Top things to do in Freo on the long weekend

Long weekends are best spent soaking in the vibe of Perth's ever-evolving Old Town. When did you last take a good look around Fremantle? If it’s been a while, now's the time to catch up with all that's new. Better extend that day trip!

Immerse yourself

Imagine that's your marina craft when you stay at Be Fremantle, in Fremantle's Waterfront

Sneak away with your loved one for a Downtown weekend getaway, or pack up the whole family for seaside break this long weekend. Move with the beat of the city at the Hougoumont Hotel or New Haus or experience old-meets-new at Warders Hotel – you'll be seconds away from hotspots like The Old Synagogue, Emily Taylor, and the Fremantle Markets. You could stay at The Esplanade and Quest apartments in historic West End, or admire sparkling water views from suites at Be. Fremantle.

Start your morning like a local

Dive into turquoise waters at Bathers Beach or South Beach, then surface for fresh coffee –  we've put together a list of cafes we know are trading or try your luck at your favourites. Linger over brunch. You can nap later.

Have a little browse (or treat yourself!)

In the city centre, you won't have to leave High Street to peruse jewellery, gifts, clothing and furniture. Explore the independent boutiques, chat with friendly retailers, and feel warm and fuzzy when your purchase puts a smile on their face – it's almost impossible not to support small business in Freo, when 80% of the city's shops are independently owned. Explore North Freo's antiques and jewellery shops, and find beautiful fashion and gift options in South Fremantle. Visit Harbour Plants or Stackwood for your green fix. Feeling bookish...browse two locations for Elizabeth's Secondhand Bookstores or wander through the West End bookstores including Paper Bird, New Editions or Bill Campbell. 

Get your game on

FOMO Freo's vintage-neon offerings include Strike Bowling and Holey Moley Mini Golf, along with a bar and games arcade. It's a pretty cool spot to while away an afternoon.

Grab a bite

Fremantle is a foodie’s paradise – bring your dog, bring your kids, there's something for everyone! Sample it all at the hawker style markets (Fomoto Kaiten Sushi, Mad Mex and Sinamon are new, plus Kokomo's Livid Skate across the road). Explore off-strip at Madalena's Bar or La Cabana in South Fremantle, or Jetty Bar and Eats on the river. Quirky cafes like Two Dogs Laughing, Tinsmith Garage and The Cool Room are real Freo finds.

Grab a cold one

Downtown Freo is brimming with new watering holes and The Flaming Galah, Patio Bar and Sailing for Oranges are close enough to stop into them all. Gage Roads transformed Victoria Quay’s A Shed into a brewpub on the port this time last year and it hasn't looked back! It’s vast, with a ‘beach shack’ feel, and has become a local favoutite. Also repurposed is the grand Old Courthouse, now a bar and eatery with an enclosed pavilion and garden. Head to North Freo to get amongst the beachy cool vibes at Al Lupo. Some of Perth's best bars are in Freo.

Did you think we meant ice cream? Treat yourself at Chicho Gelato. And don't skip the chocolate sauce! Or find Mr Soft Serve at Port Beach Carpark from 10 am (look for the pink van!)

Embrace nightfall

Golden hour's pretty special in the port city. Perch up at the National Hotel's rooftop bar for a sundowner with epic 180 degree views. (Visit the Staircase Gallery en route, for an incidental art fix.) Whether it’s dinner on the strip, a gig at Freo.Social, a bookshop and gelato crawl or a nightcap at a gin bar – or all of it, no judgement – home is just a stroll away once you’ve called it a night.

WHAT'S ON THIS LONG WEEKEND

SAT 4 MARCH

• Beach Yoga at South Beach
• Street Eats Limitless Lunch and Cocktails
• Comedy Lounge Fremantle
• Comedy Shack at Sonar Room
• Jolly Roger Rock Festival at Port Beach Brewery

SUN 5 MARCH

• La Festa Italiana
• Sunday Music at Fremantle Arts Centre
• Weekend brunch at Jetty Bar
• Freo Farmers Market at Bruce Lee Oval

ALL WEEKEND

• Fremantle Markets
• WA Maritime Musem
• WA Shipwreck Museum
• Fremantle Prison
• Visit an exhibition at Fremantle Arts Centre, Japingka or Moores Building
• E Shed Markets