About KX Social Club
KX Social Club is the nightclub arm of the historic Kings Cross Hotel in Potts Point, Sydney. Housed in a six-storey 1910s brick hotel (the original Kings Cross Hotel was built around 1915 (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au )), KX Social offers a modern late-night dance venue with a distinctly retro vibe. It is literally under the famous neon Coca-Cola sign at the Cross (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ), a landmark that for decades has shone over Sydney’s nightlife precinct. Inside, KX Social is described as a double-level dancehouse with split-platform staging, boasting a “full-bodied VOID sound system” and 40-piece custom lighting rig (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). The club prides itself on an “open-genre, open-ideas” policy that welcomes underground DJs, creative collectives and diverse crowds (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). Signature features include multi-level dance floors and a repurposed 1913 elevator car (now a VIP booth (theshout.com.au )), blending historic character with cutting-edge club technology. In short, KX Social Club revives the edgy, all-night atmosphere of old Kings Cross – a neighbourhood long known for creativity and counterculture – now updated for today’s partygoers.
Events and Programming
KX Social Club hosts a packed calendar of electronic music and themed dance nights, often running Friday and Saturday nights well into the early morning. Lineups span techno, house, disco, garage, reggaeton, trap and more. In practice you’ll find rotating local promoters and collectives curating each week – from queer-friendly dance parties to niche underground showcases. For example, the club’s promotional pages have advertised events like “Pulse Sydney” (a house/garage DJ night) and “The Pop Up” (trap and bass) alongside pop-culture tributes such as a Hyper Club “Ariana Grande” rave (kingscrosshotel.sydney ) (kingscrosshotel.sydney ). Weekly residents like “FLASH” deliver a late-night gay dance party every Saturday (kingscrosshotel.sydney ), and recurring nights such as GiRLTHING and Veer East feature all-female DJ lineups and themed electronic sets. The venue also ramps up for major annual celebrations: Mardi Gras parties (e.g. when the hotel rebrands itself “Queens Cross” each year (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au )) and New Year/Race Day nights draw huge crowds with special production. Around 2020, the club’s rooftop hosted the “Pineapple Republic” series (Latin, dancehall and Afrobeat parties) (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). Cover charges vary by event – small local DJ nights have been advertised from as low as $9 (kingscrosshotel.sydney ), while large themed parties may go higher. In general, tickets can be bought in advance through promoters (or via the club’s newsletter sign-up) or at the door if not sold out. Special events often sell out fast, so eager fans are advised to join the Kings Cross Hotel newsletter for presale alerts (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). In short, KX Social’s programming is eclectic: expect anything from sweaty techno nights to colorful drag dance parties, with a strong emphasis on local talent and community events.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for KX Social Club events are usually sold per night and vary by event. For routine DJ nights and weekly parties, cover charges are modest (often under $15 for locals). Larger special events (themed parties, festival after-parties or guest DJ shows) can range from about $20 up to $40 or more depending on lineup. Tickets may be available online via promoters or at the venue’s box office; sometimes there’s a small discount for advance purchase. Popular nights can sell out, so it’s wise to buy early or RSVP. The club’s own communications often say to “sign up to our newsletter” for updates and presales (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). There is no assigned seating – nearly every night is general admission standing. On event nights, you can usually pay at the door (cash or card) until capacity is reached. The Kings Cross Hotel FAQs also note that the venue runs whole-venue parties and live shows, and encourages visitors to stay “in the loop” via their mailing list for news on upcoming bookings (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). In practice, simply arrive early, or check social media/event flyers for details. There is no separate box office on site (beyond the main pub entry); staff at the ground floor entrance handle admissions. In short, tickets are straightforward: buy online if you see them on sale, or just queue at the door early on event nights to secure entry. As with any popular club, door sales may close once a show fills up, so planning in advance is safest.
Seating and Layout
The club has a spacious open layout designed for dancing. There are no reserved seats or tables in the main dance areas – it’s primarily general admission standing room. The ground-floor area (the main club) has a large dance floor and DJ booth, with some bar-height ledges and a raised platform/balcony overlooking the action. For a slightly different vantage, there is an upper-level mezzanine (sometimes called the “Bordello” lounge) accessed by stairs or lifts, offering view of both dancers below and the taps and bar at that level. The rooftop bar is a separate outdoor space with lounge seating and a skyline view. In each area you’ll find cluster of stools and tables, but the best spots for listening are on the dance floor near the speakers. Acoustically, the VOID sound system covers both floors evenly, so you hear tight bass anywhere – though sound is loud on the floor, so earplugs are a good idea if you’re sensitive. Bars are located at each level (ground and first floor bars, plus the rooftop), and club-head fans often gather close to the DJ or on the low balconies. The rooftop also has an upstairs bar; it’s popular for pre-show drinks and has sit-down tables. A quick note: although the ground-floor pub (Bistro Rex) has typical restaurant seating, once the club opens late-night, focus shifts to the dance floors. In sum, KX Social is more about moving around and dancing than sitting quietly – come ready to stand or sway. If you prefer to catch the DJ without crowds, try the raised rear platform or the Bordello lounge for a bit more elbow room. (TripAdvisor reviewers describe the venue as having “six floors” with different vibes, including that ‘lively rooftop bar’ and ‘balcony restaurant’ (www.tripadvisor.co.za ).)
Getting There and Parking
Located at 24 Bayswater Rd in Potts Point, KX Social Club is right in the Kings Cross precinct (across from the famous Coke sign). The nearest train is **Kings Cross Station** on the Eastern Suburbs & Illawarra Line, only a couple of minutes’ walk away (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). From the station, just head up Bayswater Road to reach the club. Several bus routes also serve the area: Sydney Buses on William, Oxford and Victoria Streets stop within 5–10 minutes’ walk. In particular, the 311 (City–Bondi/Potts) and 606 (to Watsons Bay via Bondi) lines run nearby along Darlinghurst/Bayswater Roads. Popular ride-sharing cars and taxis can drop off on Bayswater Rd directly outside the venue – just allow extra time on busy nights. For drivers, street parking is available but limited. The venue’s official FAQ notes “plenty of metered street parking within walking distance” (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ), meaning you will need to feed parking meters (typically ~$4.20 per 2 hours in the area (en.parkopedia.com.au )). Time limits apply and spots are scarce on weekends. For guaranteed parking, a large Secure Parking lot is located at 9A Elizabeth Bay Road (around the corner); it offers 383 spaces and operates 24/7 (www.secureparking.com.au ). From Bayswater Road, turn into Ward Street and then Elizabeth Bay Road to find it. Overnight Sunday-to-Thursday parking in Kings Cross is usually cheaper after 8pm (and free late-night), but do check signage. Overall, transit is easiest – the pub’s FAQ even brags it’s a “two minute walk” to Kings Cross Station (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). Still, there is driveway access: if you drive, plan to pay for meters or use the multi-storey lot. Rideshares can queue on William or Bayswater Road, but road closures on big event nights can complicate drop-off. In summary: trains and buses are highly recommended, with limited (paid) parking nearby.
Inside the Venue
Expect a classic late-night club atmosphere once inside KX Social. Entry and ID check occurs at ground level – be sure to have photo ID ready, as the venue requires scanning your ID after 9pm (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). Security and hospitality staff perform bag checks and may limit oversized gear (typical club policy) though small backpacks or purses are usually fine. The dress code is **smart casual** (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ) – that means neat casual wear (jeans, shirts, summer dresses are fine) but no swimwear, work uniforms, or overly sloppy attire. As the FAQ notes, “smart casual” is enforced at the door (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). Inside, you’ll see drybars at each level selling a full range of drinks: tap beers, wine, spirits and creative cocktails. The rooftop bar (open from 5pm on Fri–Sat (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au )) has its own cocktail menu and beautiful city views, a popular pre-club spot. Food is limited to bar snacks late at night; the hotel’s Bistro Rex restaurant (upstairs) closes before the club gets busiest. Restrooms are available on each level – all are modern and kept clean (and accessible as noted). KX Social has new elevators (from the 2022 renovation) so all floors can be reached by lift (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ), making movement easier (and providing accessible bathrooms on each floor). Look for small coat-check lockers near the entry (at a few dollars), as outerwear storage is helpful once it gets warm inside. Wireless phone signal is generally good anywhere in the venue – city 4G/LTE covers it. Phones and cameras are allowed in non-flash mode; most people take snapshots or videos on the dance floor without issue (though be respectful if a DJ or performer asks no filming). The pub’s staff are known to be friendly, but on very busy nights service can slow down. There is usually a bouncer at the head of each staircase after 11pm to prevent attendees from leaving and re-entering. Overall the vibe is friendly and relaxed: TripAdvisor reviewers praise the warm, casual feeling and variety of spaces (www.tripadvisor.co.za ). Just come prepared to dance and have fun – the staff handle the rest. (Pro tip: bring ear plugs if you’re hearing-sensitive. The VOID system is top-notch but loud!)
Nearby Amenities
Potts Point is packed with options for food, drinks and stays around KX Social Club. In the building itself is **Bistro Rex** – a full-service bar/restaurant famous for its French-inspired “pub classics” menu. Bistro Rex (ground or first floor) often runs happy-hour specials; dinner mains run ~$20–30 (e.g. steak and mash for ~$26 (mydarlingdarlinghurst.blogspot.com )). Other nearby restaurants within 5 minutes include casual spots like Apollonia’s (Italian pizzeria), local Thai eateries, or cafés on Macleay Street like Brickfields and Canvas for all-day dining. For pre-show drinks there are several bars within walking distance: The Pacific Hotel (corner of Bayswater/Victoria) has a balcony patio, Napoli Bar on Macleay offers cocktails, and the nearby Clock Hotel features live bands upstairs. After-parties can spill into plazas around Darlinghurst Road’s restaurants and bars. If you need to stay overnight, the boutique **Bayswater Sydney Hotel** is right across the road (17 Bayswater Rd) offering retro-chic boutique rooms. Other nearby lodging includes the Chifley Darlinghurst or Windsor hotels (half a kilometer away), as well as cozy guesthouses like the Bespoke Inn Potts Point. In short, you are a short walk from dozens of eateries, bars and hotels – Kings Cross and Potts Point are filled with late-night haunts. Tips: dinner reservations can fill up early on weekends (especially at Bistro Rex), so plan to eat well before the show if possible. Rideshome are available throughout Potts Point until late night (or try the nearby pubs at closing time). Lastly, if you arrive early, consider strolling past the Coca-Cola sign or Cooper Park fountain a block south for classic photo ops – it’s part of the neighbourhood’s character.
What Makes This Venue Special
KX Social Club stands out as a link between old-school Kings Cross and Sydney’s modern party scene. Architecturally it retains charm – think heritage brick walls, an ornate original elevator (now a VIP booth (theshout.com.au )) and occasional Art Deco touches – all newly refurbished in 2022. The venue’s very location is famous: every local knows the glowing Coca-Cola sign above (called “the gateway to the Cross” (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au )) and the hotel itself was an East Sydney landmark long before it became a nightclub. Beyond looks, KX Social is notable for its rich tapestry of events and history. It has inherited Kings Cross’s queer legacy (World Bar-era DJs like Gang of Youths and Nina Las Vegas have roots here (www.solotel.com.au )), and today the club continues that inclusive spirit – for instance, a weekly “FLASH” gay dance party is a staple (kingscrosshotel.sydney ). The owner Solotel even invited the original World Bar team to “take over” all club levels for a one-night reopening in 2023, demonstrating how KX Social bridges past and present scenes (www.solotel.com.au ). Its recent renovation finally re-opened all five floors together for the first time (theshout.com.au ), helping revive late-night activity after years of setbacks. In broader context, pundits note that Kings Cross had “lost its sparkle” after lockouts and COVID, and venues like KX Social are now “restoring” cross nightlife for a new generation (concreteplayground.com ) (concreteplayground.com ). For fans and DJs, KX Social feels both nostalgic and fresh – it’s got the bones of a storied pub (complete with a “Bordello” loft lounge and in-house theatre space (www.tripadvisor.co.za )) plus a cutting-edge sound system and production. Audiences love the variety – one reviewer calls the place warm and casual yet full of surprises (www.tripadvisor.co.za ). In short, KX Social’s charm comes from being a multi-layered venue: historically significant yet thoroughly modern; a broad-spectrum nightlife hub where house, techno, disco, drag shows, avant-garde art events and a friendly community all find a home under one roof.
Visitor Tips and Information
The Kings Cross Hotel FAQ provides many useful pointers. Accessibility is solid – lifts connect all levels and each floor has accessible bathrooms (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ), though note there is no marked disabled parking on site. Dress for a night out: **smart casual** is required (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ) (so collared shirts, clean jeans or dressy tops; avoid sportswear, thongs or overly messy attire). Photo ID is mandatory: the club scans IDs (or digital check-ins) from 9pm onwards (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ), and no unaccompanied minors are allowed late. Children are permitted only with adults and must leave by 9pm (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). Plan to arrive early for big events – lines can form at the door, and busy nights may reach capacity. Because the venue is mostly standing room, comfortable shoes are advised (you’ll be on your feet dancing). If you want a quieter spot, try the 1st-floor Balcony (labeled “Bordello”) or the rooftop bar; otherwise the main floors are a lively dance crowd. Do bring cash or card for drinks (the bars accept both, but leveling up to cover and bar bills is best with card). Loud music means earplugs can save your hearing on a long night. Bag policy is generally relaxed (small bags are allowed), but large backpacks may be asked to be checked. The venue has a coat/bag check for a small fee near the entrance. Check the weather too: the rooftop is open Fri/Sat (from 5pm (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au )), so cool evenings call for an extra layer. Late-night transport: trains run until about midnight, then NightRide buses (e.g. N90) cover the Sydney-wide connection nearby – or grab a taxi/ride-share outside when closing. Finally, local etiquette: Kings Cross is safe but always stay aware, keep valuables in front pockets, and look out for your friends. With all that in mind, you’ll be set to enjoy KX Social’s full experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the exact address and location of KX Social Club?
KX Social Club is located at 24 Bayswater Road in Potts Point, Sydney (postcode 2011). It's part of the Kings Cross Hotel building at the corner of Bayswater and Darlinghurst Roads, under the iconic Coca-Cola sign. The club is in the heart of the Kings Cross nightlife district, a short drive or a 10–15 minute walk from the city centre.
How do I get there by public transport?
The easiest public transit is train. KX Social is about a 2-minute walk from Kings Cross Station (Eastern Suburbs/Illawarra Line) (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). Exit the station onto Bayswater Road and walk a block. Buses run frequently: Routes like the 311, 606 and others stop along Darlinghurst/Bayswater/William Streets nearby. For example, catch the 606 that travels past Potts Point or the 311 (to Bondi or the CBD) and alight a short walk away. After midnight, NightRide buses (e.g. N90) service the area too. In all, transit options are plentiful – just remember to check schedules for late-night services.
Is there parking available, and what does it cost?
There is no private lot at the club, but metered street parking is nearby. The venue’s FAQ notes “plenty of metered street parking within walking distance” (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). On-street spots cost roughly $4.20–$5 per two hours (check signs for limits). Alternatively, a secure multi-level car park at 9A Elizabeth Bay Road (Ward Street corner) has 383 spaces for longer stays (www.secureparking.com.au ). Rates there may be around $15–$20 for the night. Note weekends fill up fast. In short: bring cash for meters or use the Elizabeth Bay lot. Rideshare drop-off is common on Bayswater Road in front of the club (allow time, traffic is busy). And yes – the venue has lifts but no designated disabled parking on-site (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ).
What time do events usually start and what are typical closing hours?
Evening events often start around 8pm–9pm and ramp up after 10pm. DJs and dancers usually come in by late night (some parties peak at 1–2am). The club itself operates late; on weekends it typically closes around 3:30–4am (Friday and Saturday nights run into the early morning). The rooftop bar opens earlier (about 5pm on weekends (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au )) and closes sooner. Doors and closing times can vary by event/promoter, so check the specific event flyer. In general, plan to arrive before 11pm for most club shows and expect the venue to wind down by 3am.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. KX Social Club enforces a “smart casual” dress code (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). That means clean, neat clothing – jeans, dresses or collared shirts are fine, but avoid beachwear, sports team jerseys, slippers or excessively baggy streetwear. The exact wording in the FAQ is “Our dress code is smart casual” (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). Err on the dressier side for weekend nights. Dress codes are taken seriously at the door, so follow the guidelines to ensure entry.
Are there age restrictions or ID requirements?
Events at KX Social are 18+ after the early evening. Photo ID is required of anyone looking older than about 25. The venue’s policy is to scan IDs (or an electronic check-in) after 9pm (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). Under-18 guests are only allowed if accompanied by a parent or guardian, and only until 9pm (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). (After 9pm it’s strictly adults only.) So bring a valid driver’s license or passport. The door staff will refuse entry to anyone without ID, as this is a strict requirement of NSW licensing laws.
Is the venue accessible (e.g. for wheelchairs)?
Yes, the Kings Cross Hotel (including KX Social Club) is wheelchair accessible. The pub’s renovation added lifts to reach every floor, and accessible restrooms are provided (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). The FAQ explicitly states “Kings Cross Hotel is accessible, with lifts and accessible bathrooms” (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). The main entrance has a ramp, and each level’s layout accommodates wheelchair users (aside from possibly the very front of the stage area which may have steps). Just note there is still a small lip at the bar counters. In short: you can get to the club floors by elevator and use the toilets, so most mobility needs are met. As mentioned, there is no dedicated disabled parking onsite, but the lifts cover all levels once you arrive (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ).
How can I buy tickets and when are presales? Are tickets sold at the door?
Ticket sales depend on the event organizer. Many nights are just $10–20 and sold at the door on the evening. For bigger events, tickets typically go on sale in advance via the promoter or through local ticket outlets. It’s recommended to keep an eye on the club’s or promoter’s social pages for presale announcements. The venue encourages signing up for its newsletter to get early news on presales (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). In general, general admission tickets can often be bought at the door until capacity is reached. If a show is sold out – especially big holiday or guest DJ nights – advance purchase is necessary. We recommend planning ahead for popular dates, but for a typical weeknight you can usually just show up in time and pay on entry. There is no separate physical box office; digital tickets (if offered) will be emailed or printed at entry.
Is seating reserved or general admission? Are there VIP areas?
The club areas are general admission – there are no fixed seats for the main dancefloors. Most of the space is open to move and dance. There are some raised standing areas and railings (especially on the mezzanine/Bordello level) where you can lean or perch, but you can’t reserve these spots beforehand. Occasionally events may offer VIP package tables near the stage or LED booth, but those are usually handled through the promoter (and often in advance). If you want a guaranteed seated area, your best bet is the rooftop bar (which has lounge chairs and tables) or the Bistro Rex restaurant before or after the show. In short, assume it’s standing and plan accordingly – the energy comes from the crowd moving around. The layout does offer multiple vantage points though: for a clear line to the DJ you could stay near the front of the main floor, whereas the balcony/Bordello gives a bird’s-eye view. Remember the club’s design is meant for dancing, not viewing like a theater.
Are cameras or phones allowed inside?
Yes, cameras and phones are generally allowed, and people often take photos or videos on their phones while dancing. However, flash photography is a no-go on the dance floor, both for safety and respect for performers. The venue is also subject to privacy laws, so don’t film other guests without permission. For big performance nights, the organizers will usually mention if cameras are completely prohibited. In any case, be mindful of signage or staff instructions. Wi-Fi is usually limited or not provided (so don’t expect free Wi-Fi), but mobile reception is good inside. If you plan to post on social media, you can share your own shots, but the club may discourage livestreaming beyond simple posts. Bottom line: phones are fine, just don’t block aisles or annoy people with bright screens.
What food and drink options are available?
As a nightclub, KX Social focuses on drinks, but there are some food options. The in-house Bistro Rex (on ground/first floor) offers a full menu (pub-style mains and bar snacks) until late evening (mydarlingdarlinghurst.blogspot.com ) – think burgers, pasta and steak for roughly $15–$26. After dinner hours, late-night bar snacks are sold at the club bars (standard things like nuts or chips). On the bar side, each level has a full bar station with beer on tap, wine and creative cocktails. Specialty cocktails and beer taps are available upstairs and on the rooftop, which has a separate menu of cocktails. There is no outside food or drink allowed. For pre- or post-club meals, many nearby restaurants (Thai, Italian, French bistros, etc.) stay open until late. In short: you can dine at Bistro Rex earlier in the evening, or just grab a drink at the bar(s). The rooftop is particularly nice for cocktails with a view – it opens around 5pm on weekends (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ).
How early should I arrive before an event or show?
For popular nights, earlier is better. Doors often open 7pm–9pm depending on the event. If you want to avoid long queues or get a good spot by the DJ, arrive shortly after opening – by 9pm or 10pm on weekends. For large events or festivals, people start lining up well before midnight. On weekdays/weaker nights, you can show up a bit later (10–11pm) without issue. Also note the rooftop bar opens at 5pm on Friday/Saturday (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ), so early arrivers can enjoy an hour or two of atmosphere upstairs before the club gets busy. In summary: plan more lead time for big weekend events (especially if you plan to eat first) and feel free to come slightly later for less-busy nights.
Can I bring a small bag or coat? Is there a cloakroom?
Small bags and purses are generally allowed (subject to quick security check). Very large bags or backpacks might be discouraged or asked to be stowed. The venue typically offers a coatroom/locker service for a small fee (a few dollars) where you can leave coats or larger items. This is usually near the ground-floor entrance. It’s recommended to travel light for a club night – just essentials, wallet and phone – since carrying a big tote can be cumbersome on the dance floor and might slow you down going in and out. Scarves and jackets are fine to check, which frees you to dance comfortably.
Are there coat-check or locker facilities?
Yes, KX Social provides a coat-check service. For a small fee (around $3–$5), you can check jackets, larger bags, or other personal items at the entrance or near the cloakroom area. This is handy for winter layers. Lockers (coin- or app-operated) may not be available, but the supervised coat-check is reliable. Keep the ticket stub your coat-check attendant gives you – you’ll need it to reclaim your belongings. As a tip, do this before the main rush; when the club fills up, the warehouse might close the coat-check temporarily. Shoes that came off? You might leave them under the chair seat. Basically: plan to pay a little to stow bulky items so you don’t have to guard them on the floor.
What are common mistakes first-time visitors make?
Common pitfalls include underestimating how busy it gets and arriving too late (especially on Saturday). Also, forgetting ID is a big one – ensure your licence or passport is handy. Some forget the dress code and try to enter in very casual clothes; nearly everyone is turned away if they violate the “smart casual” rule (www.kingscrosshotel.com.au ). Another mistake is assuming there’s easy parking – many guests arrive early to find that only the paid lot or distant street parking is left. People sometimes also overlook that it’s totally fine (and expected) to dance on the floor. Don’t stand by the exit, head in toward the DJ. The final tip: remember the venue spans multiple levels, so explore the bars and lounges – the rooftop and balcony can feel quieter when the main floor is packed. Otherwise, just bring energy, stay hydrated, and enjoy the night!
