If you're in Perth and feel like a breath of fresh air, you're in luck. There are plenty of beautiful national parks just a short drive away, perfect for a weekend adventure, scenic walk, or picnic with friends. Here are some of the best national parks to check out in and around Perth! 1. John Forrest National Park Just 30 minutes east of the city, John Forrest is one of WA's oldest national parks. It’s home to waterfalls, walking trails, and lots of native wildlife. The Railway Reserves Heritage Trail is popular for walking or biking, and if you're lucky, you might spot a kangaroo or two along the way. It’s also a great place for a BBQ or picnic. 2. Yanchep National Park About 45 minutes north of Perth, Yanchep is a great spot for families. There’s a koala boardwalk, plenty of walking trails, and even a cave you can tour. You can paddle on the lake, spot kangaroos loungi... More

Rottnest Island is packed with incredible experiences, whether you're staying for the day or a longer escape. From amazing coastal views to up-close wildlife encounters, here are ten must-do activities to add to your itinerary! 1. Meet the Quokkas No visit to Rottnest is complete without meeting its most famous residents—the quokkas! These friendly, smiley creatures are a must-see and make for the perfect selfie. As you wander around the island, keep an eye out for them in their natural habitat, and don’t forget to snap that perfect photo. Just remember to keep your distance and respect their space—they’re wild animals, after all! 2. Snorkel at the Basin The Basin is one of Rottnest’s most popular snorkeling spots, offering crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine life. You’ll find a beautiful reef teeming with fish, and the shallow waters make it a great spot for ... More

Looking for fun things to do with the kids in Perth this school holidays? This amazing city has so much to offer for all ages! Whether you’re exploring nature, diving into local attractions, or just enjoying quality time outdoors, Perth has something for everyone. Here are ten family-friendly activities to try out on your next adventure. 1. Elizabeth Quay Fun Fair Get ready for fun at the Elizabeth Quay Fun Fair this summer! From December 6 to January 9, 2025, enjoy thrilling rides, carnival games, tasty treats, and plenty of family-friendly vibes right by the river. It’s the perfect summer outing. 2. Spend a Day at Kings Park and Botanic Garden Kings Park is a must-visit for families. With sprawling lawns, walking trails, and dedicated play areas like the Rio Tinto Naturescape, it’s perfect for picnics and outdoor fun. The views of the city skyline and Swan River are an ... More

Make your next date night unforgettable! Perth has plenty of amazing places, from intimate dinners to fun and quirky activities. If you're after waterfront views, hidden cocktail bars, or something unique, there’s a perfect spot for every kind of date. Check out 10 of Perth's best places for a fun, romantic night out! 1. Wildflower If you're looking to treat your date to something special, Wildflower on top of The Palace Hotel is the place to go. This stunning fine dining restaurant is known for its modern Australian menu, showcasing seasonal local produce. With a gorgeous view of the city skyline and a menu that will blow your taste buds away, it’s a date night that’s perfect for celebrating something extra special - or just because.  2. Fremantle's Fishing Boat Harbour Take a relaxing stroll along Fremantle’s Fishing Boat Harbour. With fresh sea air and incredible views... More

Perth is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Australia, each with its own unique charm and activities to enjoy. From the iconic Cottesloe Beach with its orange sunsets to the vibrant atmosphere of Scarborough Beach, there's a perfect spot for everyone. Whether you're looking to surf, swim, or simply relax on the sand, these beaches all offer something special. 1. Cottesloe Beach Cottesloe Beach is one of Perth's most iconic beaches, famous for its stunning sunsets and soft golden sand. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnics with family and friends. Plus, the nearby cafes and restaurants make it easy to grab a bite after a day in the sun. 2. Scarborough Beach Scarborough Beach is known for its vibrant atmosphere and surf culture. With plenty of cafes, bars, and shops lining the beachfront, it's the perfect place to spend the day. You can catch so... More

Perth may be known for its modern feel, but the city is also rich in historic landmarks that showcase its past. From heritage buildings to well-known sites, these locations offer a glimpse into Perth’s interesting history. Each landmark has its own story, reflecting different parts of our city’s growth and development. Whether you’re learning about Perth’s convict history or admiring its beautiful buildings, these sites make it easy to connect with the events and experiences that have shaped the lively city we see today. Kings Park and Botanic Garden Kings Park is one of Perth’s most iconic landmarks, and its history is just as fascinating as its beauty. Officially opened in 1895, this park covers over 400 hectares, making it one of the largest inner-city parks in the world. The park’s history is closely tied to the traditional custodians of the land, the Whadjuk Noongar peop... More

While Perth is famous for its iconic landmarks and busy hotspots, there’s also a world of hidden gems out there. Go beyond the usual tourist spots and you’ll find peaceful parks, trails and unique galleries for a more relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're a local eager to explore something new or a visitor wanting to experience the local culture, these places truly capture the essence of Perth. Keep reading to find your next visit! Claisebrook Cove, East Perth Located right by the Swan River, Claisebrook Cove in East Perth is a great spot to escape the city hustle. This lovely waterside area features cozy cafes and nice walking paths, making it perfect for a casual stroll or a laid-back meal with a view. Whether you want to grab a coffee and relax or enjoy a tasty lunch while watching the swans float by, Claisebrook Cove has everything you need for a peaceful day out. Point Walte... More

Spring in Perth delivers unique experiences that attracts thousands of people from around the world every year. Nature delights us with her carpets of colourful wildflowers, her migrating whales passing our shores and baby quokkas emerging from their mother's pouch. With plenty of sunshine and perfect temperatures, spring is a great reason to turn off the Netflix and head outdoors for some weekend adventure. Here are some suggestions to see and do in Perth this spring: Attend a Spring Festival Spring is the ultimate time for festivals and Perth showcases plenty! During October and November, Perth Hills Spring Festival in Kalamunda offers beautiful scenery, local boutique shopping, food, cafes, wineries, and a host of events and activities such as markets, music, photography, plus Kalamunda Open Studios and Kalamunda Artisan Markets. Held annually, the Araluen Tulip Festival and... More

If you really want to get to know Perth, spend some time exploring its ‘villages.’ These inner-city enclaves each have a distinct vibe and feel, with plenty of food and drink offerings to round out the precinct experience. Leederville Leederville has the lot: cafes, restaurants and breezy pubs, plus an independent cinema, record stores, quirky gift shops, and edgy fashion. Its feel is more gritty than some of Perth’s more genteel suburbs, and with lots of laid-back al fresco dining it offers good people-watching, along with some of Perth’s best coffee. Breakfast is big here. At any time of the day, food spans tapas, seafood, burgers and Asian to quality pub food. Oxford Street is the main strip; come for a bustling vibe. It's roughly a five minute journey by car north west from Perth city, or one train stop from Perth on the Joondalup Line. Tips: Grab a takeaway from th... More

Perth's beaches are justifiably famous, but its nature trails are gorgeous too, especially in the cooler weather. You don't have to go far from the city to enjoy a walk in the bush, be it a half hour or half a day. Bushland Nature Trail, Kings Park Looking for a quick and accessible commune with nature? Try the Bushland Nature Trail in Kings Park, a 25 minute loop walk brimming with flowers and birdlife. Enter near the Botanic Garden carpark off Forrest Drive. If you feel like going further, hook up with the 2.5k Law Walk Loop or the a 90 minute Boodja Gnaring Walk, whose interpretive signage gives some insight into the Nyoongar people native to the area. Matilda Bay Reserve, Nedlands  Perth's river really is pretty, and nowhere more than in genteel Nedlands. Its wide grassed areas, little sandy beaches and bobbing boats bringing to mind a gentler time. There are riverfront w... More

    The trend towards sophisticated night spots with great drinks lists has seen an explosion of wine bars across Perth. Yes, they do wine - local, international, natural and organic - but many also do great cocktails and wonderful food. The best ones have tuned-in staff who can guide you where you palate didn't even know it wanted to go. Here's a few of our favourites. Shadow Wine Bar, Perth CBD You can see the old world European dining inspiration here, but there's also a  contemporary edge to the moodily lit room. Impressive stemware heralds the option to drink wine by the bottle, carafe or glass, and the mod-Oz food menu reflects the mix of European and Australian wines on the list. http://www.shadowwinebar.com.au/ State Buildings Bar, Perth CBD Wine producers from around the globe are celebrated at this atmospheric spot in the Old Treasury Buildings, s... More

Perth's live music scene is thriving. Some big name acts hail from here, from AC/DC to Tame Impala, John Butler and The Waifs, so that's not surprising. Perth's music venues span casual hangouts to nightclubs and dedicated jazz venues. Hear anything from promising local acts to international visitors. The Rechabite, Northbridge The Rechabite is a multi-level complex offering four floors of eclectic entertainment and hospitality treats, wrapped around The Rechabite Hall, an iconic live performance space. Resurrected from the ruins of a century-old heritage hall in the heart of Perth's entertainment and cultural precincts, enjoy weekly live music, the Hello Rooftop Bar, Birdbath, Goodwill Club and Double Rainbow. The Astor Theatre, Mount Lawley In nearly 100 years since it opened as The Lyceum, The Astor Theatre has seen action as a place to see theatre, dancing, orchestra, kar... More

Perth’s winter is typically mild, but when it's not warm enough for the beach, turn to its markets, cafés, bars, galleries and hiking trails. Here's a few ideas. Take a walk Great for those brisk but sunny Perth winter days, walking is both scenic, and ideal for shaking off all those restaurant meals. If the ocean's too wild, amble along the Swan River trails anywhere between the city and Fremantle. Serious nature lovers can head out to the hills for a more substantial bush walk. Close to the city, walk among the shelter of tall trees in Kings Park. You won't believe you're minutes from the CBD. Find a Festival Summer is redolent with festival fever, but no festival matches the cosy vibe of the Fremantle Festival: 10 Nights in Port. The West End of Freo envelops festival goers in a warm hug as they hunker down inside its character-filled pubs and reimagined venues. There's li... More

The kangaroos don't hop down city streets in Perth, but there are places to spot them in the wild. Same goes for dolphins, penguins, quokkas and other furry critters. Whether you're looking for an encounter in nature, or a curated experience, there are certainly wildlife spotting options in and around Perth. Here's a few. Caversham Wildlife Park This family-owned Caverhsam Wildlife Park houses around 200 species of animals within the grounds of Whiteman Park, 30 minutes drive east of Perth. See Tasmanian devils, wombats, possums, dingos, quoll, flying fox, emus, owls and reptiles. See koalas on the boardwalk, and get a photo taken while feeding the kangaroos. Perth Zoo The Perth Zoo is both a fun day out and an exercise in wildlife conservation and education. You can wander the natural enclosures to see animals from around the world, from elephants to gibbons to fairy penguin... More

If you didn’t take a selfie, it didn’t happen, right? But you need to make your backdrops count. Here’s our list – some iconic, some quirky – of places to point your selfie stick when visiting Fremantle. Under the Rainbow Fremantle’s entry statement – a 9 metre high rainbow arch made from sea containers – is shaping up to be the most photographed public artwork in the neighbourhood. Find it on Canning Highway, between the bridges. Be inventive with your angles here. Extra points for wearing rainbow coloured clothing or bringing your own props. At the warehouse by the sea Not just any warehouse. The vast frontage of East West Designs in South Fremantle is festooned with a magnificent trompe l’oeil mural, brimming with lush scenes, quirky characters, elephants, dogs, and even the occasional alien. It’s Where’s Wally on speed, and it adorns dozens of metres across two streets – ... More

‘Made in China’ is not what you want to see on the tag when shopping for a memento of Perth. What you’re after is the genuine article; something dreamed up, mapped out and created right here in Perth. From small batch spirits to artworks, jewellery, skin care, home wares and clothing, here are some shops that will satisfy your yearning for unique, authentic gifts from right here. Found at Fremantle Arts Centre, Fremantle Representing artists from Fremantle and wider WA, this little treasure trove at Fremantle’s main arts hub is laden with art prints, paper cuts, jewellery, textiles, stationery, books and ceramics. You can’t really go wrong shopping here; gravitate to what you fancy and find a price point to fit. 1 Finnerty Street, Fremantle  Angove Street Collective, North Perth. A swag of independent creative small businesses have joined forces to make a big impact at thi... More

Perth's long, balmy summer has many benefits, not least of which is the chance to watch movies under the stars. Outdoor cinemas are all over the city, from high rise roof tops to pine-flanked auditoriums. Some operate between October and April, so the outdoor movie experience is - remarkably - on offer for half of the year. CITY Rooftop Movies, Perth CBD  Bright bean bag chairs, fairy lights and other quirky props adorn the rooftop of an undercover carpark, six storeys above the CBD. Between October to April, a daily changing program of films unfolds, complete with glittering city views. Moonlight Cinema, Kings Park Here's a novel way to see Kings Park by night. Between December and March, the Kings Park Botanic Gardens becomes a cinema after dark, screening both classic and new release films. You can bring a cushion, rug or low chair, or hire a comfy bean bed.  Ca... More

With frequent blue skies and more than its share of sunshine, Perth is a summer playground that can be enjoyed without a hefty price tag. Here's a list of ways to enjoy Perth in summer without breaking the bank. Sunset at the Civic Centre Gardens Beach too crowded? One of Cottesloe’s hidden gems - even for the locals - is the Civic Centre Gardens. Like something from a mid-century story book, this grand site has multiple tiers of lawn and garden, shaded by towering pines. It's a great place to watch the sun go down over the Indian Ocean. You can access the Gardens from all sides, with lots of parking available on Napier and Broome Streets. Pack a picnic - you may want to spend some time here. Sunday music at the Fremantle Arts Centre Every Sunday between October and March, the shady front lawn at the historic Fremantle Arts Centre is given over to two hours of live music from... More

Western Australia has the largest collection of wildflowers in the world - a whopping 12,000 species, 60% of which aren’t found anywhere else. They start blooming in the state's north in July to August, and can still be found in the cooler southern areas into October and November. They cover a vast amount of terrain, but if you want to see wildflowers in Perth and surrounds, here's where to head come August and September. You can also pick up a copy of Tourism Western Australia's Wildflower Guide from all Visitor Centres or download it from here. Kings Park Botanic Gardens From kangaroo paws to carpets of everlastings, the Botanic Gardens showcase a stunning 3000 species of native plants across 17 hectares of gardens. Navigate your own way with a map from the Information centre, or join a free guided walk. The Kings Park Festival in September is the ideal time to visit. Serpe... More

Perth's green spaces are plentiful, beautiful, and relatively free of crowds. From the inner city marvel that is Kings Park to outlying patches of wilderness, we've compiled a list of places to get your nature fix. Kings Park High on the must-visit list, Kings Park is the complete package. Right in the city, its huge 400 hectare expanse has river views, manicured gardens, vast grassy stretches and bush wilderness trails. There are lakes, streams and treetop walks, so there's no shortage of spots to explore or just sit and picnic. Botanical enthusiasts can get amongst the 3000 species, and consider both Aboriginal and European influences within the park. Free daily guided walks are a good way to get your bearings. As well as eating options, the park is home to Aspects gallery and gift shop, full of creations by local artists. Burswood Park  Another lush patch close to the city... More

  Nothing says 'indulgent moment on holiday' like High Tea. A leisurely afternoon feast on delicate petit fours, with or without a glass of bubbles in hand, can be a real memory-maker. Here's some places in Perth to set your sights. C Restaurant, Perth CBD If you're going to indulge at Western Australia’s only revolving venue, high tea is a good moment to do it. From the 33rd floor of St. Martins Tower, the views are endless - and constantly changing. Your glass of fizz can be bottomless, too, if you choose that option. In any case, there's a good selection of teas to go with the delicate sandwiches, cakes, scones and petit fours. There's even a kids menu. Peninsula Tea Gardens, Maylands Riverside in Maylands, this is a picturesque spot to enjoy high tea seven days a week. Set on Peninsula Farm, you're surrounded by trees, lawns and river frontage as you indulge in lo... More

Markets are having their day. As people yearn for more connection with the makers of their goods, markets have become a genuine shopping alternative for produce and other wares. Mostly cranking up on weekends, markets are an ideal way for visitors to get a sense of a place and its people. Even if you're not shopping for fresh produce, go for a coffee, a locally crafted gift and some people watching. Fremantle Markets This permanent indoor market is one of Fremantle's big attractions. Open Thursday to Sunday, there's not much you can't get here. Speciality food stalls sell everything from nuts to doughnuts, liquorice to crepes. You can also buy shoes, jewellery, clothing, gifts, crafts and knick knacks, much of it locally produced. The vast food market is colourful and lively, especially come the end of the weekend when vendors spruik reduced prices. Bread, cheese, wholefoods, m... More

Aboriginal culture is one of the oldest on earth, dating back an estimated 40,000 years. The local Whadjuk Nyoongar culture is rich in oral story telling tradition, so there's no better way to experience it than on a tour with a local custodian. Djurandi Dreaming Choose river or lake -  Djurandi Dreaming showcases the local indigenous culture right where its heart is. Artwork is part of the experience here, or you can take a tour at Elizabeth Quay or Rockingham. There's even a torchlight tour at a freshwater lake south of Perth, where shallow waters are home to ancient thrombocytes. Nyungar Tours Local woman Kerry-Ann Winmar leads tours in South Perth and at Kings Park. Walking through sites of cultural significance, you can hear the traditional stories of the area before it was developed. Get a hands-on experience with a guided look at bush tucker, traditional medicines and ... More

Art galleries remain a great way to take the temperature of a city. The advent of social media sales and other artist-led initiatives has seen a change in the gallery landscape. It's more fragmented, but the galleries that remain work hard to earn their place as cultural hubs. Here's a few worth seeking out in Perth. The Art Gallery of Western Australia, Perth City  The beating heart of Perth's Cultural Centre, the State Gallery houses contemporary and historical art, along with a fine collection of indigenous art. You might catch a visiting blockbuster, but at any time of year the various galleries show permanent collections from eras old and new, as well as a changing palette of temporary shows. Allow some time to take it all in. A good gift shop and cafe make pleasing breathers. Gallows Gallery, Mosman Park Exhibitions change every three weeks at this neighbourhood gallery... More

History takes many forms, and these days it's not confined to hushed, dry museums. It's possible to access the stories of Perth - from its rich indigenous history to colonial settlement and more recent tales - at various places across the city.  There is a myriad of ways to get a sense of the things that have shaped Perth. WA Museum Boola Bardip The incredible WA Museum Boola Bardip opened in November 2020 and is the State’s premier cultural organisation. Boola Bardip means many stories in Whadjuk Nyoongar, and the museum is certainly that; it's eight permanent galleries sharing stories about West Australian people, our places, and our role in the world. The exhibitions celebrate the diversity of our people, the richness of our landscape and provides a gateway to our incredible state through collections, science, stories, culture and magnificent biodiversity. Woven throughout a... More