Cuba Street

Wellington's bohemian heart featuring independent shops, vintage stores, quirky cafés, street art, and the cultural vibe that defines the capital's creative character. It's the best place to experience local culture, independent fashion, and Wellington's distinctive personality.

Things to do

• Browse Vintage and Independent Shops — Explore Cuba Street's eclectic mix of second-hand clothing stores, record shops, and indie boutiques that showcase local designers and unique vintage finds.
• Street Art Photography Walk — Photograph the vibrant murals and graffiti art covering building facades throughout Cuba Street, representing Wellington's thriving street art scene.
• Visit Circa Theatre — Catch contemporary theatre productions and experimental performances at this independent theatre company embedded in Cuba Street's cultural fabric.
• Coffee Culture Hopping — Sample Wellington's renowned specialty coffee culture by visiting multiple independent cafés along Cuba Street, each with their own roasting philosophy.
• Explore Starfish Gallery — View local contemporary art, independent design, and emerging artists' work in this street-level gallery space that exemplifies Cuba Street's creative spirit.
• Late-Night Bar Crawl — Experience Cuba Street's eclectic bar scene featuring craft cocktails, craft beer, and live music venues that stay open late into the evening.

Food to try

• Flat White Coffee — Order Wellington's signature espresso drink with velvety microfoam at any of the street's specialty coffee roasteries, a local obsession since the 1980s.
• Fresh Vietnamese Pho — Visit one of Cuba Street's Vietnamese restaurants for authentic slow-cooked bone broth pho reflecting Wellington's diverse Asian immigrant communities.
• Craft Beer Selection — Sample locally-brewed independent beers from Wellington craft breweries available on tap at Cuba Street's bars and bottle shops.
• Gourmet Burger — Try innovative burger creations from independent burger joints mixing local ingredients with creative flavour combinations unique to Wellington.
• Sweet Treats from Independent Bakeries — Pick up artisan pastries, vegan bakes, or locally-roasted chocolate from small independent bakeries scattered throughout the street.

Local customs & good to know

• Shop Local and Independent — Prioritise independent retailers over chain stores as Cuba Street's identity is built on supporting small local businesses and artists.
• Embrace the Bohemian Pace — Allow extra time for wandering and spontaneous discoveries rather than rushing, as Cuba Street rewards slow exploration and random conversations.
• Respect Street Art and Murals — Treat street art as legitimate public art rather than vandalism; these murals represent Wellington's creative expression and cultural identity.
• Evening is Prime Time — Visit Cuba Street in the evening when bars, galleries, and late-night venues come alive and the street's social and cultural energy peaks.