About Space Yatch @ Sound Bar
Space Yatch at Sound Bar refers to a recurring electronic music event series held at Sound-Bar, a major nightclub in Chicago’s River North. Sound-Bar itself is an upscale, 20,000-square-foot megaclub with a minimalist, European-inspired design (www.livedesignonline.com ) (www.bizbash.com ). Opened in the early 2000s after a lengthy permitting process (www.livedesignonline.com ), the venue features sleek ultrasuede furnishings, neon-brand Tuscan lighting, and programmable LED walls. As one trade article noted at its opening, even the storefront windows incorporate Color Kinetics LEDs that “change colors throughout the night” (www.livedesignonline.com ), setting the tone for an immersive visual atmosphere. Inside, Sound-Bar boasts multiple levels: the entrance on the upper level leads down to a vast main dance floor with raised VIP lounges and a round red-lit bar area (www.livedesignonline.com ). Overall, Sound-Bar seats up to about 1,200–1,500 patrons and contains up to nine full bars and four boutique lounges (www.eventective.com ) (www.bizbash.com ), making it one of the city’s largest clubs. Space Yatch nights fit this high-tech setting by bringing an eclectic lineup of bass-heavy and house DJs to Sound-Bar’s renowned sound system. In the EDM community, Space Yacht (founded by Rami Perlman and Henry Lu) is known for creating an “inclusive dance music environment” and spotlighting emerging talent (iheartraves.com ) (iheartraves.com ). Its Chicago events continue that mission on Sound-Bar’s state-of-the-art system and dynamic lighting – a blend of big-sound EMD shows and a tight-knit party vibe.
Events and Programming
Sound-Bar hosts a diverse slate of nightlife events almost every week. The club is famous for EDM and electronic dance parties (often dubbed “Ultra” or “Room” nights), with Space Yatch being one of the featured series. Space Yatch bookings typically highlight future bass, trap, drum & bass, and other bass-heavy subgenres. For example, Space Yatch lineups have included cutting-edge producers like Mr. Carmack, Rusko, Obskür and Gudfella on the decks (as headliners on various Tuesdays) (www.soundnightclub.com ) (www.soundnightclub.com ). In addition, Sound-Bar regularly hosts big name DJs and touring acts – recent lineups (late 2025 into 2026) show concerts by trance and bass stars. Concert archives list upcoming shows by artists such as Nostalgix, What So Not, Dillon Nathaniel, Blossom, Nifra and Wuki (www.concertarchives.org ), illustrating the club’s emphasis on international electronic acts. Beyond EDM, Sound-Bar has even hosted pop and urban events; for instance, in April 2024 it featured K-pop singer Hyo of Girls’ Generation on her US “Cherry Blossom” tour (sound-bar.com ), and it regularly promotes local-artist nights like “Chicago Takeover” showcases (sound-bar.com ). Recurring promotions include themed nights (e.g. “Urban Night” hip-hop parties) and national DJ residencies. The majority of shows are ticketed, with general-admission prices typically ranging from about $20–$40, though top-billed concerts can cost more. Advance tickets are often released via the club’s own announcements and social media, and door prices can jump after presales sell out.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Sound-Bar events (including Space Yatch nights) are sold through the venue’s official outlets, box office and authorized promotion partners. Typically, tickets go on sale a few weeks before an event date; fans often sign up for Sound-Bar’s newsletter or follow its social channels to catch the on-sale notice. Smaller shows may have modest $15–$20 cover charges, while larger headliner DJ sets often range $25–$40 in advance. One concertgoer’s report notes paying a $20 cover on a weekday EDM night (www.tripadvisor.com ). Box office sales are usually available at the door if the event isn’t sold out (though popular Space Yatch events can sell out fast). Booking in advance is recommended for big nights: VIP tables and bottle service can be reserved, and some tickets are offered on presale lists or as part of special pre-party packages. Sound-Bar also sometimes runs guest-list promotions; for repeat Space Yatch fans, following Space Yacht’s own social media can provide presale discount codes. In short, the best strategy is to monitor announcements for each show and book as soon as tickets launch, since Space Yatch and other popular events often have limited capacity.
Seating and Layout
Sound-Bar’s floor plan is mostly open dance space rather than fixed seating. The heart of the venue is its main dance floor (around 4,000 square feet per event brochures) (www.eventective.com ), where general-admission guests stand and dance. This dance area is flanked by fiberglass columns with built-in LEDs to enhance visuals. For those who want a break or table seating, there are private lounge areas and elevated VIP booths around the edges of the floor. An elevated blue-lit VIP platform encircles part of the dance space, accessible from the lower level, and there are also sofa-and-table alcoves off to the sides. Upstairs (the ground-floor level is the main dance floor, “ground” in Chicago terms), there is another lounge bar and more tables. In total, the club contains multiple lounging “rooms” and a VIP balcony. For viewing the stage or DJ booth, the best spots are on either side of the main floor facing the DJ; avoid standing directly behind the large support pillars near center court, as one reviewer warned they can block the view (www.tripadvisor.com ). From the second floor you get a bird’s-eye view of the crowd, though the second level is generally reserved for VIP patrons. In practice, the Sound-Bar layout encourages crowding the ground-floor dancefloor (Space Yatch shows often turn it into a mosh-friendly environment) while leaving seating to the periphery and upstairs areas.
Getting There and Parking
Sound-Bar is located at 226 W. Ontario Street in the River North neighborhood of Chicago (parkchirp.com ), just west of Franklin Street. The club is on the north side of W. Ontario between Franklin and Wells. Public transit options are convenient: several CTA bus lines serve Ontario or nearby streets (for example, Bus 22 on Clark Street is a block away, and Bus 156 on LaSalle is close by) (moovitapp.com ). The Clark/Grand stop on the CTA Red/Blue Line (at Clark & Grand) is only a few blocks east, and Clark/Division (another Red/Blue stop) is within walking distance to the north. For those driving, there is no private lot for the club, but downtown public parking garages are plentiful. Nearby options include a large garage at 640 N. LaSalle (just a block north) (en.parkopedia.com ). A few lots within 2–3 blocks run roughly $20 for 2 hours (for example, the 305 W. Ontario garage is about $20 for a 2-hour stay (en.parkopedia.com )). Street parking meters also exist but may be limited on weekends. Rideshare drop-off is straightforward – just off Ontario – and many attendees take Uber/Lyft due to the late hours. Given Chicago’s strict enforcement of street meters, most club-goers opt for paid garages. (According to one parking guide, Sound-Bar is firmly in River North, and users can save by pre-booking nearby public parking (parkchirp.com ) (en.parkopedia.com ).)
Inside the Venue
On arrival, guests typically present ID (21+ is required for entry) and pay the cover charge before entering. The door staff will search bags for prohibited items; Sound-Bar’s published etiquette explicitly bans large bags, bottles, and outside drinks (www.soundnightclub.com ). After entry, even those wearing coats must check them: one concertgoer notes paying cover and “checking in my coat” before hitting the floor (www.tripadvisor.com ). Once inside, the atmosphere is dark and bass-heavy. A state-of-the-art sound system pumps electronic beats, and programmed lighting synchronizes with the music. Multi-colored lasers, strobes and video projections cover the walls, while ceiling fixtures tirelessly cycle through patterns. As an example of the high-end setup, trade press reported that Sound-Bar’s audiovisual rig was custom-designed by lighting/sound specialist Howard Windmiller (www.livedesignonline.com ), including cutting-edge moving heads, LED columns, and large screen projections. The general vibe is energetic and often sweaty (dress lightly). Bar service is plentiful: the club markets a “full portfolio of premium wines, spirits, champagne and beer” (www.eventective.com ). Each of the eight or nine bars can pump out mixed drinks and house beers; queues can be long during peak attendance, so many regulars bring cash and tip well to move things along. There is no full kitchen or dining menu – guests usually eat beforehand – but light snacks (pretzel bites, pizza slices, etc.) may be available at the main bar. Bathrooms are located on each level. Coat check and a deposit locker (for cell phones or small valuables) are provided for security. Wi-Fi is generally not public, so assume minimal cell service deep on the dancefloor. Take advantage of the mezzanine lounge if you need a breather: it has seating, indirect lighting, and bar service with a view of the scene below.
Nearby Amenities
River North is a densely developed area with many restaurants, hotels and nightlife just steps away from Sound-Bar. For pre-show dinner, there are casual spots and upscale choices on Ontario and nearby streets. Within two blocks you’ll find classic Chicago pizza joints (e.g. deep-dish at Lou Malnati’s), contemporary American bistros, and a variety of ethnic eateries. The famous Rush Street entertainment district (just northeast) offers numerous bars and lounges if you want a pre-party drink before heading over. Many visitors also mention keeping late nights by going on to after-hours venues (Atlanta-style clubs that stay open until dawn). In terms of lodging, the Westin Chicago River North hotel sits just a block east at Ontario & Dearborn, plus several boutique hotels line Dearborn and State streets nearby. Anyone with reservations in River North can likely walk to Sound-Bar in under 10 minutes. For tourists or out-of-town guests, downtown transit (Blue Line “Grand” or Green/Pink “Clark/Lake” stations) will get you within a few blocks. After the event, taxi stands and ride-share pick-up points are plentiful on the main roads, and the city buses (like the 151 Sheridan or 22 Clark) still run late on weekends to carry patrons home (note that Sunday public transit runs reduced hours).
What Makes This Venue Special
Sound-Bar stands out in Chicago for its blend of high-tech club design and big-name talent. Architecturally it was one of the first local clubs to treat a nightclub like a light-and-sound show experience. From the immersive foyer LED wall to the color-themed lounges inside, every detail was built for ambience (www.livedesignonline.com ) (www.livedesignonline.com ). Industry press dubbed its decor “European minimalist” and praised features like red ultrasuede bars and a rotating color palette (www.livedesignonline.com ) (www.livedesignonline.com ). The venue’s size and systems simply dwarf most other Chicago clubs: a a BizBash directory notes “Sound-Bar’s minimalist decor comes complete with flat-screen monitors, laser lights, and video projection walls” within its two levels and (up to) nine bars (www.bizbash.com ). These modern comforts made Sound-Bar a favorite for local promoters long before Space Yatch came along, ensuring a built-in audience for any themed night. Historically, it has hosted thousands of EDM events and after-parties; many Chicago ravers grew up hearing about its legendary after-hours “2 AM dance marathon” culture. Space Yatch nights add a newer twist: the promoter often adds interactive photo booths, on-theme visuals and community vibes to fit the Space Yacht brand. In short, Sound-Bar matters because it combines top-tier audio-visual infrastructure with a history of hosting Chicago’s biggest dance events. Both artists and clubgoers love it for the booming sound system and room to pack a crowd, while promoters like Space Yatch appreciate its experienced staff and flexible spaces. The club has been part of landmark moments in Chicago’s scene (like multi-hour DJ b2b sets or New Year’s raves) and continues to draw a devoted electronic dance community into its LED-lit chambers.
Visitor Tips and Information
Dress and ID: The club enforces a “smart casual” dress code. Do not try to enter in athletic wear like tank tops or jerseys, and avoid flip-flops, baggy shorts or work boots (www.soundnightclub.com ). Men and women should dress to impress (no baseball caps, for example). Plan to have your government ID ready – this is strictly a 21+ venue and all guests will be ID-checked at the door. A Visa or MasterCard is wise to carry since tickets and drinks are cashless-friendly, though the bars do take cash as well. Bags and Belongings: Only small purses/clutches are allowed; large backpacks or duffels are prohibited (www.soundnightclub.com ). The club’s policy even bans outside water bottles. If you bring a coat (winter), there is a coat check after paying cover; one visitor noted “checked in my coat” upon entry (www.tripadvisor.com ). Stashing valuables is simple thanks to coin lockers inside. Most importantly, be polite and patient at the entrance – security can be firm. (One TripAdvisor guest who resisted tipping found themselves quickly told to “take your business elsewhere” (www.tripadvisor.com ).) Follow the rules and you’ll be fine.Arrival and Lines: For major acts or sold-out Space Yatch nights, lines can form before opening (often 9–10 PM on weekends). If you want a front-row spot, plan to arrive early, but expect a wait. The doormen sometimes admit people on a guest list or ride-share first. After entry, you are free to roam, but note the main floor can get very crowded later. If you prefer less crowd, consider arriving just after peak time or sticking to the lounges. Viewing the Show: On the main floor, the best sound is usually in the center of the room. Avoid standing directly behind the pillars near the DJ, as these can block sightlines (www.tripadvisor.com ). For a different perspective, head upstairs: the second-floor balcony overlooks the dance area (and has its own bar), but is reserved for VIP or bottle-service sections. There is no official “backwall” seating – all viewing is either standing room or small lounge areas. Extras: Cell service can be weak on the dance floor due to the thick walls, so set a meetup point with friends just inside the door or on the stairwell landing if you get separated. Also, the often-packed dancefloor means you may not always reach a bar quickly, so bring enough cash or cards before you lose your place. Sound-Bar does allow phone photography (selfies and amateur snaps are common), but professional cameras/tripods are forbidden. Finally, check the specific event notes: some nights are themed (e.g. certain special “costume” or “heels-only” nights have been known historically). While Space Yatch events usually have no special costume requirement, certain promotional nights in the club’s past once enforced footwear rules (www.tripadvisor.com ), so if the invitation has a theme, plan accordingly. In general, follow the posted etiquette, tip generously if you get good service, and be respectful – the staff is used to busy crowds, so ensure you’re on their good side!
How much are tickets for events at Space Yatch @ Sound Bar?
Ticket prices vary by event. Small electronic nights often have a door cover around $15–$20. Big-name DJ nights or special shows can be $25–$40 (or more) in advance. Often there are different tiers like general admission vs. VIP tables. It’s best to buy early, as prices sometimes rise near the date. Day-of tickets can be higher or sell out quickly.
Where can I buy tickets for Space Yatch events at Sound Bar?
Tickets are available from the club’s official outlets. Check the Sound-Bar website or Space Yacht’s social media for links to authorized ticket sellers when shows are announced. Many nights offer advance online ticket sales (via the venue’s partner or Mailing List presale). If not sold out, a limited number of tickets is usually kept at the door on the night of the show.
Do I need to book in advance for popular Space Yatch nights?
Yes, for popular shows you should secure tickets early. Space Yatch nights often attract a full house, especially on weekends. Advanced tickets are usually released weeks ahead, and early-bird tickets often sell out. If an event is popular, buy as soon as they go on sale or consider getting on a waitlist or guest list. Pro tip: Join Sound-Bar’s newsletter or Space Yacht’s mailing list for presale alerts.
What seats or vantage points are best at Sound Bar?
Sound-Bar is essentially a standing-room venue. The main dance floor near the center gives the best sound and immersion. If you want an unobstructed view, avoid the big support pillars. Alternatively, the upstairs lounge and side booth areas offer a more relaxed view of the DJ. VIP and lounge areas around the edges also have seating by small tables. In short, front-center of the dance floor is best for sound and sightlines; second-floor and side decks are good for a break while still seeing the show.
How do I get to Sound Bar (Space Yatch) via public transit?
Sound-Bar is at 226 W Ontario St in River North (parkchirp.com ). CTA buses along Clark (Route 22), LaSalle (156) and others stop within a block (moovitapp.com ). The nearest CTA rail is Clark/Grand (Blue/Red Line) a short walk east, or Clark/Division up north. The LaSalle (Brown Line) station is also a few blocks away. In downtown Chicago, ride-share apps (Uber/Lyft) work well and drop off at the building entrance.
Is there parking available for Sound Bar?
There is no private lot owned by Sound-Bar, but plenty of public garages nearby. For example, a garage at 640 N LaSalle (just two blocks north) is a very short walk (en.parkopedia.com ). Many attendees use the lot at 305 W Ontario (3 minutes away) which charges about $20 for 2 hours (en.parkopedia.com ). Street parking exists but is metered and limited on weekend nights. Consider reserving a nearby parking spot in advance with a service, or simply use rideshare if possible.
What is the dress code for Space Yatch @ Sound Bar?
Sound-Bar enforces a “smart casual” dress code. Do NOT wear athletic gear, hoodies, tank tops, jerseys, flip-flops or construction boots (www.soundnightclub.com ). Avoid sneakers or slides on theme nights (some special nights prefer heels or club shoes). In general, come in nice streetwear or clubwear. Dress well enough to fit the upscale club vibe – the staff will refuse entry to certainly casual outfits that violate these rules.
Are large bags or outside food/drinks allowed?
No. Sound-Bar’s policy prohibits large backpacks, duffels, containers, outside alcohol bottles, and similar items (www.soundnightclub.com ). Only small purses or clutches are allowed. All coats and large items must be checked at the door (coat check is available). The club also forbids weapons and large electronics (like pro cameras). Essentially, bring minimal belongings and be ready to check anything that looks oversized at security.
Is Sound Bar accessible for people with disabilities?
Sound-Bar is a two-story club but does have elevator access to the main level and VIP areas. The entrance from Ontario Street is at street level (with a small ramp), and staff can assist with seating. However, note that the dance floor has multiple steps and platforms. If ADA access is required, it’s best to call ahead to ensure staff are ready to accommodate you. Restrooms have at least one ADA stall, but the club’s packed environment can be difficult to navigate.
What time does Sound Bar open for events?
For most Space Yatch and headline events on weekends, doors typically open around 10:00 PM Friday and Saturday. Some local nights or weekday shows may start later (often around 10 PM). There is no pre-show entry, so arriving roughly 30–60 minutes before headliner time is common. (Note: the club stays open until early morning – usually as late as 4:00–5:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.)
Does Sound Bar have coat check and cloakroom?
Yes. There is a staffed coat-check counter just inside the entrance. Many clubbers store winter coats here for a small fee. As one patron noted, after paying cover they “checked in my coat” before hitting the dance floor (www.tripadvisor.com ). This frees you up from jackets or bags on the crowded floor.
What if I have hearing or sensory sensitivities?
Sound-Bar is very loud by design. The speakers are high-powered (engineered by professionals) and music can exceed 100 dB. If you need ear protection, bring earplugs. Strobe / laser lights are common, so anyone sensitive to flashing lights should be cautious. There are areas to step off the floor (like upper lounges) with lower lighting and sound for breaks. Finally, ADA policies require the club to accommodate disabilities, but the environment is best suited to those comfortable with nightclub activity.
What are common mistakes to avoid when visiting?
Don’t arrive late to a sold-out show — you may miss it. Avoid wearing athletic or overly casual clothes, as you will likely be denied entry (www.soundnightclub.com ). Avoid carrying big bags or outside drinks (they’ll be confiscated) (www.soundnightclub.com ). Don’t expect table seating if you have a general admission ticket; it’s mainly a standing-room club. And heed door policies: for example, one review said guests who argued over a tip were kicked out (www.tripadvisor.com ). In short, come ready to dance, tip well for bar service, and follow the club’s posted rules to ensure a smooth night.
