Elizabeth Quay is a brilliant place to visit in Perth. And with new venues, pop up festivals and attractions, there is always something visit to see. Even a simple walk around the quayโs boardwalks, bridge and promenades are packed full of art and sculptures. This year will mark the opening of the Ritz Carlton hotel too โ whoโs keen for some afternoon tea?! Thereโs an ever-expanding list of things to do here and at Barack Street Jetty, check out our guide to the best ways to spend a few hours at Elizabeth Quay.
See and Do
The Bridge
A trip to Elizabeth Quay isnโt complete without a walk on the curved suspension bridge. The spectacular architectural feature is a popular spot to take a photo towards the city and is even more stunning when lit up at night.
Bell Tower
You can try your hand at chiming bells at The Bell Tower! One of Perthโs most recognisable buildings is home to a fascinating exhibition, viewing of the belfry, as well as a collection of ancient bells from all around the world.โฏFrom the bell towerโs observation deck you have a great view of the Swan River, Elizabeth Quay and Perth city.
Venetian Carousel
The beautifully hand crafted Venetian Carousel, features over a dozen prancing horses with feather plumes. The breathtaking Italian scenes, dazzling lights and enchanting music make this a moving piece of art. Both grandkids and the young at heart will love to take a ride.
Read the Seniorocity review here.
Public Art
There are many public art installations at EQ, from sculptures to mosaics. โFirst Contactโ which to some resembles a penguin on a boat. Made in cast aluminium artwork by renowned indigenous artist, Laurel Nannup the work depicts the arrival of European settlers to Perth. โSpandaโ the 29 meter tall, white sculpture which resembles ripples on water. Next to The Island is a bronze statue of Bessie who lobbied for conservation if the Swan River. Head over to Barrack Square where youโll also find the โSignature ringโ.
Tours
A number of tours operate in and around Elizabeth Quay. There’s gondola ride on the river, Segway tours, Noongar tours and many of the tourist bus tours, like the red double decker busses stop here.
Eat
The Island
This casual family restaurant, found in the historic Florence Hummerston Kiosk, is well worth stopping at for breakfast or lunch. The spot found on Elizabeth Quayโs โislandโ is home to a microbrewery, restaurant, garden bar and pizzeria. Our tip โ find a table outside and enjoy views over the water to the city skyline.
Read the Seniorocity review here.
Gusto Gelato
A stroll around Elizabeth Quay isnโt complete without enjoying a scoop of Gusto Gelato. Their creamy, freshly madeโฏgelato is absolutely scrumptious! Thereโs plenty of seating, on the candyโฏcolouredโฏstools, most of which is undercover.
Amberjacks
A relatively new addition to Elizabeth Quay is an outlet of Cottesloe favourite Amberjacks. Found opposite the ferry terminal, this take away seafood spot has a few tables outside to enjoy some fresh fish n chips.
V Burger
V Burger, found at the city end of the quay, is also more of a kiosk than a restaurant, thereโsโฏa little seatingโฏoutsideโฏwith most tables undercover. The gourmet burgers are delicious, making it a great option for a casual meal at Elizabeth Quay.
The Lucky Shag
A popular watering hole at Barrack Street Jetty for tasty pub grub with a view over the Swan River. Their outdoor deck is right on the river and a wonderful place to sit on a sunny day.
Read the Seniorocity review here.
Other dining options include The Revely, The Oyster Bar and plenty more options at Barrack Street Jetty.
Getting There
Public Transport
The Elizabeth Quay Train Station and Busport are just across the road. A CAT bus stop is also found at Barrack Street Jetty. A fun way to arrive is via the TransPerth Ferry. Itโs also the cheapest way of viewing the city from the Swan River. The ferry departs from Mends Street Jetty, South Perth regularly.
Read the Seniorocity review here.
Little Ferry Co.
The Little Ferry Co departs from Claisebrook Cove in East Perth. The leisurely cruise to Elizabeth Quay takes around 40 minutes, taking in the sights of the Swan River and the Skipper also gives an interesting commentary along the way.
By Car
There is limited, short term street parking found at Barrack Street Jetty. The closest large car parks are found at Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre and Perth Concert Hall.
Grandkids
BHP Billiton Water Park
The BHP Billiton Water Park at Elizabeth Quay is a huge, interactive water feature. Featuring fountains, mist and puddles to splash around in and a mosaic floor that is inspired by the Noongar people. There are toilets and changing facilities close by too.
At the maritime-themed Island playground little pirates can ring the bell, walk the plank or keep a look out in the crowns nest in the three-storey climbing tower, which also features nets, a slide, nest swing and rope bridges.โฏ Thereโs a shady sandpit too. Children can pump the water to create a stream, in the very popular water play area.
So whether youโre visiting Elizabeth Quay for a bite to eat, a little culture, with your family or to simply see the sights โ thereโs plenty to fit into your day!
Find more things to do in Perth here.
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- S&R Orchard Blossom Festival, Walliston - September 4, 2024
- Things to do with Grandchildren in the Perth School Holidays - July 4, 2024
- S&R Orchard Autumn Festival, Walliston - May 17, 2024
- Where to Buy Indoor Plants in Perth - November 3, 2023
- Burns Beach Twilight Markets - November 2, 2023
- Perthโs Best Waterfalls - September 14, 2023
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[…] We had a delightful two hours at Elizabeth Quay. We walked a full loop around and over the bridge, enjoyed a ride on the beautiful Elizabeth Quay Carousel and even stopped for a tasty lunch at The Island. See the Seniorocity to Elizabeth Quay here. […]