Things to Do in Perth with Kids: Top Family Activities and Attractions

Perth is a fantastic place for a family holiday, offering a range of activities that will delight kids and parents alike. From the beautiful natural bushland at Kings Park and Botanic Garden to the fun and excitement of pirate cruises and trampolines, there’s something for every family. Whether you’re exploring wildlife parks, visiting the Perth Mint to experience the magic of gold, or simply enjoying a stroll around Lake Monger to see the iconic black swans, Perth promises endless adventures.

Your kids will love the mix of outdoor and indoor activities available in the city. Take advantage of the local beaches, cultural sites, and family-friendly dining options to create lasting memories. Among the best hotels in East Perth, Western Australia, ibis Styles East Perth Hotel is an ideal choice for families, providing easy access to the city’s top family activities and attractions.

Discover the best spots in the Perth region that cater to varied interests and ages. With vibrant festivals, interactive exhibits, and engaging tours, your family will find countless ways to enjoy their time together. Make your visit to Perth a memorable one with these top recommendations for family fun.

Outdoor Adventures and Nature Explorations

Discover the best outdoor activities and nature spots in Perth. This guide will introduce you to parks, wildlife, beaches, and natural reserves that are perfect for family outings.

Visit Kings Park and Botanic Garden

Image Credit: Tourism WA

Kings Park and Botanic Garden is a must-visit for families. With 400 hectares of natural bushland and beautifully landscaped gardens, the park offers endless outdoor fun. You can explore walking trails, enjoy a picnic, or check out the spectacular views of Perth’s skyline. The park also features the Lotterywest Family Area, which has play equipment and picnic tables.

The park’s Botanic Garden is home to over 3,000 species of Western Australian plants. It’s a great place for kids to learn about local flora. The park often hosts events, workshops, and guided tours, making it an engaging visit for all ages.

Discover the Animals at Caversham Wildlife Park

Image Credit: Caversham Wildlife Park

Caversham Wildlife Park provides a fantastic wildlife experience. Located in Whiteman Park, north of Perth, it allows you to get up close with Australian animals. Kids can feed kangaroos, meet koalas, and even hold a wombat. There are also farm show presentations where you can learn about shearing and milking.

The park has well-maintained paths, making it easy to navigate with strollers. It’s a perfect spot for engaging kids in wildlife encounters. Educational talks and interactive sessions help children learn more about animals native to Western Australia.

Enjoy Family Time at Perth’s Beautiful Beaches

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Perth’s coastline boasts some of Australia’s best beaches. Cottesloe Beach is a family favourite with its gentle waves and clean sands. There are shaded areas for picnics and plenty of space for beach games. The beach also has cafes nearby, perfect for a refreshing ice cream break.

Scarborough is another well-known beach, famous for its surfing and family-friendly environment. It features a playground, skate park, and several cafes. Both beaches offer clean facilities and lifeguard services during peak times, ensuring a safe and enjoyable outing.

Embrace the Wild at Yanchep National Park

Image Credit: Explore Parks WA

Yanchep National Park, located 50 kilometres north of Perth, offers families a chance to experience nature and wildlife. The park is known for its koala boardwalk, where you can see koalas in their natural habitat. You can also explore the Crystal Cave, a stunning underground limestone cavern.

The park has a variety of walking trails suitable for different fitness levels, making it easy for families to find a suitable route. The facilities include picnic areas, barbecue spots, and a visitor centre. The park also offers guided tours, giving you more insight into the local ecosystem.

Explore Swan Valley and its Delights

Image Credit: Swan Valley

Swan Valley is not just about wineries; it’s also a wonderful place for family adventures. You can visit the Caversham Wildlife Park within Swan Valley, ideal for animal encounters. The region also offers Maali Bridge Park, a peaceful picnic spot with beautiful scenery.

For a sweet treat, the Margaret River Chocolate Company in Swan Valley is a hit with kids. You can see how chocolate is made and even taste samples. The area is dotted with family-friendly cafes and restaurants. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy local delights after a day of exploration.

Entertainment and Educational Attractions

Explore Perth’s rich mix of entertainment and learning experiences. From science exhibits to historical sites, the city offers many engaging spots for kids and families.

Learn and Play at Scitech

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Scitech is a popular science centre in Perth. It’s packed with interactive exhibits, workshops, and planetarium shows. Kids can learn about everything from physics and chemistry to the wonders of space. The Science Wonderland is a must-visit, with hands-on activities that make learning fun.

Older kids can explore the engineering-themed Rio Tinto Innovation Central. The centre also hosts puppet shows and live demonstrations to keep kids entertained and educated throughout their visit.

Uncover History at Fremantle Prison

Image Credit: Fremantle Prison

At Fremantle Prison, you and your kids can dive into Western Australia’s convict past. Guided tours highlight the lives of the inmates and the history of the prison itself. There are several tour options, including the spooky Torchlight Tour and the more educational Convict Prison tour.

For an extra thrill, there’s the Tunnel Tour, which takes you through the underground tunnels below the prison. This site also features regular exhibitions and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Encounter Marine Life on Penguin Island

Image Credit: Penguin Island

A short ferry ride from Perth, Penguin Island offers a close-up look at the local wildlife. Kids will love seeing the little penguins, the smallest species of penguin, in their natural habitat. The island also has a discovery centre where you can learn about marine life found in the area.

Join guided tours or watch penguin feeding sessions. There are plenty of picnic spots and swimming beaches, making it a great day out for the family. You might also spot dolphins and sea lions around the island.

Family Leisure and Recreation

Perth offers a variety of leisure and recreation opportunities perfect for families. From relaxing waterside at Elizabeth Quay to thrilling rides at Adventure World and cultural experiences at Fremantle Markets, there’s something for everyone.

Relax at Elizabeth Quay

Image Credit: Visit Perth

Elizabeth Quay is a picturesque waterfront area ideal for family relaxation. You can enjoy a picnic by the river, take a scenic ferry ride, or explore the stunning public art installations.

Kids will love the BHP Billiton Water Park, featuring interactive water jets and fountains. For a fun educational experience, visit the Bell Tower. Don’t miss the chance to grab a bite at one of the many eateries offering a range of cuisines, from seafood to casual snacks.

Adventurous Fun at Adventure World

Image Credit: Adventure World

Adventure World is Perth’s premier amusement park, offering a mix of thrilling rides and family-friendly attractions. Young kids can enjoy the gentle rides and splash zones, while older children and adults can get their adrenaline rush on roller coasters like the Abyss and the Goliath pendulum ride.

The park also features animal encounters and a variety of food options, from quick bites to full meals. It’s a great place for a whole day of fun, packed with activities that cater to all ages.

Culture and Shopping in Fremantle Markets

Image Credit: Fremantle Markets

Fremantle Markets provide a rich cultural experience mixed with shopping and dining. Located on South Terrace, these markets are perfect for family day trips. Shop for unique crafts, fresh produce, and local goods.

Kids will be fascinated by the quirky stalls and street performers, while parents can enjoy browsing for antiques and souvenirs. Don’t miss the food court, offering delicious eats like fresh fish and chips and multicultural cuisines that cater to all tastebuds.

Families can also explore the historical aspects of Fremantle, including heritage buildings and museums that add educational value to your visit.

Interactive and High-Energy Activities

Perth offers a range of interactive and high-energy activities perfect for kids looking to burn off some energy and have sensational fun. From trampolining to escape rooms and ice skating, there’s something for every young adventurer and thrill-seeker.

Bounce and Play at Bounce Inc

Image Credit: Bounce Inc

At Bounce Inc, kids can experience the joy of trampolining in a safe and supervised environment. This trampoline park offers various zones, including free-jump areas, dodgeball courts, and a slam dunk zone.

Family fun is guaranteed as kids of all ages can leap and play to their heart’s content. Bounce Inc is especially popular during school holidays, providing a perfect way to keep young ones entertained and active.

Solve Puzzles in Escape Rooms

Escape rooms in Perth offer a unique and brain-teasing adventure for families. These rooms are filled with puzzles and clues that you must solve within a set time limit.

Many escape room venues have themed experiences, from pirate adventures to mystery-solving missions. This activity encourages critical thinking and teamwork as everyone works together to “escape” the room in time.

Ice Skating and Trampolining for Active Kids

Places like Cockburn Ice Arena and trampoline parks such as Latitude Perth offer fantastic options for high-energy activities. At Cockburn Ice Arena, kids can enjoy ice skating, a perfect activity for developing balance and coordination.

Meanwhile, Latitude Perth is not just a trampoline park but also features climbing walls, a high-ropes course, and other adventure zones. These activities provide a thrilling mix of physical challenges and fun, suitable for adventurous kids looking for excitement.

Practical Tips for Visiting Perth with Kids

Visiting Perth with kids can be fun and stress-free if you plan properly. Here are some tips on the best times to visit, where to stay, and how to get around the city.

Best Times for Family Visits

The best times to visit Perth with your family are during the spring (September to November) or autumn (March to May). These seasons offer mild weather, making it more comfortable to explore outdoor attractions like Kings Park and Botanic Garden or the beaches.

School holidays are also a great time for families to visit as there are special activities and events tailored for kids. Keep in mind that popular spots might be busier during these times, so plan accordingly.

Accommodation Options for Families

When looking for family-friendly accommodation in Perth, consider places with amenities like kitchenette facilities, adjoining rooms, and play areas. Apartments and holiday parks can offer more space and flexibility compared to standard hotel rooms.

Areas like the Perth CBD, Fremantle, and Scarborough have a variety of options. You can also find picnic tables and BBQs at many accommodation sites, which can help make meals more budget-friendly and fun for the family.

Navigating Perth’s Public Transport

Perth has a reliable and easy-to-use public transport system that includes buses, trains, and ferries. The Transperth network covers most major attractions, making it convenient to travel around the city without needing a car.

Children under five travel for free on public transport, and there are discounts for older kids. Using a SmartRider card can make trips quicker and cheaper. For added convenience, many stations and bus stops are equipped with facilities like pram access and seating areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Discover answers to common queries about enjoying Perth with kids. From budget-friendly activities to evening entertainment, explore the best options for family fun in this vibrant city.

What are some free family activities to enjoy in Perth?

You can visit Kings Park and Botanic Garden for picnics, playgrounds, and scenic walks. Stroll along the Swan River or explore the many beautiful beaches like Cottesloe Beach.

Can you suggest some evening entertainment options for families in Perth?

Head to the Perth Cultural Centre for evening events and family-friendly shows. Experience outdoor movies at venues like Moonlight Cinema in Kings Park.

Which attractions in Perth are suitable for toddlers?

The Perth Zoo offers close encounters with animals and engaging exhibits. Scitech provides interactive science displays that captivate young minds.

How can we enjoy Perth with children on a budget?

Utilise the numerous free parks and nature reserves in the area. Take advantage of free community events and festivals regularly held throughout Perth.

What unique child-friendly activities are available in Perth?

Visit the Aquarium of Western Australia (AQWA) to see marine life up close. Spend a day at Caversham Wildlife Park, where kids can feed kangaroos and pet koalas.

What are the best kid-oriented destinations in Perth during winter?

Indoor activity centres like the Lollipop’s Playland offer hours of fun away from the cold. Consider taking a family trip to Whiteman Park, featuring museums and wildlife encounters.

What are you waiting for?

Are you ready to create lasting memories with your little ones in Perth? With a wide array of family-friendly activities and attractions, there’s no shortage of adventures to embark on with your kids. From exploring the lush parks and playgrounds to visiting interactive museums and enjoying the stunning coastline, Perth offers something for every family.

If you’re looking for family-friendly accommodation in East Perth, Western Australia, ibis Styles East Perth Hotel offers a convenient and comfortable stay close to Perth’s top kid-friendly attractions.Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended holiday, Perth is the perfect destination to keep your children entertained and create moments you’ll cherish forever.