![]() ![]() Perth Festival Performers. Credit: Perth Festival Remote Perth revels in endless sun, clean air, idyllic beaches and its pristine environment. A recent flurry of urban development ensures that Perth has shed its small-town status and morphed into a cosmopolitan city worthy of international acclaim. Here are a few of our favorite things to do and see in Western Australia’s capital city. Gallivant through Kings Park and Botanic Garden Absorb the city’s indigenous culture at the Aboriginal Art Gallery and explore unique Australian design at Aspects of Kings Park. There are few better views of the city than those found at the casual Botanical Café or the more upscale Fraser’s Restaurant — indulge in a delicious degustation dinner while watching the sunset at this park-side spot. Stroll through Elizabeth Quay The area is punctuated by a 16-foot-tall sculpture, dubbed First Contact,depicting the arrival of European settlers to Perth by indigenous artist Laurel Nannup. Connect to Perth’s Aboriginal past and join a Noongar guide for an insightful tour. Year-round entertainment includes ice-skating in winter, a water park, festivals, art installations, bars and eateries. Explore the Swan Valley Pop into the Swan Valley Visitor Centre and grab a map to create your own itinerary along the 20-mile Swan Valley Food and Wine Trail. You’ll discover the region also includes breweries, cideries, a distillery and coffee roasters, as well as a wide array of activities for the whole family. Think cycle trails, art tours, wildlife encounters, picnic spots, cultural events and the historic town of Guildford, full of antiques, cafés and charm. Cheer at the Optus Stadium Even during non-event days, there’s much to do at this 60,000-seat venue, including a behind-the-scenes tour, which features panoramic vistas of the city from the Sky View Lounge. Next door, you’ll find The Camfield — deemed Australia’s largest pub with five bars and 175 beers on tap, it’s rapidly becoming a Perth favorite. Play in the City Yagan Square is Perth’s latest addition, connecting the city center with the historic Northbridge suburb (home to myriad restaurants, nightlife and hotels) for the first time in 100 years. Be sure to look out for Brookfield Place on St. Georges Terrace. Situated on one of the windiest streets in the world, the skyscraper incorporates heritage architecture with sleek modernity to create a spectacular shopping and dining destination. Party in Northbridge Once out in the throng, eat your way around the world with options ranging from Lebanese to dim sum. There’s no shortage of nighttime revelry in the many bars, clubs, live performance venues, art house cinemas and late-night enclaves found in this trendy neighborhood. Delve into Fremantle Delve into Western Australia’s rich history at the Fremantle Prison, Fremantle Arts Centre, Shipwreck Galleries and the Western Australian Maritime Museum. Many visitors simply partake in the Italian tradition of passeggiata, meaning to stroll, through the town’s historic streets. Frolic at the Beach Pretend you’re a local and partake in the Perth tradition of a late afternoon dip followed by fish and chips with the sand between your toes as the sun slips into the Indian Ocean. Glide Around Rottnest Island Join a Segway tour, cycle past salt lakes or simply dive into the crystal-clear waters to snorkel, surf and swim among the coral reefs. Keep your eyes open for the island’s famed quokka — the friendly marsupial can be found smiling in many an Instagram story. Finishing the day with an amber brew at the Hotel Rottnest and taking in the views across Thompson Bay to the mainland is a fitting Perth tradition. Peer into the Peel Region The adventurous can attempt to complete the scenic 621-mile hike along The Bibbulmun Track, one of the longest walking trails in the world. For a more leisurely pursuit, stroll among the jarrah and wandoo woodlands that hug the meandering Murray River, or explore the surrounding granite outcrops and Lane Poole Reserve. |