The Perth Bucket List 2018

With both summer and Fringe coming to an end, it’s easy to settle into that post-February funk. But don’t fall into that familiar trap of thinking that Perth is only cool in the warmer weather; we’ve compiled a list of 50 things you simply must eat, do and see in Perth, regardless of the season. How many can you tick off by December?

Things to do in Perth

1. Coogee dive and snorkel trail 

Live your Little Mermaid dream and see how the other half live under the sea. Spanning 200 metres, the dive and snorkel trail consists of artificial reef, underwater sculptures and educational signs. It varies in depth from 2.5 to 5 metres, meaning it’s suitable for beginner and expert snorkelers alike!

2. Wide Open Mic night at Mojo's 

Go to see some budding artists on the Perth music scene - who knows, you might see the next Stella Donnelly! If you’re a closet musician, consider this a sign; 2018 is the year to put yourself out there and perform in front of a crowd.

3. Hip Hop Kara-YO!-ke at The Bird 

Taking over The Bird on the second Thursday of every month is Hip Hop Kara-YO!-ke. Nights have been dedicated to the likes of Drake, Kanye and Nicki Minaj. Whether you're getting Roman's Revenge or looking for an opportunity to call T-Swift a bitch, this event allows you to fully embrace the tongue and cheek of the rap genre.

4. Free quiz nights 

Dux Nuts are Perth’s favourite quiz masters; they take their ridiculously fun (and free!) quizzes to a venues such as Nedlands and Waterford Varsity Bars throughout the week. These quizzes are the perfect mix of pop culture, obscure tunes and belly laughs.

5. See a film at an Open Air Cinema

Whether it's the Rooftop Movies and Moonlight Cinema, take a break from Hoyts and head to one of these gorgeous open-air cinemas for a new release or a cult classic.

6. See a gig at Belvoir Amphitheatre 

It may be a bit of drive but Belvoir Amphitheatre is arguably Perth’s most lush live music venue.

7. See a gig at Astor Theatre 

On that note, the art deco Astor Theatre is worth visiting for the architecture alone. If you missed Dita Von Teese, The Jungle Giants are visiting this hallowed venue over the next few months, meaning no one is too famous for our favourite indie venue.

8. Check out the markets 

Freo markets may already be your go-to for fresh produce and quirky stalls, but the markets in Melville, Subiaco and Honeywood are not to be overlooked. Spend your weekend finding some second-hand threads and supporting local creators.

9. Visit Rottnest Island 

If you haven’t been to Rotto, it’s time to reassess your life choices. Work those quads by cycling from bay to bay and take the obligatory quokka selfie as proof of your day trip.

10. State of the Art Festival

SOTA falls on the WA Day weekend in early June. The line-up won’t be announced for a few months, but considering it's previously hosted our favourite local acts such as San Cisco and Drapht, you can rest assured it’ll be a good one.

11. Browse Planet Books 

If clubbing isn’t your thing, spend your Saturday night browsing Northbridge’s late-night bookshop.

12. Test yourself on Jacob’s Ladder 

If you’re the masochistic type, Jacob’s Ladder is just the workout for you.

13. Take a yoga class at The Raw Kitchen 

The mezzanine level in The Raw Kitchen’s warehouse space is the perfect environment in which to finally find your zen.

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Places to eat in Perth

14. Chi Cho in Northbridge 

Perth’s first artisanal gelato has taken Northbridge by storm; it set up shop in Northbridge in 2016, and the line out the front door has barely dwindled since then. But don’t fret, these experienced scoopers keep the line moving so that you don’t have to wait more than a few minutes to get your taste buds around flavours such as lavender and honeycomb or burnt butter popcorn.

15. Measure Dessert Bar in Mount Lawley 

For those looking for something slightly more upmarket, this Mount Lawley dessert bar is for you. Former Masterchef favourite Karmen Lu is the mind behind the menu, meaning that dining at this dessert bar will satisfy all your Masterchef dreams.

16. Francoforte Spaghetti Bar in Northbridge 

The uber trendy Francoforte is delicious, informal and best of all, BYO. Unsurprisingly, the menu is all pasta and has something for vegans, meat-lovers and everyone in between. My personal favourite is kale pesto - you can thank me later.

17. Moore and Moore in Fremantle 

This cafe and art gallery is one of Perth’s original brunch spots; the fact that the quality hasn’t wavered once over the past ten years is reassuring.

18. Odyssea Beach Cafe at City Beach 

For unrivalled views of City Beach, grab a table at this stunning beach cafe.

19. Piccolo’s Corner in West Leederville 

There’s no mistaking that this homely, suburban cafe is run by family. Their hearty meals such as smashed pumpkin and mushrooms on ciabatta can be devoured indoors amongst the quirky knick knacks or in the leafy courtyard.

20. Moroccan Night at The Cool Room 

This ridiculously affordable three-course banquet takes place in Fremantle’s The Cool Room on the first Friday of every month. It sells out quickly so get in early for an unforgettable dining experience!

21. Night Noodle Markets 

Taking over Elizabeth Quay once again from 16 to 25 March is the Night Noodle Markets; prepare to overdose on gyoza, bao and poke. You can already peruse the menu, in case you weren’t hungry enough already.

22. Satchmo Cafe in North Perth 

Serving up Jewish soul food, brunching at Satchmo will transport you to New York City with its kitschy decor and vintage vinyls. This cafe is a must for ridiculously indulgent meals and pastries.

23. Try the ramen at Hakata Gensuke in Vic Park 

Watch out Lucky Chan’s, Vic Park is now home to Perth’s favourite ramen joint.

24. Chu Bakery in Highgate 

The perpetual line snaking out of this bakery isn’t just because of its shoebox-esque size; its devilishly tasty baked goods such as its matcha puffs and hazelnut tarts will turn you into a regular customer faster than you can say ‘mille-feuille’.

25. Try the pancakes at The Little Banksia 

Tucked away in the suburb of Kensington is this quaint cafe dishing up Perth’s most delicious pancakes. They vary season to season and strike the perfect balance between sweet and salty. If pancakes aren't your thing, the rest of the breakfast menu is pretty bloody good too!

Places to see in Perth

26. Go douth 

There’s no denying that we’re pretty spoilt when it comes to locations for weekend (or week-long) getaways. Dunsborough, Margaret River, Gracetown, Esperance… Take your pick.

27. Go north 

Likewise, make a mini road trip to Exmouth, Jurien Bay, Lancelin or Cervantes.

28. Coastal walk 

Instead of catching up with your mates over brunch, why not catch up over some light scenic exercise? Walk from the beach to a brunch spot if you must…

29. Check out an art exhibition at the Art Gallery of WA 

A Window on Italy: the Corsini Collection features Renaissance and Baroque paintings by Botticelli, Tintoretto and Caravaggio that have presided in Florence for the past 500 years. This exhibition will be the first time these masterpieces have toured outside Italy - not bad for little old Perth, right?

30. Picnic at King’s Park 

There’s no doubt you’ve heard the fun fact that King’s Park is the largest inner city park in the world (larger than Central Park!). That’s a lot of native flowers to admire and city views to take in.

31. Perth Festival 

Whether you’re a theatre nerd, an art buff or even a circus lover, this year’s Perth Festival has got all the disciplines covered. Chevron Gardens at Elizabeth Quay makes for a stunning live music venue with its river views.

32. Hopman Cup 

If the possibility of catching a glimpse of the Fed Express isn’t enough to convince you to check out the Hopman Cup, then simply go for the lively atmosphere. This year’s Cup may be over, but the fun will start all over again at the end of December, so keep an eye out for early bird tickets and start your 2019 off with an ace.

33. Serpentine Falls

Drive just one hour of the city and feel like you’re in a different world with Serpentine Falls’ ancient rock formations and cascading waterfall. Unfortunately, the falls are currently closed to swimmers, but the picnic area is still free game.

34. Wine tour 

Because if there’s anything Instagram is missing, it’s some group winery photos. Make a day of it by grabbing your rowdiest mates and hiring a tour bus.

35. Check out a show at the State Theatre Centre 

This year’s program includes the Ocean Film Festival, the stage adaptation of Roald Dahl’s George’s Marvellous Medicine, and Bell Shakespeare’s Julius Caesar. You’ll be the most cultured one in your group of friends in no time.  

36. See a show at WAAPA 

Support our country’s burgeoning Hugh Jackmans and Margot Robbies and check out a play or musical at this hub of talent.

Things for you

37. Get lost 

Have you ever just gotten into the car or headed out for a walk without a destination? Go on an adventure just to enjoy the journey.

38. Go for more hikes 

For those who prefer having a plan, there are some beautiful trails around Perth with varying degrees of difficulty. Test yourself, and be rewarded with lush views and the serenity of nature.

39. Wake up to see the sunrise 

Take advantage of living on the west coast and set your alarm super early to catch the day’s first rays. That six o’clock wake up call may have you second guessing your choice, but it’ll be worth it for those shades of orange, red and purple.

40. Take a surfing lesson 

Why not achieve the whole stereotype and become a surfer? Even if you have two left feet, do it purely for the WA rite of passage.

41. Set yourself a goal and actually stick with it

Everyone talks the big talk at the beginning of the new year about their ‘resolutions’, but chances are they’ll be forgotten within 28 days. Whether it’s for one, six or twelve months - pick and stick with it.

42. Get behind a cause 

If you’re someone who wants to get more involved with giving back but has yet to put your money where your mouth is, 2018 is the year. There’s plenty of ways big and small you can give back: run a marathon, volunteer, give up booze, grow a moustache or do the 24 Hour Famine.

43. Meet new people 

Strike up a conversation with a complete stranger or that romantic interest you’ve been eyeing off for a while (avoid if you’re in politics). Meeting new people is a great way to step out of your comfort zone.

44. Join a book club 

Kill two birds with one stone and meet new people while making your way through your lengthy ‘to read’ list. Perth has heaps of book clubs, regardless of your age or favourite genre.

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45. Learn something 

You’re never too old to learn. Take up a language, new skill, or hobby.

46. Say 'yes' more

Saying yes is a great way to challenge yourself and get you out of your comfort zone - within reason. We are by no means suggesting you rob a bank or do anything life threatening, but just put yourself out there more.

47. Declutter 

Do you have a wardrobe full of unworn clothes, a garage that’s so full you car won’t fit in it, or a room that you no longer go in any more? It’s time for a clear out. Give away, sell or donate.

48. Go au naturale

Being naked is a great way to boost your body confidence and make you more comfortable in your own skin. Try it at home, have a naked day on the weekend with your partner, or brave a public nude beach.

49. Dress up for no reason 

Get dressed to the nines and head out with friends, family or your partner, purely because it’s nice to break out that once-worn dress every now and then.

50. Go makeup free 

For some this is a daily affair, but if you’re someone who would never leave the house without makeup on, smart clothing or washed hair, this will be a challenge.

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Print out our list, and let us know how many you get through!

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Cover image courtesy of Tina Shawal