I'm going to be alone in Madrid and would like to go out at night but I dont want to feel out of place or uncomfortable, I'm in my early 40's.
I love to dance but don't know if I have the energy to go clubbing until dawn. I'm probably more likely to be home by midnight...sad I know...
Can anyone recommend a few places near Plaza Mayor with good music that aren't too touristy?

Hello Lori!

Please, could you tell us something more about you? It is just to give you better advice. What kind of music do you prefer? What are your preferences? What are your expectations when going out at night? Are you male or female?

In any case I asure you that you won't be back home before midnight because then is when nightlife starts in Spain.

female, early 40's will be wandering and seeing the sites during the day would like to do the tapas thing in the evening- also like live music, am pretty open minded I love people that are kind of "quirky".
although I'd really like to experience the late night dance clubs I'm pretty sure I won't make it that late...
I'd like to go places that welcome strangers...I don't want to feel awkward being a single older woman alone...Hate to look like I'm on the prowl or something, kust want to have fun.

lori,
Strangers are welcome everywhere, so don't worry for that.
Older woman? You are not old, really. Here you'll find people of all ages at night clubs.
Alone? Well, lots of men will approach you. Please, don't laugh on their English.
But, believe me you'll go home much later than midnight, never underestimate Madrid night life. You'll have great fun for sure. :jump:

Near the Plaza Mayor there are hundreds of bars (we call them pubs or bares de copas) wich are usually crowded every night. I cannot recommend any particular one. Just go from bar to bar until you find the one you like.
There are some night clubs (discotecas or discos in Spanish), in Calle Arenal you have "Joy Eslava" and "Palacio de Gaviria".
Here you have a list with night clubs:

Lanetro,a leisure time web page