Events at metro city, Perth

What is Metro City

Metro City is a massive concert hall and multi-level nightclub located at 146 Roe Street in Northbridge, Perth, Western Australia. This venue, opened in 1996, was purpose-built as Perth’s premier “superclub” – a hybrid space for live music and clubbing on a grand scale. It boasts an impressive capacity of around 2,000 people, making it one of the largest dedicated nightclub and live music venues in Australia. Spread over three levels, Metro City features multiple entertainment zones under one roof, including balconies overlooking the main stage, an expansive dance floor, and even an open-air rooftop section for fresh air.

Metro City stands out for its state-of-the-art production and unique layout. The main stage is equipped with a giant LED screen backdrop and advanced lighting rigs that bathe the crowd in multi-colored lasers and visuals. A top-notch sound system delivers powerful audio throughout the venue, ensuring that whether you’re on the ground floor or up on the balcony, you’ll feel the music. Over the decades, countless concert-goers and clubbers have flocked here – it’s estimated that hundreds of thousands of patrons pass through Metro City’s doors each year. The venue has become an institution in Perth’s nightlife and live music scene, known for its electric atmosphere and the variety of events it hosts.

Metro City is more than just a big space – it’s a key part of the local cultural fabric. It regularly hosts events that cater to Perth’s diverse music tastes, from rock concerts and EDM raves to hip-hop nights. The venue’s ability to transform from a live concert setting into a thumping nightclub makes it notable. Many locals have fond memories of legendary gigs or wild club nights here, and it’s often a rite of passage for Perth’s young adults turning 18. In short, Metro City is a cornerstone of entertainment in Perth, offering a unique blend of concert-quality staging and nightclub energy all in one place.

Events and Shows at Metro City

Metro City’s events calendar is packed with a wide range of shows, reflecting its dual identity as both a live concert venue and a nightclub. On a typical month, you might see an international DJ spinning at a dance party one weekend, a heavy metal or hip-hop concert the next, and a themed club night in between. The venue is famous for its weekly club nights – historically, “Metro City Saturdays” have been a huge draw, with resident DJs playing the latest commercial EDM, house, and R&B hits to a full house of over 2,000 clubbers. These Saturday club nights often feature special themes or guest DJs and come complete with dancers, confetti blasts, and a high-energy light show, making Metro City the go-to spot for a big night out.

Beyond the regular club nights, Metro City hosts numerous concerts and live performances throughout the year. Its stage has welcomed internationally acclaimed artists across genres. Legendary rock and metal acts have played side shows here (Marilyn Manson famously rocked Metro City during an Australian tour), and the venue has been a stop for many hip-hop and rap artists visiting Perth. EDM and electronic music events are especially common – global DJs and producers like Porter Robinson, Duke Dumont and others have headlined massive dance events at Metro City, treating fans to festival-level production in an indoor setting. The venue also partners with promoters to put on special events such as Ministry of Sound dance parties, trance music festivals, and throwback nights. One weekend might see a nostalgic ‘90s dance anthem night, while another could host a cutting-edge techno showcase.

Events at Metro City occur year-round. Major international artist tours and national tours often include a Perth stop at Metro City if their draw fits the ~2,000 capacity range. These shows typically happen on Friday or Saturday nights, but midweek concerts occur too, especially for touring bands on tight schedules. In addition, Metro City has occasionally served as a venue for non-musical events – for example, the space has been known to host live boxing matches and MMA fight nights, taking advantage of its layered viewing areas for spectators. No matter the event, the frequency is high: expect something big happening at Metro City almost every week.

Ticket prices vary depending on the event. For weekly club nights or local DJ events, entry is often around $10–$20 at the door, sometimes with free or discounted entry before a certain time. For larger-scale concerts and international acts, ticket prices generally range from about $40 up to $100+ for premium or VIP options. Metro City’s diversity is also reflected in its recurring events. Besides the standard Saturday club party, there are often one-off themed nights – for example, “retro” music nights, university student parties, or cultural festival after-parties. These unique events give Metro City its vibrant character. Fans of all music genres keep an eye on Metro City’s upcoming event listings because the venue consistently brings a mix of world-renowned artists and popular local performers. Whether you’re into rock, electronic dance music, hip-hop, or R&B, chances are Metro City has a show for you at some point in the year.

Getting Tickets

Tickets for Metro City events can be purchased through official channels and are usually available as soon as a show is announced. The best place to buy tickets is via authorized online ticket outlets or the official Metro City website’s links. For big-name concerts and festival-style events, tickets can sell out quickly due to the venue’s moderate capacity, so it’s wise to act fast once sales open. Signing up for Metro City’s newsletter or following their event announcements can give you a heads-up on when tickets go on sale. Many international tours have presales or early-bird tickets; grabbing those is a good strategy for popular shows that might otherwise sell out in minutes.

Ticket pricing at Metro City depends on the event type. Small local gigs or club nights may be as low as $10-$15 entry (sometimes even free for early arrivals), whereas international concerts will typically be higher. Expect to pay around $50-$80 for mid-tier touring artists and $100 or more for VIP packages or big festival-headliner acts. Prices are usually listed in advance, including any booking fees, so you can budget accordingly. It’s often cheapest to buy in advance online. While Metro City does have a box office at the venue, it generally only opens on event nights for door sales and ticket pick-ups – and only if the event isn’t already sold out.

If you’re trying to score tickets to a hot show at Metro City, some practical tips apply. First, be online right when tickets officially go on sale; high-demand events can sell out the same day. It helps to create an account with the ticketing provider beforehand and save your payment details for a quicker checkout. For less high-profile events or club nights, you can usually purchase at the door. However, door sales are first-come, first-served and often cost a bit more than advance tickets. Last-minute tickets might be available if a show isn’t sold out – checking Metro City’s social media or calling the venue on the day of the event can confirm availability. Beware of scalpers or third-party resellers, as Metro City enforces ticket scanning and will only honor valid tickets from official sources. Overall, plan ahead for big events, but know that for many regular club nights you can decide to go on the spur of the moment and pay at the door without hassle.

Best Seats and Viewing Areas

Metro City’s layout is general admission (standing room) for almost all events, but its multi-level design offers a variety of viewing experiences. There isn’t a traditional seated auditorium arrangement – instead, you have a sprawling ground floor in front of the stage and two additional tiers of balconies encircling the space. The main floor puts you closest to the stage and performers. If you want to be in the thick of the action – dancing or moshing right in front of the band/DJ – arrive early to claim a spot on the ground level by the stage. The energy on the floor is intense, and you’ll be shoulder to shoulder with other fans, especially during sold-out shows.

For those who prefer a bit of elevation or personal space, the balcony levels are ideal. Metro City’s second level features a balcony that runs around the perimeter, offering an excellent vantage point of the stage from above. From the balcony rail, you get a full view of the performance and the crowd below – great for taking in the impressive light shows and seeing the performer without having to peer over taller people. The sound up on the balconies is still powerful and clear, and many concert-goers say these spots strike a nice balance between atmosphere and comfort. There are also bars on the balcony levels, so you can watch the show with a drink in hand and minimal interruption.

VIP and special viewing areas are available as well. Metro City often offers VIP booth packages, which include a reserved spot on an upper level. The VIP sections (such as the glass-enclosed VIP bar on the second floor) provide plush booth seating and an unobstructed view of the stage from above. These areas are perfect if you have a group and want a more exclusive, comfortable experience – you’ll have a place to sit, your own space to dance, and sometimes dedicated bottle service. Capacity in VIP areas is limited (a booth might seat around 8-12 people comfortably), and these packages usually must be booked in advance. They’re popular for birthdays or special celebrations on club nights.

While Metro City doesn’t have numbered seats, there are still a few insider tips for picking your spot. If sound quality is your priority, positioning yourself near the middle of the venue, a few meters back from the stage (or near the sound mixing desk if you can locate it), often provides the most balanced audio. If you need a breather from the crowd, head to the top level: the third floor has a small open-air “sky bar” balcony. From there you can still hear the music and catch glimpses of the stage while getting some fresh air – a unique viewing spot not found in many venues. One thing to note: areas directly under the balconies on the ground floor can have slightly obstructed views of the stage and a muffled sound, so those spots are less ideal unless you’re just there to dance and don’t mind not seeing every moment of the performance. In general, arrive early if you have a particular favorite spot in mind. On busy nights, the best balcony railing positions and floor spots fill up quickly. The good news is that Metro City was designed for visibility – despite its large capacity, it manages to maintain fairly good sightlines from most areas, making every spot “pretty good” compared to many concert halls.

Getting to Metro City

Metro City is conveniently located on the fringe of Perth’s CBD, in the Northbridge entertainment district. The exact address is 146 Roe Street, Northbridge, WA 6003. If you’re unfamiliar with Perth, Northbridge is the nightlife hub just north of the city’s central train station – so Metro City is essentially in the city center, just across the railway line from the CBD. It’s easy to reach no matter what mode of transport you choose.

By public transport: The venue is a short walk from Perth’s main train stations. If you take a train to Perth Station or the connected Perth Underground, you can walk to Metro City in about 5 minutes. Simply exit the station toward Roe Street/Yagan Square and head west along Roe Street – you’ll see the large Metro City building with its signage and lights. Perth Busport (the city’s primary bus station) is also very close – only a 2-3 minute walk through Yagan Square brings you to Roe Street right near Metro City. Numerous bus routes from the suburbs terminate at the Busport, meaning you can get to the venue easily by bus in the evenings. Additionally, Perth has free CAT buses in the central area; the Blue CAT route has stops in Northbridge, so you could hop on a free bus from other downtown spots and hop off near the venue (for example, near Francis or Aberdeen Street, then walk a couple of blocks to Roe St).

Parking options: While driving to Northbridge is an option, be aware that weekend nights can be busy and parking fills up. There is no on-site parking lot specifically for Metro City, but there are several public car parks within a short walk. The City of Perth operates a multi-storey car park at 68 Roe Street (about 1 block away), which is one of the most convenient choices. In the evenings (after 6 pm) this garage offers a flat night rate – typically around $5 to $10 for the entire night – which is quite reasonable if you’re staying out late. Another nearby option is the open-air lot or garage at James Street or at the State Library/Cultural Centre precinct a few minutes away. Expect to pay hourly rates (around $4-6 per hour early evening) up to a maximum nightly cap. It’s usually easy to find a spot before 8 pm, but later at night prime lots may fill, so allow a bit of extra time if driving.

Rideshare and drop-off: Taking a rideshare (Uber, Ola, DiDi, etc.) or taxi is a popular, hassle-free way to get to Metro City, especially if you plan to drink. The drop-off point is typically right in front of the venue on Roe Street. However, on particularly busy nights the traffic on Roe Street can back up with many cars doing drop-offs and pick-ups. To avoid congestion, some drivers choose a nearby side street like Lake Street or James Street for drop-off, which is just around the corner. When you’re leaving late at night, you’ll find plenty of rideshare cars and taxis in the area, although you might have to be patient as many people request rides around the same time after the venue closes.

Walking and accessibility: If you’re staying in a hotel in the city center or Northbridge, walking to Metro City is very doable. From the central Perth CBD, it’s roughly a 10-15 minute walk via the pedestrian overpass at Yagan Square or via William Street over the Horseshoe Bridge. Northbridge is a lively area at night, so there will likely be lots of people around as you walk. The streets are well-lit, and routes to the venue are straightforward. As always, if you’re walking late at night, it’s best to travel in a group or at least stick to main streets like Roe Street which remain fairly busy and have security patrols on weekends.

What to Expect Inside

Walking into Metro City, you should be prepared for a **big night experience**. The first thing you’ll encounter is the security and entry process. Metro City takes security seriously – expect to line up at the entrance where professional security staff will check IDs (you must have valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport, as it’s an 18+ venue). They also enforce a bag check and pat-down for all entrants. In fact, going through Metro City’s door can feel a bit like airport security: you’ll likely pass through a metal detector and have any bags briefly inspected. This thorough entry procedure is in place to ensure everyone’s safety inside. It moves relatively quickly since multiple security lanes and staff are usually on hand, but it’s wise to arrive a little early to account for possible lines, especially before a sold-out show or around 11 pm on club nights when many people arrive at once.

Once you’re inside, the venue opens up into a striking multi-story club space. The atmosphere and ambiance are energetic and modern. Metro City’s interior is dark with flashes of neon and LED glow. The ground floor is dominated by the main stage at one end, which is large enough to support full band setups or elaborate DJ booths. During concerts, you’ll see instruments, amplifiers, and the artist’s backdrop on stage; during club nights, the stage might feature the DJ decks and sometimes costumed dancers or performers enhancing the show. Above the stage, a massive LED screen often displays visuals, graphics, or live camera feeds of the performance, adding to the immersive environment. When the music is pumping, lights strobe and sweep across the dance floor, and the whole venue feels like it’s pulsing to the beat. It’s loud (as you’d expect) and incredibly lively – people dancing, singing along, and enjoying themselves across all three levels.

Facilities and amenities are plentiful throughout Metro City. There are several bars inside so you won’t stay thirsty. On the main floor near the stage you’ll find quick-service bars (for example, one bar is right in the thick of the action at center floor, and additional bars flank each side of the venue). Upstairs on the balcony levels, more bars await – including themed bars in different areas. For instance, there’s a dedicated R&B lounge area on one of the levels where the music can be slightly different (more hip-hop/R&B focused) and the vibe is more relaxed and lounge-like. On the top tier, you’ll discover Metro City’s famous Sky Bar, which is an outdoor balcony space. The Sky Bar is essentially a semi-open smoking area and chill-out zone. It’s a great spot to catch a breath of fresh air, cool down from dancing, and chat without the full blast of music – all without leaving the venue. Despite being outdoors, you’re still technically inside the club compound, and a bar up there serves drinks so you can take a cocktail under the night sky. This mix of environments – from high-energy dance floor to mellow rooftop hangout – is part of what makes Metro City’s interior unique.

Metro City also boasts some fun extras that you might not expect in a typical concert venue. It has an Arcade Bar area where you can actually play a few games. Tucked in one of the upper floors, this area features arcade machines (in the past it even included games like Guitar Hero and a mini putt-putt golf setup). So if you need a break from the music or want to indulge in some playful competition with friends, you can seek out the arcade corner for a round of games. This kind of feature underscores that Metro City is an entertainment complex, not just a dance hall – there’s always something to explore on each level.

Food and drink: While Metro City primarily focuses on drinks, it’s good to know what’s available so you can plan your night. The bars serve a full range of beverages – from tap beers and ciders to spirits, cocktails, and shots. Expect typical nightclub prices (e.g. around A$10 for a basic beer, and more like $15-$18 for mixed drinks or cocktails). It’s wise to bring a bit of cash or ensure your card is enabled for contactless payments; all bars take cards and there are ATMs inside in case you need cash, but ATM queues can get long. As for food, the venue does not have a full kitchen or restaurant inside. You won’t find meal service, so it’s best to eat beforehand. At most, Metro City might offer some light snacks at the bar (occasionally packets of chips/crisps or nuts). They do however provide free water on request – by law in Australia, licensed venues must offer free drinking water, so you can ask for a cup of water at the bar or use water fountains if available to stay hydrated between dances.

Other amenities to note: Metro City provides a cloakroom / coat check service near the entrance. If you arrive with a jacket (common in winter) or a bag that you don’t want to carry, you can check it for a fee (usually around $5 per item). It’s highly recommended to use this service on busy nights, because dancing in a heavy coat is no fun and the inside of the venue gets warm quickly once the crowd builds. Restrooms are located on multiple levels of the venue – facilities are available on the ground floor and at least one of the upper floors. Look for signs or ask staff to find the nearest ones. The restrooms are large nightclub-style facilities; they can get quite busy during intermissions or peak clubbing hours, so expect a line for the ladies’ room at those times (the staff usually attend and keep things as clean as possible throughout the night).

If you’re attending a concert, there will often be merchandise stands set up inside, typically in the lobby or along the side walls away from the main dance area. Here you can buy artist T-shirts, tour posters, and other merch. It’s usually open before the show and after the main set, so you can grab souvenirs. Keep in mind it’s cash or card depending on the seller – having cash can be quicker. During concerts, in between opening acts or during a DJ changeover, you might want to step out to the Sky Bar or balcony for a break – that’s totally fine, but remember Metro City generally has a **no re-entry** policy if you leave the venue entirely. However, moving between floors and going to the outdoor balcony within the venue is fine. Lastly, note that **mobile phone reception** inside is decent but can sometimes get spotty when the venue is packed (all that concrete and electronic equipment can interfere a bit). Don’t count on Wi-Fi – there is no public Wi-Fi for guests, so any posting of Instagram stories will be using your phone’s 4G/5G signal. It’s a good idea to arrange a meeting spot with your friends (for example, “meet near the main bar to the left of the stage”) if you get separated, just in case phone service struggles in the middle of a pumping show. Overall, once inside Metro City, you can expect a full sensory experience: loud music, an excited crowd, lots of lights and visual effects, and plenty of conveniences (bars, restroom access, and chill-out spots) to keep you comfortable during the event.

Before and After the Show

One of the great things about Metro City’s location is the abundance of food and entertainment options nearby – perfect for before or after a show. If you want to grab dinner or a snack before heading into an event, Northbridge has you spoiled for choice. Just a block or two from Metro City is Perth’s Chinatown precinct on Roe Street and surrounding lanes, where you’ll find a variety of Asian eateries. Whether you’re in the mood for Japanese ramen, Chinese dumplings, Korean BBQ, or Vietnamese pho, there’s a restaurant close by. Many of these places stay open late (especially on Friday/Saturday nights), so you can even get a meal after the concert or club night ends. For quick bites, you have options like pizza slices, kebab shops, or fast-food outlets in the area – ideal to satisfy those post-club cravings. A popular late-night food spot is Old Shanghai, an open-air food court on James Street, where multiple vendors offer everything from fried rice to burgers often until late night.

If you’re looking for a drink or two before the show, or a nightcap after, Northbridge’s bar scene has something for everyone. You could start at one of the stylish small bars nearby – for example, there are craft beer pubs and cocktail lounges within a 5-minute walk. The **Brass Monkey** (a historic pub at William and James Street) is a well-known meeting point that’s been serving pints for decades, and it’s only a short stroll from Metro City. Other nearby options include ***Northbridge Brewing Company*** (which has an outdoor courtyard and house-brewed beers) or trendy bars like Ezra Pound (if you’re seeking a hip speakeasy vibe) – all within walking distance. After the show or club night, if you’re not ready to end the evening, you’ll find several late-night bars and clubs in Northbridge that remain open. In fact, Metro City is just one of many nightlife venues in the district. You might pop into a smaller club with a different music style, or relax in a quieter bar to chat about the concert you just saw.

For those coming from out of town or who simply want the convenience of staying overnight, there are hotels and accommodations within walking distance of Metro City. A notable one is the DoubleTree by Hilton Perth Northbridge on James Street (literally around the corner, roughly a 2-minute walk) – staying there practically makes Metro City your neighbor. There’s also the budget-friendly Perth City YHA (a hostel on Wellington Street) about 5 minutes away, which is great for backpackers. Another nearby boutique option is the Alex Hotel on William Street (near the Perth Cultural Centre), about 5-7 minutes walk – it’s very close and offers a hip, design-focused stay with a rooftop terrace. If you’re willing to walk 10-15 minutes, you can find even more options in the heart of the CBD just across the Horseshoe Bridge (hotels like the Ibis Perth or Mantra on Murray). Northbridge at night is generally lively and reasonably safe, but as with any entertainment district, keep your wits about you when walking late. Stick to main streets where people are around. Luckily, the path from Metro City to these nearby hotels is along well-trafficked roads.

When to arrive at Metro City largely depends on the event. For concerts with allocated door times, it’s smart to arrive at least 30 minutes before the doors open (which is typically an hour or so before the show starts). This gives you time to get through security and snag a good spot inside before the performance begins. Hardcore fans sometimes line up even earlier, especially if it’s a general admission big-name show and they want to be right up front. For club nights, the peak typically starts later – around 11 pm to midnight the dance floor gets packed. If you want to avoid waiting in a long queue outside, consider arriving on the earlier side of the night (around 9:30–10:00 pm) when doors have opened but the big rush hasn’t hit. Some club nights also offer discounted entry or free drinks for early arrivals, which is a bonus. After the show or club event, plan your trip home. Perth’s regular trains and buses wind down by around midnight, so late-night public transport is limited. There are usually “NightRider” buses or special services on Friday and Saturday late nights, but these routes are limited. Most people opt for rideshare or taxis post-midnight. Fortunately, with Northbridge being a focal point for nightlife, taxis often queue up on William Street and other main roads, and you can usually get an Uber or similar within a 5-10 minute wait. Just be patient and stay safe in the well-lit areas while you wait. If your accommodation is nearby, walking in a group is a good idea. All in all, arriving a bit early and giving yourself time to soak in the Northbridge atmosphere (maybe grab a bite or drink) will make your Metro City outing even more enjoyable, and you’ll have options to wind down or keep partying in the area even after the main event finishes.

What Makes Metro City Special

Metro City isn’t just another venue – it has several unique qualities that have cemented its legendary status in Perth. First is its architecture and design: unlike converted theaters or generic halls, Metro City was designed from the ground up as an entertainment powerhouse. Its multi-level, maze-like interior with bridges, terraces, and themed bars earns it comparisons to a “clubbing emporium.” Exploring the venue feels like discovering different zones – from the ground floor mosh pit to the upper sky bar lounge – each with its own vibe yet all part of the same experience. This dynamic layout is something few venues offer, and it means there’s always a fresh perspective or scene change available without even leaving the building.

Historic moments at Metro City are numerous. Over nearly three decades, it has been the site of gigs that local music fans still rave about. For example, when Soundwave (a major rock festival) came through Perth in the 2000s and 2010s, many of the festival’s bands played intimate side shows on Metro City’s stage – giving Perth audiences rare up-close encounters with international rock and metal acts. Electronic music enthusiasts recall legendary DJ sets in the 2000s during the rise of EDM – Metro City was often the only place in town capable of hosting these large-scale dance parties. From famous trance events like Godskitchen in 2006 that filled the venue with euphoria, to recent throwback extravaganzas like Ministry of Sound’s 90s reunion tour (which had the multi-level dancefloor absolutely heaving), Metro City has consistently delivered unforgettable nights. These events have generated a loyal following; many Perth locals will tell you about “that one epic night” they experienced at Metro City, whether it was seeing their favorite band up close or dancing until dawn with friends.

The cultural significance of Metro City to the community is also worth noting. It’s a venue that has given Perth a spot on the global tour map. Because of Metro City’s capacity and professional setup, artists who might have skipped Perth (due to the city’s relative isolation) often include it on their tour itinerary. This means Perth music fans get to see international acts without having to fly to the east coast – a big win for the local scene. Culturally, Metro City has been a melting pot: on any given night you’ll see an incredibly diverse crowd. People from all backgrounds – local Aussies, international students, tourists – all come together on its dance floor. In particular, Metro City has long been a favorite among Perth’s Asian community and other multicultural groups, especially on its club nights, making for an inclusive and vibrant atmosphere where everyone feels welcome to party.

Artists who perform at Metro City often remark on the energy of the venue. The crowd’s enthusiasm, combined with the club’s acoustics and production, creates a feedback loop of excitement. Performers have the benefit of a professionally run stage – the in-house production team is top-notch, ensuring crisp sound and dramatic lighting that can rival big arenas – but they also get the more intimate crowd interaction that a 2,000-capacity room allows. This reputation means Metro City is held in high esteem not only by local partygoers but by DJs, bands, and promoters as well. All these factors – cutting-edge facilities, rich history, community impact, and a bit of local lore – are what make Metro City a special place. It’s not just a venue, it’s an experience, one that has been an integral part of Perth’s nightlife identity for generations of concert lovers and clubbers.

Practical Tips

To make the most of your visit to Metro City, here are some practical tips and advice tailored for this venue:

Accessibility: Metro City’s multi-level layout does include elevators and ramps for those who need them. If you use a wheelchair or have mobility needs, it’s a good idea to reach out to the venue in advance or speak to security upon arrival – they can assist with accessing lifts to the balcony levels or finding a suitable viewing spot. The ground floor is accessible directly from the entrance (no stairs to get into the main floor area), and there are wheelchair-accessible restroom facilities on site. During very crowded events, navigating through packed standing-room floors can be challenging, so arriving early to secure a comfortable spot is wise. Metro City staff are generally helpful with accommodating guests who require a bit of extra assistance, but it never hurts to plan ahead and let them know your needs.

What to bring (and not to bring): Definitely bring a valid photo ID (passport, Australian driver’s license, or WA Proof of Age card) – no ID, no entry, regardless of age. Inside, it can get quite warm and active, so wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you can stand in for hours. If it’s a themed night or you’re celebrating something, feel free to dress up – just keep within the dress code (more on that shortly). Earplugs can be a smart item to bring if you’re sensitive to loud music; Metro City’s sound system is powerful, and protecting your hearing is never a bad idea. Do not bring any outside alcohol or beverages (security will confiscate them) – free water is available inside and drinks can be purchased at the bar. Large bags or backpacks are best left at home; if you must bring a bag, make it a small one. Bags will be searched at the entrance, and oversized bags might be required to be checked into the cloakroom. Obviously, any weapons or illicit substances are strictly forbidden and will get you turned away or worse. Also note that professional cameras (with detachable lenses) are not allowed unless you have media permission – a simple point-and-shoot or your smartphone is fine for personal photos, but leave the big camera gear behind.

Dress code: Metro City does enforce a dress code, particularly on club nights. The general rule is smart casual attire. For men, this typically means no singlets (tank tops), no thongs/flip-flops, no dirty work boots, and usually no sports shorts or overly baggy clothing. Sneakers may be allowed if they’re clean and stylish, but on popular nights the bouncers have been known to turn away guys in athletic trainers or gym shoes. It’s safest to opt for closed-toe shoes and a neat outfit – think jeans or nice pants and a collared shirt or fashionable t-shirt. For women, the code is a bit more relaxed, but essentially avoid extremely casual beachwear. Most ladies opt for trendy clubwear or neat casual dress. Hats and caps are often not permitted inside, so guys should remove those before lining up. During concerts (especially rock or metal shows), the dress code might be slightly more relaxed – you’ll see band tees, sneakers, etc., and that’s generally accepted. Still, it’s the door staff’s discretion, so if you’re unsure, err on the side of dressing a touch nicer. Once inside, comfort is key – wear something you can dance or move in easily.

Timing and arrival: To avoid common pitfalls, plan your timing. If you arrive right as a major event is starting, you might find yourself in a slow-moving entry queue and potentially miss the opening song or act. Aim to get there earlier than the start time; besides, it’s fun to soak up the pre-show atmosphere and explore the venue before it gets super packed. If you have general admission tickets for a popular show and want a prime spot, people often start lining up an hour or more before doors open. For club nights, if you’re part of a big group or just impatient with lines, consider getting in before 11 pm. Also, keep an eye on Metro City’s social media or event page for any updates – occasionally, set times or door times can change, and knowing those can help you schedule your night (for instance, some shows might start earlier on Sundays due to licensing hours).

During the event: Once inside, keep your essentials secure. Use the cloakroom for bulky jackets; it’ll make dancing and moving around easier. Drinks in hand on the dance floor is fine, but be mindful of spillage (for your sake and others’ – nobody likes slippery floors or a spilled drink on their shoes). It’s a good practice to designate a meeting spot with friends in case you get separated, like “meet near the upstairs bar by the arcade games if we lose each other.” Metro City is big and can be maze-like for first-timers, especially after a few drinks, so having a plan helps. If nature calls and you need the restroom during a busy concert, try to go during less crowded times (like mid-performance rather than right at intermission) to avoid long lines. And if the music is too loud, remember those earplugs or take a breather at the Sky Bar. For smokers, stick to the designated outdoor Sky Bar area – smoking isn’t allowed indoors, and that balcony is the only spot you can light up (besides stepping completely outside, but then you can’t re-enter).

Getting home safely: By the end of the night, you’ll likely be pretty pumped (and maybe a bit tired). As mentioned, plan your ride home beforehand. If you parked in a nearby garage, double-check the closing time or whether you need to pre-pay for after-hours exit (some car parks in Perth require pre-payment at a machine when staff aren’t present). If you’re using rideshare, consider walking a short distance away from the immediate venue front to make pickup easier – sometimes heading to a slightly quieter adjacent street can get your driver to you faster than trying to meet on Roe Street right outside Metro City amongst all the traffic. Make sure your phone has battery left for that Uber call or to coordinate with friends (bringing a small power bank is not a bad idea if you’ll be out late). And of course, if you’ve had a lot to drink, let the alcohol wear off before considering driving (which you shouldn’t do – leave the car and retrieve it the next day, or have a designated driver, or use those taxis/rideshares). Police do patrol the area for DUI enforcement, and more importantly, you want to stay safe.

Insider tidbits: For a smoother experience, be aware of a few extra things. Metro City often has multiple bars – if the main bar is five-deep with people, try another level; the bar on the top floor or in the side lounge might have a shorter queue for drinks. If you’re a fan of merchandise at concerts, hit the merch stand early if possible – the most popular T-shirt sizes can sell out quickly by night's end. Also, know that once the headlining act finishes a concert, Metro City staff may start ushering people out fairly promptly (especially if it’s a weeknight). So if you’re meeting a performer or friends, do it quickly or outside the venue. Finally, enjoy the moment! Metro City is one of those places where the crowd’s energy is contagious. Put your phone away for a bit, dance, make friends with the people dancing next to you, and soak in the fact that you’re experiencing live music or DJ sets in an iconic Perth venue. Following these practical tips will ensure you have a safe, fun, and memorable time at Metro City from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions