The capital of Western Australia is famed for its 3,000 hours of sunshine a year and its laid-back, beachy outskirts. Life here moves to a slower rhythm, with the city’s soul deeply rooted in a love for the outdoors. More “big town” than “big city,” Perth charms with its leafy streets and a warm, easygoing atmosphere that never seems to fade for its locals.. But beyond the sun-drenched days, Perth surprises after dark with late-night things to do for just about every type of night owl.
From cosy jazz bars and neighbourhood eateries to gaming lounges, scenic evening strolls, and everything in between, the city offers a quiet but undeniable indulgence of nighttime delights.
Bring your own booze to a jazz bar
Many thought this gem wouldn’t battle through today’s generation. As authentic jazz moulds its way into the modern twists of contemporary music, the core genre becomes an eclectic journey into its derivative times. The Jazz Cellar celebrates this very notion. Opening only on Friday evenings, the venue has become something of a nearly unobtainable booking due to its high demand. On achieving your spot, expect to hear the likes of a blasting show, and to keep burdens off the owners’ hands, the entire complex thrives on a BYO food and drinks basis.
A beer garden and good vibes on tap
New pub? Hold on because The Leadlight is leading the spotlight for beer garden traditions in a city where the sun shines more than the rain finds land. Bringing a new light to a historic Northbridge site, the rehabilitated space now boasts energy into feeding its happy customers a good meal, a good craft pint and a large outdoor area. The pub was built from a tight community in Perth, hosting events and supporting local initiatives so, this one feels like a good night out and, good news, it’s open until 12:00 am.
Where the bullseye meets the bar
Let’s make darts electric. The Flight Club stands out in Perth’s nightlife, reviving a classic pub game with a twist and a touch of vintage fairground fun. Tucked into the midst of Murray Street, this playground teases that pub darkness with a game-like neon warmth. A place where replay screens capture bullseyes and where the cocktails, well, they just make everything more interesting. It’s open until 12:00 am, sometimes 1:00 am, and it’s loud in all the right ways.
Games and pizza at the Palace Arcade
The kind of spot you wish you could drag into your living room – order a pizza while making your way around the arcade area. This late-night haunt serves nostalgia on tap, as their selection is not a shy one, dedicating all of their games from original arcades in the 80s and 90s for true console lovers. Blending the feel of a refined retro pub and the kindling smell of craft pizzas and beer, this place is wired for shooting your shot until 12:00 am.
Catch a breath with a riverside stroll
Not strictly a nighttime activity, but one you could very much enjoy when the sun goes down. When in need of a bit of peace and quiet, away from the midnight crawlers, a visit to some nearby water usually does the trick. Without spending a penny, a ten-kilometre stroll awaits around the Swan River bay. On foot or a pair of rollers, the trail winds through Elizabeth Quay, Barrack Street Jetty, Riverside Drive and the South Perth Foreshore. .
Try the taste of class in this fromagerie
Have a taste of Europe in the furthest point from Europe. Powell’s Fromagerie & Wine Bar is your evening spot to try a selection of different classy cheeses. With wine pairings on the side, expect baked brie, arancini and homemade focaccia, all prepared and run by a mother and daughter duo. The bar is cosy and authentic, and invites you to completely indulge in their offerings. Open from Wednesdays to Saturdays and until 10:00 pm, come join the tasting spree.
Broke your mum’s mug by accident? Here’s your solution
For the hands-on experience at night, pottery can be your go-to late-night activity. Wait for that restless evening you want to feel accomplished, where the core of a happy day can end with the feeling of achievement. So, make your own pots and mugs to keep boredom at bay. Whether you’re a beginner or a fully trained ceramic whisperer, ClassBento is your first choice. They offer wheel-throwing classes, hand-building workshops, ceramic painting and glazing, and specialised sessions running until 8:30 pm every day.
Cruise into Perth’s only drive-in
Screech your way into the only drive-in cinema in Perth. Maintaining old traditions alive, Galaxy Drive-in usually screens films on Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays with doors opening at 5:30 pm and films starting at 6:30 pm. Tickets are wallet-friendly, where a Tuesday night special will let you in for just $22 per car. It’s a classic night out under the stars. Grab your snacks, pack the car with cushions, and let the big screen commence.
Learn how to make your own gin
This is when you finally make it to gin school. Enter the Republic of Fremantle distillery with a gin and tonic on arrival and get ready for a copper-indulged class on mastering the art of distilling. These two-hour sessions, priced at $180 per person, let you create, learn, and take home your own 550ml bottle of gin, turning out to be the best check on your things to do at night. On Fridays and Saturdays, they are open till late, whereas midweek they close at 10:00 pm. So, hop on the tonic wagon and make your first beverage.
Go to a Candlelight concert
Candlelight concerts bring a gentle twist to Perth’s night scene. Held in beautiful venues lit entirely by candles, these events offer a fresh way to enjoy music you already love. From classical composers to modern favourites. The songs are reimagined with string quartets or solo pianists, creating an atmosphere just as enchanting as a thousand glowing candles would be. Usually starting at 7:00 pm or 9:00 pm. it’s an easy way to do something a little different in the evening, without needing anything more than curiosity and a bit of time.
Swing your way to The Jazz Room
If you’re in the mood for something with a bit more swing, The Jazz Room is where the night picks up. Inspired by the golden era of New Orleans, this event brings pure groove to Perth with a setlist full of favourites like “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” “Fly Me to the Moon” and “Stella by Starlight.” It’s jazz played live by musicians who clearly love what they do. With no further thought required, just good music, good vibes, and maybe, if you’re feeling daring, a bit of dancing too.