Things to do in East Perth

 Explore the Swan River on Foot or by Bike

One of the best free things to do in East Perth is simply follow the river. The Windan Bridge Loop Trail is the easiest way to see East Perth’s riverside. It’s about 6.2 km and takes you past Heirisson Island, which has a local colony of Western grey kangaroos, along with playgrounds, public art, galleries, and cafes near Optus Stadium. Prefer a shorter walk? Cross the Matagarup Bridge, a swan-inspired suspension bridge that links East Perth to the stadium precinct, to cut the loop in half. Along the way you’ll pass Claisebrook Cove and several riverside picnic spots, so it’s easy to turn the walk into a full afternoon out. It’s a great spot for an early morning run or a relaxed evening stroll.

Step Inside the Perth Mint

The Perth Mint is one of the world’s oldest gold mints still operating from its original location, and it’s consistently ranked among the top things to do in East Perth. It’s only a five to ten minute walk from most East Perth accommodations. Tour highlights include a live gold pour, displays of gold bullion, and the chance to see one of the largest gold coins ever made. It’s a unique experience and a nice mix of history and glamour, and the gift shop is worth a browse too if you’re after a souvenir like a minted coin or piece of jewellery.

Catch the Action at Optus Stadium

Voted one of the most beautiful sports facilities in the world, Optus Stadium is East Perth’s biggest attraction for sports and concert fans. It’s easily reached on foot via the Matagarup Bridge, so you can walk over for AFL, cricket, or a big-name concert and be back at your hotel within minutes of the final siren. Cricket fans can also head to the WACA Ground, home to Western Australia’s first-class cricket teams and known locally as the home of cricket, where a collection of memorabilia gives a good look at the game’s history in WA. If you’re up for something a bit more adventurous, Matagarup Zip and Climb lets you scale the stadium’s arches for sweeping views over the river and city skyline, and is one of the more unique things to do in East Perth for thrill seekers.

Friday Nights at Gloucester Park

If you’re around on a Friday, Gloucester Park is worth a visit for harness racing on the banks of the Swan River. The venue has several restaurants and bars, so you can grab dinner and watch the races all in one outing. It’s been running since 1929 and offers a great local atmosphere that’s different from a typical night out.

Relax in East Perth’s Parks and Gardens

If you’re after slower-paced things to do in East Perth, the suburb has some lovely green spaces. Wellington Square has recently been revamped and now includes a playground, skate park, and quiet reflection area, making it a good stop for families. Claisebrook Cove is another highlight, with waterfront cafes and restaurants set around a picturesque inlet, perfect for a coffee or a sunset drink. Victoria Square is also worth a visit, home to St Mary’s Cathedral at the top of the hill, one of the most impressive places of worship in Western Australia and a peaceful spot open daily for quiet reflection.

Eat and Drink Locally

East Perth’s dining scene has grown alongside its residential boom, and grabbing a bite locally is one of the easiest things to do in East Perth any night of the week. Claisebrook Village is the hub for cafes and restaurants, while venues like The Royal are popular for a bite before heading to a stadium event. If you’re looking for something different, Whipper Snapper Distillery offers tastings and tours for whiskey lovers, and Lumber Punks has axe throwing sessions if you’re seeking a more active night out. On a cooler evening, Girls School Cinema, a boutique winter cinema housed in a castle-like heritage building, is a fun way to catch a film somewhere a little different.

Discover Local History and Public Art

East Perth’s industrial past is still visible in its historic buildings, including old power stations and cement works. History buffs can also visit East Perth Cemetery, dating back to the 1820s, for a self-guided look at some of the city’s earliest colonial history. Public art and murals can be found throughout the suburb too, especially around Claisebrook Cove and the riverside trails, and love locks line the fences at either end of the Claisebrook Cove Bridge, which lights up after dark.

Getting Around

Most of East Perth’s attractions are within walking distance from the CBD or a short train ride from Perth Station to Claisebrook. Free CAT buses also run through the area, making it easy to combine a day at the Mint with an evening at the stadium or a stroll through Wellington Square, all without needing a car.

Staying nearby makes it easy to fit all of this into a weekend. Ibis Styles East Perth puts you within walking distance of the Swan River trails, Optus Stadium, and Claisebrook Cove, so you can spend more time enjoying your visit and less time working out how to get from one spot to the next. With so many things to do in East Perth right on your doorstep, it’s easy to build a stay around a relaxed pace, whether that means an early morning walk along the river or a night out at the stadium.