Let Perth surprise you with these under-the-radar attractions.
By Leah Dobihal
With iconic beaches, beautiful architecture and leafy parks, Perth is full of well-known and worthy attractions. But dig a little deeper and you’ll find streets splashed with art, a bar nestled among rooftops and a noodle shop disguised as a laundry.
Get acquainted with a new side of Perth with these hidden gems.
Urban Art
Where: City-wide
It’s easy to stumble upon Perth’s abundant street art – like the stunning murals of Fremantle – but the city’s lesser-known artworks are worth seeking out. Take a stroll down Grand Lane for a rainbow of urban art alongside delicious fish and chips, or venture into Perth’s suburbs. The street art in the bustling neighbourhood of Leederville is ever-changing, but Oxford Street is a great place to start.
S&R Orchard
Where: 36 Halleendale Rd, Walliston
S&R Orchard, located about 30 minutes from Perth’s city centre, isn’t your ordinary orchard. In addition to growing delicious fruit, the orchard also hosts incredible events that feature blossoming trees, tractor rides, fruit picking and unique photo props perfect for Instagram. The orchard is open seasonally, so check the website to plan your trip.
Drasko’s Hot Chicken
Where: 148 Scarborough Beach Rd, Mount Hawthorn
Cooking up authentic Nashville-style chicken, Drasko’s is the hottest destination in the Perth suburb of Mount Hawthorn. Founders Drasko Jankovic and Ken Craigie have sweat over every detail of the menu and venue, from the art on the walls to the epic crunch of the fried chicken. You can choose your spice level – ranging from no heat to Blame Drasko ‘soul on fire’ spicy, so there’s something for everyone. Plus, there’s a dedicated fryer for gluten-free friendly dishes, so gluten-free diners can join in the hot chicken craze.
Mechanics Institute
Where: 222 William St, Northbridge
Hidden among heritage rooftops, Mechanics Institute is an escape from the city streets below. You’ll need to head to the rear laneway between James Street and Francis Street in Northbridge to find it, but the search is worth it when you take a seat on the rooftop deck under the Perth sunshine. Order a local beer or hand-crafted cocktail before exploring nearby laneways, or let the experts from Two Feet and a Heartbeat lead the way.
London Court
Where: 647 Hay St, Perth
Though Perth’s London Court isn’t a secret, it certainly feels that way as you step within the Elizabethan-style laneway. This open-air retail arcade runs from Hay Street Mall and St Georges Terrace in the heart of Perth, but you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d been transported to another era. Wander the narrow street to discover arched openings and intricate architecture, as well as nail salons, jewellery shops and cafés.
Lucky Chan’s Laundry and Noodle Bar
Where: 311 William St, Northbridge
Bao buns, bubble tea cocktails, spicy dumplings and noodles – it’s all on offer at Lucky Chan’s Laundry and Noodle Bar. The name isn’t just quirky; this bar used to be a laundry business, and you’ll still walk past a row of washing machines (as well as a price list for dry cleaning and wash cycles) on your way in. Once inside, you’ll find a fully stocked bar and a sizzling kitchen cooking up Asian dishes.
