Game day: how the locals do it

08 Sep '21

Melbourne may be known as the home of AFL, but you’d be hard pressed to find an atmosphere more electric than Perth on game day.

West Australians are infamous across the league, renowned for being some of the most vocal and passionate footy fans in the country. As bounce down draws close on game day, the city of Perth comes alive as armies of loyal footy supporters descend on Optus Stadium – a world class entertainment facility offering spectators a ‘fan-first’ approach in both design and technology.

Officially opening its doors to the AFL in 2018, Optus Stadium has revolutionised what it means to watch footy in Perth. With its central location and excellent transport facilities taking game day to another level, it’s more accessible than ever to enjoy Australia’s national game live in person.

Located less than 10 minutes east of Perth city, Optus Stadium is strategically positioned to allow locals and visitors alike to make the most of Perth, with an array of restaurants, pubs and bars within walking distance or a short train ride away.

Why not make a day of it? If you’re coming to Perth to watch the footy and want to enjoy a good feed or cheeky beverage before the first whistle, here are five places to consider adding to your itinerary.

MARKET GROUNDS

Market Grounds is a large, multi-level inner city pub located in the heart of the Kings Square precinct. Opened in 2017, it was the first establishment to officially connect Northbridge with the Perth CBD in more than 100 years.

Featuring a main bar, garden bar, a dining area and mezzanine, Market Grounds is as versatile as it is modern and stylish. With a sumptuous bar and dining menu and an extensive drinks list, there is something for everyone at Market Grounds. Plus, it’s ultra-convenient for footy fans, being just a quick five-minute walk to the Perth train station which runs express to Optus Stadium.

Market Grounds

THE SHOE BAR

If you’re looking for a slightly more intimate venue to grab a bite to eat before the game, consider dropping into The Shoe Bar in the new Yagan Square. Less than 200 metres from the Perth train station, this venue is the ideal place to start your day.

Shoe Bar offers contemporary dining over two levels with a menu that features all the pub food classics you love, with a strong WA focus on locally sourced produce. If you’re a wine lover, you’ll love Shoe Bar’s offering of unique West Australian wines too!

Beer selection at The Shoe Bar

THE GLOBE

Directly opposite the Perth Train Station is The Globe, one of Perth’s oldest remaining pubs. It features a vibrant beer garden and bar, combined with an eye-catching interior that effortlessly combines the building’s unique heritage with a modern flair.

A popular establishment with Perth locals, you’ll always find a good crowd at The Globe before a game. Serving up a modern-Australian menu that has everything from small bites to larger meals and an extensive beer, wine and cocktail list, you can’t go wrong at The Globe.

The Globe

THE ROYAL ON THE WATERFRONT

It’s worth stopping in at The Royal on the Waterfront in East Perth before a game. The popular boardwalk bistro overlooks the water with magnificent views out to Optus Stadium.

Enjoy The Royal’s modern-Australian menu, craft beers and long wine list before taking the 10 minute scenic stroll over the Matagarup Bridge to Optus Stadium. If you’d never taken the walk over the bridge to the stadium with thousands of other passionate fans, it’s worth making it a priority on your trip to Perth.

The Royal East Perth

THE CAMFIELD

Just a hop, skip and a jump from Optus Stadium you’ll find Australia’s largest pub - The Camfield. A must-visit venue for anyone attending a game, The Camfield sits 100 metres from Optus Stadium overlooking the banks of the Swan River with picturesque 180-degree views of Claisebrook.

Boasting an impressive five bars, 175 beer taps, an onsite micro-brewery, a large beer garden with huge TV screen and container bar, and an extensive food menu sure to wet even the fussiest of appetites – it’s no surprise the Camfield has quickly cemented itself as a fan favourite for WA footy fanatics wanting to gather before and after the game.

The Camfield

With so many enticing options in and around Perth, game day in WA is about more than just footy. If you haven’t made the trip across the Nullarbor yet to experience the new Optus Stadium and all that Perth city has to offer, what are you waiting for?

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