Locals Ultimate Northbridge Guide 2024: Where Food, Art, and Nightlife Collide
Kaya, hello. I’m Wendy, a Perth resident since 2000 with a love of uncovering the best of Perth’s suburbs.
In the heart of Perth, Northbridge is a vibrant neighbourhood known for its cultural diversity, lively entertainment scene, and tantalising culinary experiences.
My 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.
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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.
Things to See & Do in Northbridge
Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Northbridge with my top recommendations for things to do.
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.
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.
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.
Is Northbridge Safe?
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.
The Evolution of Northbridge’s Street Life and Culture
Northbridge’s unique street grid was designed to accommodate freshwater swamps, now replaced by railway lines and stations. This layout contributes to a pleasant environment, especially noticeable in winter when the sun’s angle makes it ideal for outdoor café life. This café culture began in the 1950s, largely influenced by post-war Italian and Greek immigrants, who brought their tradition of enjoying coffee outside the home.
The transformation of Northbridge began in earnest in the 1860s with the help of convict labor. This enabled the drainage of the swamps, leading to more permanent settlements. The area flourished during the 1890s gold boom, becoming a prime location for hotels and boarding houses. Iconic structures like The Brass Monkey (originally The Great Western, built in 1896) and the Busy Bee Arcade, Western Australia’s first shopping arcade opened in 1894, were established during this period.
The character of Northbridge continued to evolve with the arrival of Greek and Macedonian immigrants around the First World War, who established grocery and fish shops. Post-Second World War, a significant number of Italians immigrated, introducing restaurants and shaping the local culture. Landmarks like Pisconeri’s Bar, which served the first real espresso in 1951, played a pivotal role in introducing new cultural elements such as ground coffee, fashion, and al fresco dining, many of which have become integral to Northbridge’s identity today.
How much money do I need for 1 day in Northbridge?
The amount of money you need for one day in Northbridge can vary depending on your personal preferences, activities, and budget. Here is a rough estimate of the expenses you might have:
- Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Northbridge can vary widely depending on the type of hotel or accommodation you choose. Budget accommodations such as hostels or budget hotels can range from A$50 to A$100 per night, while mid-range to upscale hotels can range from A$150 to A$300 or more per night.
- Meals: Northbridge offers a diverse range of dining options, including casual eateries, cafes, and fine dining restaurants. The cost of meals can vary depending on your choice of venue. On average, budget meals can cost around A$10 to A$20 per person, while a mid-range restaurant meal can range from A$25 to A$50 or more per person.
- Transportation: If you’re exploring Northbridge, you might not require transportation as the area is easily walkable.
- Attractions and Entertainment: Northbridge has various attractions and entertainment options, such as museums, galleries, and live music venues. Admission fees can range from free to A$20 or more, depending on the specific attraction.
- Miscellaneous Expenses: It’s always good to have some extra cash for unexpected expenses, such as souvenirs, snacks, or any other personal expenses.
Considering these factors, a rough estimate for a moderate budget traveller in Northbridge would be around A$100 to A$180 per day. However, this is just an estimate, and your actual expenses may vary based on your choices and preferences.
What did you think of Northbridge? Do you have any tips or recommendations? If so, let us know in our Facebook Group.