You've been on a couple of traditional drinks and dinner dates, things are going well and it's time to step things up a little and show your date you've still got some tricks up your sleeve. Luckily there are plenty of things to do in and around Perth that will make your date think you're oh-so-creative and clever and not at all like their boring ex who just wanted to watch Netflix all the time.
Here are 10 of the best dates in Perth that aren't dinner and drinks.
Stroll Through Perth’s Galleries
Whether you're into art or not, there’s something pretty romantic about strolling through gallery exhibitions and soaking up the cultural sights with someone. Plus, they also provide plenty of great conversation starters along the way—yay for avoiding those nervous awkward silences. To really make a day of it, kickstart your date at the Art Gallery of WA then wander over to Perth Institute of Contemporary Art before topping it off with a glass of wine and an epic grazing board at Picabar.
Get Jazzy With It
For a rainy date night that you don’t just want to spend in: go straight to the Jazz Cellar. Park up with a pizza, BYO vino and then dance your absolute heart out to the most intimate, lively jazz you’ll experience in Perth. Or, why not stop by the Ellington Jazz Club or Pooles Temple for something a little more sultry? They're both open 'til the early morning, so you could hit them all in one night. And if you're down Freo way, hit up the Duke of George.
Indulge In A Boujee Staycay
With a quick trip to Bali off the cards, there’s never been a better time to become a tourist in your own city with a staycay in some of Perth’s best hotels. From boutique beauties such as Quay Perth, the unmatched heritage charm, and sophistication of the COMO The Treasury or the uber-trendy Alex Hotel, there’s no denying Perth has an irresistible selection on offer.
Go For A Hike
For those that have half a day and don’t mind going on a little mission, Serpentine Falls is less than an hour east of Perth and a pretty beautiful way to spend a day getting to know someone. Bring some snacks and a pair of runners (and a pair of bathers if you’re keen for a quick dip) and hike one of the three trails. We recommend the Kitty Gorge Walk as it only takes a few hours to do the return trip, which means you should still have enough time to grab a post-hike bevvie at Millbrook Winery if you want to keep the date going a little longer.
Head To Rottnest
If you really want to impress the pants off your date, head straight to Rottnest. Hire a couple of bikes (or take your own) and ride around the island, making sure you tick off this list of awesome winter-appropriate things to do while you’re there. When you've had enough adventuring, head to the pub and grab a drink and a feed before jumping on the ferry to come home.
Check Out The Swan Valley
While drinking wine might not sound like a groundbreaking date idea, we reckon it counts if you head to the Swan Valley and make a day of it. If no one is willing to be designated driver, jump on the train with your bikes and check out the Swan Valley Heritage Cycle Trail. There are three routes ranging from four to 32 kilometres and you can go as quick or as slow as you like, but be sure to stop and enjoy some wine and local produce along the way. While you're out there, you should definitely check out our favourite Swan Valley Wineries.
Take A Chilled Sunday Drive
Pack a picnic, download a couple of playlists and set off on an adventure. Whether you drive up the coast or head to the hills, you'll have plenty of time for road trip sing-a-longs and endless chats—after all, it’s better you find out sooner rather than later if your road trip music taste doesn't align, right? If you’re not sure where to go, check out our fave scenic drives in WA.
Mix Up Your Mini Golf
It looks like regular mini-golf just won’t cut it in 2021, with Glowing Rooms' out-of-this-world mini-golf course, designed by two German artists using glow in the dark paint and 3D special effects. And then there’s Holey Moley, with its fabulous novelty courses and super fun cocktails making for plenty of playful date energy. Go on and get competitive—loser buys the next round of drinks.
Hit The Ice And Cosy Up
Throw on a beanie, embrace the winter chill and prepare to cosy up at one of Perth’s top ice rinks. We suggest hitting the Sunday social session because who can go past those disco lights and poppy DJ mixes—it’s just screaming out for some cute hand holding. If it all gets too much you can always grab some hot chocolates and cosy up on the sidelines. As to which rink to hit, we suggest you head to Cockburn Ice Arena—there's a rinkside bar attached so you can enjoy a well-earned post-skate beverage.
Have A Food-Loving Day At The Fremantle Markets
If you prefer to bond over your love of food but are looking for something a little more fun than the traditional dinner and drinks sitch, you can’t beat a day wandering around Freo markets, tasting your way from stall to stall. Come armed with an empty stomach and this hit list of all of our favourite spots and set out on your own special foodie adventure. Sharing is 100% encouraged.
If you'd prefer to keep it traditional, you can always work your way through Perth's best restaurants.
Image credit: Glowing Rooms