25 Exciting Things To Do In Perth With Kids

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Perth, Western Australia is a great place to visit with your family. With many kids activities and plenty of exciting things to do in Perth with kids, you will have no trouble planning an adventure-filled visit to the Western Australian capital. We’ve put together a list of 25 exciting things that can kbelleep children of all ages entertained in beautiful Perth!

This day tour to Rottness Island is a fun experience for families

perth city with view under bridge.

A Guide To What To Do In Perth With Kids

Western Australia‘s capital, Perth, is a great place to visit with kids. From its beautiful beaches and gardens to the many interesting things to do in Perth with children, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.

One of the great things that makes Perth unique as a capital city is that it is home to one of the largest inner-city parks in the world.

The wonderful contrast of green spaces and metropolitan areas, all a short drive to beaches and breathtaking landscape makes Perth a wonderful family destination!

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Planning Your Family Trip To Perth

If you are visiting Perth with kids, you will find plenty of family accommodation around the CBD and in the greater Perth area. There is also a great public transport system.

Of course, hiring a car will make getting around and visiting all the wonderful attractions much easier. You can hire a car from the CBD or from Perth Airport.

Visiting Perth for a short stay? If you’d rather not have your own transport, a hop on hop off bus can be a great way to see the central sights of Perth in an open-top double-decker bus with audio commentary.

It will take you to the following city locations:

  • Kings Park and Botanic Gardens
  • Northbridge
  • Crown Perth
  • Elizabeth Quay
  • The Bell Tower
  • The WACA
  • The Perth Mint
  • Swan River
  • Museum & Art Gallery of WA
  • Perth Town Hall
  • Water Town Discount Shopping Complex
  • Perth City Shopping Malls.

Best Time To Visit Perth

perth city from kings park.

The best time to visit Perth is during the spring and autumn months.

Perth enjoys a warm climate most of the year-round, but during these shoulder seasons, the weather is milder for enjoying all that Perth has to offer in the great outdoors.

Spring brings wildflower season with beautiful blooms. This can also be a great time to see the majestic humpback whales or blue whales migrating.

December through February is considered peak tourism season, however, Summer in Perth can be quite hot and winters can get rather chilly.

Best Places To Stay In Perth With Kids

If you need family accommodation in Perth, check out these great options for hotels in Perth with kids:

Best Things To Do With Kids In Perth

If you’re looking for ideas on what to do in Perth with kids, look no further!

Here is a guide of some of the best places, great Perth activities for kids and attractions that are sure to please the young and the young at heart, in no particular order.

1. Kings Park

kings park perth.

Kings Park is a verdant oasis in the heart of the city, with sprawling gardens, some of the best Perth playgrounds, and plenty of open spaces for kids to run around. Admission is free and it’s a great place to spend an afternoon or morning.

In Kings Park, you can find the DNA Tower, a 15-metre high tower that offers stunning views of Perth city centre and its surroundings.

The Botanic Gardens are also located in Kings Park and is home to many beautiful plant species from all over the world. There are also walking paths, dinosaur trails, BBQs and picnic tables for visitors to enjoy.

Kings Park hosts many free activities and events throughout the year with family activities held within the huge park often. There is always something to keep the kids entertained.

2. Visit The Perth Beaches

city beach western australia.

One of the best things about Perth is its close proximity to gorgeous beaches compared to a lot of big cities. You can find many popular beaches to visit, within half an hour of the Perth CBD.

Some of the most popular Perth beaches are Cottesloe, Scarborough, Floreat and City Beach. All of these beaches have great facilities for kids such as playgrounds, showers and toilets, and cafes nearby.

Check out the best beaches in Western Australia and start planning your visit!

3. Take A Ferry Ride

perth city.

Another great way to see Perth and its surroundings is by taking a ferry ride from the Barrack Street Jetty or Elizabeth Quay terminals.

There are a few different ferry companies that offer rides to various destinations such as Rottnest Island, Swan Valley wine region and the city of Fremantle.

Or simply enjoy your time cruising up the Swan River, admiring the view of the city skyline from the water and views of the Swan River itself.

Rides range from 30 minutes to an hour and a half, so there is plenty of time to explore the various sights on offer with both indoor and outdoor seating areas.

4. WA Museum Boola Bardip

WA Museum toys.

Contributed by Nadia Cuthbertson of Perth Weekend

WA Museum Boola Bardip reopened in 2020 after a four-year $428 million redevelopment and it is a fantastic place to explore with kids. 

Appropriately named Boola Bardip, which translates to ‘many stories’ in Whadjuk Nyoongar, the new museum prides itself on being a place where many stories are told. There are stories woven into every inch of the building just waiting to be discovered. 

Little zoologists will delight in the Wildlife exhibition, a multi-sensory experience where WA’s unique animals are on display.

The Reflections exhibition will teach young kids about WA’s history with plenty of hands-on displays.

The Origins exhibition evokes a sense of wonder as kids can take a journey through space and our history on Earth – they can even touch a meteorite! These are just some of the permanent exhibitions.

There are also plenty of temporary exhibitions so be sure to check the website to stay up to date with what’s on. 

The museum also offers plenty of school holiday activities with a huge list of programs to choose from. Scavenger hunts, film, archaeology, story and wildlife encounters are just some of the exciting experiences kids can get involved in. 

Western Australia Museum Boola Bardip is located in Perth’s Cultural Centre. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants in and around the Museum, perfect after a big day of learning, and of course, there is a gift shop so visitors can take home that perfect souvenir. 

5. Latitude Perth

If you’re looking for a little bit of everything, Latitude Perth is the place to go. This entertainment precinct in Joondalup has a climbing zone with climbing walls and an 8m high obstacle course, trampoline park, zip line and cafe all under one roof.

Latitude Perth is perfect for rainy days or when the kids (and adults) just need to burn some energy off. There is also a kids zone for 18 months to 5 years old, making it a great location for the whole family to have some fun.

They have a fun school holidays program and also the option for having a birthday party at Latitude too!

6. Yanchep National Park

koala in Yanchep National Park.

Just a 45-minute drive from Perth, Yanchep National Park is a great place to spend the day with kids. There are plenty of things to do including walking trails, wildlife spotting and cave tours.

Yanchep National Park has many limestone caves, with the most popular of these being Crystal Cave, which holds daily tours suitable for all ages.

The park is also home to a koala sanctuary where you can observe koalas in the trees along the 140-metre koala boardwalk.

Koalas aren’t actually native to Western Australia as they live on the east coast, so this makes the koala walk extra special to see these beautiful marsupials lazing about in the eucalyptus trees.

There is also an Aboriginal cultural experience, camping grounds and picnic spots in Yanchep.

Combine your visit to Yanchep National Park with The Pinnacles & Swan Valley:

7. Try The High Ropes Courses

Challenge yourself and your family with a day out at the Climb Zone high ropes course at Kerem Adventure Camp in North Perth.

This thrilling experience is suitable for ages 10 and up for the high ropes. They also have a low ropes course and climbing wall for young children to get involved in the fun.

Or head 45 north of Perth to Treetops Adventure at Yanchep, within beautiful Yanchep National Park. Glide across 16 ziplines and 70+ challenging aerial obstacles as you spot native Australian wildlife, such as grey kangaroos below.

The best part – Treetops has courses for kids as young as 3 to join the fun and enjoy the outdoor activities!

8. Caversham Wildlife Park 

Caversham Wildlife Park .

Contributed by Kenny from Knycx Journeying  

Perth is one of the most isolated cities in the world. Located in Western Australia, it’s 2,000 kilometres away from the next nearest capital city Adelaide.

Hence, Greater Perth is completely surrounded by nature, making it wonderful for families with kids to explore.  

While the Kings Park and Botanic Garden are known as one of the best urban parks in the world, head to the Caversham Wildlife Park with kids in the north of the city.

The wildlife park is a family-run business yet it has quite a scale, featuring about 200 different species. Many marsupials and native Australian animals can be seen, from kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, and Tasmanian devils to possums and koalas.  

What’s wonderful about the park is that visitors can get up close and interact with the animals.

Although holding a koala is not allowed, it is possible to observe them from a close distance. Feed a kangaroo in the enclosure, watch a farm show, and take photos with a lot of birds and reptiles at the encounters.

The friendly guides will give a rather lively introduction to each and every fascinating creature and answer any pressing questions that kids may have. 

The park is also close to other facilities like the Whiteman Park Pool Playground, Tractor Museum, and the Revolutions Transport Museum. 

Here are some more wildlife experiences in Perth & surrounds:

  • Cohunu Koala Park – Australian wildlife, miniature railway & space observatory
  • Landsdale Animal Farm – Farm animals, gnome trail & playground
  • Cuddly Animal Farm – Farm animals, tractor rides & merry go round
  • Armadale Reptile Centre – Reptiles & animal encounters located in Perth Hills
  • Calamunnda Camel Farm – Camel rides & farm animals in East Perth

9. Scitech Discovery Centre

scitech museum perth.

The Scitech Discovery Centre, in West Perth, is a science and technology museum located in Perth, Western Australia. The centre consists of an interactive exhibition hall, IMAX theatre, planetarium and cafe.

The museum is Perth’s largest interactive science museum, with more than 250 interactive exhibits on display, making this a great hands-on learning experience that makes science a load of fun for all ages.

There are regular kid-friendly events throughout the year, especially during school holidays, to keep the younger children entertained and awed.

10. Fremantle

Fremantle Tourist Wheel.

Just a short drive from Perth, Fremantle is a port city with plenty of character. Its historic buildings and streets have been well preserved, and there are plenty of places to explore including the markets, WA maritime museum, art galleries and more.

Fremantle has plenty of things to do with kids for free as well as some popular paid attractions and experiences the whole family will love. Fremantle Market is a perfect place to enjoy some local food and find handmade wares.

There are also a lot of beautiful beaches in Fremantle, such as Bathers Beach, or between Fremantle and Perth, including Cottesloe Beach and City Beach.

In Fremantle, you will find the old Fremantle Prison, where you can take a guided tour and learn the history.

Or ride the Fremantle Tourist Wheel for a view from above, located just a short walk from Fishing Boat Harbour.

You can find loads more ideas for fun things to do in Fremantle in our guide.

11. Aquarium of Western Australia

aquarium of western australia .

Just a short drive from Perth, located on Hilary’s Boat Harbour, the Aquarium of Western Australia is home to incredible marine life including sharks, seahorses and stingrays.

The aquarium offers plenty of things to do for kids with interactive displays and daily talks and feeds with the animals. It is the best way to explore over 12,000km of Western Australia’s coastline in a single day!

You can even swim with sharks if you’re feeling like a daring day out with older kids and teens!

Younger kids will love the ocean theme play area and glass-bottom boat experience. For older visitors seeking a truly unique experience, how about swimming or snorkelling with sharks? You can do that at the aquarium!

12. Adventure World

adventure world perth.

Located in South Perth in Bibra Lake, Adventure World is a theme park with something for everyone. It’s especially great for kids who want to get their adrenaline pumping.

There are plenty of rides and attractions, including water slides, a water playground, roller coasters and a petting zoo.

This is perfect if you’re looking for a big day out that the kids will love and with so many different attractions, you’re sure to fill in the full day easily, no matter the time of year.

Fun park day tickets range between $57 and $66 per person during peak season and need to be booked for specific dates online. Alternatively, they have a range of other admission options and family passes, including off-peak tickets and annual passes.

14. Perth Zoo

Take a walk on the wild side at Perth Zoo. With over a thousand animals from across the globe, this is one of Perth’s most popular wildlife parks.

Featuring everything from lions and tigers to gorillas and chimpanzees, the zoo is home to some of the most iconic animals on earth. The zoo also has a strong focus on Australian fauna with a wide variety of native species on display.

You also have the opportunity to learn about the conservation efforts the zoo participates in with its wildlife breeding programs.

Perth’s Outback Splash

This water park is perfect for a hot day and caters to kids of all ages. With everything from gentle sprays to huge water slides, there’s something for everyone at this family fun park.

It also has a large shaded area with picnic tables, so you can make a day of it.

In addition to their seasonal, water-based activities and waterslides that operate from September to April, there is plenty of other year-round family fun and for school holiday fun.

You will find mini-golf, mazes, sensory play activities, a playground, Australian animal encounters and onsite food and beverage outlets.

15. Lake Leschenaultia

Lake Leschenaultia.

Lake Leschenaultia is a beautiful freshwater lake located just under an hour from Perth. This family friendly water attraction was initially built as a dam to replenish steam engines in the later 1800s.

Lake Leschenaultia is a great spot for a hot day, popular for swimming, kayaking and canoeing. There is seasonal hire available for canoes and stand up paddleboards.

The kiosk also operates seasonally, over the summer school holidays or open each weekend and during public holidays through the rest of the year.

There is a playground for kids as well as picnic areas and BBQ facilities, making it the perfect spot for a day out with friends or family. You can even book a grassed area for your exclusive day use.

16. Perth Observatory

perth observatory.

The Perth Observatory is a must-visit for budding astronomers or anyone with an interest in space.

This is Western Australia’s oldest observatory, located 25 km east of Perth in Bickley, in the Perth Hills area.

You can take guided day tours of the facility, with talks and demonstrations on various aspects of astronomy. They hold night tours too, where you can view the stars and planets through their telescopes.

This would be a great experience for older children with an interest in space.

17. Glowing Rooms 3D Mini Golf

glowing rooms mini golf.

If you’re looking for a fun, unique and affordable day out, look no further than Glowing Rooms. This Glow in the Dark Mini Golf is one of Perth’s hidden gems.

With two 18-hole courses, this is mini golf like you’ve never seen before.

Play indoors in air-conditioned comfort, even if it’s a rainy day in Perth, under ultraviolet light and surrounded by mind-blowing 800-square metres of hand-painted glowing artwork.

Glowing Rooms was a first in Australia as this popular mini-golf trend has grown across Europe, USA and America in recent years.

More Kids Activities In Perth

If you still want more inspiration for Perth kids attractions and family fun to do around the Western Australia capital, here are a few more ideas for you:

  • Cohunu Koala Park – Australian wildlife, miniature railway & space observatory
  • Landsdale Animal Farm – Farm animals, gnome trail & playground
  • Cuddly Animal Farm – Farm animals, tractor rides & merry go round is perfect for visiting Perth with toddlers.
  • The Perth Mint – Tour the mint to learn how money is made.
  • Armadale Reptile Centre – Reptiles & animal encounters located in Perth Hills
  • Calamunnda Camel Farm – Camel rides & farm animals in East Perth
  • The Bell Tower – Head up the tower and see the impressive views of the city
  • Art Gallery of Western Australia – Let the creative energy flow with a walk through the gallery

For more Aussie adventures, check out the best things to do in Brisbane and the best things to do with kids in Melbourne too!

Family Day Trips From Perth

If you want to explore beyond Perth, there are some wonderful options for taking a day trip from Perth for a day away from the city. From national parks to beautiful beaches and unique natural attractions, these day trips are all a little further from Perth but well worth visiting!

Here are some top ideas for Perth day trips the whole family will love:

Rottnest Island

rottnest island with boats in ocean.

Just a short Ferry ride from Perth or Fremantle, Rottnest Island is a popular spot for Perth day trips. With its beautiful beaches and bays, as well as its interesting history, Rottnest is perfect for a relaxing day out.

You can hire bikes to explore the island, or just relax on the beach.

One of the most popular reasons to visit Rottnest Island is to see the adorable quokkas that call the island their home. There are plenty of other beautiful native animals to see when you visit as well.

Penguin Island

penguins on penguin island perth.

By Bailey from Destinationless Travel

One unique activity in Perth that kids of all ages will love is Penguin Island! That’s right, you can actually see penguins on an easy day trip from Perth. 

Penguin Island is located just 30 minutes south of Perth. This island is home to many small penguins called Little Penguins or Blue Penguins. These are the smallest penguins in the world.

This island is only 12.5 hectares in size, but it is said to be home to well over 1000 penguins! Don’t get too excited those, these penguins are still hard to spot in the wild.

During the day they are often out in the water fishing, so you likely won’t see any on the island when you visit. With that said, you should still try! Explore the many trails on the island in hope of spotting a wild penguin. 

On Penguin Island there is also a discovery centre where you will 100% see penguins. Sure, they aren’t wild, but at least you’re guaranteed to see them!

They have scheduled feedings throughout the day that you can watch – an activity that kids will surely enjoy. 

To get to Penguin Island, head to Shoalwater and catch the ferry from there. The ferry departs every hour from 9 am to 3 pm. The ferry costs $35 for a return trip including the penguin feeding, kids cost $25. The ferry only is a 5-minute ride. 

Seal Island and Penguin Island or Point Peron Sea Kayak Tour:

The Pinnacles Desert

pinnacles desert.

Located in Nambung National Park, approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes north of Perth you will find The Pinnacles Desert. This incredible place is made up of thousands of limestone spires, some reaching heights of over five metres.

It’s a fascinating and eerie landscape that makes for a great day trip from Perth with kids.

Walk amongst the pinnacles, take photos, seek wildlife in the national park and take a drive around the driving track right through the centre too.

Lancelin Sand Dunes

lancelin sand dunes sandboarding.

Just an hour and a half north of Perth, the Lancelin Sand Dunes make for a fun day out. These huge sand dunes are perfect for tobogganing, sandboarding or simply playing in the incredible white sand.

You can hire a sandboard from most stores in town for around $10 to $12 an hour. This is so much fun and a great activity for the whole family. You might even combine this with your visit to The Pinnacles Desert, stopping at Lancelin on your way back.

Near here you will also find Cervantes and The Lobster Shack for a delicious seafood lunch and tours.

Find more Perth day trip Ideas and weekend trip inspiration.

There are so many fun things to do in Perth with kids. From outdoor, all-weather family activities to indoor fun, educational attractions and adrenaline-pumping adventures, there is something for everyone. With so much to see and do in the Western Australian capital of Perth, your family will love their visit to this beautiful city!

Which of these fun things to do in Perth for families are you most looking forward to?

Book Your Perth Family Trip

  • Flights – We use Skyscanner or WayAway to research, set price alerts and book flights.
  • Car hire – compare the best car rental prices.
  • Trains & Buses – We book with Omio
  • Accommodation – We use Booking.com or Agoda to book most of our hotel accommodation when we travel.
  • Travel insurance – Protect yourself and your belongings with Hey Mondo.
  • Tours & attractions – Our preferred attraction and tour booking sites are Get Your Guide and Viator. Booking ahead will mean you don’t miss out on popular tours!
printable trip planning pages.

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fun things to do in perth with kids.