Fun things to do in Perth during the day
Take in the views
Like most Aussie cities, Perth boasts an impressive skyline. One of the best views of the skyline is from The Bell Tower. You’ll enjoy impressive 360-degree views of Perth and the surrounding areas from the top. Alternatively, try Elizabeth Quay Bridge.
After you’ve enjoyed the incredible views, you can chime on one of the St Martin-in-the Field bells. The observation deck is home to 26 carillon bells. You can even step behind the scenes to ring the bells yourself and receive a souvenir certificate commemorating the bell ringing.
Escape into nature
Gorgeous botanical gardens are a pillar of Australia’s great cities, and Perth’s Botanical Gardens are no different. The city is home to Kings Park and Botanic Garden, which is a 400-hectare park home to 3,000 species of WA’s unique flora. If you’re looking for somewhere to relax during the sunshine—which is endless throughout the year in Perth —Perth’s Kings Park is ideal.
Go swimming at the beach
Although there are many amazing things to do in Perth - it’s hard to look past the excellent beaches. After all, Perth is home to many world-class beaches. One of the most popular beaches is Scarborough Beach. It offers stunning crystalline waters, excellent bars and restaurants, and gorgeous white sand to relax with the family.
Scarborough Beach is only a mere 24-minute drive from Perth’s CBD. And if you prefer public transportation, you can catch a 20-minute bus to Scarborough Beach from the CBD.
Enjoy market shopping
The Fremantle Markets are one of the most famous weekend markets in Australia. They offer fresh produce, an eclectic atmosphere, and various delicious meals. You can also witness over 100 years of heritage and culture.
The Fremantle Markets have no entrance fee, which is superb if you’re budgeting. Why not check out the Fremantle Markets Heritage trail to learn about the history of the markets?
Visit Rottnest Island
If you’re looking for day trips from Perth - you’ll struggle to find a better option than Rottnest Island. After a short ferry ride, you’ll experience gorgeous beaches and swathes of native Aussie wildlife.
Western Australia has some of the nation's finest wildlife. If Rottnest Island is home to a considerable native population of quokkas. The best place to see quokkas is near Garden Lake, on Defence Road, at the bicycle area near Porpoise Bay, or on the hill up Wadjemup Road.
Read our guide for a Rottnest Island day trip to make the most of your visit to this iconic island.
Explore the Perth nightlife
Despite being smaller than some of Australia's other capital cities, Perth has a bustling nightlife that celebrates the western city’s unique culture. You’ll find dining, cocktails, and dancing throughout Perth. Bobeche is a local favourite for well-crafted classic cocktails. Fenian’s Irish Pub serves classic pub food and, of course, Guinness. And La Cabana offers a unique, Western Australian take on Mexican cuisine and refreshing drinks to make the most of a warm evening in Perth.
Get adventurous at Matagarup Zip+Climb
A new attraction for adventure lovers, the Matagarup Zip+Climb is one of the most fun things to do in Perth. You'll climb up to the top of the Matagarup Bridge, then zip down over the Swan River. At the top, you'll walk over the glass floor Sky View Platform for fantastic views of Perth. Open to visitors from 8 to 75 years of age, anyone who is fit enough and interested can enjoy a thrilling adventure up and down the iconic Perth bridge.
Check Out the Armadale Reptile & Wildlife Centre
When it comes to reptiles, Australia is home to some of the best. In Perth, the Armadale Reptile & Wildlife Centre gives you the opportunity to get to know some of these cold-blooded creatures and learn a bit more about them. (And maybe even discover that some of them aren’t so scary after all).
The centre acts as a rescue and rehabilitation centre for all native Australian animals, though they specialise in reptiles. The centre helps injured animals get back on their feet and re-enter their natural habitat, and cares for animals that are more suited to staying in the wildlife centre. You’ll learn about identifying animals that you might encounter in the bush or your backyard, plus you’ll learn all about the animals’ habits and habitats—perfect for any animal lover, big or small.
Whether you’re visiting Perth for sunshine, nightlife, or the local attractions, there are so many fun things to do in Perth to enjoy. Find your perfect Perth hotel and start planning your wander out yonder in WA.