How to go bar hopping / clubbing?

I've lived in uptown Manhattan most of my life, but I've always been concerned about going downtown late at night. I recently decided to go out to 32nd street Korea Way and walk into any place with loud music. It's all restaurants. No one is dancing. Everyone is in their little groups. The weekend prior, I was at 13th Step, and I really felt out of place. I didn't even know what to do besides hold my beer and pretend like I'm having a good time. I also got offered to sniff ***** in the bathroom, which I politely denied.

I need like a guide on how to go out clubbing by myself. Talk and get to know people, have a few drinks and a good time. I only know how to dance to spanish music, but I'm fine with other venues. Lounges where people can hold conversations without the loud music getting in the way is also good too. I'm confident in my ability to drink and deny drinks when it's more than I can handle. I can get home safely without issue. But, I don't know what spots I'm interested in, and I've already spent the past month scouting on my own. Even with shitty bars, you can always have a good time with good people.

So... any tips are welcome. I've been introverted for 24+ years, then I served in the military, and now I'm back home, studying and working, but bored on the weekend.