We get it! Entertaining the kids on school holidays and weekends can be challenging. So we have found some of the best fun and family-friendly activities to do in Perth both you and the kids will LOVE.
Family activities are a great way to bond, create memories, and have fun together. They provide an opportunity for parents, children, and siblings to spend quality time together, engaging in new and exciting experiences.
Whether visiting a theme park, taking a bike ride along the river, or exploring a wildlife park, these 15 FUN family activities in Perth offer something for everyone to enjoy.
The Perth Zoo, located just a few kilometres from the city centre, is home to over 1,300 animals from around the world. It is an iconic destination for families, school groups and visitors to Western Australia. The zoo covers an area of 42 acres, featuring several animal exhibits and enclosures such as African Savannah, Asian Rainforest and Australian Walkabout, where visitors can see the animals in their natural habitats.
Some of the popular animals at the Perth zoo include the African Elephant, Sumatran Tiger, Orangutan, Meerkats, and Koalas. The zoo also features a variety of birds, reptiles, and fish. The Zoo also offers behind-the-scenes tours, Keeper talks and animal encounters which can be an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
There are also plenty of picnic areas and playgrounds for visitors to relax and enjoy the day. Visitors can also dine in the zoo's café, which offers a variety of hot and cold meals, snacks, and drinks.
The Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA) is a marine-themed park located in Hillarys, north of Perth. It is one of the largest aquariums in Australia, showcasing the marine life of Western Australia and its surrounding waters, from the temperate waters of the south to the tropical waters of the north. AQWA offers a variety of exhibits and displays, such as an underwater tunnel, oceanarium and interactive touch pools where visitors can get up close with marine life.
Some of the popular exhibits at AQWA include the shark tunnel, where families can see over 30 species of sharks and rays swimming overhead, the shipwreck coast exhibit, which displays the marine life found in the surrounding shipwrecks, and the Coral Bay exhibit, which displays the marine life of the north-western coral reefs. Families can also see the marine life found in the nearby estuaries, and learn about the impact of human activities on these ecosystems.
AQWA offers a variety of fun family activities in Perth, such as snorkelling, diving and sea turtle rescue tours. It also offers behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters that give visitors a deeper understanding of marine life and the conservation efforts to protect them. AQWA is a must-see destination for marine life enthusiasts of all ages.
Scitech is an interactive science museum located in West Perth, Western Australia, that aims to inspire curiosity and encourage visitors of all ages to explore, discover and learn about science and technology. The museum features over 200 exhibits that cover various scientific fields, such as physics, biology, and astronomy.
Some of the popular exhibits at Scitech include the space dome planetarium, which offers an immersive stargazing experience, the human body exhibit, which allows visitors to explore the inner workings of the human body, and the robotics exhibit, which showcases the latest advancements in robotics technology. The museum also features hands-on workshops and shows that demonstrate scientific concepts in a fun and engaging way.
Additionally, Scitech offers educational programs and activities for school groups, families, and children that are tailored to different age groups and interests. It also regularly hosts special exhibitions and events throughout the year, such as science festivals and interactive workshops. Overall, Scitech is an excellent destination for families and visitors who are looking to have a fun and educational experience while learning about science and technology.
Kings Park is a large park located in the heart of Perth, Western Australia, offering a wide variety of fun activities for families. Covering an area of over 400 hectares, the park features walking trails, gardens, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It's also one of our favourite locations for family portraits!
One popular activity in Kings Park is the Botanic Garden, which features over 3,000 species of native plants, a greenhouse, and a tree-top walk that offers stunning views of the city. Families can also explore the DNA tower, a unique architectural feature that offers panoramic views of the city and the park.
Another popular activity is the Synergy Parkland playground, which is a large, natural playground with water play, rope climbing, and sandpits for children of all ages. Families can also enjoy a picnic in one of the many designated picnic areas or take a walk along the Lotterywest Federation Walkway, a 1.5 km elevated steel walkway offering views over the city and the park.
Kings Park also offers a variety of guided tours, such as a bushland and botanic garden tour, a war memorial tour and a Nyoongar culture tour that give visitors a chance to learn more about the park's history, culture and ecology. Kings Park is a must-see destination for families looking for outdoor activities, stunning views, and a taste of Perth's nature.
A river cruise along the Swan River in Perth, Western Australia, is a popular activity that offers visitors a chance to explore the city and its surroundings from a different perspective. The Swan River flows through the heart of the city and is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, historical landmarks and modern architecture.
Many different cruise options are available, from short scenic cruises to longer cruises that include dining or entertainment. Some popular sights along the river include the Bell Tower, Elizabeth Quay and the Swan Valley vineyards.
Many cruises also offer commentary from experienced guides who provide interesting information about the history and landmarks along the river. Many companies offer different types of cruises, whether it be a dinner cruise, a sightseeing cruises, or a sunset cruise. Some also offer special cruises during events such as the Festival of Sail, or the Australia day fireworks.
A river cruise on the Swan River is a great way to relax, unwind and take in the beautiful scenery of Perth. It is a perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon or evening, and an ideal activity for families, couples, or groups of friends.
Adventure World is a theme park located in Bibra Lake, Western Australia that offers a wide range of rides and attractions for visitors of all ages. It is one of the most popular attractions in Perth and is known for its thrill rides and water park.
The park features more than 25 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, a water park, and a range of family-friendly rides. Some of the popular rides at Adventure World include the Abyss, a roller coaster that drops from a height of 40 meters, the Kraken, a world record-breaking funnel slide and the Goliath, a pendulum swing with the exhilarating feeling of flying imposing heights.
The park also features a variety of shows and entertainment, including live music, acrobatic performances and a laser show, and has many places to grab a bite or a drink. Adventure World also offers a variety of activities for younger visitors, such as a playground and a water play area. Additionally, Adventure World has a range of season passes and also offers Group, school, and corporate bookings as well.
Adventure World is an ideal destination for families, thrill-seekers, and anyone looking for a fun day out in Perth. It's an amusement park that offers a wide range of experiences that caters to everyone.
Perth is home to many beautiful beaches that offer families a wide range of activities. Some popular beaches for families include:
Cottesloe Beach: Known for its clear water, beautiful sunsets and beachside cafes, Cottesloe is a popular spot for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing. It also has a playground and grassy areas for picnics and games.
Scarborough Beach: A long sandy beach with a playground, BBQ facilities, and a skate park that is perfect for families. It also has a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants along the beachfront.
Trigg Beach: This beach is known for its clear waters and natural beauty. It's a great spot for swimming, snorkelling, and surfing. It also has a playground, a picnic area and many fish and chips shops.
City Beach: This beach is located in a more urban area and is known for its playground, BBQ facilities and public amenities, making it a great spot for families who want to enjoy the beach without having to leave the city.
Leighton Beach: This beach is located near Fremantle, and it's known for its calm waters and playground. It's perfect for families who want to enjoy the beach and also take a trip to the nearby historic city of Fremantle.
All of these beaches have a variety of activities for families to enjoy, from swimming and sunbathing to playing games and picnicking. They are also patrolled by lifesavers during peak times and have facilities like toilets and showers, making them perfect spots for families to enjoy the beach safely and comfortably.
The Art Gallery of Western Australia is a great destination for families looking to engage with art and culture. Located in Perth, the gallery showcases a diverse range of artworks from Western Australia and works from around the world.
The gallery offers a range of interactive and educational programs for families and children, such as art tours, workshops and drop-in activities that are tailored to different age groups and interests. Many of these programs are designed to be hands-on and interactive, allowing children to create their own artworks and learn about different techniques and mediums.
Visitors can also explore the gallery's permanent collection, which covers a wide range of art forms, including painting, sculpture, prints, photography, decorative arts and more. There are also a number of travelling exhibitions that come through the gallery showcasing works from all over the world.
The Art Gallery also features a large garden and park where visitors can relax and have picnic. Also, the Gallery Cafe is the perfect place for visitors to enjoy a bite to eat or a coffee while taking in the artworks on display.
Overall, the Art Gallery of Western Australia is an excellent destination for families who are looking to engage with art and culture in an interactive and educational way.
As well as being an idyllic place for a scenic drive, a picnic with friends, or bushwalking, Mundaring Weir is also an important part of Western Australia's heritage.
Located about a 40-minute drive from Perth in natural bushland in the Perth Hills, Mundaring Weir is one of the world's greatest engineering projects.
Completed in 1903, the Weir was the start of the water pipeline that pumped water to the Kalgoorlie goldfields, some 700 kilometres away.
At the foot of the weir is the Number 1 Pump Station Museum, where you can learn more about the brilliant engineer behind the project, C.Y. O'Connor, who endured much public criticism and tragically took his own life.
You can walk across the massive concrete weir wall, take a driving trail that follows the pipeline called the Golden Pipeline Heritage Trail starts at the museum, and there are also several walking trails around Mundaring Weir that take you deep into virgin bush. You'll see beautiful native plants, animals and plenty of birds.
Pack a picnic and enjoy the barbecue facilities, grassed areas and shady trees.
Caversham Wildlife Park is a family-friendly wildlife park located in the Swan Valley, Western Australia. It's a great destination for families looking for a fun and educational day out. The park covers an area of over 20 hectares and is home to a wide variety of animals from all over the world.
Families can see a wide range of Australian native animals, such as kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and Tasmanian devils. They can also experience hands-on interactions with many of the animals, such as feeding kangaroos and wallabies, patting a wombat, and getting close to a koala. Some of the other animals in the park include farm animals, camels, and even reptiles and birds.
The park also features shows and presentations throughout the day, where visitors can learn more about the animals and their habitats and see them in action. There are also playgrounds and picnic areas where families can relax and enjoy the day.
Caversham Wildlife Park is a great place to take kids of all ages, as it provides an opportunity to learn about the animals, their habitats and behaviors while also having a fun and interactive experience. It's a great place to spend a day and learn more about Australia's fauna.
Rottnest Island is a popular holiday destination located off the coast of Western Australia, known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters and unique wildlife, particularly the Quokkas. It offers a wide range of activities for families to enjoy.
One of the most popular activities on Rottnest Island is swimming and snorkelling, with many of the beaches offering excellent conditions for both. Families can also enjoy bike riding, as the island has a variety of bike paths and trails that wind through the island's natural beauty.
Families can also take a guided tour to explore the island and learn about its history and culture, including the island's history as an Aboriginal prison, and the Rottnest Island Museum, which showcases the island's history and wildlife.
There are plenty of picnic spots and BBQ areas, perfect for a family lunch or dinner. Visitors can also enjoy beautiful sunsets from the famous Rottnest Island Lighthouse, or many of the island's lookout points.
Rottnest Island is a great destination for families looking for a relaxing getaway, with an abundance of activities and natural beauty to enjoy. It's a great place to enjoy the sun, swim, snorkel and bike ride while also learning about the island's culture and history.
The Perth Cultural Centre is a complex of cultural institutions located in the heart of Perth, Western Australia. It offers a wide range of activities for families to enjoy, with something for everyone.
One of the most popular attractions at the Perth Cultural Centre is the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA), which features contemporary art exhibitions and performance events. Families can also visit the State Theatre Centre of Western Australia, which stages a wide range of performances including plays, musicals, dance, and comedy shows.
Another popular attraction is the Western Australian Museum, which offers interactive exhibits and displays on Western Australia's natural and cultural heritage, from the ancient past to the present. Families can also visit the Perth Public Library, which offers a wide range of books and activities and regular workshops and storytime sessions for children.
Additionally, the Cultural Centre also features a variety of outdoor spaces and gardens, including the Perth Cultural Centre Plaza, which hosts a range of events and festivals throughout the year. Families can also enjoy a variety of street performers and buskers in the area.
Overall, the Perth Cultural Centre offers a diverse range of activities and experiences that cater to all ages and interests, it's a great destination for families looking to engage with the arts, culture and history.
A bike ride along the Swan River in Perth, Western Australia, is a great way for families to explore the city and its surroundings while exercising. Several dedicated bike paths run along the river, providing easy access to a variety of sights and attractions.
One popular destination along the bike path is the Elizabeth Quay, which offers a range of restaurants and cafes, as well as a playground and a water park for children to enjoy. Along the way, families can stop by the South Perth Foreshore, which features a playground and a variety of picnic areas.
The bike path also takes you through the scenic Matilda Bay Reserve, where families can enjoy a picnic, swim, and take a break from the the hustle and bustle of family life in the city.
Overall, a bike ride along the Swan River in Perth offers families a great way to explore the city while getting some exercise and enjoying the great outdoors. It's a fun and healthy way to see many of the city's attractions and landmarks, and enjoy the beautiful views along the way.
Bells Rapids is a picturesque spot located in the suburb of Brigadoon, Western Australia, and it's known for its beautiful natural surroundings and recreational activities. It's a great destination for outdoor adventure and fun family activities to do in Perth..
One of the main attractions at Bells Rapids is the hiking and biking trails. The trails are suitable for all fitness levels and offer a great opportunity to explore the natural bushland and see the wildflowers and the local fauna. Visitors can also take a walk along the Avon River and enjoy the beautiful views of the area.
Families can also enjoy swimming and picnicking at the rocky pools and inlets that Bells Rapids offers. During the summer months, it's common to see people swimming, relaxing and enjoying the natural surroundings. Additionally, there are also BBQ facilities and picnic areas available for families to enjoy.
Bells Rapids also has a playground, a skatepark and a basketball court, providing great opportunities for families to play and have fun together. The park also has toilets and showers for visitors’ convenience.
Bells Rapids offers a great mix of natural beauty, recreational activities, and entertainment for families. It's a great destination to enjoy a day outdoors, explore nature, and have fun as a family.
The Fremantle Prison is a historic site located in the city of Fremantle, Western Australia, and it is a great destination for families interested in history and heritage. The prison was built in the 1850s and operated for over 140 years, and it offers a unique insight into the history of Western Australia and the prison system.
Families can take a guided tour of the prison and learn about its history and the people who lived and worked there. The tours include access to the prison's cells, the exercise yards, and the execution yards, and also includes an audio guide that brings the history of the prison to life.
Additionally, the prison also offers a range of activities for families, such as torchlight tours, which take visitors through the prison after dark, and the Tunnel Tour, which takes visitors underground to explore the prison's tunnels and hidden spaces.
There is also a Discovery Centre located on the prison grounds that is designed for families and children, it offers interactive exhibits and activities that allow visitors to learn more about the prison's history and the lives of the people who were incarcerated there.
These are 15 of our favourite fun activities to do with the family in Perth, we'd love to hear what you love. I think we all agree, spending time with the family making memories together and having fun is important. But let's be honest, some days, working out what to do, or finding something new is hard. Hopefully this list gives you a few new ideas or inspiration for some fab family days this year.
