The modern commercial city centre looks over the main Flag Market and contains the main shopping and nightlife areas. The city centre has major retail chains alongside boutique independent shops. The high street has been pedestrianised and features many individual boutiques, specialist stores, inviting cafés and local businesses. It is home to the St George’s Shopping Centre, an all-weather indoor shopping complex with a department store and a variety of other outlets. The streets leading off the main thoroughfare offer a wide range of shops and services. The city also boasts a historic covered market with a mix of traditional stalls and independent traders in its Victorian-era setting. There are a wide variety of restaurants and coffee shops throughout the city and, of course, Preston offers a great selection of classic Northern dishes, including butter pie and fish and chips.

Avenham and Miller Parks have traditionally been the more peaceful end of the city and are popular spots for relaxing walks and events. The parks feature sweeping views of the River Ribble, landscaped gardens, and Victorian pavilions, hosting festivals and live performances throughout the summer months. The Ribble Steam Railway is a heritage railway that runs along the docklands and offers scenic rides with views of the River Ribble and historic railway stock. The route passes the Ribble Steam Museum, which showcases engines and exhibitions year-round.

The Guild Hall hosts many events throughout the year including concerts, comedy nights and conferences. The complex includes the Grand Hall which seats around 2,000 people and regularly features live entertainment, including music tours, stand-up shows, and cultural events. The Charter Theatre is a smaller, intimate venue that stages local productions and seasonal shows. The Guild Hall also contains flexible event spaces for weddings, exhibitions, and corporate gatherings. The city is also home to The Harris, a cultural hub undergoing major transformation, and the Preston Playhouse Theatre, which hosts a variety of amateur and touring performances throughout the year.