In the summer of 1963, Frances "Baby" Houseman, a young woman from a well-to-do family, vacations with her parents at Kellerman's, an upscale Catskills resort. While exploring the resort, Baby stumbles upon the staff quarters where she witnesses a dance party, far different from the staid and formal social events she's used to. Intrigued by the raw, sensuous moves, she becomes enthralled with the dance style and the dancers themselves – a world apart from her own life of privilege.

Baby's fascination leads her to Johnny Castle, the resort's dance instructor who oozes charisma and skill. When Johnny's dance partner is unable to perform, Baby volunteers to step in, despite her lack of experience. As Johnny takes her under his wing, they begin an intense rehearsal schedule, during which Baby is introduced not only to dance but to the complexities and injustices of the world beyond her family's cloistered existence. This blossoming partnership sets the stage for a personal transformation as Baby learns about responsibility, love, and the power of dance to express unspoken emotion.