Perth: 11 Things to Do

You’ll find Perth strikes the perfect balance between cosmopolitan sophistication and untamed Australian wilderness. From swimming with dolphins at pristine beaches to discovering quirky quokkas on offshore islands, Western Australia’s capital delivers experiences you won’t encounter elsewhere. The city’s wine regions sit minutes from world-class museums, while ancient bushland trails weave through one of the planet’s largest inner-city parks. Here’s how to uncover Perth’s most compelling attractions—some obvious, others surprisingly hidden.

Explore Kings Park and Botanic Garden’s Bushland Heart

When you step into Kings Park’s bushland heart, you’ll discover one of the world’s largest inner-city parks where 327 species of native Western Australian plants thrive across two-thirds of the park’s protected terrain.

Follow the Bushland Nature Trail during spring wildflower season to witness vibrant kangaroo paws and eucalyptus blooms that transform the landscape. You’ll encounter distinctive jarrah, marri, and banksia trees while spotting 96 native bird species feeding on nectar.

Take the elevated Lotterywest Federation Walkway for treetop exploration through eucalyptus canopies and stunning Swan River views. Look closely and you might spot camouflaged lizards blending seamlessly into the bark and branches around you.

The 17-hectare Botanic Garden showcases over 3,000 Western Australian plants, including the famous 750-year-old Kimberley boab tree that symbolizes the region’s botanical heritage.

Take the Ferry to Rottnest Island for Quokkas and Cycling

Four ferry routes connect you to Rottnest Island’s pristine shores, with departures from Perth’s Barrack Street Jetty, Hillarys Boat Harbour, and two Fremantle terminals offering flexibility for your island adventure. Choose Fremantle’s 25-minute crossing for efficiency, or embrace Perth’s scenic 90-minute journey.

Adult same-day returns cost around AUD 92, including the mandatory AUD 21 conservation fee.

Once there, rent a bicycle near the ferry terminal—the island’s flat terrain and gentle hills suit most fitness levels. Cycling routes reveal pristine beaches, historic salt lakes, and old military fortifications.

You’ll encounter the island’s famous quokkas along settlement areas and popular trails. These photogenic marsupials make perfect selfie companions, but resist feeding them.

Book advance tickets during peak season, and arrive 30-45 minutes early for seamless bike collection. For longer stays, extended return options are available at AUD 99 per adult with a higher conservation fee.

Discover Perth’s Story at WA Museum Boola Bardip

Eight permanent exhibitions await you at WA Museum Boola Bardip, where “many stories” unfold across four floors of award-winning architecture in Perth’s Cultural Centre. You’ll discover Western Australia’s complete narrative, from prehistoric fossils to contemporary environmental challenges through the “WA Land and People” exhibition.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander voices take center stage, showcasing traditional art alongside modern digital installations that blend ancient storytelling with cutting-edge technology.

Don’t miss the 2025 highlight: “Terracotta Warriors: Legacy of the First Emperor,” featuring authentic ancient Chinese figures. Most visitors dedicate 2-3 hours to fully explore the main galleries and special exhibitions.

Interactive experiences like “To the Moon” combine art and science for immersive learning. Evening programs offer dynamic talks and performances, while Nyoongar cultural workshops provide hands-on engagement.

The museum’s sustainable design creates an accessible, welcoming space that connects Perth’s past with its vibrant present.

Stroll Elizabeth Quay’s Waterfront Promenade

As you descend toward the Swan River’s edge, Elizabeth Quay unfolds as Perth’s premier waterfront destination, where modern urban design meets the natural beauty of Australia’s longest river.

You’ll discover interactive attractions like the BHP Billiton Water Park’s zero-depth pools and the island playground’s nautical climbing frame, perfect for families.

Cross the 20-meter-high Elizabeth Quay Bridge for panoramic city skyline views, then explore public artworks including the whale skeleton-like “Spanda” arch and Laurel Nannup’s “First Contact” statue depicting Noongar Dreamtime stories.

Take Segway tours through the precinct or join water bike excursions for two to nine people.

The iconic Bell Tower houses the 6,500-kilogram ANZAC Bell, while riverside cafes provide dining with water views. For extended stays, the 24 short-term moorings accommodate visiting boats throughout the waterfront inlet.

Watch Gold Pours at the Historic Perth Mint

From waterfront views to Western Australia’s golden heritage, step into the historic Perth Mint where you’ll witness one of the city’s most mesmerizing attractions—live molten gold being poured into solid bars before your eyes. This captivating demonstration occurs in the original 1899 melting house within a dedicated Gold Pouring Theatre, making it the tour’s undeniable highlight.

Your 45-60 minute guided experience includes handling actual gold bars, exploring Australia’s largest collection of natural gold nuggets, and seeing the world’s largest gold bullion coin weighing one tonne. The gold bars feature distinctive Australian kangaroo designs, adding a unique local touch to these precious metal displays.

Tours run hourly from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM daily, costing AUD 16-26. Located at 310 Hay Street, East Perth, you’ll gain fascinating insights into Western Australia’s gold rush history while enjoying your complimentary “Mint Your Own Medallion” souvenir.

Experience Fremantle Prison’s Colonial Past

Step behind the imposing limestone walls of Fremantle Prison, where Western Australia’s most significant colonial landmark reveals nearly four decades of convict history through its remarkably preserved 19th-century architecture.

Built between 1852-1859 using convict labor, this limestone fortress housed over 9,700 transported prisoners who shaped the struggling Swan River Colony’s foundation.

You’ll explore authentic cell blocks, association rooms, and workshops where convicts endured harsh conditions while contributing essential labor. The guided tours showcase the main cell block, hospital, and gatehouse—all constructed from locally quarried limestone.

After convict transportation ended in 1868, the facility continued as Western Australia’s primary prison until 1991. The complex also included a section that served as the colony’s only women’s prison during its operational years.

Today’s heritage tours offer intimate glimpses into colonial penal philosophy, revealing how this imposing structure became integral to the state’s economic and social development.

Meet Native Wildlife at Perth Zoo

While Perth Zoo spans 41 acres in South Perth, its crown jewel remains the Australian Bushwalk exhibit, where you’ll encounter the continent’s most remarkable native species in meticulously recreated habitats.

You’ll spot red kangaroos bounding across open grasslands and observe quokkas—those perpetually smiling marsupials native to Perth’s region. The nocturnal house reveals secretive bilbies and chuditch, while the walk-in aviary showcases black swans and the distinctive laugh of blue-winged kookaburras.

Don’t miss the conservation breeding programs featuring critically endangered Western Swamp Tortoises and numbats. Since its hotel, the zoo has successfully bred over 500 Western Swamp Tortoises, making significant contributions to this critically endangered species’ survival.

Time your visit for keeper talks, which provide fascinating insights into native species’ adaptations and survival strategies. The zoo’s wildlife rescue efforts directly support local ecosystem health.

Relax at Cottesloe and Scarborough Beaches

Just fifteen minutes from Perth’s city center, Cottesloe Beach unfolds as Western Australia’s most beloved coastal destination, where pristine white sands meet crystal-clear turquoise waters beneath a canopy of towering Norfolk Pines.

You’ll find gentle waves perfect for swimming and snorkeling around rocky reefs, while terraced lawns provide ideal picnic spots. The iconic red-roofed Indiana Teahouse anchors a bustling boulevard of cafes and restaurants serving meals with panoramic ocean views. During the annual Sculpture by the Sea exhibition, the foreshore transforms into an open-air gallery featuring striking outdoor art installations.

For livelier surf culture, head to Scarborough Beach, where consistent swells attract surfers and vibrant promenades buzz with activity. Both beaches offer excellent dining, but arrive early on weekends—parking fills quickly.

Take advantage of frequent Transperth buses or consider cycling the scenic 25-kilometer coastal trail extending north to Hillarys.

Tour Swan Valley’s Wineries and Local Producers

Twenty minutes northeast of Perth’s city center, Swan Valley beckons as Western Australia’s oldest wine region, where over 40 wineries and 150 producers create a diverse tapestry of flavors across rolling vineyard landscapes.

You’ll discover signature varietals like Verdelho and full-bodied Chardonnay alongside century-old Grenache vines at Tyler’s Vineyard. Family-owned Olive Farm Wines offers guided tours through their 40+ wine varieties, while Sandalford Winery pairs award-winning wines with regional cuisine.

Don’t miss the artisanal scene beyond wine—breweries, distilleries, and gourmet producers craft everything from specialty liqueurs to organic preserves. For a truly unique experience, visit The House of Honey & Meadery where you can taste craft mead, considered nectar of the gods since ancient times.

Navigate the Food and Wine Trails by scenic river cruise, horse-drawn wagon, or chauffeured classic car for an unforgettable day of tastings.

Hike Lesmurdie Falls During Winter Months

Thirty minutes east of Perth’s bustling center, Lesmurdie Falls transforms into Western Australia’s most spectacular winter hiking destination when July and August rains breathe life into the cascading waters of Lesmurdie Brook. You’ll find the Falls Road car park your best starting point—arrive early to beat crowds and secure parking.

The 3-kilometer Valley Loop Trail delivers the region’s finest waterfall views alongside sweeping Perth skyline vistas through lush jarrah forests. Winter’s cooler temperatures make hiking comfortable while frequent rainfall creates dramatic water flow and slippery conditions requiring proper footwear.

You’ll encounter native wildlife, blooming Karri Hazel wildflowers, and moss-covered forest floors during this peak season. Multiple trail options accommodate various fitness levels, from the family-friendly 1.5-kilometer Lesmurdie Brook Loop to challenging 5.5-kilometer extended routes through Mundy Regional Park. The accessible trail system keeps you on dry pathways throughout your hike, avoiding the muddy conditions common at other winter hiking locations.

Climb Indoors at Perth’s Rock Climbing Centers

When weather turns unpredictable or you’re seeking year-round climbing challenges, Perth’s indoor rock climbing centers offer world-class facilities that’ll test your limits regardless of skill level.

Oasis Climbing in Malaga features Australia’s tallest bouldering walls with over 40 top rope stations.

Rockface in Balcatta provides 26 top-rope climbs and dedicated kids’ areas.

The Boulder Hub in Wangara specializes in 4m-high bouldering with free monthly progression clinics.

Urban Jungle at Jandakot offers Olympic-standard disciplines including speed climbing and eWalls.

Portside Boulders operates four locations across O’Connor, Osborne Park, Joondalup, and Willetton, hosting regular social events.

Adrenaline Vault stands out as the largest indoor climbing centre in Western Australia, with locations in Belmont and Cockburn Central offering bouldering, top rope, and lead climbing.

Most facilities welcome drop-ins, though groups of ten require advance booking.

The Sum Up

You’ll find Perth’s charm lies in its effortless blend of urban sophistication and natural wonder. Whether you’re spotting quokkas on Rottnest Island, sampling Swan Valley wines, or watching sunset from Cottesloe Beach, each experience reveals the city’s unique character. Pack comfortable walking shoes for Kings Park’s trails, bring your camera for Elizabeth Quay’s sculptures, and don’t miss the winter hiking season at Lesmurdie Falls—Perth rewards those who embrace both its cultural depths and outdoor adventures.