Best 30 Things to Do in Perth Any Time of the Year
Things to Do in Perth City
Western Australia is known for its beautiful beaches, amazing nature scapes and a coastline that every state envies. Along with its unrivalled and picturesque landscapes, WA is also heralded for its city life in the capital city of Perth.
Perth city is a cultural hub filled with history, art, entertainment and some of the best sightseeing on the west coast.
So, what are the best things to do in Perth when you visit? Check out this list of the top 30 things to do during any time in the year!
1. Hyde Park
Hyde Park is one of Perth’s prettiest gardens, with majestic trees and lush lawns that are perfect for a picnic. Take a stroll through the park and learn about its history as well, as it holds cultural significance in Indigenous Australian culture. With two beautiful lakes to peruse, what’s not to love about a city park adventure?
2. Kings Park & Botanic Garden
As one of the world’s largest city parks, Kings Park and the attached Botanic Garden are great for a day of exploring nature. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and enjoy stunning views of both the Swan and Canning rivers, the Perth city skyline and even the Darling ranges!
3. Lotterywest Federation Walkway
As one of the most popular walks in Perth, the Lotterywest Federation Walkway is the best way to see Perth’s skyline. Walk among the treetops and over a stretch of glass bridge for a unique and intimate view of King’s Park in all its natural beauty.
4. The Bell Tower
Home to the 18 Swan Bells, the Bell Tower in Perth is a beautiful 82.5m monument made of copper and glass. Overlooking the picturesque Swan River, the Bell Tower is great for architecture lovers and history buffs alike. Visit the Bell Tower for its unique design and interesting history of St Martins in the Field 14th century bells it holds.
5. Swan River
As the biggest and best river in Perth city, Swan River is great for water sports, nature walks and vibrant riverside culture. For the water thrill-seekers, you can kayak, paddle-board, sail and even windsurf on the river.
For those who wish to stay dry on land, you can walk, cycle or skate the circuit trails around the river, have a picnic on the grassy riverbanks or visit one of the lively riverfront cafes for lunch. Better yet, take a river cruise from the jetties at Barrack Square to Fremantle, Swan Valley, South Perth or Rottnest Island for an adventure!
6. Elizabeth Quay
The waterfront precinct of Elizabeth Quay is located on the riverbank of Swan River. This promenade is a great place to visit to experience the humdrum of the Perth community. With public artwork, promenades and heaps of great restaurants and eateries to visit, Elizabeth Quay is amazing for a relaxed outing in the city.
7. The Perth Mint
The Perth Mint is one of the city’s most impressive colonial-era monuments. You can visit the mint and explore the interesting colonial history it has preserved, and maybe see a couple of coins while you’re there. You can even take a guided tour through the whole building. Watch live gold pours, stroll the manicured grounds and see the world’s largest bullion coin!
Restaurants
Nothing better than ending a day of sightseeing and exploring with a nice meal. Head to these renowned restaurants for a delicious end to the day!
8. Wildflower
With the option for an eight-course tasting menu, Wildflower will certainly make your tastebuds wild! Occupying the rooftop space at The Treasury, this restaurant boasts a menu that champions native ingredients and local WA produce. Pair your tastings with a sommelier-recommended wine pairing, and you’ve got yourself a great night ahead!
9. Dandelion
Dandelion boasts of having a ‘charred soul’ with an open-fire grill and wood-fire pizza oven ready to supply you with tasty chargrilled morsels. With a kitchen, bar and distillery in this establishment, there’s something for every kind of diner. Located in Karrinyup, just north of Scarborough Beach, this restaurant is a winner in our books!
10. Lotus
Take a culinary journey at Lotus and taste the flavours of South East Asia. For traditional and authentic dishes made with seasonal WA ingredients, this restaurant is sure to expand your taste palette and take you on a flavour adventure! Located in the stunning Beaufort hospitality venue, Lotus is a great place for a worldly dinner experience.
South Perth
Head to South Perth to experience some of the best wildlife, beaches and esplanades that the west coast has to offer!
11. Perth Zoo
Visit Perth Zoo for a dose of cuteness (and sometimes danger!) as you encounter some of Australia’s furry and fun animals. Just five minutes from the city centre, you’ll find yourself surrounded by lush gardens and of course, all kinds of critters!
12. Fremantle
Take a day trip down to Perth’s sister city Fremantle to experience outdoor markets, interesting colonial history and beautiful beaches! Stroll through Fremantle Markets for a taste of street food, amazing coffee and artisan stalls.
You can spend the day visiting the many museums such as the WA Maritime Museum and WA Shipwreck Museum or even take a tour of the Fremantle Prison Tunnel. Of course, nothing is better than a good beach day, especially at WA’s first licensed beach area Bathers Beach!
13. South Perth Foreshore
The Foreshore is an extensive area of public space that edges the beautiful Swan River. Visiting South Perth Foreshore is great for a beach day trip, with Coodes St Beach, Mends St Beach or one of the many esplanades available to explore.
East Perth
East Perth City has much to offer as well, with beautiful parks, shops and of course, the Swan River on its doorstep!
14. Heirisson Island
Nestled between East Perth and Victoria Park is the beautiful Heirisson Island. It’s full of important Indigenous cultural history, native flora and fauna, and seven grey kangaroos!
15. Gloucester Park
Book a day at the races in Gloucester Park! Located on the banks of Swan River, Gloucester Park is full of entertainment and fun. Make sure to visit on a Friday night, when the best horses in WA hit the track – maybe you’ll win big! With unique dining options, private function bookings, a grandstand built in the 20s, Gloucester Park is perfect for a day of amusement and luxury.
16. Queens Gardens
An urban oasis located in East Perth, the Queens Gardens are great for a morning walk through its water lily-filled lakes. Stroll through manicured shrubs and hedging and start the day off with a bit of nature! Look out for the Peter Pan statue as well!
West Perth
Although it’s more well known as an office precinct in Perth city, the hidden gems of West Perth cannot be overlooked!
17. Jacob’s Ladder
For one of the best views of the city, take a hike up Jacob’s Ladder! A giant staircase that starts at the Swan River foreshore and ends on the majestic Mount Eliza, Jacob’s Ladder is perfect for a sunrise walk or even just a bit of exercise. While 242 steps doesn’t seem like a lot, this staircase is known as a sweaty heaven, so come prepared with lots of water and sunscreen!
18. Scitech
Visit the enigmatic Scitech, an interactive science centre and museum for all ages. With science experiment shows, a collaborative WA Science Zone and a huge planetarium to explore, Scitech is the place to go! Perfect for a day of family fun (and education), this West Perth attraction is not to be missed.
19. Food and Wine Tour
The food and wine in Perth are an amazing culinary experience. Taking a food and wine tour is the best way to expand your taste buds, and explore the city as well! For the best wine culture and gastronomic experiences, Perth has got something for every kind of foodie.
You could do a self-organised or booked a walking tour of Perth’s best food and wine, take a food river cruise down the Swan River or even indulge in a wine-tasting tour through Swan Valley.
Check Out the Indian Ocean
There’s nothing better than the WA coastline, and swimming in the Indian Ocean! Whether you’re a local looking for a day in the sun or a tourist wanting to explore the coast, Perth has got a beach for every kind of visitor.
20. Cottesloe Beach
The iconic Cottesloe Beach is one of the most famous Perth attractions, and it lives up to its name. For the best swimming, snorkelling and even an evening sunset wine and dine. With shade from ancient Norfolk Pines, and a bustling boulevard of restaurants and activities to choose from, Cottesloe is a must-visit. For a stunning display of artistry, try to get there for the Sculptures By The Sea exhibition in March!
21. Ocean Beach Hotel
Nothing can beat incredible ocean views, a bar full of drinks and a great menu to taste which is exactly what the Ocean Beach Hotel has to offer! Whether you want to dine in the spectacular CBlu restaurant or even stay at the hotel for luxury accommodation, the Ocean Beach Hotel is a great experience to try out.
22. City Beach
Of all the things to do in Perth, visiting the small but mighty City Beach should be on your to-do list. With an enormous playground, free beach volleyball nets and the next dog-friendly bay, City Beach is perfect for the whole family!
Day Trips
Taking a day trip from Perth City to one of the many natural attractions is always a great idea. Head up the river, through the rolling hills and even across the water!
23. Margaret River
For amazing food and wine experiences, an interesting art scene and of course, a pristine natural environment, the Margaret River is the place to go. Whether you like camping, birdwatching or mountain biking, this river is great for any kind of adventure. There are many walking trails through the nearby Boranup Karri Forest, and foodie heaven with farmers markets, restaurants and wine tours to experience!
24. Rottnest Island
Who doesn’t know about Rottnest Island at this point! With the cute and cuddly Quokkas native to Rottnest, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular day trips out of Perth. Apart from these selfie-loving marsupials, Rottnest Island has amazing native wildlife, including colonies of sea lions! Travel around on a hire bike to visit beaches and swimming spots, and take a photo with a Quokka!
25. Shoalwater Islands Marine Park
Less than 45 minutes away from Perth CBD is the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park. This park is home to Penguin Island and the tiny penguins that inhabit it, bottlenose dolphins and cavernous reefs which are great for snorkelling and kayaking over! It even has its own Seal Island, with a large colony of rare Australian seals you can visit. There are heaps of fishing and crabbing options as well, making this marine park an adventurer’s dream destination!
26. Marmion Marine Park
Explore the Indian Ocean at Marmion Marine Park, which is known for the best underwater experiences. Submerged beneath the waves are many cavernous reefs, great diving spots and snorkelling sites. For the above-water thrill seeker, you can try out boating, swimming, whale watching and kite or windsurfing as well!
27. Caversham Wildlife Park
The largest private collection of wildlife is located in WA, at the Caversham Wildlife Park! With a daily Farm Show, wombat meet and greets and penguin feeding, this wildlife park gets you up close and personal with heaps of different Aussie animals. You may even be able to spot (or hear!) the rare Tasmanian Devil here!
28. Swan Valley
For a day trip that is worth the 25-minute drive, head to Swan Valley for family fun, food and wine attractions and a relaxed vibe. Take a wine tour of the region, bring a picnic for one of the many parks or hit up the Guildford Heritage Walking Trails for a bit of history. The Swan Valley is filled with relaxing activities and beautiful scenery, so head there for a lazy day of sightseeing!
29. Hillarys Boat Harbour
This boat harbour has it all, with fun fairs, the Island Aqua Park and of course, the Aquarium of Western Australia. Only 25 minutes from Perth city, this harbour is great for Perth locals and tourists alike who are looking for a day of sun or a night of entertainment! Visit the waterfront restaurants, stunning promenades and the underwater glass tunnel at AQWA.
30. Do a Paint and Sip Session With Pinot & Picasso
For a girl’s night out, a surprise birthday event or even just a catch-up sesh with friends, a paint and sip in Perth is the way to go! Whether you wish to paint yourself in the style of Picasso or a beautiful Cottesloe beach sunset, Pinot & Picasso has every kind of paint and sip on offer. For the perfect Sunday session, Friday night or weekday evening, painting provides a relaxing space for conversation and drinks to flow! Find a session near you.
