Arthur Murray San Francisco
Ballroom, Latin, Swing & more. Private lessons, wedding choreography, competi…
Arthur Murray Dance Studios is one of the world's largest and most recognized ballroom dance franchises, founded in 1912.
Photo: Arthur Murray San Francisco via Google
Before your first class
No dance experience needed; the studio specializes in making dancing accessible and fun for complete beginners and those with no rhythm.
Dress comfortably in everyday clothes.
$35 introductory lesson; pricing for ongoing programs varies and is discussed after the intro lesson with zero pressure
About this studio
Arthur Murray San Francisco is part of a 100+ year-old ballroom dance institution founded by Arthur Murray himself in 1925. The studio teaches Ballroom, Latin, Smooth, Rhythm, Swing, and Country Western across three main programs: Social Dance, Wedding Dance, and Competitive Dance (also called Dancesport).
The studio operates from 12–9 pm Monday through Friday and offers an introductory lesson for $35, with no partner required. You'll be dancing within the first five minutes of your first lesson. The method is designed around everyday movements that anyone can do, built step-by-step so each lesson reinforces the last. Arthur Murray became famous for making dance "fun, quick and easy for everyday people – not just those who were gifted movers."
The Social Dance Program covers styles including Salsa, Swing, and Foxtrot, helping students build skills for weddings, nightclubs, and date nights. The Wedding Program offers choreography and coaching for first dances, receptions, and parent dances, with guidance on song choice and routine length (typically 1:30–1:45). The Competitive Dance Program focuses on Ballroom and Latin, emphasizing technique and style for students pursuing competition.
All Arthur Murray students have access to twice-weekly practice parties to use their new skills in a social setting. The studio works with busy professionals and those with unpredictable schedules, offering concierge-level service to fit lessons into even the craziest lifestyles. You don't need dance experience, a partner, or special clothes—just shoes that won't slip off your feet. Learning is tailored to your pace and goals, and the team emphasizes progress over perfection.
The studio is located at 211 Austin St in San Francisco's vibrant core, blending "timeless ballroom with modern energy." Google reviews highlight a welcoming, supportive community with knowledgeable instructors and memorable events. One student wrote of "walking in with 0 dance experience" and having "nothing but amazing" progress over a year; another reported staying with the studio for 7+ years and still being excited to walk in.
What to expect
Your first visit
First-time visitors should check the current schedule or contact the studio before attending. Ask whether the class requires advance registration, whether a partner is needed, and what shoes or clothing are recommended.
New to dancing?
What beginners can expect
No dance experience needed; the studio specializes in making dancing accessible and fun for complete beginners and those with no rhythm.
What to wear and bring
Before your first class
What to bring
Dress comfortably in everyday clothes. Wear shoes that won't slip off your feet; smooth-soled shoes are ideal for movement.
Studio history
Arthur Murray Dance Studios have been operating for over 100 years. Arthur Murray (born Moses Teichman in 1895) began teaching at the Grand Palace ballroom in New York by 1912. In 1920, he pioneered the world's first "radio dance," transmitting live music for home-learning couples. He opened his first formal studio in Manhattan in 1925. Arthur and his wife Kathryn revolutionized dance instruction with mail-order lessons using footprint diagrams and began franchising in 1938, making Arthur Murray one of America's oldest franchise organizations. The Arthur Murray Party, a television variety show hosted by Arthur and Kathryn, aired from 1950 to 1960 on DuMont, CBS, and ABC, bringing ballroom dance into living rooms across America. Arthur Murray passed away in 1991 and Kathryn in 1999. In December 2024, Clarion Capital Partners and ballroom professional Gary Edwards acquired Arthur Murray International Inc., which now operates over 300 studios across 22 countries.
Gallery
The people, the parties and the dancing here
Pricing
Approximate lesson costs
Class schedule
Weekly classes and workshops
Arthur Murray San Franciscohasn't set up a public class schedule yet.
If you own Arthur Murray San Francisco, claiming the studio lets you add a public schedule in about 2 minutes. A free Google Calendar is the easiest path — visitors see your class times inline + can add events to their own calendar.
Frequently asked about Arthur Murray San Francisco
Quick answers to the most common questions
What dance styles does Arthur Murray San Francisco teach?
Arthur Murray San Francisco teaches Ballroom, Latin, Smooth, Rhythm, Swing, Country Western and 2 more. The full list of styles is shown above on this page along with each genre's classes and lesson options.
Where is Arthur Murray San Francisco located?
Arthur Murray San Francisco is located in San Francisco, CA. See the map above for the exact address and one-tap directions.
Does Arthur Murray San Francisco offer private lessons?
Contact Arthur Murray San Francisco directly to ask about private lessons and current class options — their website has the latest details.
Does Arthur Murray San Francisco teach kids and adults?
Arthur Murray San Francisco welcomes students of varied ages and experience levels. Contact the studio to learn which classes fit your age group and level.
How do I sign up for classes at Arthur Murray San Francisco?
The fastest path is to visit Arthur Murray San Francisco via their website or check the class schedule above. Many studios offer a free or discounted intro lesson — contact them directly to ask.