Big Apple Ranch Frequently Asked Questions
How much is admission to the Ranch?
What if I don't know how to dance?
Can I bring my own drink in from outside?
How much is admission to the Ranch?
Admission to the Ranch is $10.00
Who dances at the Ranch?
We welcome everyone across the gender and sexual orientation spectrum. Anyone can lead, and anyone can follow.
When are you open?
We are open Saturday nights only. There’s a lesson at 8 pm,, and we close at 1 am.
What should I wear?
The most important feature of what you wear is the soles of your shoes. They should be leather, or smooth rubber that slides. Sticky sneakers are not the way to go. Cowboy boots are traditional; check at the front desk for information on boots made especially for dancing. Spurs can hurt your neighbor's ankles - better to leave them at home. Avoid slip-on or open-toed shoes. Otherwise, wear whatever you want, knowing you may work up a sweat over the evening. Don't forget your deodorant, and you may want to bring an extra shirt or two if you tend toward excessive perspiration.
What if I don't know how to dance?
Every Saturday at 8:00 we offer a beginning two-step lesson, and a line dance lesson at 8:30. Periodically we offer intermediate workshops.
Be patient with yourself; learning the basic step can take a while. As long as you need to, keep saying "quick-quick-slow-slow" to yourself. Your partners will understand if you can't chat during the dance. Dance as much as you can with as many different people as you can, and you will get it, really you will. Everyone you see on the dance floor had to learn it from the beginning. Don't be afraid to ask the better dancers; you'll learn a lot from dancing with them, and they want you to learn and have a good time.
To learn line dances, just keep at it. They range from easy to quite hard, so don't give up if you don't get them right away. Once you get the vocabulary of steps, they'll start coming easier.
Places to learn to dance
Dance Manhattan
New York dance studio offering instruction in Ballroom, Swing, Latin & Tango.Stepping Out Studios
New York dance studio offering instruction in Swing, Latin, Tango, Competition, and Traditional Ballroom.
Is there a coat check?
Yes. Please take advantage of our coat check service. We'd like to avoid having coats and other belongings strewn around the room all over the benches and chairs. Not only do they make the place look messy, they run the risk of being spilled on, taken by mistake, dropped on the floor, and mixed up with others' coats. We appreciate your cooperation!
Can I bring my own drink in from outside?
No. A variety of beverages are available for sale, and there is a water fountain.
