Top Things to do in Perth
The 10 Best Budget-friendly Things to do in Perth, Western Australia
Perched on the banks of the wide Swan River, between the Indian Ocean and the sands of the Nullarbor Desert, Perth is one of the world's most isolated cities, yet still boasts an active beach scene and smokin’ nightlife. Family-friendly Cottesloe is brimming with swimmers, surfers and snorkelers. Head north to Scarborough for a spirited beachside club scene. Coo at cute marsupials on ferry-accessible Rottnest Island, and don’t miss the views from King's Park and Botanic Gardens.
Restaurants in Perth
1. Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 12,283 reviews
Kings Park is one of the world’s largest and most beautiful inner city parks. It is rich in Aboriginal and European history, contemporary culture and offers innovative design, displays and services. Kings Park has an international reputation for scientific research, leading horticulture, conservation and public education.
Reviewed By Roger_Albury - Albury, Australia
Wow, this massive garden park has so much you could come back a dozen times and still not see everything. Extraordinary displays of WA's famous wild flowers, tree scapes, lawn gardens, fountains, magnificent views of Perth and the waterways, cafes & recreational areas for families & children, historic sites and the magnificent State war memorial. Serviced with easy access roads, pathways suitable for all, free bus service to and from the park, cafes, tourist information, top quality gift shop and toilet facilities. A world class park and a jewel in the crown for Perth & WA.
2. The Perth Mint
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,060 reviews
Enjoy a guided tour of our grand heritage building, secured vaults, and 1899 melting house where you can see a live gold pour. Hear tales of the Mint’s golden past, and learn of the gold mining legends and events that have shaped WA.
Reviewed By Cruiser33227749838
Very instructive and educational visit, lots of references on the history of WA gold rush, you can watch a live gold pour, touch a gold bullion, see some of the most beautiful gold nuggets I´ve ever seen on display. Nice visit and appropriate duration and calibrated content.
3. St. Mary's Cathedral
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 553 reviews
Catholic Cathedral which combines portions built over 3 centuries into the one beautifully renovated building. Public Tours every Tuesday at 10:30 am $10.00 donation for adults, $8.00 concessions, $6.00 for children under 16. Tickets available at Church Office (across the road - follow the signs)
Reviewed By 619jeffry - Essendon, Australia
St Mary's Cathedral is the largest house of worship in Perth. It began life in 1865 and remains the seat of the Catholic Archbishop of Perth. It's in Victoria Square and it's well worth seeing. Conducted tours are held every Tuesday from 10:30 am to 11:45am. A modest donation is requested. St Mary's is built in Gothic Revivlal style, with an appropriae modern addition.
4. St. George's Cathedral
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 363 reviews
Reviewed By Q7840EUdanl - Bunbury, Australia
I had visited some years ago but a first for my wife. Beautiful structure in the English Gothic Revival style and dating to 1879 and consecrated in 1888. Since then there have been various additions, the Tower in 1902, Burt Memorial Hall in 1948, Soldiers Chapel in 1923, West Gallery and new organs in 1993. All additions are blended beautifully with the original structure. Internal treasures include the Baptismal Font, Statue of St George, the Pulpit of Normandy stone, the High Altar, and the Brass Eagle Lectern. It would be remiss of me not to mention the magnificent stained glass windows. Above all, it is a place of worship, a place to stand a while and reflect.
5. Swan River
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,080 reviews
Perth's favourite playground, the Swan River is a stunning waterway which winds its way from the Darling Scarp to Fremantle. This natural attraction is popular location for Perth locals and visitors to enjoy a day out boating, fishing, skiing, paddling, swimming, picnicking or simply enjoying its vista.Rich in environmental and cultural values, the Swan River was named Derbal Yerrigan by the local Aboriginals who believe that the river was created by the rainbow serpent ‘Waugal’, a dreamtime spirit taking the form of a giant snake. It is believed that the Waugal created creeks, waterholes, lakes and valleys on its journey to the ocean.
Reviewed By taffy_longman - Gold Coast, Australia
Loved the walk past the Swan bell tower on Elizabeth quay and the river walk is magnificent Cycling runners and walkers come alive early morning to enjoy sunshine and the Perth city highlights Wonderful hotels coffee choices and the main hub for Capt Cook Cruises Have really enjoyed the river walkway and Perth is a great city with fantastic weather and fresh air If you’re going to relax with your mindfulness needing a top up enjoy this wonderful experience along the Swan River the life blood of this beating heart of Perth
6. Supreme Court Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 369 reviews
Reviewed By UnderaSouthernSky
This is not so much a review as a comment to correct some misinformation I noted from looking at some of the reviews, particularly with respect to the location of the Supreme Court Gardens, and Stirling Gardens. The Supreme Court building sits in the middle of the Supreme Court Gardens (to the South of the Court and riverside) and Stirling Gardens which is to the north of the Court. Stirling Gardens are in fact on the corner of Barrack Street and St George's Terrace (NOT Adelaide Terrace as some say and as appears in the above description. I don't know how that gets corrected). Supreme Court Gardens are bounded by Barrack Street, Riverside Drive and Governors Avenue. Don't go looking for Adelaide Terrace as it is some distance down the road to the east of Barrack Street. If you visit either garden it is just a short walk to the other. Cross Barrack Street and you are in the Elizabeth Quay precinct, and to the south of the gardens is Barrack Square where you will also find the Bell Tower. There are a number of places to eat at Barrack Square and Elizabeth Quay. On a fine day both gardens are worth visiting, and it is nice to just sit a while and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. I love the massive Moreton Bay Fig trees in both gardens. There is an enormous specimen near the Perth City Council building in Stirling Gardens and several other large trees down Barrack Street and behind the Court in the Supreme Court Gardens.
7. Fraser Avenue Lookout
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 418 reviews
Reviewed By tonimcallen - Fremantle, Australia
Fraser Avenue Lookout is in Perth's King's Park, one of the most popular and famous tourist attractions in Perth. The reasons will be clear when you visit. Not only do you get the best views of Perth city and the Swan River but there are botanical gardens to wander through and guided tours with detailed information about local flora, fauna and culture. Fraser Avenue Lookout is on the edge of King's Park which is set high on a hill overlooking the Perth city centre and the Swan river that flows alongside the city. Most tour buses will stop here and if hiring a car there are parking facilities in the area. The lookout is what it says it is - a place from which you look over the city but it is within walking distance of a restaurant, cafe, gift shop and information centre from where you book guided tours. There are also garden beds with local flora within easy walking distance. Fraser Avenue Lookout is an absolute must see for any visitors to Perth. I have lived in Perth most of my life and I still never tire of visiting this place.
8. Scitech
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 592 reviews
The Scitech Science Centre is reopen under COVID-19 restrictions in WA. It's important that you plan ahead for your visit to Scitech and book your tickets online in advance. Explore your curiosity at Scitech, an engaging science discovery centre conveniently located in the heart of Perth. Boasting six interactive galleries, lively science performances and educational puppet shows, a hands-on science lab and Australasia's largest planetarium, Scitech offers a range of fun and educational science experiences for all ages. Plus, visit the Discovery Shop for unusual science gifts, and don't miss the Scitech's unique adult events throughout the year. As Western Australia's leading science education institution, Scitech aims to increase awareness, interest, capability and participation by all Western Australians in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Visit with the family for a whole day of fun, or become an annual member for endless science action!
Reviewed By Elocin86 - Townsville, Australia
LOVED THIS PLACE!!! So interactive, and the shows were extremely entertaining. My 4 year old actually asked to go back a second time during our 2 week stay in Perth because she just loved it all. Parents can also be involved in the activities or there is a section at the front of SciTech just for the little ones to have fun. Highly recommend going to see the puppet show and the SoCool shows that they have on, the scientists are extremely passionate about their subject and encourage questions.
9. State War Memorial
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,810 reviews
Reviewed By SJCPerth - Perth, Australia
A wonderful trubute to those who sacrificed their lives to give Australia the safe life she lives today. The whole Kings Park area has beautiful grounds to picnic on, many beautiful trees and plants, nature walking trails, flora and fauna particular to Western Australia, spectacular viewing points of the city, plent of parking, easy to get to drive or public transport, in the heart of the city. You won't be disappointed. A must visit place for any visitor to Perth, WA
10. Lotterywest Federation Walkway
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 484 reviews
Reviewed By abbiefox1988 - Perth, Australia
Nice walk and unexpected, beautiful views over the forest below and just outside the city, must do in Perth
