When you think of Western Australia, the first few things that come to mind include the unique wildlife on land and sea, otherworldly landscapes and magical sunsets. West Australians are also known for a love of sport and major events, so it’s no wonder that Optus Stadium is a well-frequented venue by locals and visitors alike.
The state-of-the-art, 60,000 seat Optus Stadium was unveiled in January 2018 and is a must-see when venturing to the west. Awarded the most beautiful sporting facility in the world by the Prix Versailles 2019, Australia’s best at the 2021 Stadium awards and most recently Perth’s Swan River-front events mecca has won Venue of the Year 2022 at The Stadium Business Awards.
What's on
Optus Stadium is a multi-purpose venue that hosts the biggest sporting events and musicians. Think AFL Grand Final, Manchester United Football Club, State of Origin, Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, U2, Chelsea Football Club, the All Blacks and England Rugby.
You can see what is on during your time in Perth by visiting the Optus Stadium event planner.
"Footy Season"
Close to the heart of most West Australians is AFL (or “footy,” as the locals call it). Not to be confused with soccer, gridiron or rugby – league or union variety - this fast-paced, high-energy game is played with the iconic oval ball. If you’re visiting between March and August, you’ll be able to enjoy the talents of the West Australian AFL home teams. As a two-team-town, the home crowds at West Coast Eagles or Fremantle Dockers games are passionate, loud and either draped blue and gold or a sea of purple - you certainly won’t miss them!
Where is Optus Stadium?
The stadium is in Burswood, on the banks of the stunning Swan River, and is connected to the CBD via the Matagarup Bridge, a 370-metre pedestrian footbridge. Named after the Whadjuk people’s traditional name for the land, Matagarup Bridge allows you to cross the river from East Perth right to the stadium entrance, symbolising a ‘coming together of diverse cultures’. Head over to Optus Stadium on game day and you’ll see the bridge lit up in the colours of the home team.
Optus Stadium
How to get there?
Optus Stadium is conveniently accessible via public transport, with a dedicated new train station right at its doorstop. Event buses run regularly, connecting you to where you need to go. You can plan your journey with Transperth online.
If you’re looking for something a bit different, pair your event day experience with a cruising adventure on a transfer with Captain Cook Cruises, Wild West Charters or Little Ferry Company.
Perth boasts balmy weather all year round, creating the perfect climate to meander along the Swan River and walk to Optus Stadium. The stadium is an easy stroll from the Crown precinct and East Perth.
Enhancing your Optus Stadium experience?
Amplify your visit with a full stadium tour with The OZONE, which will take you into the inner sanctum and behind the scenes of this prestigious building. For those who don’t mind heights, you can get your adrenalin hit with Optus Stadium’s HALO and VERTIGO rooftop experiences, a step above front-row seats, complete with see-through flooring. Warrang-Bridil also offers a cultural insight into the Optus Stadium precinct, walking with a Nyoongar guide on Country by the shores of the spectacular Derbal Yerrigan (Swan River).
Pre and post hotspots
With Northbridge, the city centre and Burswood precinct within minutes of Optus Stadium, you’re spoilt for choice when planning your pre and post-game activities.
You’ll find Market Grounds, The Royal, The Shoe Bar, The Globe, Long Neck Brewery and Blasta Brewery buzzing with eventgoers.
Northbridge is Perth’s central nightlife district with its range of cool bars and pubs including, Northbridge Brewing Co., sporting-themed Varsity Bar and The Standard for one of the city’s go-to rooftops.
Indulge at Crown Perth
Synonymous with luxury, the Crown complex is a mere 10-minute walk from Optus Stadium. The walk provides breathtaking views of Perth’s city skyline, and we recommend meandering down the river even if you’re staying elsewhere. Crown hosts a stunning range of dining options, with something to suit every taste bud and budget!
Plan a meal at a local pub or brewery
Crowned as the biggest pub in Australia, The Camfield, sits on Optus Stadium’s doorstep and boasts a micro-brewery, six bars on site and mouth-wateringly tasty woodfire pizzas. Always packed with event goers, make sure you get in early to secure your seat and enjoy the buzz.
The Camfield at Optus Stadium
Head over to East Perth for local hotspots like brewery Bright Tank Brewing Co (you can’t go past the Chef’s ‘Feed Me’ menu!) or for something a bit different, we suggest a tasting at Whipper Snapper Distillery. Whatever you’re planning, your choices are endless!