Joyland ⭐ 4.3 (259)

Man I wanted to love this place, but there's so much to "not" love. First off there's a cover, why? Especially if you reserve a "VIP" section, we'll get to that later. Then the cashier really isn't friendly, don't like your job, quit. Also this place is 100% line dancing, they literally crowd the dance floor for EVERY song and do line dances. At first it was fun and cool to watch, 90 minutes later our group was over it. When they do play (one) song that you can actually dance to the floor is crowded by kids who are trying to wrestle their partner around the floor going 100 miles per hour (pun intended). Mind you we frequent bars, lounges and night clubs all over the World (literally) so this is me being honest. If you're looking for a place to JUST line dance, get mediocre service with a blasting sound system this is your spot, my teenage son would probably love it here. Now to the "VIP" area we reserved... nothing about it is VIP and if your looking for any kind of service, there's none. Save your money, we had a bunch of teens (easily noticeable by the huge marks on their hands) next to us that were annoying and screaming to no end, mostly to get attention. Maybe I'm old, maybe I'm just picky, but we won't be returning, this is a one and done deal for us.

While visiting Sarasota from out of town, I came across Joyland Country Bar on Google and decided to give it a try—why not? It was a Wednesday night, and while I missed the advertised beginner’s dance lesson, I still had a fantastic time. Several locals on the dance floor were kind enough to guide me through some steps, making it easy to join in. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere really sets this place apart. The venue is spacious and lively, which is a huge plus. Even with a packed crowd, it didn’t feel claustrophobic—if anything, the energy was incredible. I ordered a non-alcoholic Heineken and a ginger ale. Unfortunately, the ginger ale was flat, and even my second try didn’t improve. My advice: double-check your drink before committing, just in case. There’s plenty of seating around the dance floor, with high tables and barstools, so whether you’re taking a break from dancing or just enjoying the music and people-watching, you’ll be comfortable. If you’re planning a celebration, Joyland seems accommodating for birthdays and other events. I loved the setup with the large screen displaying music videos and the option to request songs via a form at the DJ booth. By the time I left around midnight, the crowd had grown significantly, adding to the fun vibe. If you’re in the Sarasota area and love country music and dancing, Joyland Country Bar is definitely worth a visit. Just check the quality of your drink, and you’re in for a great time!

I came this past Saturday. I've been to a few time before. A couple of Thursdays and Saturdays. The bartenders were rude, and the music sucked! Where is all the country music at? Even a little bit more country would help. I could have went to the Gator Club and listened to whatever you all were playing most of the night. Do better! My group loves to people watch but there wasn't much to watch considering we spent most of the night looking at the same 10 or so people dancing because that is all who happened to be on the floor.

Perfect country bar if you are looking for great music and line dancing. Dance, drink and play pool. Well designed, open dance floor with plenty of seating options as well.

I’ve been here 3 times now and unfortunately two of those times ended with me being kicked out - both times by the same staff member. The first time I was told to leave for being too “intoxicated”, I will admit I was drinking earlier in the night but by that point I was sitting on a stool, quiet, and not causing any issues. I didn’t argue and left respectfully. The second time I went, that staff member wasn’t there and I had a great night with my friends and no problem at all. On my third visit, she was working again. I felt her staring at me multiple times through the night and at one point I went to the restroom. When I came out she was standing there pulling me to the side to tell me that one of her coworkers had seen me drinking and that I had to leave. Openly saying she didn’t see anything herself, and I was not drinking alcohol that night, I had to be up early for work the next morning and I drove all my friends home. Again I didn’t argue I left respectfully because I felt targeted and unwelcome and didn’t wanna be there anymore after that. My friends even said that it felt off. Like I was singled out and it came off as discriminatory. The only good I can say is the front door lady with the curly hair (wish I knew her name) she is always so nice and respectful and made me feel welcome. As for the staff member who continues to kick me out without reason, she seriously needs to work on how she treats people. Her actions come off more personal than professional, and it’s clear she enforces rules based on assumption, not observation. If you’re going to remove someone from a venue, it should be based on facts. Not a grudge (which I believe is the reason I was asked to leave the second time by her and ironic I had no issues the time I went back after the first incident when she wasn’t there). I’m now hesitant on returning which is disappointing because I genuinely enjoyed spending nights out with friends here.