Ultimate Northbridge Guide 2023: Where Food, Art, and Nightlife Collide

In the heart of Perth, Western Australia, Northbridge is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its cultural diversity, lively entertainment scene, and tantalising culinary experiences.

This local’s guide will take you on a journey through Northbridge, exploring its historical roots, top attractions, delightful dining options, and buzzing nightlife.

As Perth locals, we visit Northbridge for nights out, dinners, and cultural experiences.

🤩 Book my Favourite Perth Tours here!

Must-Visit Attractions & Points of Interest in Northbridge 

Cultural Centre

The Cultural Centre in Northbridge is a vibrant precinct encompassing several key institutions dedicated to art, culture, and learning.

Art Gallery of Western Australia

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ over 2,000 reviews

The Art Gallery of Western Australia is the state’s premier art museum, showcasing a diverse Australian and international art collection. The gallery features exhibitions of contemporary and historical works, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and indigenous art.

Western Australian Museum

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ over 2,900 reviews

The Western Australian Museum is a significant institution that explores the natural and cultural heritage of Western Australia. The museum offers a range of fascinating exhibitions, interactive displays, and immersive experiences, covering topics such as natural history, indigenous cultures, maritime history, and more. It’s my favourite Perth museum.

State Library of Western Australia

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ over 400 reviews

The State Library of Western Australia is a valuable resource for literature, history, and research. It houses an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, maps, photographs, and other archival materials that provide insights into the state’s history, culture, and heritage. The library also has exhibitions, events, and educational programs.

Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA)

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ over 100 reviews

PICA is a leading contemporary art centre that showcases innovative and experimental art across various disciplines, including visual arts, performance, dance, and theatre. The centre hosts regular exhibitions, performances, and events that push boundaries and challenge traditional notions of art.

The Cultural Centre often serves as a hub for cultural activities, festivals, and events throughout the year, including outdoor concerts, film screenings, art installations, and community gatherings. The open spaces within the precinct, such as the Urban Orchard and the James Street Amphitheatre, provide opportunities for relaxation, picnics, and socialising.

It is conveniently located near the Perth Train Station, making it easily accessible.

Street Art

Northbridge is renowned for its captivating murals, graffiti, and street art pieces contributing to the neighbourhood’s creative atmosphere.

Northbridge’s laneways and building exteriors are adorned with striking artworks that showcase a range of styles and themes. Artists have utilised walls, doors, and other surfaces as canvases to create large-scale murals, intricate stencils, and vibrant graffiti pieces.

Perth’s street art scene is dynamic and ever-changing. New artworks often appear, while older ones may be painted over or replaced, reflecting the transient nature of street art.

If you’re interested in experiencing street art in Northbridge, you can join a guided walking tour. Local tour operators offer guided walks that take you through the neighbourhood, highlighting notable artworks, sharing stories about the artists, and providing insights into the significance of the pieces.

Parks & Outdoor Spaces

Take a breather from the cityscape and wander through one of Northbridge’s parks.

Russell Square

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ over 700 reviews

Located right in Northbridge, Russell Square is a charming park with well-manicured lawns, tall trees, and shaded areas. It’s a great spot for picnics, leisurely walks, or unwinding in a peaceful environment.

Hyde Park

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ over 4,000 reviews

Situated just a short distance from Northbridge, Hyde Park is one of the city’s most iconic and beautiful parks. It features lush greenery, a serene lake, walking paths, and plenty of open spaces. Have a picnic, go for a walk, or relax under the shade of the trees.

Shopping

Northbridge is known for its eclectic mix of fashion boutiques and independent shops. Along William Street and its surrounding laneways, you’ll find a variety of unique fashion stores offering clothing, shoes, accessories, and jewellery. These often stock local and independent designers, providing an opportunity to discover distinctive fashion pieces.

Family-Friendly Activities in Northbridge

Escape Room Northbridge

48 Lake Street

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ over 1,600 reviews

Escape This Northbridge is one of Perth’s most immersive escape rooms Prepare to challenge your wits, conquer confined spaces, and dive into an adventure like no other.

With a variety of themed rooms, each door you open reveals a world of excitement and mystery. Will you attempt to pull off a daring bank heist? Sit down for a bone-chilling dinner with The Cannibal? Or unleash your inner wizard in the enchanted Wizard’s Chamber?

Whatever you choose, don’t let these escape rooms turn into panic rooms! Keep your cool, work together with your team, and do whatever it takes to escape!

Please note that the minimum age is 9 years unless a room states an older age limit.

Mini Golf

53 Lake Street

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ over 1,800 reviews

Get ready to put your skills to the test at Holey Moley, where mini golf gets a whole new twist. This unique venue takes the classic game of mini golf and turns it into an extraordinary experience with creatively designed holes ranging from mind-bending obstacles to pop culture references.

Holey Moley Northbridge only allows people under 18 after 5 pm. Also, due to liquor licence requirements, minors MUST be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.

Top Northbridge Restaurants, Cafes, & Bars

Northbridge’s dining scene is a testament to its multicultural makeup. With a range of cuisines from around the world, food enthusiasts can enjoy flavours from Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.

When the sun sets, Northbridge comes alive with its lively bar scene. There’s a place to suit every mood, from nightclubs to trendy cocktail bars. Sip on handcrafted cocktails, enjoy a pint of local craft beer or dance the night away at a club.

You can find out my favourite restaurants and bars in Northbridge here.

Northbridge Accommodation

One of the standout features of staying in Northbridge is its unbeatable location. Situated just a stone’s throw away from the Perth CBD, you’ll have easy access to the city’s major attractions, including Kings Park, Elizabeth Quay, and the Perth Cultural Centre.

Most accommodations offer spacious rooms with modern conveniences such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and comfortable bedding to ensure a restful night’s sleep.

Some of the most popular Northbridge hotels are:

1. Alex Hotel

8.7 ⭐️

Located in the heart of Northbridge, the Alex Hotel offers stylish and comfortable boutique accommodation. It features well-designed rooms, friendly staff, and a communal lounge area. See prices here.

2. Doubletree by Hilton

8.3 ⭐️

Situated in the middle of Northbridge, Doubletree by Hilton offers a stylish and contemporary retreat for business and leisure travellers. With beautifully designed rooms and suites, each equipped with modern amenities, you are ensured a comfortable stay. See prices here.

3. Four Points by Sheraton Perth

8.1 ⭐️

Four Points by Sheraton Perth on Wellington Street is a modern hotel that offers comfortable rooms with all the necessary amenities. The hotel features an on-site restaurant, a fitness centre, and bar and is within walking distance of Northbridge’s attractions. See prices here.

4. Rydges Perth King Square

8.1 ⭐️

Modern Rydges Perth King Square offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and style. With its prime location, you can easily explore the city’s attractions, trendy dining spots, and exciting entertainment options (including Northbridge). See prices here.

5. Attika Hotel

8.0 ⭐️

Attika Hotel is a boutique hotel in the centre of Northbridge. It offers luxury apartments with kitchens and living areas.

 Insider Tips & Recommendations

Getting Around Northbridge

Northbridge is conveniently located within walking distance of the Perth CBD, making it easily accessible. Public transportation options, including buses and trains, provide convenient connections to and from the neighbourhood.

Public Transportation

Northbridge is well connected by public transport, including buses and trains. Transperth operates a network that covers Perth and its surrounding areas. The closest train station to Northbridge is Perth Station, which is within walking distance. Buses also run frequently in the area, offering convenient connections to other parts of the city.

Free Transit Zone

The central area of Perth, including Northbridge, is part of the Free Transit Zone. You can travel for free on buses and trains within this designated zone. Check the boundaries of the Free Transit Zone for accurate information.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing Services

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Northbridge. These are easy to book via their apps and offer a convenient and reliable way to get around, especially if you prefer door-to-door transportation.

Rental Cars

If you prefer the flexibility and convenience of having your own vehicle, renting a car is a viable option. Perth has several car rental companies that offer vehicles to suit your needs. Booking in advance and comparing prices from different rental companies is recommended to secure the best rates.

Be aware that parking in Northbridge can be limited, so you should check the parking options at your accommodation.

Walking

Northbridge is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the major attractions, dining establishments, and entertainment venues are within walking distance of each other. Walking allows you to soak in the atmosphere of the area.

Safety

When visiting any destination, including Northbridge, it’s important to prioritise your safety and take necessary precautions. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while visiting:

1. Be aware of your surroundings: Stay alert, especially in crowded areas or at night. Pay attention to your personal belongings and avoid displaying valuable items openly.

2. Travel in groups or pairs: Whenever possible, travel with a companion or in a group, particularly during late hours. This can enhance your safety and discourage potential criminal activity.

3. Use well-lit and busy areas: Stick to well-lit and populated streets, particularly during nighttime.

4. Secure your belongings: Keep your personal belongings secure at all times. Use bags that can be closed or zipped securely, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items unnecessarily.

5. Drink responsibly: If you plan to enjoy the nightlife and entertainment options in Northbridge, be mindful of your alcohol consumption. Drink responsibly and be cautious of accepting drinks from strangers. It’s always advisable to keep an eye on your drink and avoid leaving it unattended.

6. Use licensed transportation: When using taxis or ride-sharing services, choose licensed and reputable providers. Use official taxi ranks or reputable ride-sharing apps to book your rides. Avoid getting into unmarked or unauthorised vehicles.

Itinerary

If you want an idea on how to spend a day here, read this one day Northbridge Itinerary.

What did you think of Northbridge? Do you have any tips or recommendations? If so, let us know in our Facebook Group.

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