs.
Pros
- The company offers different payment options for tuition fees
- There is a dance program for young kids (ages 3+) through adults
- Competitive auditions to join the dance company
- Good variety of dance styles
- Active competitive program with national recognition
- Recreational and competitive levels available
Cons
- Monthly installment fees option only available for 36-week tuition
- Office is open only five days a week
Contact Info
Address: 1076B Wellington St W, Ottawa, ON, Canada K1Y 2Y3
Phone: (613) 798-7878
Email: [email protected]
Operating Hours
- Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
What is an urban dance style?
The Urban dance style stems from hip-hop and street dance styles (house, pop etc.) as well as draws inspiration from other dance styles such as jazz, contemporary, tap and more. It allows dancers from different backgrounds to interpret music and integrate dance styles to create their own choreography.
What did we like about this studio?
The Flava Factory focuses on street dance, with classes in hip-hop, popping, locking, breaking, and related styles. The studio teaches the foundations, history, and culture behind the dances while giving students room to develop their own style.
If you want a street-dance class, check its current timetable and beginner options.
Dance Styles
- Street-style dance classes
- Urban dance styles
- Hip hop
- Popping
- Locking
- Breaking
- House
- Dancehall
- Vogue
- Waacking
Dance Programs and Services
- Youth classes for all ages (starting at age 4)
- Adult intro classes
- Intensive summer dance programme
- Drop-in classes
- Crew programs for youth
- Professional development
- School workshops
- Birthday party classes
- Studio space rental for meetings, parties, rehearsals
Fees Structure
- The tuition fees depend on the term registrations
- Drop-in classes available
Pros
- The company offers different payment options for tuition fees
- There is a dance program for young kids (ages 3+) through adults
- Competitive auditions to join the dance company
- Good variety of dance styles
- Active competitive program with national recognition
- Recreational and competitive levels available
Cons
- Monthly installment fees option only available for 36-week tuition
- Office is open only five days a week
Contact Info
Address: 119 Iber Road, Unit 11, Stittsville, ON K2S 1E7
Phone: (613) 836-0005
Email: [email protected]
Operating Hours
- Monday: 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Tuesday: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- Friday: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
What is ballet?
Ballet improves physical coordination, mental strength, and focus and burns a lot of energy. It also gives you the basic arm and leg movements you need in jazz, modern, and tap dancing.
Why did we choose this studio?
Arise School of Dance focuses on classical ballet and describes itself as a Christian dance school. The school aims to express and teach Christian values through dance.
Its classes are presented as friendly and nurturing, with faith included in the program. Families can ask how that approach works in a particular class before enrolling.
Dance Styles
- Ballet dance
- Pointe
- Foundations
- Jazz
- Contemporary
- Hip hop
Programs
- Preschool Program (ages 2+)
- Junior Program (ages 7-18)
- Teen Program
- Adult Program (ages 18+)
- Pre-Professional Program
- Arise Youth Ballet Company
- Summer Programs:
- Dance Camp (ages 4-10)
- Junior Dance Intensive (ages 6+)
- Dance & Ministry Intensive (ages 10+)
- Drop-In Classes: Every Tuesday and Thursday
- Financial support available through partnerships
Fees Structure
2026 fees: Check the studio’s current price page or contact the studio before registering. Ask about term length, trial classes, registration fees, taxes, cancellation terms, and any recital or costume costs.
Pros
- Professional and highly-sought instructors
- Nurturing environment
- Instills Christian values
- Different programs to choose from
- Financial support available through partners
- Over 20% increase in enrollment since moving to new location
- Active on social media (Facebook, Instagram, YouTube)
Cons
Ask the studio about current class availability, performance commitments, volunteer requirements, and any extra fees before enrolling.
From diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation, we're here to support you every step of the way.
PT, M.Sc.PT
Contact Info
Address: 175 Third Avenue, Ottawa ON, K1S 2K2
Phone: (613) 620-4305
Email: [email protected]
What is contemporary dance?
Contemporary dance takes inspiration from several genres, such as jazz and ballet but breaks away from the strict techniques and movements that make those styles recognizable.
Why did we choose this studio?
Dance With Emilie offers contemporary and Latin dance alongside hip-hop, dancehall, burlesque, reggaeton, and soca. Emilie Phaneuf runs the studio and works as an instructor, choreographer, and performer.
FACES Magazine named her Ottawa’s Dance Instructor of the Year in 2024. The studio offers classes and workshops across these styles.
Dance Styles
- Reggaeton
- Latin
- Salsa
- Cha Cha
- Bachata
- Merengue
- Salsatón
- Hip hop
- Burlesque
- Dancehall
- Afro-Brazilian rhythms
- Samba
- Favela Funk
- R&B
- Contemporary
Programs
- Adult street dance classes for all levels
- Seasonal sessions (Winter, Spring, Fall)
- Private lessons
- Group lessons
- Special events
- Wedding dances
- Bachelorette parties
- Drop-in classes (available first 3 weeks)
- Workshop series
Fees Structure
2026 fees: Check the studio’s current price page or contact the studio before registering. Ask about term length, trial classes, registration fees, taxes, cancellation terms, and any recital or costume costs.
Pros
- Winner: Ottawa’s Dance Instructor of the Year 2024
- Encouraging community
- Flexible classes with drop-in options
- A wide range of dance genres available
- Bilingual instructions available
- Welcoming atmosphere for all levels
- In-person and online options
- Active social media presence
Cons
- Schedule can be limited due to high demand and popularity
- Registration fills up quickly – advance planning recommended
Contact Info
Address: 74 Jamie Ave, Nepean, ON K2E 6T6, Canada
(Near Prince of Wales and Hunt Club / Merivale and Hunt Club area)
Phone: (613) 406-0066
Email: [email protected]
Operating Hours
- Monday: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
- Friday: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Why did we choose this studio?
Dance With Us Ottawa teaches couples preparing for their first wedding dance. Instructors can build choreography from a chosen song or a few steps the couple wants to use. The studio offers several lesson packages and teaches adults at different experience levels.
Established in 2010, it has offered ballroom and Latin dance instruction in Ottawa for more than 15 years.
Dance Styles
- Social dances (Argentine Tango, Hustle, Swing)
- American Smooth ballroom
- American Rhythm
- International Standard ballroom
- International Latin dance
- Cha Cha
- Rumba
- Waltz
- Tango
- Salsa
- Bachata
- Merengue
- Prom dance
- Wedding Dance
Dance Services and Programmes
- Wedding dance lessons (personalized choreography)
- Dance for kids and youth
- Dance for adults and seniors
- Competitive training
- Pro-Am competitions
- Social dance parties
- Stretch, tone and fitness classes
- Private lessons
- Group lessons
- Online lessons available via Zoom
- Ballroom workshops with guest coaches
Fees Structure
2026 fees: Check the studio’s current price page or contact the studio before registering. Ask about term length, trial classes, registration fees, taxes, cancellation terms, and any recital or costume costs.
Pros
- Dance lessons for all ages (kids, youth, adults, seniors)
- Relaxed and friendly environment for learning
- Specialized wedding dance choreography
- Instructors are Canadian Professional Dance Champions
- Largest dance floor in Ottawa
- Serves multiple communities: Ottawa, Nepean, Kanata, Manotick, Riverside South, Barrhaven
- Online learning options available
Cons
- Closed on Tuesdays and Saturdays
- Limited weekend availability
Start with the style you want to learn, then compare class levels, schedules, and fees. The eight studios listed here cover parent-and-tot classes, ballroom, street dance, wedding choreography, and acrobatics. We checked that they were operating in 2025; confirm current classes and availability with each studio before registering.
Dance is a pure form of expression, and dancing improves your cognitive ability, can lower stress levels, and keep your body toned. The dance studio promotes a community-like interaction and a healthy lifestyle.
Ballet dance is the most popular dance form. This timeless dance style never loses its charm. In Ottawa, you’ll also find strong communities around swing dancing, Latin styles, and urban/street dance.
Ballet dance is considered the most difficult genre to master; it is a rigorous style of dance that is the foundation of most forms of dance training. It is often the first dance style a child will experience as they begin their dance classes.
Waltz is considered one of the easiest ballroom dances to learn because it is a slow and smooth dance and only uses four steps. For complete beginners, swing dancing is also very accessible.
There are plenty of benefits to enrolling a young child in a structured dance class. For beginners, it will teach them flexibility, discipline, coordination, rhythm, graceful movements and fitness. It could also encourage healthy competition, teamwork, and an outlet for creative expression.
Prices vary by studio and program:
- Group classes: Generally $150-$300 per term (8-12 weeks)
- Private lessons: $60-$110 per hour
- Wedding packages: $360-$900+
- Introductory offers: $25-$100
No! Most Ottawa dance studios offer beginner-friendly classes and welcome students with no prior experience. Studios like Dance With Alana and Dance With Emilie specifically cater to adult beginners.
This varies by dance style, but generally:
- Ballet: Leotard, tights, ballet slippers
- Street/Hip Hop: Comfortable athletic wear, clean sneakers
- Ballroom/Latin: Comfortable clothes, dance shoes (can start with regular shoes)
- Tap: Comfortable clothes, tap shoes
Most studios will provide specific dress codes after registration.
Note: Prices, hours, and programs are subject to change. Please contact studios directly for the most current information and to confirm class availability.