Things to Do With Kids in Perth, Australia

One of the best things you can do in Perth with kids is close to the city and it’s free. Start by checking out the Rio Tinto Naturescape and the dinosaur-themed Synergy Parkland, before going for a stroll among the treetops on the Lotterywest Federation Walkway. If you still have some energy to burn, rent some bicycles and go exploring, brave Jacob’s Ladder, or just stop for a breather and an icy pole on the grass by the war memorial, taking in the great views over the city and the Swan River.

While Perth’s beaches are famously picturesque, what you can see from the shore is just the tip of the iceberg. Head to AQWA – the Aquarium of Western Australia – at Hillarys Boat Harbour to find out more about the seriously impressive marine life, including an underwater tunnel with sharks, rays and turtles. During the winter months, you can also join an AQWA Ocean Safari to see whales and dolphins, or, whatever the weather, make a day out of your visit to Hillarys with fishing, swimming, a funfair and plenty of food options to suit even the pickiest palette.

If you prefer your wildlife on the cute and cuddly side, or you want to learn more about Australia’s native animals, head to Caversham in Whiteman Park. See wombats, koalas, echidnas and kangaroos, before hopping on the tram or a vintage bus and checking out the Children’s Forest or the Transport Heritage Centre.

Let off some steam with a visit to Wanneroo Botanical Gardens & Mini Golf or Chillisaurus Mini Golf in Merriwa for a glow-in-the-dark dinosaur-themed adventure. Or, if that all just sounds a bit too much, take a trip out to the Swan Valley and swing by Oasis Supa Golf for some oversized golfing shenanigans, before heading to one of the countless wineries for some more grown-up fun.

The perfect way to spend an afternoon in the city, Elizabeth Quay is the epitome of family-friendly fun in Perth. Head to the Islands Playground, cool off in the BHP Billiton Water Park and eat and drink to your heart’s content. Take it up a notch with a trip out onto the Swan River on a boat or a waterbike or a street art tour through the CBD to see some of the city’s most well-known colourful murals.

After a busy day of adventuring, grab some popcorn and a doona and head to Kingsley to visit the Galaxy Drive-in Cinema for a taste of old-school Australia. The last of Perth’s drive-in cinemas, Galaxy was opened in 1973 and has showings every Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday night, whatever the weather.