About 163 Waymouth St
163 Waymouth Street in Adelaide’s CBD is home to Atlantis Bar & Lounge, a high-energy bar and nightclub. This venue is renowned for its unique “Underwater” theme – complete with massive saltwater aquariums and themed decor – and it boasts what the owners claim is the city’s largest beer garden and the state’s most impressive aquarium (www.atlantisadelaide.com.au ). Since opening in the 2010s, it has become an iconic part of Adelaide’s nightlife, blending lounge-style cocktails and tapas with late-night dancing all under one roof.
The bar is built around a 25,000-litre aquarium encased in thick acrylic panels (7news.com.au ), a signature centerpiece that gives Atlantis its name and atmosphere. Patrons often remark on the interior’s dramatic water-themed decor, while the outdoor courtyard feels like a breezy beachside beer garden. The venue can host several hundred guests between its indoor dance floor, lounge areas, and outdoor seating. VIP booths (each seating about 20–30 people) are available for large groups (www.partystar.com.au ), and the venue is fully licensed for functions and private events as well.
Waymouth Street is named after Henry Waymouth, a founding director of the South Australian Company, and it forms the southern boundary of Light Square in the heart of the city (everything.explained.today ) (everything.explained.today ). This historic precinct (home to Colonel William Light’s Monument) sets the scene for the modern Atlantis, making it both a convenient central location and a piece of Adelaide’s heritage. The club has earned a reputation locally as “one of the city’s most popular clubs” (7news.com.au ), drawing both Adelaide residents and visitors. Whether touted in media or by word of mouth, its mix of creative cocktails, energetic DJs and novelty fish tanks gives it a character unlike any other venue in town.
Events and Programming
Atlantis Bar & Lounge is primarily an electronic/dance nightclub with a busy event calendar. On most weekends the club runs late-night music sessions – for example, a popular “Thursday” party series and club nights on Fridays and Saturdays (Friday and Saturday entry is usually free) draw a young, energetic crowd. Many nights feature local and touring DJs spinning house, EDM, hip-hop and especially drum & bass. Promoters stage ticketed events with higher-profile acts; past line-ups have included international names in the drum & bass scene (such as Brazil’s L-Side and the Serial Killaz anniversary tour) as well as leading Adelaide DJs. You can expect a packed dance floor, flashing light shows, heavy bass through the sound system, and DJ or MC hosting. Concert tickets have typically sold for on the order of A$20–30 in advance, with some final or door tickets reaching into the mid-$40s (www.fatsoma.com ) (adelaidemassive.com ).
Throughout the year Atlantis also participates in Adelaide’s festival scene. It has hosted parties as part of events like the Adelaide Fringe and Feast Festival (for instance, evening dance parties during Mardi Gras or New Year). Special themed events – from Pride circuit parties to holiday celebrations – pop up regularly, and drink or costume nights appear occasionally. In short, Atlantis is a late-night venue with a serious club focus. Check local event listings or the venue’s announcements for the latest schedule and featured DJs.
Tickets and Booking
General admission to Atlantis on regular club nights is usually free (especially on its advertised Friday and Saturday sessions (www.atlantisadelaide.com.au )). However, popular shows with headline DJs will require tickets or a cover charge. These tickets are typically sold online well before the event. Promoters often have tiered pricing – for example, early-bird tickets might be on the order of A$20–30 (plus booking fees) (www.fatsoma.com ), with higher prices later or at the door. In some past events the final ticket tier reached around A$40–44 (adelaidemassive.com ). There is no traditional box office – customers usually buy through official event pages or (if available) via the door on the night.
VIP booths and bottle-service tables can be reserved by contacting the venue directly. The Atlantis staff handle these bookings, and reservations are generally free, though a minimum drink/spend is typically required. If you plan to attend a big night (especially on weekends or special events), book your tickets or booth early – popular nights can sell out. Keep an eye on Atlantis’s social media or local event sites for announcements of presales and guestlists.
Seating and Layout
The layout at Atlantis is mostly open-plan. When you walk in, there’s a bar area and lounge zones with high tables and railing seating along the walls. The center of the main room is a general-admission dance floor in front of the DJ booth (which is usually at one end of the room). Off to the sides and rear are semi-private VIP booths and tables – these booths each fit around 20–30 people (www.partystar.com.au ) and can be combined for larger groups. There is also an outdoor “beer garden” courtyard out back with café-style tables and stools, offering more room to spread out.
Because Atlantis is primarily a club, most of the capacity is standing room. There are no fixed reserved seats in the main floor area. The VIP booths (for which you have to book in advance) are the only designated seating; otherwise, visitors simply choose their spot. Many guests like to start near a booth or the outer edges (where it’s easier to talk), then move closer to the center if they want to dance. The enormous aquarium wall can be seen from nearly anywhere indoors, although some visitors prefer to stand away from the bass speakers. In general, the densest crowd will form nearer the DJ deck if a big act is playing, while the lounge and garden areas remain less crowded. One unique detail: the dance floor is carpeted (unusual for a club, but it does help muffle foot noise), which gives the space a distinct feel underfoot.
Getting There and Parking
Atlantis Bar & Lounge is located at 163 Waymouth Street, on the southern side of Light Square in the Adelaide city centre (everything.explained.today ). It’s right in the heart of the CBD, so it’s easy to navigate to. Public transport is very convenient: the Glenelg tram runs along King William Street, and the nearest stop is at King William/Pirie just a couple of blocks east. Several city buses also serve Light Square and surrounding streets. If you’re arriving by train, Adelaide Railway Station is only about a 10–15 minute walk away, so many visitors simply catch a tram or bus into the city and walk a short distance.
On-street car parking is very limited. Parkopedia shows only a couple of metered spots on Waymouth Street itself (typically free for 2 hours) (www.parkopedia.com.au ). So most drivers use nearby public car parks when coming to the city. For example, there are multi-level parking lots on Currie Street and under the West Terrace (often open 24h) that are a short stroll away. Many clubgoers prefer to get dropped off by taxi or rideshare – Light Square has taxi ranks and an easy curbside drop. There is no dedicated Atlantis parking lot. If you do drive, you may pay a nightly rate at a secure car park rather than leave your car on the street all night.
Inside the Venue
Entering Atlantis at night, expect a standard club-door security check: everyone over 18 shows photo ID and may be searched briefly. The interior lighting is dim and club-style, with colored LEDs, strobes and occasionally fog/haze effects during shows. A central bar serves a full range of drinks, and there may be passing bar staff taking orders too. In 2019 the interior was refitted to be a brighter cocktail lounge with tropical accents (glamadelaide.com.au ), so the overall look is more modern lounge than a dingy dive. The massive reef tank is visible behind the main bar – it’s often illuminated in shifting colors. Restrooms (separate male/female) are located inside, and there’s a small coat-hanger area for bags and jackets.
As for food and drink, Atlantis offers a full bar menu. You can order beers, wines and creative cocktails year-round. There is also some food available: notably they have a built-in wood-fired pizza oven, so pizza can be ordered for the table. Occasional platter or tapas options appear on the menu. The club is even known to run happy-hour drink specials earlier in the night. Bring cash or card (the bar accepts both). There is no outside food or drink allowed in, so all drinks come from the bar. You won’t find a venue Wi-Fi network – mobile reception is generally good, so use your own data. Finally, remember smoking isn’t permitted indoors – there’s a smoking area only in the outdoor courtyard/beer gardenForbes menu (away from the dancefloor).
Nearby Amenities
Atlantis is in a bustling part of town, so almost anything you need is close by. Just steps away on Morphett Street is the Norfolk Hotel (a pub serving meals and beer). A few blocks south, Gouger Street and Hindley Street form part of Adelaide’s mini “Chinatown,” with many casual Asian eateries and pubs. Along North Terrace and Rundle Mall (a 5–10 minute walk) you’ll find more upscale restaurants and cafes, so you can eat dinner before a show if you choose. There are also plenty of other bars and lounges on nearby streets like Light Square and King William, making pre- or post-clubbing drinks very easy.
Several hotels are also within walking distance. The Peppers Waymouth Hotel and the nearby Ibis or Rendezvous are typical choices for visitors, as they often have package deals including club entry or vouchers. The Adelaide Casino (on Hindley Street) and Festival Centre are about a 5-minute walk from Atlantis, so some patrons stop there on the same night. As for late-night transport, the Light Square taxi rank or rideshare drop-off on King William is usually straightforward. Just remember after hours the city quiets down, so plan your ride home (or walk) ahead of time for safety.
What Makes This Venue Special
Atlantis really stands out in Adelaide’s club scene with its over-the-top theme and atmosphere. The centerpieces – live aquariums housing exotic fish – are a feature no other Adelaide bar has. Reviewers often note how striking it is to have a giant “fish tank in a nightclub.” In fact, one news report even highlighted that Atlantis’s 25,000-litre tank (with 55mm acrylic walls) became a talking point in late 2025 (7news.com.au ). The club cleverly fuses lounge comforts (comfy booths, crafted cocktails) with high-intensity club nights. Guests might lounge on a daybed and sip a creative cocktail one night, and dance under strobe lights on the next. This dual nature is by design: new owners revamped Atlantis to keep the party vibe but add a chic, Instagram-friendly look (glamadelaide.com.au ). There’s a playful history too – the grand opening party even featured a live “mermaid” and acrobats for flair (glamadelaide.com.au ).
Over the years Atlantis has become culturally significant as an inclusive, go-to hangout for dance music fans. It hosts local and community events (even circuit parties during Adelaide’s Mardi Gras/fringe season) and regularly appears on “best nightlife” lists. Artists enjoy performing there for the enthusiastic crowd energy and big sound. Patrons love the venue’s unique decor and atmosphere – it feels like a special event every time. In short, both artists and audiences love Atlantis because it delivers memorable nights that few other city venues can match.
Visitor Tips and Information
Entry and tickets: General club nights (Fri/Sat) are usually free entry (www.atlantisadelaide.com.au ). However, for busy nights or concerts you may need a cover charge. Always carry photo ID (must be 18+). For paid events, it’s wise to buy ahead: advance tickets often run ~$20–30, with higher door prices (www.fatsoma.com ). If a lineup looks big, plan to arrive early to secure your place (doors often open 7pm–9pm).
Dress code & belongings: Dress smart-casual – no thongs (flip-flops), singlets or sports jerseys on major nights. Clubwear like neat shirts or dresses is common. Keep belongings light: large backpacks are discouraged and may be searched. You may be asked to stow any bulky items. It’s also sensible to leave valuables at home or use a small bag.
Accessibility: The main floor entrance is at street level. The venue was renovated in 2019, so parts of it comply with modern standards; there is an accessible restroom. Still, ask staff if you have mobility needs (they’re generally helpful). One reviewer noted Atlantis aims to be welcoming. If you have specific needs (e.g. wheelchair access), calling ahead to discuss accommodations is recommended.
At the venue: Atlantis gets very loud – you might feel the bass in your chest. If you’re sensitive, earplugs can help. Drinks are sold at standard club prices, but watch for early-bird specials or happy-hour deals. There’s no coat check fee; you can hang jackets on provided racks. Toilets are found inside near the back. The aquarium lighting and strobe effects can be bright – take breaks in the bar area if you prefer less intense lights. The friendly bartenders and bouncers usually speak clear English, so don’t hesitate to ask if you need directions to exits or info on the night’s schedule.
Safety: Nightlife in central Adelaide is generally safe, but use common sense. Keep an eye on your drinks and wallet, and stay with friends. Late at night, stick to main lit streets or grab a taxi/rideshare – there are ranks on King William and Light Square. The venue staff monitor the crowd, but always know your limits and travel plans. Finally, if you’re celebrating with a group, consider setting meeting points on nearby streets in case anyone gets separated. Enjoy the experience, and Atlantis will do its best to make it a memorable one.
Do I need to buy a ticket or pay a cover charge to enter Atlantis Bar & Lounge?
Most evenings don’t require a ticket – Atlantis is generally free on its regular club nights (especially Fridays and Saturdays (www.atlantisadelaide.com.au )). You can usually just show up. The exception is special ticketed events (like big touring DJs or festivals), which do require a ticket or cover charge. In those cases you would typically buy a ticket online beforehand or pay an entry fee at the door.
How can I purchase tickets or reserve VIP booths at Atlantis?
Atlantis doesn’t have an on-site box office. Tickets for major events are sold through online ticketing sites or links posted by promoters (often on social media or Facebook events). To reserve a VIP booth or bottle-service table, you usually contact the venue directly (by phone or email) and arrange it with the host. These reservations are free, but they typically require a minimum spend on drinks for the table. It’s best to book well ahead for big nights.
What are the typical ticket prices or cover charges at Atlantis?
For ticketed events, cover charges are usually in the $20–$40 range. For example, past Atlantis events offered early-bird tickets for roughly A$20–$30 plus fees (www.fatsoma.com ), with door or late tickets often around $30. Some final-tier or VIP tickets have been around the mid-$30s up to the high-$40s (adelaidemassive.com ). Remember, however, that most normal weekend sessions are free. The paid range applies mainly to special DJ shows or festivals.
Where is Atlantis located and how do I get there?
Atlantis is at 163 Waymouth Street, Adelaide , on the south side of Light Square (everything.explained.today ). This is in the Adelaide CBD, near the corner of Morphett Street. It’s very accessible by public transport: the Glenelg tram stops at King William/Pirie St. (a couple of blocks east) and city buses stop at Light Square. If you drive, note that street parking is scarce (few 2-hour spots) so most people use nearby paid car parks or get dropped off by taxi/ride-share. Rideshare drivers can pull up on Waymouth St. right outside the entrance.
Is there parking available near Atlantis?
On-street parking on Waymouth is very limited (Parkopedia notes only a couple of metered 2-hour spots (www.parkopedia.com.au )). Most visitors use paid parking nearby – for example, the City of Adelaide and Wilson car parks on Currie or West Terrace are a short walk away (they charge a nightly rate). Another common approach is to use drop-off (taxi/rideshare) or public transport instead of driving. If you do park, be prepared to use a pay garage rather than relying on free street spaces.
Is Atlantis general admission or are seats reserved?
Atlantis operates mostly as a general-admission club. There are no reserved seats on the dance floor – guests occupy common standing and lounge areas. The only reserved spots are the VIP booths, which you must book ahead (each holds ~20–30 people) (www.partystar.com.au ). Otherwise you’re free to stand or find space where you like. If you want to guarantee seating, you’d need to reserve a private booth in advance.
What is the minimum age to enter Atlantis?
Atlantis is an 18+ venue. Patrons must present valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport or 18+ card) to enter. No one under 18 is allowed at any time, even with an adult guardian. This is strictly enforced, so plan on everyone in your group bringing ID.
Is there a dress code at Atlantis?
There’s no rigid uniform, but smart-casual attire is expected. Most people dress up a bit – for example, a neat shirt or blouse with jeans or smart pants, or a dress. Beachwear (thongs/flip-flops, singlets, shorts) and sportswear are discouraged, especially on busy nights. If you wouldn’t wear it to another nice bar or nightclub in Adelaide, avoid it here.
What items are not allowed in the venue?
Common restrictions apply: no outside food or drink (except personal water bottles that security might take), no illegal substances, and no weapons. Large backpacks or sports bags may not be permitted, so stick to a small purse or fanny pack. You can use your phone or camera, but professional photo/video equipment or flash photography might be discouraged. Overall, carry just the essentials for a night out.
Are food and drink available inside Atlantis?
Yes. Atlantis has a fully licensed bar serving beers, wines and cocktails throughout the night. They also offer food—typically bar snacks and shared plates. Notably, Atlantis has a wood-fired pizza oven, so you can order pizza while you dance. Prices are typical for a nightclub, but there are often happy-hour or drink specials early in the evening. Remember, outside food and drink cannot be brought in.
Does Atlantis have accessible facilities (e.g. restrooms, coat check)?
The venue is on the ground floor, and a recent refit has made it fairly modern, so basic accessible access is possible. There is at least one gender-neutral/accessible toilet. However, as in many older clubs, some areas (like booth platforms) may have small steps. There is typically a coat-hanger area at the back for bags and jackets, but no formal paid coat check. If you have mobility concerns, it’s best to call ahead – the staff can often help accommodate.
Why does Atlantis have a large aquarium with fish?
The giant aquarium is part of the club’s oceanic theme. It’s meant to create an “underwater” atmosphere. The tanks (holding about 25,000 litres behind 55mm acrylic glass (7news.com.au )) are well-maintained and contain tropical fish, but the venue stresses they’re just for decor. It’s now a trademark of the club. (The fact it’s there has even drawn media attention, but management says they care for the fish properly.)
What time does Atlantis typically close each night?
Atlantis usually operates late. On weekends (Friday/Saturday) the music often continues until around 2–3am (depending on licensing and the crowd). Doors typically close to new entry by around 1:00–2:00am, though some events run later. If there’s a headline DJ, shows can extend beyond 3am. For special events midweek (like the Thursday party), music may end slightly earlier. In any case, plan for late finishes.
What should I bring when I go to Atlantis?
Bring valid photo ID (required for entry). Cash and/or cards for drinks and tips. Earplugs can be handy if you find loud bass fatiguing. A small wallet or purse (nothing bulky) is best, since large backpacks may be turned away. Dress in comfortable shoes if you plan to dance. And bring a positive attitude – Atlantis is all about having fun!
Is smoking allowed at the venue?
Indoor areas of Atlantis are smoke-free (this includes vaping), in line with South Australian law. There is a designated outdoor area (the beer garden/courtyard) where smoking and vaping are permitted. So you can step outside to smoke. Note that nobody is allowed to smoke inside the main club space.
Does Atlantis offer Wi-Fi?
No, Atlantis does not provide public Wi-Fi. You should rely on your own mobile data for internet or calls. Mobile reception in the city centre is typically good, so staying connected on your phone should not be a problem.
