Last Updated on June 19, 2023
Perth may not be the most accessible city to get to, but it is most certainly worth the journey. Perth has so much going for it in terms of art, history and natural beauty. Here are the best 15 things to do when in Perth, Australia.
1. Kings Park
Being one of the world’s largest and most astounding inner-city parks, Kings Park will without a doubt take your breath away. Whether you want to wander the pathways of the botanical garden or admire the fantastic views of Swan and Canning River or simply enjoy the city’s skyline, Kings Park will definitely keep you occupied.
It is strategically positioned in a way where it overlooks the beautiful city and the glistening sky-blue waters of the Swan River, not only that but you can also see the many beautiful colored boats on the river, the sparkling city at night Perth Hills from a distance and the endless wonderful blue skies for which Perth is always praise for.
Kings Park has a display of 3000 types of Western Australian flora and is a well-known place for picnics, walks, cultural and ceremonial events.
2. Fremantle Prison
Take some time to learn and discover the hidden secrets that this prison has to offer. Fremantle prison originally opened in 1855 and remained operational until 1991.
It was then turned into a museum that offers guided tours. Like other prisons, Fremantle prison has seen its fair share of hangings, floggings and prisoner riots throughout its time.
In 2010, Fremantle Prison was put on the World Heritage List By Unesco, making it the first Western Australian built environment to attain this honor. Their ‘Torchlight Tour’ is an experience not to be missed if you enjoy the thrill of being told sordid and ghastly ghost stories in the dark.
3. Fremantle Markets
Dating back to 1897, the Fremantle Markets has over 150 stalls with its own uniqueness that is a must-see for all tourists and locals. If you’re looking for something other than the generic souvenirs, Fremantle Market is the place to be as they have authentic local produce or handicrafts.
It’s separated into two areas – the Yard, where you can find organic produce and fresh food and the Hall, where you’ll find some of the most creative and unique crafts.
It is a great place to bring your kids over whether it’s to play with Koalas or get they’re face painted or even meet fairies and be one. Apart from that, do not miss out on their exquisite wood-fired pizza and exceptional craft beer.
4. Perth Zoo
Gather your family and head over to the Perth Zoo, located just 5 minutes from the heart of the city. The zoo is home to over 1,300 species of animals and lush green habitats. Activities include feeding the giraffes at the African Savannah to watching an elephant show at the Asian Rainforest, the zoo has all that an animal lover could ask for.
5. The Bell Tower
Don’t let this spaceship-like building fool you, it is actually one of the world’s largest musical instruments. Inside this unique looking tower are 18 bells, 12 of which are from London’s St Martin In The Fields Church as a bicentenary gift to the people of Perth.
Tickets will grant you access to ancient art and fascinating exhibitions on the history of these bells. In addition, be sure to take in the scenic views of the city from the open-air observation deck that is on the 6th floor of the building.
6. Scitech Discovery Center
If you happen to have kids, then be sure to stop by Scitech Discovery Center. It is a family-friendly museum that exposes the young ones to the wonders of science, technology, and math through fun and interactive exhibits.
For instance, Discoverland is targeted for kids aged 3 to 7 with displays to showcase the basics of gravity, electricity, and electromagnetics. Older kids are able to enjoy movies and shows at the planetarium. From puppet shows to building zones, Scitech has more than enough activities to keep your little ones busy for the whole day.
7. St. Mary’s Cathedral
Having been constructed over three centuries ago, St. Mary’s Cathedral is one of the oldest Neo-Gothic churches in Australia.
The building’s sand-colored exterior is remarkable to look at and even today has stood the test of time since its construction in 1865.
The interior is just as exquisite, marble floors, wooden pews, and glass windows make for a warm and soothing ambiance for all visitors. At night, the cathedral takes on a new life with lights illuminating the cathedral making it ideal for pictures.
8. The Aviation Heritage Museum
The museum is home to some of the most remarkable collections of vintage aircraft. With over 30 different types of aircraft on display and countless other smaller flight memorabilia, the museum serves as a remembrance of what was throughout the history of aviation.
You don’t have to be an aviation junkie to be able to appreciate some of the aircrafts that are on display here, From the Lancaster Bomber to the Catalina Flying Boat, all of the aircrafts on display are in pristine condition.
9. The Perth Mint
The Perth Mint offers insights into the history of gold in Western Australia. The exhibition features the world’s largest coin that weighs an astonishing one tonne.
Besides this, be sure to check out liquid gold being turn into solid bars at the melting house. Guided tours are also available, that include a short film and interesting insights into the discovery of gold and how its use cases have changed over time. Before leaving, be sure to drop by the gift shops for some unusual souvenirs to take home.
10. Fremantle Arts Center
What was once an asylum for the criminally insane, is now is home to art and music. The center offers art exhibitions, live music, and even art courses for both locals and tourists alike.
It has always been a spot for people to come together to display their cultural ideas with other like-minded individuals. Be sure to check on the events that are taking place on its website so that you don’t miss out on the musical performances.
11. Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour
Hungry and craving for some seafood? Then head over to the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour for some of the best seafood around. Sit back relax and enjoy your 3-course lobster meal by watching the fishing vessels that are passing by the harbour. The Harbour is also home to a shipwreck gallery for you to check out once you are done with your meal.
12. John Forrest National Park
What is a trip to Australia without experiencing the Australian outback? Located just east of the city, the John Forrest National park is home to over 100 species of mammals and birds. The park is lush and green with a collection of waterfalls passing through.
The Eagle View Walk Trail offers a scenic view of the city of Perth on one side and the ocean on the other. The trail itself is a bushwalker’s dream, just be sure to pack on supplies and plan the route ahead beforehand.
13. Lake Monger
Is the hustle and bustle of the city too much? Then go for a walk around Lake Monger, a 70-hectare lake that features stunning views and is home to the beautiful black swan. 70-hectares might sound like a lot, but the walk around the park is an easy 3.8-kilometer paved route that should not take more than an hour to complete.
The iconic BHP Billiton Towers can be seen from the park. So get your family together, and spend some time in this amazing park.
14. Cottesloe Beach
Arguably the most popular beach in Perth, Cottesloe beach is known for it’s soft, white and pristine sand. The beach is clean and perfect for family picnics without the fear of the beach getting too crowded during the day.
There are plenty of pubs and food outlets that are open till midday so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own food. Activity wise, snorkeling and surfing are popular amongst the locals and tourists alike. So rent a surfboard and catch some waves at Cottesloe beach.
15. The Nostalgia Box
The Nostalgia Box is a video game museum that features a collection of video games and consoles dating back to the 1970s. Exhibits have been set up to show to chronological progression of the video games industry.
The museum is meant to be a stroll down memory lane for a lot of us adults. Have a look at some of the classics that Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo have released over the past 3 decades and see for yourself how classics like Zelda, Crash Bandicoot and Pong have stood up against newer titles from the current generation.
The museum truly is gamers heaven.
