Perth activities

With glorious sunny blue skies dominating most of the year, Perth is a great place to spend time outdoors. Inner-city parks, landscaped rivers, beautiful beaches and rolling hills give you the chance to experience our enviable lifestyle.

Enjoy Kings Park

Set high above the city on Mount Eliza, the 400 hectares of lawns, bushland, botanic gardens, monuments and attractions that make up Kings Park is a must visit. With panoramic views of the city, rivers and hills, kilometres of walking and cycling paths, bush trails, picnic spots and an abundance of native plants and animals, you'll find plenty to see and do. Popular attractions include the newly opened treetop walk, the annual Wildflower Festival, guided tours, outdoor summer cinema, the Whispering Wall and Fraser's Restaurant.

Cycle the sunset coast

Perth enjoys a comprehensive network of cycling paths, but one of the most scenic is undoubtedly the sunset coast. Stretching from Iluka Beach in the north to past Fremantle in the south, much of the route follows boardwalks set amongst the dunes or along Highway 1 that hugs the coast. Sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, gorgeous beaches and pit stops through pretty seaside suburbs such as Scarborough, City Beach and Cottlesloe are some of the highlights. Pick up a free detailed map which divides the ride into eight sections from any bike shop.

Tour the Aquarium

Explore 12,000 km of Western Australia's coastline in just one day. From the rich kelp beds of the Great Southern Coast to the tropical wonderland of coral reefs in the Far North, AQWA, the Aquarium of Western Australia, takes you on an underwater journey to discover the state's remarkable marine life. AQWA is divided into five distinct regions that each reflect a unique marine environment. The Aquarium also features Australia's largest walk-through aquarium allowing you to be surrounded by sharks, stingrays, fish, turtles, and living coral reefs.

Experience Aussie animals

Go on walkabout with some of Australia's strangest creatures at the Perth Zoo. You can take an Australian Bushwalk and sample the sites, sounds and smell of the bush. Or have a Reptile Encounter where you can safely meet some of our most venomous snakes. Other Australian exhibits include the Rainforest Retreat where you can take a misty walk across a suspension bridge, The Australian Wetlands complete with native birds and the Penguin Plunge with underwater viewing. Perth Zoo also features an African Zone, Asian Rainforest, special events and summer concerts.

Explore Fremantle

For something a little different, take the train to the historic port town of Fremantle. Home to a thriving arts community, Fremantle buzzes with a lively, eclectic atmosphere, especially on the weekends. Witness some unusual street performance, stroll amongst the markets or stop for a beer at one of the many refurbished pubs (see City Life). History buffs will love Fremantle's architecture, landmarks and museums while boat enthusiasts will enjoy the working port, maritime museum and river foreshore.

View art

Founded in 1895, the Art Gallery of Western Australia is the state's pre-eminent art gallery, primarily featuring the works of Western Australian artists. You can wander through the gallery's permanent collection, which includes comprehensive displays of both modern and traditional Aboriginal art; depictions from early European settlement; and exhibits of WA's modern movement. Various international artists are also on display, plus there's usually an interesting visiting exhibition.

Marvel at The Perth Mint

Get a glimpse of gold fever at The Perth Mint which houses the world's largest collection of gold investment bars. Learn all about gold and its importance to the WA economy as you get to handle more than $225,000 worth of gold, watch a gold pour, witness the manufacture of gold and silver coins and ponder the Golden Beauty, one of the world's largest nuggets. Established in 1900, and one of the few mints still operating from its original premises, The Perth Mint is a terrific example of the city's historic architecture.

Cruise along the river

One of the best ways to see Perth is from a river boat weaving upstream through the Swan Valley or downstream to Fremantle. Relax on one of the many tour boats operating out of Barrack Street Jetty and cruise to the upper reaches of the Swan past Perth landmarks such as the Burswood Casino, the WACA cricket oval and the East Perth power station. Sample local produce such as olives, cheese and wines or go for lunch.

Find a festival

From flowers to folk music to fireworks, Perth hosts many festivals throughout the year. During summer, local communities come alive with fun celebrations designed for families and visitors. Bigger festivals include: Skyworks, the Australia Day fireworks in January; the Perth International Arts Festival in February; A Taste of the Valley Festival in March; The Fairbridge Folk Music Festival in April; the Wildflower Festival in September; and Festival Fremantle in November.

Visit the Bell Tower

Eighteen bells, a gift from the Parish of St Martin-in-the-Fields of London, ring out loud and clear over Perth in the Swan Bell Tower. Finished in 2000, the imposing edifice of glass spire and copper 'sails' stands tall over Perth's foreshore. You can climb the tower for a terrific view of the Swan River, watch a bell ringing demonstration and see a number of exhibits.