Looking for things to do in Perth?
Explore the Perth CBD
If you’re looking for things to do in Perth than exploring the Perth CBD is a must when you’re visiting Western Australia. Perth is known as being one of the quieter capital cities in WA but there is a lot to do if you know where to look. Spend a day shopping in the Murray and Hay Street Malls followed by a trip to Watertown, a direct factory outlet. With more unique shops and bars opening up all the time, what are you waiting for.. #GoExplore!
Elizabeth Quay
Perth’s newest development is the waterfront project Elizebeth Quay which opened in Janurary 2016. The development is designed to reconnect the city with the Swan River. While still under construction, there is plenty to do at the Quay!
To learn more about Elizabeth Quay and Perth city join a segway tour
Segway tours from $89
Chad’s tip: Try a burger at V Burger Bar and soak in the view of the quay from The Reveley.
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The Bell Tower
Located overlooking the Swan River, The Bell Tower is home to the famous royal bells of St Martin-in-the-Fields, which chimed for James Cook as he departed on his voyage of discovery to Australia. It’s unique design allows you to walk inside this giant musical instrument while the bells are pealing. Enjoy the spectacular view of the CBD from the tower.
Tours of The Bell Tower from $18
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The Perth Mint
Watch a molten gold pour and see precious gold bars and coins being struck at the award-winning Perth Mint. There’s plenty to see with a unique combination of activities, demonstrations and displays. Marvel at Australia’s largest collection of natural gold nuggets, including the second largest gold nugget in existence, weighing in at 25.5 kilograms. Guided talks operate every hour.
Tours of The Perth Mint from $19
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Kings Park
Kings Park is one of the largest inner city parks in the world with over 400 hectares of stunning natural bush lands. Enjoy a walk through the Botanical Gardens, enjoy a picnic on the grass and take in the sights of the city and the Swan River from a number of lookout points. The park has something for everyone with cafes and restaurants, shops and a number of playgrounds suitable for children of all ages.
Kings Park and Botanic Garden has more memorials, statues and honour avenues than any other park in Australia. Memorials include the statue of John Forrest, the first Premier of Western Australia, Pioneer Women’s Memorial, 10th Light Horse Memorial, Queen Victoria Statue and the Floral Clock.
Kings Park is filled with Aboriginal history as their mythical serpent, the Wagyl, is said to have entered the earth around this location and created the Swan River. To learn more about Kings Park Indigenous history join a walking tour.
Abbie’s tip: If you’re visiting in September 2016 the Kings Park Festival will be on all month with a Floral Fantasy theme.
Swan Valley
The Swan Valley is Western Australia’s oldest and most loved wine regions and the perfect destination for a winter getaway.
Only a 25 minute drive from the CBD, the Swan Valley is one of the closest wine regions to any city.
Did you know the Swan Valley has been crowned the first Humane Food Region in Australia? This means that you can expect fresh cage free eggs, free-range pork and a whole lot of tastier, more wholesome produce, from animals living happier, healthier lives. With 30 restaurants and cafes committed to the Swan Valleys Human Food region program it won’t take long to expand as more chef’s are attracted to the region.
Swan Valley tours from $65
Lisa’s tip: Make sure you stop at Lancaster Wines, one of the Swan Valleys hidden gems!
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Caversham Wildlife Park
Spend the day at one of Perth’s most incredible attractions, showcasing the largest private collection of native wildlife in Western Australia. Hand-feed the kangaroos, join the interactive farm show, touch a possum or lizard, meet a wombat and have your photo taken with koalas.
Caversham Wildlife Entry from $26
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Rottnest Island
Just 19km from Perth lies Rottnest Island, Western Australia’s own island paradise.
Rottnest has 63 pristine beaches and 20 bays so it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular destination for tourists and locals. The local quokkas are known as “the happiest animal on earth” and are able to found all over the island.
With just over 135 species of vibrant tropical fish and 20 species of coral, heading below the surface is a truly worthwhile experience. Take the opportunity to go diving and explore the shipwrecks
On Rottnest Island, bikes are the transportation of choice and can be hired or you can bring your own by ferry from the mainland for a small fee. The island is only 11km long and 4.5km wide making it easy to explore with a number of great trails to follow.
You can travel to Rottnest Island from Perth, Fremantle of Hillarys Boat Harbour.
Rottnest Ferry transfer from Fremantle from $79
Rottnest Ferry transfer from Hillarys from $85.50
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Fremantle
The latest Lonely Planet guide has ranked Fremantle as the 7th-best city in the world to visit in 2016.
Enjoy the vibrant and bustling culture of Fremantle (Freo) with the constantly changing street performers and street art. Spend an afternoon exploring the markets or sipping coffee on the Cappuccino Strip. Visit the boat harbour for a fresh fish and chip lunch while gazing out over the ocean.
Fremantle has a rich history which you can discover at the Fremantle Prison or on a guided walking tour.
Walking tours from $50
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Other suburbs to visit
Our favourite suburbs to explore:
+ Leederville – This trendy suburb is only 5 minutes west of the city. Leederville is home to hip bars and cafes as well as boutique clothing and homeware stores.
+ Northbridge – Only a few minutes from the Perth CBD, Northbridge is known as the cultural epicentre of Perth. Here you will find international cuisine, cafes and a vibrant nightlife.
+ Mount Lawley – North east of Perth is Mount Lawley which is known for its eclectic hub of bars, international flavours and quirky street art along trendy Beaufort Street.
+ Subiaco – Board a train on the Fremantle train line to get to Subiaco and enjoy the upmarket shops, jewellery stores and cafes.
Sam’s tip: WA’s first Cat Cafe has just opened in Subiaco.
+ Victoria Park – 10 minutes from the CBD is Victoria Park (Vic Park) which is home to the Crown Casino and Albany Highway, the longest dining strip in Perth.
+ Hillarys – 20 minutes north of the city is Hillarys Boat Harbour which is filled with resort style shopping, an excellent selection of cafés and restaurants, family fun park, AQWA and a protected beach perfect for kids.
More things to do in Perth
Swim with wild dolphins
Live out your dream of swimming with wild dolphins with this amazing nature experience. Your adventure begins cruising Rockingham’s sheltered bays and islands in search of the 180 local dolphins before slowing down to let the dolphins know we are keen to play. Once the dolphins and passengers are ready, the skipper gives the command everyone’s been waiting for – Go!
Tours from $205
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Discover Penguin and Seal Islands
Enjoy the scenic highlights of the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park and keep a look out for the wildlife! This 60 minute cruise on board our glass bottom boat takes in the ruggedly spectacular coastlines of Penguin, Seal & Bird Islands and takes advantage of the best wildlife spotting opportunities of the day. Wild dolphins, rare Australian sea lions, pelican rookeries and nesting ospreys are regularly sighted and our friendly crew will get you right amongst the action!
Tours from $25 (special price).
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Enjoy a dolphin and canal cruise
View spectacular wild dolphins, in their natural environment, on the pristine and calm inland Mandurah waterways with Mandurah Cruises & Gift Shop, less than an hour south of Perth and Mandurah’s number one tourist attraction.
Tours from $28
Jason’s tip: Make sure you bring a camera with you to capture the dolphins swimming and playing in the waves along side the boat!
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Cruise the Swan River
There is no better way to finish your day than aboard a twilight cruise along the Swan River while enjoying sundowner drinks. The scenic cruise takes in the Old Swan Brewery and South Perth foreshore before heading upriver to bask in the glowing city skyline. A complimentary drink is included, along with light snacks available to purchase on board.
Tours from $35
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Please note tour prices are subject to change.
