101 Awesome Things to do in Perth with Kids in 2026)

Last Updated on 5 May 2026 by Ariana Svenson

Here we go – a whopping list of 101 totally AWESOME things to do in Perth with kids! Family activities in Perth are wide-ranging, from the beautiful outdoors, beaches, indoor play centres, groovy cafes and incredible parks and playgrounds   If you are asking, “what are the best activities in Perth for kids?” then we are here to help.

We won’t lie, if you Google search, there are loads of lists covering the “best of things to do in Perth with kids.”  But – we are locals, and we have visited many of the places on this list a couple of times. We’ve even seen lists about Perth that include Margaret River and Busselton! (um no!!)

Disclosure: Through my site there are links to affiliates, which means that I might receive commission if you buy something after clicking them. This costs you no more, and you definitely don’t pay extra. However, I do get a small amount which contributes to the upkeep of this blog. Thanks so much for all of your support. We hope you have a ball in Western Australia!

Who is this List of things to do in Perth with Kids For?

Local Perth Families

If you are looking for some holiday inspiration, then look no further. As our kids grow older, we also add new ideas and perspectives. 

For Families Visiting Perth

We’ve all done it -been a visitor to a city and checked out a list of ‘best things to do in X for kids’ and found that it is really hard to work out a solid itinerary. So, when it comes to looking for things to do in Perth with kids, we have taken the hard work out of it for you. 

If you are looking for a Perth itinerary for family travelers, then look no further than our Perth family holiday itinerary. This is a truly unique and well-researched itinerary.  It explains what the best things in Perth for kids are to see, in what order we recommend them, and even allows downtime for that all-important kid activity – PLAY!

Are you visiting Perth with your kids during the winter season? No worries, there is a wide array of fun activities waiting for you! Check out our comprehensive guide to things to do in Perth in winter with more details.

And, if you like our Perth family holiday itineraries, why not also check out our recommendations for the rest of this great state?  We cover all of Western Australia with kids at our mega-post to the best Western Australia road trips. From Broome in the North to Augusta in the South, we cover lots of family-friendly tips and ideas for enjoying our home state!

How to Use this Perth for Kids Guide

When you love a city as much as Perth (and we do!), it is hard to narrow your advice down. We have tried to walk in the visitor’s shoes and consider the top things to do in Perth with kids. 

I’ve grouped the different attractions by area. For example, we have a Perth city kids section and another on things to do in the Perth hills for kids.

One of the difficult things about writing a mega-post about places to go with kids in Perth is that “kids” covers a range of ages – from toddlers right through to school-age kids. Then they turn into tweens before becoming full-blown teenagers! 

Where possible, we have either shared the ages our kids were during our visit (s) or made suggestions for the best age to visit.

Our guarantee to you is that these family activities in Perth have been tested by us.  We are confident in saying they are amongst the best family things to do in Perth.  The good news is that as we do more around Perth, we can add more to the list.

Must see in Perth City

Walk along the Swan River

Truly, at the heart of Perth is the Swan River, the Derbal Yerrigan, and you will notice that so many of these activities and suggestions of things to do in Perth for kids include the River. My children like walking along the river at sunset, riding their bikes or scooters,  the jetties or having a swim…   

Enjoy A Swan River Cruise

A Swan River cruise is a lovely way to see Perth from a different perspective. Most cruises depart from Elizabeth Quay or Barrack Street Jetty and travel between Perth and Fremantle or offer shorter scenic trips along the river.

It’s a relaxed option that works well for all ages. Along the way, you will pass some of Perth’s most recognisable sights, including Kings Park, the Bell Tower, riverside mansions and yacht clubs.

Here are some of our top picks:

Captain Cook Cruises: The main Swan River cruise company. They operate scenic cruises between Perth and Fremantle with commentary. This is the best option if you want a classic sightseeing experience.

The Little Ferry Co: A much smaller, boutique option with a maximum of just 11 passengers. These solar-electric ferries operate around Perth’s central waterways, including stops like Elizabeth Quay, Claisebrook Cove and Optus Stadium.

Gondolas on Swan River: For something a little different, you can hop aboard a Venetian-style gondola right from Elizabeth Quay.

Blue Boat House Perth

While we don’t necessarily agree that the Blue Boat House should be on a list of ‘Things to do in Perth with kids’, it is certainly now a Perth icon. For that reason, it has hit the list.

In reality, Perth’s Blue Boat House is anything BUT kid-friendly. You need to park up by the University of WA to walk along the busy Mounts Bay Road with the kids. However, nearby Matilda Bay Reserve is absolutely stunning and has lots of space to run around for both the kids and the pooch.

St Georges Terrace and the Spaceman

Keep an eye out for the BOONJI Spaceman in Stirling Gardens. This 7-metre-tall blue astronaut sculpture is hard to miss. It also ties into Perth’s “City of Light” story, when John Glenn spotted the city glowing from space back in 1962.

Elizabeth Quay Area

One of Western Australia’s “must-do” family activities in Perth is the Elizabeth Quay area.  From waterfront walks to delicious eateries and an opportunity to climb the Perth Bell Tower, there is plenty to keep the kids occupied around Elizabeth Quay.  

Elizabeth Quay Carousel

There is something romantic about a MerryGoRound, and the one at Elizabeth Quay is no exception. Just beside the water, you’ll find this beautifully crafted carousel in Venetian style. In fact, it was crafted by Italian artisans, the same makers behind a carousel near the Eiffel Tower.

My kids always want to go around, their smiles are very wide as the traditional music plays, and the hand-painted horses begin to move.

BHP Billiton Water Play Park

When my kids were little, this was one of their favourite places in the CBD. We would go and do some activities and then end up here to run around with the water fountains.

Don’t forget to pack some extra clothes in case you get wet.  At all times of the year, the kids can’t resist getting wet

This is definitely one of our fave things to do with kids in Perth during a long, hot summer!

The Island

The Island is one of the top places to take in the atmosphere of Elizabeth Quay. It’s relaxed with plenty of indoor seating, a kids’ menu, and pizza! You can enjoy incredible 360-degree water views.

Playground on the Island

The Island Playground is one of the best play stops in the Elizabeth Quay area, especially if you’re already in the waterfront area.

Set on the man-made island, this compact pirate-themed playground has a three-storey climbing tower, rope nets, bridges, a slide, sand play, water play and a nest swing. It’s a good one for kids who like to climb and scramble.

Perth Bell Tower

WA Museum Boola Bardip (Perth Museum)

Four years in the making, it is an understatement to say that Western Australians were super excited to see their new museum, which opened at the end of 2020. 

Located in the Perth Cultural Centre, the WA Museum Boola Bardip explores Western Australia’s rich cultural and natural heritage, with a special focus on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and WA’s multicultural population. 

A truly 21st-century museum, there is plenty of interactive and innovative technology. This is an excellent rainy day activity in Perth for kids.

Yagan Square

Relatively new, Yagan Square is a redeveloped open space between Northbridge and the city centre (Wellington Street), next to the Perth Train Station.

Yagan Square is on Whadjuk land and was traditionally an important meeting place for Indigenous people, with the name paying respect to a Noongar warrior, Yagan.

London Court Perth

London Court links Hay St Mall with St George’s Terrace. This heritage-listed open-air shopping arcade is quirky, incongruous and right in the centre of Perth’s CBD. You’ll find some lovely boutiques.

One of my favourite rituals as a kid, and one that I have shared with my own, is watching the jousting knights go around the Hay St Mall clock. I have to admit, in this day and age, it doesn’t have the same magic I remember from my childhood, but the kids will still love it!

SciTech And The Perth Planetarium

SciTech is an interactive science museum and discovery centre with loads of hands-on activities to captivate your child, as well as a great Planetarium. 

During Western Australian school holidays, there are special exhibits to keep your kids on their toes.  If you are looking for school holiday activities in Perth, be sure to check out SciTech.

SciTech is also our pick for rainy day activities in Perth with kids. As Perth is officially the sunniest capital city in the world, with about 144 days of sunshine a year, it is hard to believe that there are plenty of rainy days. 

However, there are. So for us, the best rainy day activity in Perth is Scitech Discovery Centre and Perth Planetarium. For more information check out our full review of Scitech And The Perth Planetarium here.

Nostalgia Box Museum

The Nostalgia Box is located in Harbour Town, just across from SciTech. This fun museum celebrates the history of video games, with over 100 consoles on display dating back to the 1970s.

There’s also a gaming area where you can have a nostalgic experience, where you can play from old-school Nintendo to Sega favourites. If you have kids who are into gaming, the museum will be one of the highlights of their trip (and yours, too).

Perth Mint

I do love world schooling while we are on holiday, and the Perth Mint is excellent for historical and monetary reasons!!!

Housed in an impressive 1899 building, the Perth Mint is the National Mint (i.e., for all of Australia) for Gold, silver, and other precious metals. The mint is open 7 days a week. 

The heritage tours are highly recommended and last one hour. In addition, make sure you see the pure Gold exhibits, watch a Gold pour, and see the world’s largest coin!

>> Get your tickets for the Perth Mint Gold Pour tour here

Old Central Fire Station Heritage Centre

The Old Central Fire Station Heritage Centre is a hidden gem in Perth’s East End. Once Perth’s first purpose-built fire station, it is now a small museum sharing more than 125 years of firefighting history in WA.

You can see vintage fire trucks, old equipment and displays from the early days of the fire service. It’s hands-on enough to keep kids interested, too. They can dress up as firefighters and even take the wheel of an old fire truck. Check opening times before you go, as it’s not open every day.

Matagarup Bridge Climb and Zipline

If you’ve got older kids or teens who love a bit of adventure, the Matagarup Bridge climb is a must-do! As part of a guided experience, you’ll climb to the top of the 72m high bridge before reaching the SkyView platform high above the Swan River.

You can also zip-line 400 metres across the river, picking up some high speed along the way. It’s definitely one for the brave, but the views over the city and river are pretty incredible, especially around sunset.

Kids must be 8+ for the climb and 10+ for the zipline.

Matagarup Perth Mini Golf

In a great location near the Swan River, Matagarup Perth Mini Golf is conveniently between Matagarup Zip+Climb and The Camfield, in Burswood Park. We loved the views of Optus Stadium in the background.

Marketed as Perth’s best mini golf course, it has a unique Western Australian theme, sure to keep the whole family entertained! We had fun on a warm afternoon. There are cool artworks, as well as a creek and bridges. Check out their website for more details.

>>> Get your tickets here

Optus Stadium HALO Roof Climb

Optus Stadium’s Behind the Scenes guided tour is something for all those sports fans, young and old. Or if you want a bit of excitement in your life…

Walk on the roof with a harness, take in the views from scary heights as you lean over the edge. You’ll get to explore the stadium from every angle, with behind-the-scenes insights into game-day operations and how it was built. There are also the Swan River and Perth City in the background.

Perth Zoo

Depending on where you hail from, Perth Zoo is a wonderful way to spend the day.  It is one of the best kids’ activities in Perth. You can spend the whole day here learning more about animals, especially local marsupials.

If you are staying in Perth city, our top tip would be to take the ferry from Elizabeth Quay to South Perth. This public transport ferry offers world-class views of Perth Skyline for a fraction of the price of a tour. If you are counting, a trip on the South Perth Ferry is #9 on our things to do in Perth with kids.

Top Tip for a day at Perth Zoo – Go early , preferably at the opening as the animals seem more active. 

After our first visit to the zoo, where the queues around lunchtime were huge, we packed our own picnic and enjoyed eating in a grassed area.

If the kids are getting tired in the afternoon, consider booking a zebra car tour.  These are like large golf carts, driven by volunteers (known as docents). Not only is it a great way to get some insider information about the Perth Zoo, but when it is hot outside, the zebra car can be a lifesaver. 

We suggest if you are looking for some family things to do in Perth that you give the Perth Zoo a try.  Read our Our Perth Zoo Review for all the details.

Jacaranda Season

There is something so magical about the Jacarandas in bloom; it’s a beautiful sight for people of all ages. For people in Australia, the blooming of the jacarandas symbolises the coming of summer, and while they typically flower from late October to November, this can vary by season.
Applecross is considered to have some of the most beautiful Jacarandas, particularly on Nisbet Road. Other popular spots include Strickland Street in South Perth and Mount Street in the Perth CBD. Remember that some of these locations are residential areas, so be mindful and respectful when taking photos or enjoying the purple haze.

Street Art Perth

Like many places in the world, Perth’s streets are brightened by some amazing street art. We love checking out Wolf Lane, or you might like to follow the Art City Walking Trail is a 3.1km trail through CBD and Northbridge, featuring over 200 public artworks.

Perth Christmas Lights

Each year, from the end of November through to the end of December, the Perth CBD lights up with some amazing and innovative Christmas lights, usually featuring a uniquely Aussie theme. If you are going to be in Perth at Christmas time, make sure you search the Rio Tinto Christmas Lights Trail for exact dates, locations and tips for a visit.

The Swan River

The gorgeous Swan River offers so many places where you can enjoy stunning scenery and water-based activities. I have included many already; here are a few lesser-known ones that are popular with locals or those in the know.

Como Jetty

Como Beach is a river beach on the south side of Perth Water. Como Jetty is one of the last river jetties and one of the best places on the Swan River to view the sunset.

The Como Jetty is the longest jetty on the Swan River. It is easy to get to; just take the overpass that crosses the Kwinana Freeway. The Swan River foreshore is also popular with dog walkers.

Heirisson Island

Right in the middle of Swan River along the Causeway between East Perth and Victoria Park, Herisson Island is an unexpected Perth spot where you’ll have the chance to see Western Grey Kangaroos just minutes from Perth’s CBD.

There are flat walking trails, open grassed areas and plenty of space for kids to move around. There is limited shade and basic facilities, so plan accordingly.

It’s best as a quick stop rather than a full day out. There is limited shade and only basic facilities, so plan accordingly. As always, keep a safe distance from the kangaroos and avoid feeding them.

Matilda Bay Reserve

Matilda Bay Reserve, across the road from the University of WA, offers a lovely destination for kids, with plenty to do, including swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the sheltered Swan River.

Under supervision, kids can jump off the pontoon, which is lots of fun (with water depth checks). The reserve also provides accessible pathways for walking and cycling, and there’s a coffee shop for snacks and drinks. The Reserve is also a popular spot for birthday parties and weddings.

Keep an eye out for black swans, pelicans, ducks, terns, herons, and cormorants. You might even spot dolphins in the river.

Bicton Baths

Bicton Baths are considered one of the best locations to swim in the famous Swan River. As the baths are situated in a tidal area, the water is heavily influenced by the ocean and is ultimately quite clean.

Kids can jump off the jetty, and the area is great for playing in the sand, swimming in the shallows and snorkelling.

Perth Playgrounds & Parks

Without a doubt, Perth is blessed with some of the very finest playgrounds in all of Australia.  How can we say that with such confidence?  Well, we have traveled extensively, and although the saying ‘there is no place like home’ the Perth parks and playgrounds are state-of-the-art.

Most of the new Perth playgrounds are designed sensitively with consideration for the area they are located in and have a natural theme.  They encourage children to play in their native surroundings, as well as challenge themselves.  Without a doubt, one of the best free things to do in Perth with kids is to visit one of the many playgrounds.

Kings Park

We love Kings Park, the world’s largest inner-city park.  Kings Park offers a great family day in Perth; by this, we mean that it’s interesting for all ages. 

Let’s start with the views.  You get stunning vistas over Perth city and the Swan River at all times of the day, but particularly at sunset. 

The Western Australian War Memorial is a sombre reminder of the impact of war, while the Botanic Garden provides a beautiful introduction to the glorious plant species of Western Australia. 

If you can visit during September for their stunning wildflower festival which showcases some of the most beautiful wildflowers in Perth – you will be truly blown away! 

Just to recap, these are the things for kids you shouldn’t miss in Kings Park:

• A walk over Lotterywest Federation Walkway
• Sending messages on the Whispering Wall
• Views from the Western Australian War Memorial
• Exploration of the incredible Kings Park Botanic Garden, and any number of walks through the Australian bush.

Of course, the best kids’ activities in Perth are the varied playgrounds in Kings Park.  They surely are amongst the best collection of children’s playgrounds in all of Australia.  Each of the Kings Park playgrounds has a different theme and works well for different age ranges. 

There are four amazing playgrounds in Kings Park:

• Rio Tinto Naturescape – Spoiler alert, of all the Kings Park playgrounds our absolute favorite is the Rio Tinto Naturescape.  This awesome nature-based playground allows kids to explore, get dirty, and be in touch with nature – all in the middle of the city.  We love it!
• Ivey Watson Playground (better for younger kids)
• The May Drive Playground
• Variety Place Playground

Phew, at the end of our visit to Kings Park with Kids, we have covered 15 of the best things to do in Perth with Kids!

Koolangka Koolangka Waabiny – Wellington Square Playground

This is the newest of Perth’s mega playgrounds, and it opened in 2021.   We are not exaggerating when we say that this playground is huge – and  features a nature play area, yellow climbing towers (which look like banksias), two tube slides, a flying fox and more traditional play equipment like swings. There is also a fantastic water play section with bursts of water out coming from native flowers!

The Koolangka Koolangka Waabiny would make a great combination visit with the the Perth Mint.  Park in the one place and visit both at the same time.  More details here A FULL Guide to Wellington Square Playground – Koolangka Koolanka Waabiny.

Chevron Parkland at The Optus Stadium

This is another of the recently built mega-playgrounds in Perth.  There are two sections.  A fenced sensory playground near the Camfield Pub and Matagarup Bridge is perfect for younger children. 

For older children, head down to the Swan River, and you will discover a huge nature play area – the Chevron Parkland.  It includes lots of natural play, but also some truly awesome climbing structures!  My kids would have stayed for hours if I had let them. 

Scarborough Beach Whale Playground

Everyone who visits Perth should spend some time on its spectacular beaches with white sands and turquoise waters; it is a truly stunning place to visit or live. 

Scarborough is also one of the more popular beaches and is easily accessible by public transport.  Newly built, our kids totally loved the whale-and-nautical theme.  We’ve covered both of these in our Best Playgrounds of Perth post, linked directly above.

Lake Monger

Lake Monger is included in our list of 101 awesome things to do in Perth with kids because we love visiting it to see the black swans, as do visitors to Perth.  The black swan is the animal emblem of Western Australia.  There is also a small playground and a great walking trail if you have a scooter.

UWA for photos

The University of WA (UWA) is a great place for photos, thanks to its stunning campus featuring historic buildings, lush gardens, and unique architectural details, making it a popular location for filming and photography, as well as for a wander.

Buildings like Winthrop Hall, with its iconic bell tower, and the Barry J Marshall Library, known for its lush green walls, are popular photo spots.

The Giant in Perth

If you’re exploring Subiaco, it’s worth stopping by Theatre Gardens to see Bille Bob, a giant wooden sculpture created by Thomas Dambo as part of the ‘Giants of Mandurah’ exhibition.

Perth’s Seaside Suburbs:  Kids Activities Perth

Watch a Spectacular Western Australian Sunset

Because Perth faces west over the Indian Ocean, its an ideal place to watch the sunset. Cottesloe and Scarborough beach are the perfect spots! Kings Park also has some fantastic sunset views over the Swan River and the city.

Visit a Beach

This is one of the best things to do in Perth with kids, and it is also completely free. You must visit one of the spectacular beaches that line the coast. From Trigg Beach in the North to South Beach in Fremantle, these beautiful, soft sand beaches are as white as they come.

Cottesloe is possibly the most famous beach, or alternatively, take a look at Scarborough Beach.  While Cottesloe has beautiful Art Deco buildings and a rock wall to walk out on, its playground is a little older.  Scarborough has a brand-new, multi-million-dollar playground that is fantastic and will keep the kids occupied for at least an hour.  Indian Ocean views are a must when visiting Perth.  We suggest that heading down to the coast at sunset will be worth your while.

If you are looking for a list of beaches in Western Australia and near Perth, check out our posts, Best Beaches In Perth and Best Beaches In Western Australia.

Perth Beaches – What is the Best Kid Friendly Beach in Perth

For good reason, Perth is famous for its long expanses of white beaches, beautiful blue water, and beachside lifestyle.  However, not all of the Perth beaches are good for kids.  It’s so important that you do your research and pick a beach to visit that will suit your family’s swimming skills.   

Here are some of the better beaches in Perth for kids:

Yanchep Lagoon

Also, a day trip from Perth, the Yanchep Lagoon beach is one of the best beaches for small kids.  The reef makes the waters really protected and good for little ones to dabble.  In addition, you can visit the koalas or caves at Yanchep National Park, rounding out the whole day!

Learn to Surf

Big Wave Surfing School specialises in teaching families’ Surf Together Bond For Life‘ and offers plenty of lesson options for all abilities. They focus on providing a supportive environment where children can build confidence, try something new and enjoy a bit of safe adventure in the ocean.

Hillary’s Boat Harbour

Hillary’s Boat Harbour beach is definitely the best beach option in Perth for toddlers and young kids. This lovely shallow beach is located within the Marina itself.  There is also a playground and lots of grassed areas to sit and enjoy a picnic.  It is surrounded by a cluster of cafes and eateries.  Alternatively, you could make a day trip.

Hillary’s Boat Harbour has a very fun feel all year round, but it really comes into its own in the summer months. Here are some of the things we recommend:

• Shopping at Sorrento Quay
• Hillary’s Boat Harbour Beach – very sheltered, perfect for toddlers and small children. Also has universal access to the water.
• Hillary’s Boat Harbour Food Restaurants  

Island Aqua Park Hillarys

A slippery floating island in the Hillarys Boat Harbour, this water park has 1.5-hour sessions over summer where you challenge yourself on this floating playground with an over-water swing, lots of obstacles, and climbing walls. Get ready to have a workout as the kids have a ball.
Island Aqua Park is a floating water park in Hillarys Harbour. For 6+. Users must be able to swim.

Cottesloe Beach

Cottesloe Beach is one of Western Australia’s iconic spots, with its beautiful Indiana Tearooms building a lovely place to take photos.  The backdrop of the Norfolk Pines also gives it a European resort feel. The waves are generally gentle, though there is a steep entry and it falls away quite quickly once you are in the water.

There is also a Shark net, which adds some security.   At Cottesloe Beach, there are several playgrounds at the top, near the grassed picnic areas.

If you are in Perth in March, don’t miss the Sculpture by the Sea, an open-air art trail which goes all the way from the sea wall to North Cottesloe and the surrounding grass area.

Mettams Pool, Trigg

Like the Yanchep Lagoon, the natural pool at Mettam’s is protected by a reef.  It has very calm water, making it a good place for families with young children.

AQWA – The Aquarium Of WA

While AQWA is quite small, you can easily spend a half-day here learning more about the Western Australian coastline.  There is a stunning and well-presented collection of marine life.  Even the toddlers will get into the action.

There is a central shark tank, and an underwater tunnel goes through the tank.  You ride on a slow conveyor belt so that you can see the sea life swimming around.  We saw manta rays, sharks, many fish, and even a turtle.  We went in the afternoon when it was not busy, so we even went for a second lap around the conveyor belt.  Our full hints for a visit to AQWA and Hillarys Boat harbor are found here:  Tips For Visiting The AQWA Aquarium With Kids.

South of the River

Take the Ferry to South Perth

The South Perth Ferry is not that exciting as Ferries go (say compared to the Ferry trips around Sydney harbour), but still a fun way for small kids to travel from Elizabeth Quay across to South Perth…

Fremantle for Kids

There are lots of fun things to do with kids in Fremantle! If you want to find more family activities in Fremantle, check out our blog post.

The WA Shipwreck Museum

What a great place for the little pirate or the history buff.  A highlight is the hull of the Batavia, which is kept in a temperature-controlled room in the museum.  There is also a small kid’s play section.  We loved this museum, be inspired by our review of the WA Shipwreck Museum.

WA Maritime Museum

On a bigger scale than the Shipwreck Museum, the WA Maritime Museum offers great things to do in Perth with kids. 

This museum offers local history and plenty of hands-on exhibits.  Personal favorites are the submarine and Australia II. Like SciTech, they always offer loads of different kid’s activities Perth for the children during Western Australian school holidays.

Check the official WA Maritime Museum website here for more information.

Fremantle Army Museum

For budding military enthusiasts, the Perth Army museum this is an awesome place to visit in Fremantle.  FYI, it’s also known as the War Museum Perth or the Fremantle Military Museum.  This great museum is a little way out of Fremantle and has parking on the street outside the Army Barracks.

Rainbow Sea Containers Fremantle

Now 5 years old, the Rainbow Seat Container artwork was installed in 2016 and is now synonymous with the Fremantle Port and Swan River Designed by Perth artist Marcus Canning, the ‘Containbow” is also an Instagram sensation – it’s definitely one of the most Instagrammable places in Perth.

Looking for the most Instagrammable cafes in Perth?  Then head to Ootong and Lincoln on the corner of South Terrace and Parry St, Fremantle.

Aviation Heritage Museum

Located in Bull Creek (not far from Fremantle), the Aviation Heritage Museum is home to over 35 aircraft, including some huge bombers.  We loved our visit and can’t wait to write up a full review soon.

Other Things to do in Fremantle for Kids

• Eat fish and chips at the Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour and then enjoy walking around looking at the boats.
• Play in the Esplanade Park, under the iconic Fremantle Pine trees.  There is also a skate park for older kids.

• Ride the Fremantle Tourist Wheel  which provides awesome views of Fremantle town and harbours.  Also known as the Fremantle Ferris Wheel and Skyview Wheel.
• Enjoy funky Freo – walk along the Cappucino strip,  eat Gelato and wander around the iconic Fremantle Markets.
• Visit Fremantle Prison

• Visit the Round House – the first permanent building built in the Swan River Colony, and it is the oldest building still standing in Western Australia.
• Escape Room Fremantle – The Escape Hunt Experience is  supposed to be one of the better Escape Rooms in Perth..
• The Pickled Fairy & Other Myths in Fremantle is a long-standing, enchanting store (since 1991) designed to immerse children in a world of magic

Best Things for Kids to do in Perth Surrounds

Whiteman Park (Includes Caversham Wildlife Park & Train Ride For The Kids)

Did you know that Whiteman Park is reputed to be the largest metropolitan park in the world?  With so much to see and do, if you are looking for a full-day activity in Perth with kids, then you have found a “beauty.”  Whiteman Park is definitely worth a full day of your time.

You can feed kangaroos at Caversham Wildlife Park, visit the Boy of the Bush in the Children’s Forest, jump in the driver’s seat of a bus at Revolutions Transport Museum, and have fun with all the different activities on offer each school holiday.  With so much variety, you’ll need to ask mum and dad to come back over and over again!

Our top tips for a visit to Whiteman Park are:

• Plan your day well, as the park is big with a lot to see

• Allow a full day for the area.

• Allow time for driving from Perth to Whiteman, it takes at least 20 minutes from central Perth.

We loved our visit to the Caversham Wildlife Park Perth.  It is very well maintained and quite spacious between the different exhibits. 

The highlight has to be that we could get up close and personal with most of the animals.  This is a rare treat, and the photo opportunity with a koala, kangaroo, wombat, and reptiles is amazing.  In addition to experiencing Australian wildlife, the kids loved the farm animals in Molly’s Farm. This is a must for an opportunity to feed a kangaroo or koala, and to meet a wombat!

Pedal Play

Another fun option at Whiteman Park is Pedal Play, where you can hire pedal go karts to explore the park. There are junior karts for kids aged 4 and up, larger karts for older kids and adults, plus two-seater and family-style options if you want to ride together. It’s a lovely way to see more of the park, especially around the Village and Mussel Pool areas, and a good one for energetic kids who like to be on the move.

Motor Museum of Western Australia

Also located in Whiteman Park, this is a great stop for car-loving kids (and adults!). The museum showcases over 200 classic and vintage vehicles. There’s also an impressive collection of model cars, believed to be one of the largest in the world.

Wanneroo Mini Golf

The Wanneroo Mini Golf and Botanic Gardens are a huge treat for everyone!  We’ve visited with the kids and grandmother. While the kids are having a ball with the golf, she loves the flowers and sculpted gardens. 

The Wanneroo Mini Golf has 18 holes of mini-golf and another 18 holes of billiards.  They are open from 9 am in the morning, and we visited during the school holidays.  We rang to find out peak times, and they said generally until 3 pm, after that was quieter.

As it was, it was still quite busy with happy family groups of 5 to 10 people enjoying the beautiful grounds and innovative mini-golf holes. 

They have a limit of 8 strokes per hole, and that was lucky, as if you let the kids keep going, it could last forever.  So keep in mind to try to avoid peak times so you are not waiting too long at each hole.

After our first 18 rounds, we enjoyed a well-earned ice cream (and coffee), which was fantastic.  If you were planning to make a full day of it, Leapfrog Café looked just lovely and full of families enjoying delicious food.

After our refreshments, we headed out to do the billiard golf.  We probably needed someone to teach us the rules.  Even if you decide not to do more mini-golf, do go and check out the gardens as this part is like a Japanese water garden and very pretty.

Don’t forget – Wanneroo Mini Golf has night-time sessions on Wednesday to Sunday evenings. Their last tee-off time is at 8:30 pm.  Also on our Perth bucket list is to visit during the Christmas lights which we think would be amazing.

Other Mini Golf Courses that should be on your radar!

• Goanna Golf At Point Walter (South of River)
• Wembley Golf Course
• Oasis Supa Golf and Adventure Putt Mini Golf, Henley Brook

Outback Splash

Outback Splash Perth is located near the Swan Valley and about 45 minutes from Perth’s CBD.  This awesome waterpark is so much fun and one of the top family things to do in the Swan Valley. Outback Splash has many waterslides, splash zones, and water play areas for families to cool off.

If waterslides aren’t your thing or if it is too cool outside to properly enjoy the water, there are still other year-round activities. These activities include mini-golf, mazes, a playground, sensory activities, and Australian animal encounters.  If you are looking for things to do in Perth for kids, consider Outback Splash, no matter what time of year.

Note that Wanneroo Mini Golf and Outback Splash have the same owners, so you can get a discount if you visit both places.

BOUNCE Perth

BOUNCE is a giant indoor trampoline and climbing centre, and the kids really love it for the nonstop fun. It’s a great way to burn off some energy, and our kids would still say this is one of their favourite family activities in Perth.

Note that it does get busy during the school holidays, especially on wet days. If you are travelling by public transport, you can walk there from Edgewater train station.

There is a variety of activities, including trampolines, climbing walls, and obstacle-style courses. It suits a range of ages, although some areas have height or age restrictions

Make sure you have enclosed shoes for the climbing activities, and you’ll need to purchase grip socks if you don’t already have them. Younger children are catered for, but depending on ages, you may find it a bit tricky to supervise everyone at once.

Adventure World

When I was in my early teens, my brother and our neighbours LOVED Adventure World, and we would go a couple of times a year.  Given I have such fond childhood memories of Adventure World it is surprising that I have not yet taken my children.

Adventure World is Perth’s only theme park.  There are some huge roller coasters, a water park, and wildlife experiences. 

Given my last visit was as a teenager, I’ve read that there is a new world-class thrill ride called the Goliath.  Plus, another favorite is the roller-coaster Abyss and Kraken; the longest, tallest and steepest funnel water slide on the planet.

Adventure World doesn’t come cheaply. However, it will be worth it for tweens and especially young teens.

Mandurah

Famous for its waterways and wildlife, Mandurah has a chilled-out vibe and is the perfect place to visit with kids from Perth. You can spot dolphins, enjoy the Foreshore and explore the many activities available.

Some of the top activities include:

• Visiting the Mandjar markets
• Enjoy a canal cruise – either a dolphin spotting one, a pirate cruise or a seasonal Christmas cruise.
• Explore the Estuary by boat, SUP or Kayak
• Have a drink at the Thorny Devil Brewery
• Explore the incredible beaches, including Town Beach, Silver Sands and Halls Head
• Watching a production at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre
• Spot the Giants of Mandurah
• Spend the day at Ranger’s Red Zoo
• Visit Amaze, Miniature Park

For a full guide to visiting Mandurah, make sure you read our Mandurah guide.

Things to do in Perth Hills for Kids

One of Perth’s best areas to enjoy with kids is the Perth Hills, which are at the top of our list of free things to do in Perth with kids.  Not only are all these attractions national parks, and therefore a relatively cheap day out, but you are out and about in the fresh air and seeing some of the best of the Australian bush.

You could spend a week in the Perth Hills and still find things to do.  We’ve included some of our favorite kid-friendly activities here.

Lesmurdie Falls

The Lesmurdie Falls are Perth’s biggest waterfall and also the best for kids in our opinion.  You can see the waterfall while doing a short walk, and if you don’t want to, there is no climbing involved.  Though, to be honest, the best view is from the bottom.

Serpentine Falls

A bit further out of Perth city than Lesmurdie Falls, another good option for fresh air and escape from the city is Serpentine Falls.  We cover it at our A Guide to the Best Waterfalls Perth.

John Forest National Park

Western Australia’s oldest National Park also offers a great day out for all the family.  Our favorite “must do” activity is taking a hike to the awesome, slightly spooky Swan View Tunnel.  A 5km return walk, along a very flat and easy surface, is doable for the whole family.  Don’t forget to take a stroller or trailer for younger kids

Also, remember to stop at the very Aussie John Forest Tavern.  It is located in the middle of the national park.  Not only does it have a ‘pub feel’, but it is also where to see kangaroos in Perth.

We have covered Lesmurdie Falls and John Forest National park in our list of the Best Waterfalls in Perth.

Mundaring Weir

Not far from the John Forest National Park is the Mundaring Weir.  This is a lovely picnic area and is high on our list of fun things to do in Perth for kids.

For international visitors, there are kangaroos literally lazing and grazing in the picnic areas.

The Mundaring area also offers great opportunities for camping and hiking, with Beelu National Park nearby.

Historically, the Mundaring Weir is a very important part of Western Australia’s history.  The dam and the Goldfields pipeline were first planned by Irish Australian engineer C Y O’Connor as part of his famous plan to supply the Eastern Goldfields of Western Australia with water, quite literally ‘liquid Gold’ for the gold rush boom towns of Kalgoorlie and Coolgardie.

If you are looking for a unique pub lunch, why not check out the picturesque Mundaring Weir Hotel?

Chidlow and Horse Riding

Chidlow is a lovely stop in the Perth Hills, especially if you are visiting Lake Leschenaultia. Around 50 minutes east of Perth, this former railway town is a great base for bushwalking, cycling, picnics and cooling off by the lake. Lake Leschenaultia has sandy beaches, a three-kilometre walking circuit, picnic spots and seasonal canoe and stand-up paddleboard hire.

One of the top spots in the area is Forge Riding School, where you can book bush trail rides or one of the popular ‘unique pub rides’. The horses are well cared for and calm, and there’s something for most ages.

Araluen Botanic Garden

Another gorgeous thing to do in the Perth hills for kids is the Araluen Botanic Garden.  This is a simply beautiful garden in a bush setting. 

The Araluen Botanic Park has plenty of Australian bush, but also many other types of flowers and plants.  For example, they have an internationally recognised collection of Camellias, topping 270 varieties!

I have to admit, we normally visit the Araluen Botanic Garden during the annual Araluen Tulip festival.  It is season-dependent but generally held from the end of August through to the end of September. 

We think that the Araluen Tulips are truly gorgeous and it’s a lovely spring family day out in Perth. Read our guide to Araluen Tulip Festival for more info.

Orchards in the Perth Hills

Located near the Araluen Botanic Park are some local orchards which have long been famous for their amazing fresh fruit.  Honestly, they came to my attention via Instagram.  Yes, these are great places to go and get those winning Insta Pic!

Raeburn Orchards

Located in Roleystone are the most famous of the Insta orchards of the Perth Hills.  They charge a small fee for you to wander their orchard.  At various times of the year, they also have family festivals on the weekends with stalls and bouncing castles.

If you visit in May, you will see the Persimmon trees turning orange and red.  If you visit in September, there is the ‘white way of delight’ with the cherry trees blossoming.

S &R Orchards

Another gorgeous orchard, the S & R orchards hold a Blossom Festival every spring.  It is picturesque with many rows of cherry blossom trees blooming with pink, delicate flowers.  It’s a perfect place for a picnic and selfies.

The owners were thoughtful to provide props or settings for photo ops which would really look good for Instagram.  There were also food stalls available so no need to worry about food.  The only thing I don’t like is the eco-toilets, which I think are not so hygienic.

Core Cider House

A very pretty spot for lunch, or a lazy, long afternoon of bevvies, the Core Cider House has a lot to offer families. There is a small playground with a tractor as well as a nature based play area.

Core holds many kid-friendly events year-round, especially during school holidays. For example, over the Easter Weekend Core Cider host an Easter egg hunt!

Perth Observatory

A night sky tour at the Perth Observatory is high on my bucket list for future things to do in Perth with kids.  I have had my eye on this night excursion for a while now.  However, in the essence of world schooling, I wanted the kids to be old enough to appreciate this very special outing.

On the standard night sky tour, you can learn all about the night sky by looking through a range of telescopes at dying stars, star clusters, nebulae, and, of course, the moon and planets when they are visible.  In addition to looking at the sky, there is also an interesting museum with a range of exhibits, including a meteorite.

Before visiting the Perth Observatory, make sure you do your research about what kind of experience you want.  For example, there are Dark Sky Nights, Moonlit nights, and full moon nights.  Each type of different moon phase offers different benefits for viewing.

Landsdale Farm

One of the difficult things about writing a mega-post about places to go with kids in Perth is that “kids” covers a range of ages – from toddler’s right through to school-age kids.  Then they turn into tweens before becoming full-blown teenagers!

We haven’t been to the Landsdale Animal Farm Perth yet, and know that 2 out of my 3 kids are older, we might not.  It sounds like it is a little farm, complete with red sheds and white fences, with plenty of animals to pet and cuddle, which is awesome for very small kids (eg, 1- 5 years old).  You can help the ‘farmer’ feed the animals, or have a ride in the vintage tractor and buggy.  The cart ride around the farm sounds like a real highlight of a visit to the Landsdale Animal Farm.

I should note, I think our favorite Animal Farm Perth is found at the Caversham Wildlife Park.

The Best Day Trips From Perth For Kids

Heading out of the city for a day is something that our family talks about for weeks afterward.  There are some varied excursions you can do from Perth with kids, and we have covered them here briefly.  Alternatively, we have extensively covered the best day trips from Perth in our comprehensive posts about The Best Perth Day Trips and Getaways near Perth.

Yanchep National Park Koalas & Trees Adventure

Yanchep National Park offers a truly Australian bush experience in a lovely setting just a short drive from Perth.  It is famous for its resident kangaroos and koalas.  It is a peaceful and beautiful setting.  You can see many local birds like swans and pelicans, amongst others.

You can take a tour of the Crystal Cave and, on weekends, you should ask about the Aboriginal cultural experiences.

Pack a picnic and enjoy a low-priced, typical Australian bush experience.  The best time to see the kangaroos is in the morning or evening.  However, many people also see them in the middle of the day!

Trees Adventure Yanchep 

If you have adventurous kids, you will love the Trees Adventure Yanchep Park, which is WA’s latest addition to a number of other Treetop Adventure Parks.

Treetops Adventure Yanchep has 7 tree rope courses with a variety of zip-lines, wobbling wooden bridges, swinging cargo nets – and more!  We loved the one at Dwellingup, Tree Adventures Dwellingup, and can’t wait to try the other one soon.

Penguin Island

Just a 45-minute drive south of Perth, this should be on every Perth family’s places to go!  A small island just off the coast, Penguin Island is located in the Shoalwater Islands Marine Park and offers a wonderful day escape from the “Mainland”.  There is an amazing amount of birdlife and lots of easy walking along boardwalks to explore the island. 

Rottnest Island

Why does Rottnest Island hit our list of things to do in Perth?  Well, if you are visiting Perth for a short time, then it is a pretty amazing place!

Personally, we think that ‘Rotto’ (as the locals call it) merits more than one day if you can.  With a unique island feel, no cars, perfect white sand beaches, turquoise water, and great swimming for kids, there are a lot of family fun activities on Rottnest.  Plus, make sure to get your quokka selfie!

There are so many things to do on Rottnest, we don’t know if it’s fair to include them in a list of things to do in Perth.

• Ride your bike around this car-free island
• Get a selfie with a quokka
• Snorkel at the Basin
• Eat freshly baked bread from the Rottnest Bakery

Swan Valley with Kids

The kid-friendly Swan Valley makes a wonderful day out from Perth, with plenty to occupy you for the full day.

The Swan Valley is famous as home to Australia’s oldest wine valley.  An exploration of the Swan Valley is not complete without an exploration of the wineries, breweries, and fine food outlets.  Yes, there are lots of kid-friendly restaurants in the Swan Valley to explore.

Bells Rapids

Bells Rapids is one of the best places near Perth to see a flowing waterfall-style section of the Swan River, especially during winter and early spring when water levels are higher. The river cascades over rocks to create fast-moving rapids that are impressive to watch and great fun for kids to explore from a safe distance. In spring, the area is particularly beautiful with wildflowers in bloom.

If you would like to explore on foot, there are a number of different walks.  For example, check out our descriptions of the walks at the Noble Falls and the Bells Rapids in our post about Waterfalls in Perth.

Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm

Another popular animal farm Perth is the Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm.  Like the other places we have included in kids activities Perth, here your children can have the chance to get to know lots of friendly farm animals.  There are lots of things to do, and lots of cute animals to pet!

Plan your visit around the daily bottle-feeding at 10.30 am, and 3 pm.  Depending on the season, there are lambs, kids, calves, and piglets that you can feed.  Also, each day there is goat milking at 11.30 am.

As the Swan Valley is just over 30 minutes’ drive from Perth CBD, this is a wonderful place for the whole family to escape the city!

Covered above in our things to do in Perth with kids, the Outback Splash and Caversham Wildlife Park are both considered in the Swan Valley.

A Kangaroo Safari at Vines Resort

Enjoy a 2-hour guided sunset tour at Vines Resort, where you can ride across the golf course in a motorised buggy while spotting kangaroos. 18 holes of mini golf and a complimentary drink are also included in the tour. Bookings are essential, and the tour starts at 4:00 PM.

Kid Friendly Breweries

What could be better than kicking back with a cold bevvy on a warm Perth day, while kids have a ball in the playground? There is a wide range of kid-friendly choices on the menu in the Swan Valley, but we like “The Hen” (the Henley Brook) and Bailey Brewing, conveniently located across the road from one another.

The Henley Brook (The Hen) is a laid-back, family-friendly pub located in the heart of the Swan Valley that works with local brewers, winemakers and producers to bring you some yummy, family-friendly Swan Valley dining.  Plus, they have a nature-based play area and heaps of grassed areas for the kids to run around, so it’s fun for them too. 

The Hen is known for its pub-style grub and a good day out.  Keep in mind it is not a brewery or winery, just an old-fashioned pub!

Golf and Mini Golf

If you are looking for something a little different in the Swan Valley, there are some great options. The Vines Resort has an 18-hole mini golf course set within its grounds, while Supa Golf and Supa Putt in Henley Brook have a family-friendly oversized version of the game, with 9-hole and 18-hole options.

Other options include a mini-golf course at Taphouse and one at Outback Splash.

Whistlers Chocolate Company

There are plenty of hands-on kids activities here, including a large enclosed outdoor kids play area with sandpits and toys, incredible chocolate displays, including large handmade sculptures and a dedicated kids menu.

Chittering Valley

The Chittering Valley is located about 1 hours’ drive from Perth or another 30 minutes from the Swan Valley. Chittering offers experiences at the farm gate, untouched bushland and wetlands, vineyards, orchards, spectacular wildflowers, and stunning scenery. 

Take a drive along one of the food and drive trails that meander through the region with orchards, wineries, markets, and roadside stalls selling seasonal fresh produce along your way.  The area is also well known for its vast citrus orchards.

For several months of the year, the aroma of orange blossom is the backdrop of the town of Bindoon, and mandarins, oranges, and lemons are sold from roadside stalls. 

We are adding the Golden Grove Orchard to the list of things in Perth for kids, for citrus picking. 

This orchard was one of the first planted in the area and was opened to the public for fruit picking 40 years ago.  Now, it has been upgraded to have more tourist-oriented experiences with tractor rides, a petting farm, and a nature playground, alongside the traditional fruit picking, making it a must-do, fun day out for the whole family!

Golden Grove has around 10,000 citrus trees spread over its beautiful orchards of oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins, and grapefruits.  It is important to do your research and find out what fruit will be ripening in the season when you are visiting!  Or, ask if it is the end of the season, as some people have reported that there are limited oranges at the end of the season.

Our Verdict – 101 Awesome Things to do in Perth with Kids

As you can tell, we simply love Perth!  There are so many great things to do in Perth with kids that we simply could not fit them all in this post. 

Perth is such a great city, and there truly are so many kids’ activities in Perth. Whether it is indoor activities or outdoor fun, there are many options. 

Whether it is visiting something special like the secret garden in Perth or visiting one of our top-notch Perth parks or beaches, there are so many free things to do in Perth with kids.  You truly do not have to spend a ton of money to have a spectacular time.  That is one of the things we think makes Perth so special!

Did we miss anything?  Do you have any other fun Perth for kids activities you can think of? If so, please let us know in the comments below.

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