40 things to do in Perth with kids

Attractions

40 things to do in Perth with kids

October 27, 2024by Holidays with Kids

Wondering what is there to do in Perth for families? Well, you’re in the right place. We’ve rounded up the best things to do in Perth with kids. From island adventures and national parks to cuddly animals and honey bees in Australia’s sunniest city, here are the top things to do in Perth with kids.

1. WA Museum Boola Bardip

The WA Museum Boola Bardip is history-rich and knowledge-deep. There’s a range of permanent and special exhibitions so there’s always something new to see here. Want a tour with a twist? Every day until 2pm, you can try their Codebreakers family tour. Part scavenger hunt, part escape room – this tour is a series of puzzles, codes and clues leading you through the Museum. The goal? To identify an agent who is trying to raid the museum’s collection!

Here you’ll find school holiday activities and exciting new exhibitions. You’ll be sure to leave with your head full of knowledge and a fun fact or two to share.

Tyrannotitan Boola Bardip Dinosaurs of Patagonia © Luke Riley

2. Adventure World

For wild times of the adrenaline-pumping kind, tackle the twists and turns of Abyss, one of Australia’s favourite roller coasters at Adventure World. Open from September to April annually, a visit to Adventure World should be on your Perth summer bucket list.

Older kids might also like to dive into the Kraken, one of the longest and steepest funnel water slides in Australia, defy gravity on the Dragon Flyer or gear up for Goliath, a thrilling pendulum that swings at to 17.8 metres per second . Younger adventurers will enjoy the Little Leaper and Hawaiian resort themed Kahuna Falls.

3. Fremantle Markets

Fremantle Markets is one of the port city’s most significant landmarks and has rightfully earned itself a reputation as one of the best destinations in Fremantle for locals and tourists alike. It has been instrumental in supporting budding local talent, from fashion designers to musicians, and forming a hub of activity for visitors.

Housed in an historic, heritage-listed building, Fremantle Markets boasts a diverse mix of food, entertainment and shopping options, paired with a unique bohemian atmosphere that has made it the best and most well-known market in Western Australia. There are often baby animals farms and kids’ activities on the weekends.

4. WA Shipwrecks Museum

Here you can dive into Australia’s oldest shipwrecks and search for hidden treasures! The WA Shipwrecks Museum holds history’s secrets of the West Australian coastline from the treacherous high seas to the deadliest mutinies known to our history books.

Travel through time with their special exhibits and events, all housed in one of the first convict-built public building in WA. From old photos from the 1800s to real-life shipwrecks, there’s tons to see.

two kids holding old artefact in a learning session at the WA Shipwreck Museum — Shipwrecks Museum © Kate Drennan

5. Fremantle Prison

If you’re after an educational experience, Fremantle Prison – part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Australian Convict Sites – is the largest and most intact convict-built prison in the country and offers fascinating guided tours for families.

If you’re really daring, grab a torch and join a guide for an after-dark prison tour. Be warned, however, this tour is not for the faint-hearted.

Fremantle Prison, things to do Perth — Fremantle Prison

6. Swim with dolphins and meet penguins

Have a little one dreaming of swimming with dolphins? They can on a Perth Wildlife Encounters tour where you’ll be ferried to the sheltered waters of Rockingham to splash about with over 200 wild bottlenose dolphins.

Meanwhile, penguin lovers can head to Shoalwater Islands Marine Park and Penguin Island. Here, you’ll meet penguins, sea lions and sea birds – one of the most exciting things to do in Perth with kids.

Penguin Island Wildlife Cruise with Perth Wildlife Encounters — Penguin Island Wildlife Cruise © Tourism Western Australia

7. Kids surf lessons with Surfing WA

Recognised as one of the leading and longest-standing surf schools in Australia, Surfing WA has introduced thousands upon thousands of frothing grommets aged between five and 12 years old to the unbeatable joys of surfing.

With group and private lessons by appointment, and special programs over school holidays, the school’s network of experienced coaches ensures sessions are not only fun, but will also equip kids with the necessary skills to enjoy safe surfing.

8. Kings Park and Botanic Garden in the CBD

Kings Park is one of the world’s largest and most beautiful city parks. Take a stroll around the green and gorgeous park, home to a fabulous water play space and climbing structures that littlies will love. Wherever you set up will be perfect, but the Poolgarla Family Area and the Saw Avenue Picnic Area are especially great for families with playgrounds and barbecues.

9. The Perth Mint

Another great thing to do in Perth with kids is a visit to The Perth Mint. It offers a unique combination of activities, exhibitions and demonstrations, which enable visitors of all ages to experience the magic, allure and wonder of gold. Kids can listen to awe-inspiring stories, see the world’s largest gold coin and witness a mesmerising live gold pour.

10. Bounce Inc

Bounce off the walls, flip to your heart’s content and buckle up for a game of dodgeball like you’ve never experienced, at this massive indoor trampoline park. BounceInc Joondalup and Cannington feature a free jump arena, giant soft landing pad, ball playground, wall climb, high performance trampolines, cliff jump and high ropes course. If you want to get your blood pumping, or let the kids blow off some steam, this is the place to do it!

Young boy bouncing on trampoline — Jump for joy © BOUNCEinc

11. Perth Zoo

Animal enthusiasts will love Perth Zoo. We recommend setting aside a half-day, or a full day, to explore and meet lions, penguins, orangutans, rhinos, bilbies and much more. The zoo is open every day of the year and is located just five minutes from the Perth CBD. You can access it by bus, ferry, taxi, train, bike or even walk.

12. Elizabeth Quay

Elizabeth Quay is a waterfront entertainment precinct with art and exhibitions, restaurants and cafes, boat tours and playgrounds. Kids can ride on the Venetian carousel or climb the Bell Tower to ring the bell and have 360 degree views of Perth.

At the primary entry point you will find the small BHP Water Park, where kids can cool off in the water jets the spurt from Pinjah, a colourful mosaic laid at bottom of the water park representing the Dreaming story of the creation of the Milky Way.

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13. Caversham Wildlife Park

Caversham Wildlife Park is a 30-minute drive from the Perth CBD and here kids and parents can get up close and personal with the animals. Daily attractions include a true blue Aussie farm show where you’ll get to watch sheep shearing, cracking of a stock whip, cow milking, and sheep dogs mustering sheep. You’ll even get to meet a stockman on horseback.

If that’s not enough excitement, follow it up with meeting wombats and koalas, feeding kangaroos and penguins. The park recommends you spend at least three hours to be able to enjoy all of the attractions.

Caversham Wildlife Park, Swan Valley — Caversham Wildlife Park © Tourism Western Australia

14. Take the ferry to Rottnest Island

Hillarys Boat Harbour is the launch hub for Rottnest Fast Ferries. Offering scheduled services to the island 19 kilometres offshore, the company offers affordable transfers to to Rottnest when staying in Perth. Ferries also run between Fremantle and Rottnest Island with Sealink.

If your family is looking for some serious solitude, on a day trip make sure to pack a well-stocked picnic hamper and head to one of the 20 pristine bays and 63 secluded beaches that dot the 11-kilometre-long island. The Rottnest Island Explorer bus operates regularly throughout the day, stopping at 19 locations. There’s also the option to rent bicycles while on the island, so expect plenty of two-wheelers on the narrow roads.

15. The Aquarium of Western Australia

Only have a short amount of time in WA? At AQWA, the Aquarium of Western Australia, you can explore over 12,000 of the west coast in one day. Learn about the wonders of the ocean with exciting exhibits, ocean guide talks, and glass-bottom boat rides. You can get up close with sharks, turtles and stingrays, and kids can be creative in the Ocean Playroom.

16. Whistler’s Chocolate Co

Western Australia’s oldest chocolate company have been passing down their recipes for generations. Sweet tooths will love visiting Whistler‘s famous Swan Valley chocolate cafe, showroom and gift store. All production occurs locally, so be sure to try their best-selling rocky road, coconut rough and peanut brittle.

Kids have the space and freedom to run rampant around the huge outdoor grassed area and sandpit, while parents can enjoy a coffee and a snack from the café on the shaded patio.

Whistler's Chocolate Company © City of Swan

17. Perth Observatory

Located in Bickley, only 35 kilometres from Perth, Western Australia’s oldest observatory hosts Night Sky Tours that give guests the opportunity to experience the night sky through a range of telescopes.

You’ll witness some of the Southern Hemisphere’s most magnificent objects, including nebulas, dying stars, enormous star clusters, and the Moon and planets. The Perth Observatory is known for discovering 35 Minor Planets between 1970 and 1999 and co-discovering Uranus’s ring system.

18. Hit the beach

There’s something special about the beaches in Perth: overwater sunsets, long white strips of sand and the spray of the Indian ocean. Spending time together as a family and simply relaxing on scenic shores is one of the best things to do in Perth with kids.

Read: An insiders guide to the best family beaches in Perth

Cottesloe Beach Perth WA — Cottesloe Beach is one of Perth's most popular beaches © Tourism Western Australia

19. Horse riding at Jarrahdale Equestrian Centre

Experienced riders and beginners can go horse riding at the Jarrahdale Equestrian Centre. There a number of trails across the 150-hectare property. On a trail ride, you can come across cattle, native wildlife and gorgeous views of the countryside and ocean. They also have classes just for kids. Jarrahdale Equestrian Centre is a 45-minute drive south of the CBD.

20. Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery

At the beautiful Maalinup Aboriginal Art Gallery you can browse authentic Aboriginal Art and taste local bush tucker. You can book a bush tucker tasting to learn about local food and traditions. The gallery is 35 minutes from Perth CBD, making it a great stop on a Swan Valley day trip. Indigenously owned and operated, kids can learn more about First Nations culture through activities, talks, performances held at the gallery.

21. Go fruit picking

Not far from Perth lies a bountiful bunch of orchards and fruit farms. Pick your own berries at Kien’s Strawberry Farm, tour citrus fields on a tractor at CORE Cider House or bring home hand-harvested plums and cherries at The Fruit Corner in Pickering Brook. Most of these orchards are open seasonally, so it is best to check their websites for opening times.

22. West Australian Reptile Park

Venomous snakes and crocodiles and dingoes, oh my! The family-owned West Australian Reptile Park is a fun and educational wildlife experience for the whole clan. You’ll even have the opportunity to hold a python or lizard if you dare!

Since opening to the public in 2003, the Park has been dedicated to teaching the community about wildlife conservation. There is a shaded barbeque area and picnic tables, so don’t forget to pack a picnic.

West Australian Reptile Park © City of Swan

23. FOMO Freo

In the heart of Fremantle’s King Square, FOMO Freo intertwines art, architecture, culture, retail, food and fun. The precinct is a destination of discovery and offers an eclectic mix of venues including art galleries, vibrant restaurants, Strike Bowling and Holey Moley Mini Golf.

24. Whiteman Park Recreation and Conservation Reserve

Whiteman Park is a unique conservation and recreation reserve 25 minutes drive from Perth’s centre. Covering over 4,300 hectares and boasting a fantastic array of things to do with kids, it is an awesome destination for families.

Hop aboard the vintage train for a scenic ride through the reserve’s protected banksia woodlands, explore a children’s forest and bushwalking trails, try your hand at orienteering or giggle the day away at one of four playgrounds. Best of all, entry to the park is free!

25. Telethon Community Cinemas

Telethon Community Cinemas is Perth’s family-friendly and affordable outdoor cinema. It’s a night at the movies but better, with all profits donated to charities improving the quality of life of kids in a health or physical ability crisis. And it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Perth with kids.

Guests can bring their own picnic rugs, camper chairs or bean bags or hire from the venue. Movie goers are also free to self-cater, or enjoy the food and drink available at the cinema. The movie season runs through the warmer months from late November to late April.

26. Araluen Botanic Garden

Araluen Botanic Garden is rich in history and beauty, and with ample open grass, a picnic is the perfect way to spend the afternoon. The 14-hectare botanic garden offers a unique and enchanting display of exotic and native flora all year round, from magnolias and roses to internationally recognised camellia collections.

From the magical tulip season to special events and concerts, there is always something happening, but the most popular time to visit is during spring, when the tulips are in full bloom.

27. High Tea

If you’re looking for an excuse to get all dolled up, why not explore Perth’s oh-so-sophisticated high tea scene. We’re talking scones with jam and clotted cream, crisp cucumber sandwiches and dainty decorated cakes…honestly what more could you want?

For a high tea with spectacular panoramic views over the Swan River, C Restaurant in the Sky offers delightful high tea bites for the whole family. Ritz Carlton overlooking scenic Elizabeth Quay serves up delectable signature and kid-friendly high tea menus featuring the finest Western Australian produce at Hearth Restaurant.

28. The House of Honey

There’s lots on offer at The House of Honey, from beekeeping safaris and workshops to the buzzing onsite café. Based in the Swan Valley, the family-owned and operated business is a sanctuary for 50 million bees and 500 hives.

With bees under threat worldwide, the goal has been to educate and raise awareness about the importance of bees to global ecosystems, while showcasing all things honey and bee-related. Pop in to taste the diverse and inventive range of honey varieties which are all made in-house, whether it be vanilla, peppermint or chai infused varieties.

29. May Drive Parkland

With an ‘Evolution Through Time’ theme and only minutes from the Perth CBD, May Drive Parkland in Kings Park is a festival of fun. Kids can follow the footprints of dinosaurs and discover the giant mega fauna sculptures of species from 65 million years ago, master walkway crossings and conquer island forts.

The impeccably manicured gardens are a great spot to fire up one of the public barbeques, throw down the picnic rug with a tasty spread or simply grab a bite from the nearby Zamia Café.

30. Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm

You’ll be able to get close and personal with the friendly farmyard animals at Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm. Take a spin on the vintage merry-go-round and enjoy a free tractor-train ride, or jump for joy on the undercover bouncy castle. There’s also the chance to bottle and bucket feed the animals! Whether you’re keen to visit the bunnies, goats, ponies or piglets, there’s a lot to love.

31. Revolutions Transport Museum

At Western Australia’s only land transport museum, you’ll learn all about the developments that sculpted our past and continue to shape our present and future. Located 22 kilometres north of Perth in Whiteman Park, Revolutions Transport Museum offers interactive exhibits where kids can board a horse-drawn buggy, sit in the driver’s seat of an EJ Holden or step back in time in the ZA Rail Car.

32. Amaze Miniature Park

Located only 50 minutes south of Perth and five minutes east of Mandurah, there’s loads to explore and discover at Amaze Miniature Park. The four acres of manicured gardens are home to 70 miniature replicas of famous historic buildings, interactive train railways, a 1000 square meter hedge maze, playground and mini golf. It is one of the best things to do in Perth with kids who love games and challenges.

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33. Scitech

Treat your budding scientists with a trip to Scitech. The science museum includes a planetarium, puppet theatre, workshops and live science shows. Here little ones will get hands-on science fun with interactive and educational STEM programs designed for young minds. It’s the perfect thing to do in Perth with kids on those wet weather days.

34. John Forrest National Park

Just over two kilometres long, the Glen Brook Trail in John Forrest National Park is the perfect amble for little legs. Climb boulders and stone bridges, take a detour to nearby waterfalls, explore fairy houses and visit the nature playground.

35. Gondolas On The Swan

Be transported to a bygone era along the Swan River in a hand-crafted gondola with Gondolas On The Swan. The private tour for up to eight guests runs for either one hour or 30 minutes. Departing from Elizabeth Quay, the cruise will take you along the South Perth foreshore and Kings Park.

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36. Mondo Nougat

Experience the sweet life and visit Mondo Nougat in the Swan Valley. This family-owned and operated factory has been churning out its goodies since 1989. Families can witness and discover the Mondo Nougat secrets and traditions from a special viewing deck into the factory kitchen. Or, if you want a closer look, you can get hands on.

Their Flavour Creator masterclasses serve up all the sugary-goodness with a make-it-yourself session. Mix and mold in choc chips, nuts, yummy dried fruits – viola your own unique flavour is made! The cherry on top is, you get to take your edible creation home to enjoy.

Nougat at the Mondo Nougat factory on a conveyor belt — Mondo Nougat

37. Matagarup Zip+Climb

Gear up for a thrilling adventure with Matagarup Zip+Climb. Visitors can climb the architecturally impressive Matagarup Bridge to reach the 72-metre scenic SkyView platform before zipping back down at up to 75 kilometres per hour. Woohoo!

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38. Serpentine Falls

Cool off at the natural swimming hole in Serpentine National Park, just an hour from Perth. Hike past wildflowers to the cascades before taking a dip and enjoying lunch at the picnic facilities or nearby Millbrook Winery restaurant.

39. Vines Mini Golf & Super Golf

Surrounded by the native flora and fauna of Western Australia’s oldest wine growing region, The Vines Resort offer a 18-hole championship golf course and 18-hole mini golf. The impeccably manicured grounds are the perfect place to unleash some competitive energy while remaining emersed in nature. You might even spot a roo or two casually exploring the greens.

Supa Golf is another great Swan Valley spot for a putt. Supa Golf is a modified form of golf that uses oversized equipment on a short grass course and is suitable for all ages and abilities. It is recommended to allow around 90 minutes for Supa Golf and 45 for mini golf.

Mini Golf at The Vines Resort © City of Swan

40. Hit the road

A driving holiday will let your children learn about the history and the natural environment of the country that they live in. Western Australia has plenty to offer roadtrippers, with hundreds of great locations perfect for family holidays. A highlight is visiting rare Australian sea lions and penguins on Penguin Island, which is 45 minutes south of Perth and then a 5-minute ferry ride away.

Eagle Bay, Margaret River © Alexandra Casey

Western Australian family accommodation

Mandalay Holiday Resort and Tourist Park

Holiday resort is situated right opposite the beach in Geographe Bay, Busselton

BIG4 Emu Beach Holiday Park

A gorgeous holiday destination minutes from the centre of Albany

The best day trips from Perth

Looking to hit the highway for just a day or weekend? There are so many extraordinary options within a 90-minute drive of Perth.

Mandurah

Mandurah is just 71 kilometres from Perth and renowned for its magnificent beaches and estuary twice the size of Sydney Harbour. A relaxed holiday vibe and long stretches of coastline, water sports and wildlife watching make it an obvious choice for families. Home to a healthy population of dolphins, a visit wouldn’t be complete without an eco-certified dolphin cruise. You might even spot them while kayaking, canoeing or water biking. But the ultimate adventure for little ones is commandeering the local Pirate Ship, or at least a scenic cruise with pirate-themed entertainment.

Read: The best things to do in Rockingham with kids

Rockingham

Western Australia is spoilt for spectacular coastline, and Rockingham has some of the best – it’s one of the main drawcards for families to visit the town just 45 minutes south of Perth. Rockingham Beach and the redeveloped Rockingham Foreshore boast stunning sands and shallow waters for family-friendly swims and sunset meals by the seas.

Nearby mini islands like Penguin Island offer exciting boat trips and up close excursions with the native wildlife. Rockingham is the only place in the Perth metropolitan area where you can swim with wild dolphins and is home to the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park and an underwater ecosystem of thriving ocean wildlife. All making for a superb day trip from Perth or a stop en route to the southwest wine region.

Lancelin

A small fishing town boasting mammoth white sand dunes and turquoise oceans, Lancelin is just 126 kilometres from Perth. Sandboarding, 4WDing, quad biking or dune buggy tours are available for those who want to explore the 40-metre dunes. Famous for kitesurfing, windsurfing and surfing with Back Beach offering consistent waves for all levels. Between Wreck Point and Lancelin Island, 14 shipwrecks have been found, some dating back three centuries and make for great diving. Littlies might prefer Lancelin Bay for swimming and snorkelling.

Other must-visit spots in WA

Esperance

Esperance, a town on the southwest coast of WA, has incredible beaches including calm Blue Haven (great for families with young children) and West Beach with its surf breaks. There’s an abundance of untouched coastal scrub and more than 100 islands offshore, some sheltering fur seals and sea lions. There’s also Lake Hillier, on Middle Island, which is a striking shade of pink!

Broome

Broome is another must-visit town on your family adventure in WA, offering a stack of exciting family-friendly activities such as the Malcolm Douglas Crocodile Park, camel riding safaris and the Broome Hovercraft.

Camel Ride at Cable Beach © Alexandra Casey

Pemberton

Further inland toward the Darling Scarp, this timber town is a fantastic location to explore WA’s karri forests. You can visit Gloucester National Park and those who are feeling brave can climb one of the oldest trees – the Gloucester Tree. Reaching a height of 71 metres, the tree has been fitted with metal rods, allowing you to climb to the top and have a bird’s-eye view over the forest.

Albany

Located right at the southern tip of Western Australia, Albany is a town full of maritime history. You can learn about the whaling industry that used to exist in the town and about early settlers who arrived and established the town over 200 years ago. Some of Western Australia’s most beautiful beaches are located not far from Albany where you can have endless stretches of white sand all for yourselves.

York

Only two hours’ drive east of Perth, York is a great option for a short trip away from the city. The oldest inland town in WA, York is located in the Avon Valley and is known for its music and arts festivals. There are numerous local museums covering the agricultural history of the area and a jarrah furniture and art gallery.

Margaret River

Margaret River packs a hefty family holiday punch. Three hours south of Perth, this laidback small town, encompassing the coastal towns of Busselton, Dunsborough, Margaret River, and Augusta, offers more than just world-class wines – though the vineyards here are indeed a major draw, and many cellar doors are family friendly so parents can enjoy a top tipple, guilt free. Surrounded by stunning national parks, you can hike towering forests, explore limestone crystal caves, or simply soak in the serenity of dazzling beaches. Read: 46 epic things to do in the Margaret River with kids.

Busselton Jetty

Extending 1.8 kilometres across stunning Geographe Bay, this heritage-listed 150-year-old Busselton Jetty is the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere and a must-see for any visitor to the Margaret River Wine Region. Sit back and relax while the train driver takes you on a 1.7 kilometre journey across the calm, clear waters of Geographe Bay. With 50 seats available and trips leaving throughout the day, the Jetty Train is the perfect way to experience the Busselton Jetty. From glimpses of dolphins frolicking to spotting local fishermen snaring their catch of the day, the Jetty Train trip promises to deliver something for everyone.

This article on the best things to do in Perth is a Holidays with Kids digital exclusive. Get the latest family travel news, deals and inspiration by signing up for our free enewsletter here.

40 things to do in Perth with kids