Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is a vibrant city with stunning beaches, a lively food scene, and plenty of outdoor adventures. If you’re exploring the city’s cultural landmarks, taking a day trip to Rottnest Island, or enjoying its nightlife, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Perth.
Things to Do in Perth
1. Explore Kings Park and Botanic Garden
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One of the largest inner-city parks in the world, Kings Park offers breathtaking views of Perth’s skyline, Swan River, and Darling Range. Walk through the Lotterywest Federation Walkway, a treetop bridge that provides stunning panoramic views, or enjoy a relaxing picnic among native wildflowers.
- Location: Fraser Ave, Perth
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7
- Entry Fee: Free
2. Visit Elizabeth Quay
Elizabeth Quay is a modern waterfront precinct filled with restaurants, bars, and attractions. Take a cruise along the Swan River, visit the Bell Tower, or simply relax by the water.
- Location: The Esplanade, Perth
- Opening Hours: Always open
- Entry Fee: Free (some attractions may charge fees)
3. Enjoy Perth’s Beautiful Beaches
Perth is known for its pristine beaches, perfect for swimming, surfing, and sunset watching.
- Cottesloe Beach – Great for swimming, snorkeling, and stunning sunsets.
- Scarborough Beach – Popular for surfing, nightlife, and beachfront bars.
- City Beach – Ideal for a quiet day by the ocean with beachside dining.
4. Take a Day Trip to Rottnest Island
Home to the famous quokka, Rottnest Island is a paradise for nature lovers. Rent a bike, explore white sandy beaches, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.
- Location: 19 km off Perth’s coast
- How to Get There: Ferry from Fremantle, Perth, or Hillarys Boat Harbour
- Ferry Price: From $39 AUD (one-way)
5. Discover Fremantle & Fremantle Markets
Fremantle is a historic port town with a vibrant atmosphere, famous for its markets, colonial architecture, and craft breweries.
- Top Attractions: Fremantle Prison (UNESCO site), Fremantle Markets, Little Creatures Brewery
- Location: 10 minutes from Perth CBD
- Market Opening Hours: Friday – Sunday, 9 AM – 6 PM
6. Visit Perth Zoo
A great place to see Australian wildlife up close, including kangaroos, koalas, and Tasmanian devils. The zoo also features animals from Africa, Asia, and South America.
- Location: 20 Labouchere Rd, South Perth
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM daily
- Entry Fee: $34 AUD (adults), $17 AUD (children)
7. Experience Swan Valley – Perth’s Wine Region
Just a short drive from Perth, Swan Valley is home to some of Australia’s best wineries, breweries, and gourmet food producers.
- Top Wineries: Sandalford Wines, Houghton Wines
- Other Attractions: Chocolate factories, cheese tastings, craft breweries
- Location: 25 km from Perth CBD
- Cost: Free to visit, tasting fees apply
8. Visit Perth’s Museums & Cultural Attractions
For history and art lovers, Perth has several must-visit museums.
- WA Museum Boola Bardip – Showcasing Western Australia’s history and culture.
- Art Gallery of WA – Featuring Indigenous and contemporary art.
- Scitech – An interactive science museum, perfect for families.
- Location: Perth Cultural Centre, Northbridge
- Entry Fee: Some free, others charge entry fees
9. Take a Cruise on the Swan River
Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Swan River, with beautiful views of Perth’s skyline, Kings Park, and South Perth. Wine cruises to Swan Valley are also a popular option.
- Departure Locations: Barrack Street Jetty or Elizabeth Quay
- Cost: From $30 AUD per person
10. Enjoy the Nightlife in Northbridge
Northbridge is Perth’s main entertainment district, known for its lively bars, nightclubs, and restaurants.
- Popular Spots:
- The Bird – Live music and casual atmosphere.
- Ezra Pound – A speakeasy-style bar with great cocktails.
- Brass Monkey – A classic Perth pub.
- Location: North of the CBD
- Best Time to Visit: After 7 PM
11. Explore the Pinnacles Desert (Day Trip)
Located in Nambung National Park, this unique landscape features thousands of limestone formations rising from the sand. Best visited at sunrise or sunset for incredible photography opportunities.
- Location: Nambung National Park, 200 km from Perth
- Entry Fee: $15 AUD per vehicle
12. Swim with Dolphins in Rockingham
A once-in-a-lifetime experience where you can swim alongside wild dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Location: 45 minutes south of Perth
- Tour Price: From $205 AUD per person
13. Hike in John Forrest National Park
One of Western Australia’s oldest national parks, featuring waterfalls, scenic walking trails, and diverse wildlife.
- Best Trail: Eagle View Walk Trail (15 km loop with stunning scenery)
- Location: 30 km east of Perth
- Entry Fee: $15 AUD per vehicle
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Perth
1. What are the top attractions to visit in Perth?
Some of Perth’s must-visit attractions include:
- Kings Park and Botanic Garden
- Elizabeth Quay
- Fremantle and Fremantle Markets
- Cottesloe Beach
- Rottnest Island
- Swan Valley wine region
- Perth Zoo
- The Pinnacles Desert
2. What are some free things to do in Perth?
If you’re exploring on a budget, consider:
- Walking through Kings Park and Botanic Garden
- Relaxing at Perth’s stunning beaches like City Beach and Scarborough Beach
- Strolling along Elizabeth Quay
- Visiting the Art Gallery of Western Australia
- Exploring Fremantle and its historic streets
- Hiking in John Forrest National Park
3. What is the best time of year to visit Perth?
Perth is great to visit year-round, but the best time is:
- Spring (September–November) – Beautiful wildflowers bloom, making Kings Park especially scenic.
- Summer (December–February) – Ideal for beach visits, outdoor dining, and festivals.
- Autumn (March–May) – Milder weather and fewer crowds.
- Winter (June–August) – Cooler but still enjoyable, with whale-watching opportunities.
4. How do I get to Rottnest Island from Perth?
You can reach Rottnest Island by:
- Ferry from Fremantle, Hillarys Boat Harbour, or Barrack Street Jetty in Perth.
- Prices start from around $39 AUD one-way.
5. Where can I see Australian wildlife?
You can see kangaroos, koalas, and other native animals at:
- Perth Zoo – A great spot to see Australian and international wildlife.
- Caversham Wildlife Park – Offers interactive experiences like feeding kangaroos.
- Yanchep National Park – Home to koalas and wild kangaroos.
- Penguin Island – Visit to see little penguins in their natural habitat.
6. Is The City a good destination for families?
Yes! Family-friendly activities include:
- Perth Zoo
- Scitech (an interactive science museum)
- AQWA (Aquarium of Western Australia)
- Swan Valley’s chocolate factories and wildlife parks
- Hillarys Boat Harbour with safe swimming areas
7. Where can I find the best food in Perth?
- Northbridge – A mix of international cuisine and trendy cafés.
- Elizabeth Quay – Waterfront dining with beautiful views.
- Fremantle – Famous for fresh seafood and artisan food markets.
- Swan Valley – Wineries, gourmet food, and farm-to-table experiences.
Final Thoughts
Perth is an exciting city with a mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures. If you’re a beach lover, history buff, or foodie, you’ll find plenty of things to do in this incredible destination.
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