Best things to do in Perth with a family
Looking for family-friendly fun in Perth? You’re in luck! Whether you’re a local or visiting the beautiful capital of Western Australia, there’s no shortage of activities to keep everyone entertained. From outdoor adventures to interactive museums, Perth is packed with kid-approved spots where parents can have a blast too.
As property managers and real estate agents operating in Perth for decades, we know this city like the back of our hands. Here’s our roundup of the best things to do in Perth with a family—so you can spend less time planning and more time having fun.
1. Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Kings Park is a must-visit for families. One of the largest inner-city parks in the world, it’s a lush green escape right in the heart of Perth. Your kids will love running around the Synergy Parkland, a playground with dinosaur sculptures, climbing frames, and a water play area—perfect for those hot Perth days. For older kids (and parents), there’s the Rio Tinto Naturescape which encourages imaginative play and exploration of nature.
Don’t forget to enjoy a leisurely walk along the elevated Lotterywest Federation Walkway, which offers stunning views of the city and Swan River. Pack a picnic, bring a frisbee, and spend the whole day relaxing and exploring in one of Perth’s most iconic spots.
2. Perth Zoo
If you’ve got little animal lovers in tow, Perth Zoo is a winner. Located just a short ferry ride from the city centre, it’s a fantastic day out for families of all ages. Home to more than 1,200 animals from around the world, including Australian favourites like kangaroos, koalas, and wombats, it’s a great way for kids to learn about wildlife conservation.
Don’t miss the African Savannah and the Asian Rainforest, where your family can see lions, giraffes, and elephants up close. If you’re visiting in summer, be sure to check out the twilight sessions, where you can explore the zoo in the evening when the animals are more active.
3. Scitech
Rainy day? No problem! Head to Scitech, an interactive science museum that’s packed with hands-on exhibits to keep your kids entertained (and sneakily educated). Scitech has something for all ages, from toddlers to teens. The Discovery Zone is perfect for younger kids, while the older ones will love the Planetarium and Engineering Challenge Zone.
There are always live science shows, and seasonal exhibitions, so it’s worth checking out what’s on during your visit. Plus, there’s a cool mix of fun and learning, so you might even leave feeling smarter yourself!
4. Adventure World
Looking for thrills and spills? Adventure World is Perth’s premier theme park, located just 25 minutes from the city. Whether your family is into roller coasters, water slides, or gentle rides for the little ones, Adventure World has something for everyone.
The Abyss roller coaster and Goliath swing ride will satisfy thrill-seekers, while Dragon’s Kingdom offers a magical world for younger kids with smaller rides and splash zones. During summer, the water park area is a huge hit, with the Kahuna Falls water play structure and the Kraken, the steepest funnel water slide on the planet!
Pack sunscreen and prepare for a day full of excitement and laughter.
5. Cottesloe Beach
No trip to Perth is complete without visiting one of its pristine beaches, and Cottesloe Beach is one of the best for families. With soft, white sand and clear blue waters, Cottesloe is perfect for swimming, snorkelling, or simply building sandcastles.
There are plenty of grassy areas for picnics, and after a morning at the beach, you can stroll to one of the nearby cafes for a well-deserved ice cream or coffee. If you’re visiting during summer, stay late to watch the sunset over the Indian Ocean—it’s truly magical.
6. Perth Mint
Want to sprinkle a bit of history into your family adventure? The Perth Mint is a fascinating place to learn about Australia’s gold history. You and your kids can watch a live gold pour demonstration, try lifting a gold bar (spoiler alert: it’s heavy!), and even get a chance to mint your own coin.
The guided tours are family-friendly and provide an entertaining mix of history and fun facts. Plus, who doesn’t love a bit of treasure?
7. Rottnest Island
Hop on a ferry and head over to Rottnest Island for a family day trip that’s all about adventure and nature. Famous for its adorable quokkas, Rottnest Island is also a great spot for cycling, swimming, and snorkelling. The island is mostly car-free, which makes it safe for kids to explore on bikes. You can hire bikes at the ferry terminal or bring your own.
There are over 60 beaches on the island, so pack a picnic and spend the day discovering hidden coves, crystal-clear waters, and the island’s laid-back vibe. Keep an eye out for the famous quokka selfie, which is practically a rite of passage when visiting Rotto!
8. Hillarys Boat Harbour
Hillarys Boat Harbour is another family favourite in Perth. It’s a bustling waterfront destination with plenty of attractions for all ages. AQWA: The Aquarium of Western Australia is a must-visit, where your family can explore Australia’s largest single aquarium and walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks, stingrays, and colourful fish.
There’s also a safe swimming beach and a Great Escape Leisure Park with mini-golf and waterslides. After you’ve worn yourselves out, grab fish and chips or enjoy a meal at one of the many family-friendly restaurants lining the harbour.
9. Whiteman Park and Caversham Wildlife Park
Just a 25-minute drive from Perth, Whiteman Park is an enormous park that offers a huge range of activities, including picnic spots, walking trails, playgrounds, and even a vintage tram ride. The star attraction, however, is Caversham Wildlife Park, where your family can meet and greet some of Australia’s most iconic animals.
At Caversham, you can hand-feed kangaroos, cuddle a koala, and get up close with wombats. It’s the perfect place to introduce your kids to Australia’s wildlife in a safe and interactive environment.
10. Fremantle Markets
For something a little different, head down to Fremantle and explore the famous Fremantle Markets. Open on weekends, the markets are a treasure trove of food, crafts, and quirky stalls. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat, and the lively atmosphere is perfect for families.
Fremantle itself is steeped in history, so once you’ve browsed the markets, take a wander through the streets, visit the Fremantle Prison, or stroll along the fishing boat harbour.
Ready for your next family adventure in Perth?
Perth is bursting with family-friendly activities, and whether you’re into nature, adventure, or a bit of both, there’s something here for everyone. From thrilling theme parks to peaceful beach days, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to keeping the whole family entertained.
So, pack your sunscreen, gather the kids, and head out to discover all the amazing things to do in Perth with a family. Trust us, your Perth adventure is going to be one for the memory books!