Dive in and discover the best Perth has to offer for school holidays in 2025!
Ahhh school holidays – love them or hate them, if you’re like me you’re still going to be looking for different ideas to keep the kids entertained.
Perth is bursting with family-friendly activities that cater to every kind of adventurer.
Explore the great outdoors, find indoor fun on rainy days, or enjoy a budget-friendly day out with these different activities. Here’s hoping it might encourage a little less time on screens, get you all out in the fresh air and get inspired to create unforgettable memories this school holidays!
Free School Holiday Activities in Perth
Perth Old Central Fire Station
Step into over 125 years of fire brigade history at the heritage-listed Old Central Fire Station.
Once Perth’s first purpose-built fire station, this historic site now serves as a Heritage Centre, showcasing an impressive collection of vintage fire trucks, historic firefighting equipment, and entertaining stories of firefighter adventures.
On the first Saturday of each month, the old Perth Central Fire Station also hosts an early access session designed to support children with sensory needs.
Entry to the Old Firestation is free – group bookings are essential.
Location: 25 Murray Street, Perth 6000
WA Shipwrecks Museum
Housed inside Fremantle’s historic Commissariat buildings, you can journey through the Shipwrecks Museum galleries and learn about WA’s treacherous coast, the fate of first European encounters, historical maritime trade and one of the deadliest mutinies in known history.
The WA Shipwrecks Museum is internationally recognised for its contributions to maritime archaeology and shipwreck conservation.
School holiday highlights:
Exploring WA’s Deep Sea: Saturday 18 January 2025 – Sunday 23 March 2025
A collection of highlights from the Minderoo-UWA Deep-Sea Research Centre’s two-year exploration of Australia’s deepest marine parks, featuring stunning deep-sea art by Tyrown Waigana.
Entry to the WA Shipwrecks Museum is free but donations are always welcome.
Location: Cliff Street, Fremantle 6160
Art Gallery WA
Forecast Exhibition: Until 16 March 2025 | FREE
Forecast at AGWA is equal parts exhibition, artist studio, retreat, and creative weather station.
Featuring daily changing installations with interactive, meditative elements to help reflect and encourage deep listening and attention during a time of intense climate-focus and change.
Entry is free but donations are always warmly welcomed.
Location: Perth Cultural Centre Perth, 6000
WA Museum Boola Bardip
There’s a whole world to explore at the WA Museum Boola Bardip. An economical spot to hit up with the kids at only $15 entry for adults and kids under 15 are free.
They have a range of free and paid school holiday activities for your kids to learn, explore and create!
Museum School Holiday highlights:
Unleash your artistic flair with scratch paper art, create bright designs with Spirograph, or build vibrant 2D masterpieces with LEGO. Designed for all ages to explore and enjoy.
Story Time: Wednesdays, Fridays & Sundays | 10:30am – 11:00am.
A half-hour of story-telling Inspired by the museum name, Boola Bardip, meaning ‘many stories’ in Whadjuk Nyoongar – the traditional landowners on which the museum sits.
Dinosaurs Tour: Saturdays | 12:30pm – 1:30pm.
A one-hour dinosaur tour where you will learn about different species, marvel at gargantuan life-sized models and meet the Boola Bardip Augmented Reality resident.
Discovery Time: Mondays & Saturdays | 10:30am – 11:00am (for children Under 5).
The littlest Boola Bardip visitors will get the chance to hold and inspect a selection of precious objects and tactile artifacts, and take part in an activity designed to ignite imagination and curiosity.
Opening Hours: 9:30am – 5:00pm (Closed Good Friday & Christmas Day)
Location: Perth Cultural Centre, 6000
Visit A New Playground
There are so many fantastic (and free!) playgrounds around Perth – you could just about visit a new one every day.
We’ve listed a few below but you can also check out the fab Buggybuddys map with all the best local playgrounds to find one near you!
Visit Your Local Library
My kids absolutely love a trip to our local library. It’s a fun way to kill a couple of hours – especially if the weather outside ain’t fab.
Most libraries also have a specific programme of holiday activities for kids – from Lego club to learning how to code online! Head to your local library website to discover what’s on offer.
Free Printable Colouring Pages
Download and print free colouring pages for a hassle-free activity for the kids.
Colouring is a fantastic activity for entertainment, slowing-down and practicing mindfulness – plus it’s fab for parents to enjoy too!
Make a Batch of Play Dough
I have many wonderful nostalgic memories of my mum whipping up a batch of play dough to keep us occupied on rainy days!
Cheap, easy to make and long-lasting – we have a Thermomix Play Dough recipe that we use on repeat but there’s plenty of thermo-free alternatives that you can find with a quick Google, too!
Find The Mandurah Giants
Discover the larger-than-life sculptures known as the Mandurah Giants created by the world’s leading recycle artist, Thomas Dambo.
Dotted across the landscape near the Mandurah Estuary, there are 6 Giants in total to explore.
Each trek is rated in difficulty so you can tailor your trip to suit your children and skill levels – download the travellers companion to find out more and plan your visit.
Rio Tinto Naturescape – Kings Park
Kings Park is a great place to explore during the school holidays – with an abundance of playgrounds and nature reserves, there’s plenty to keep the kids entertained.
The Rio Tinto Naturescape is a bush adventure in the heart of Kings Park, with tree houses, cubbies, creeks and gullies set amongst thriving native bushland – the Naturescape is a winding and exciting journey designed to spark imagination and connection to our local landscape.
Chevron Parklands, Burswood
Inspired by the Indigenous six seasons and covering a huge 2.6 hectares, the Chevron Parkland landscape has been designed to provide year-round entertainment for the whole family.
With six nature playgrounds catering for a range of ages, BBQ and picnic facilities and the BHP Boardwalk and Amphitheatre in the west, you can enjoy a day out in this magnificent space by the Swan River.
Location: 333 Victoria Park Drive, Burswood
Day Trips From Perth – School Holiday Ideas
Apple Fun Park Donnybrook
If you’ve ever driven through the town of Donnybrook in WA – you would have laid eyes on the majesty of the Donnybrook Apple Fun Park.
Located in the heart of this charming town lies this expansive local playground – a gated park full of adventurous activities for all ages.
There’s water fountains, lots of shade, picnic tables plus some areas of grass to pop your blanket down. We’ve found it can get quite hot – so make sure you slip, slop, slap and slide at this park in the summer months.
The Apple Fun Park is also close to Gnomesville in the Ferguson Valley if fancy swinging by this quirky landmark in the same day!
Bells Rapids
Spend a day immersed in nature with a picnic or bushwalk at this local gem – just under an hour from Perth.
Enjoy one of the many walking trails for different skill levels or stroll out onto the bridge spanning the width of the Avon river to watch the awesome fury of the running rapids in winter.
Location: Cathedral Avenue, Brigadoon 6069
Bunbury Dolphin Discovery Centre
Just 2 hours south of Perth, the Bunbury Dolphin Discovery Centre is perched overlooking the Koombana Bay foreshore near the city centre.
The centre was established in 1994 and continues to do important work in the research, protection and feeding of dolphins and other marine wildlife in the area.
Enjoy interactive feeding, turtle rehabilitiation education and catch a glimpse of the Koombana Bay dolphins who regularly visit to say g’day.
And on your way home, stop by the cult-status Bunbury Farmers Market to snap up the best in fresh local produce to go!
Location: Koombana Drive, Bunbury, 6230
Perth Gravity & Discovery Centre
Located an hour north of Perth, the Perth Gravity and Discovery Centre is a fantastic not-for-profit science education centre.
Dive into Einstein’s groundbreaking discoveries in the Discovery and Innovation Galleries, or channel your inner Galileo by recreating his gravity experiments with water balloons from the Leaning Tower of Gingin.
Book an evening Observatory Tour to experience the awe and wonder of our night sky and learn all about ancient Aboriginal astronomy.
All Observatory Tour tickets include access to the Gravity Discovery Centre on the day of your Tour.
Location: 1098 Military Road, Yeal, 6503
Gnomesville – Ferguson Valley
For a day trip with a difference – drive a couple of hours south-east of Perth where you’ll stumble across Gnomesville, a quaint town of around 7,000 …. gnomes!
No one really gnomes how this quirky WA landmark first came to be but now there are gnomes from far and wide that call Gnomesville home.
Don’t forget to BYO gnome to add to the community! Located close to Bunbury, make a day of it and stop for a bite to eat or a swim at the beach after your Gnome-y adventure.
Treetops Adventure Perth – Yanchep
North of Perth, Treetops Adventure in Yanchep has 16 ziplines, an abundance of Western Grey Kangaroos and 70+ aerial challenges to conquer.
With prime a prime vantage spot to take in the beautiful bushlands – this is definitely one for the outdoor lovers and thrill seekers!
Location: Yanchep National Park Yanchep Beach Road &, Indian Ocean Dr, Yanchep 6035
Whiteman Park
With several playgrounds, BBQ facilities, bush walking trails, railway track and plenty of open space – Whiteman Park is a great destination to meet up with the gang and enjoy a day out in the elements.
We love the mini pool playground – a nice spot to cool off on a hot summers day!
Location: 233a Drumpellier Drive Whiteman, 6068
Perth Holiday Markets and Food Trucks
Scarborough Sunset Markets
Every Thursday evening from 07 November 2024 until 24 April 2025
Thursday evenings are now sorted thanks to the Scarborough Sunset Markets!
With the perfect mix of seaside vibes, live music, and delicious food trucks featuring a range of global cuisine, there’s something for everyone.
Enjoy ice-cold drinks from the bar, shop for one-of-a-kind treasures, and soak in the iconic Scarborough sunsets that never fail to impress.
As the night unfolds, the Amphitheatre transforms into the ultimate beachside dance party. And with a vibrant selection of local retail stalls featuring everything from eco-friendly plants to vintage clothing and handmade candles, there’s no shortage of surprises!
Location: Beachfront Esplanade Scarborough, 6019
Summer X Salt Markets – Trigg
Every first and third Saturday of the month from October 19th, 2024 until March 25th, 2025.
Perth’s award-winning beachside marketplace carefully curated lineup of surf and salty-inspired artists and designers, live music, and food and drink trucks — all within walking distance to the beach!
Visitors can also enjoy free kids’ workshops, community yoga, pilates, and meditation sessions at every event, along with pop-up ice baths, beach cleanups, morning swims, and more!
Full Calendar available on the Summer X Salt website.
Location: Clarko Reserve, West Coast Drive Trigg, 6029
Sorrento Night Market
Every Friday night 4:30pm – 8:30pm
Food trucks and gift stalls make these beachside markets the perfect spot to pull up a blanket for an easy Friday night dinner!
With a range of international cuisines and local food trucks faves, the hardest part will be deciding what to eat…
Location: Seacrest Park, Seacrest Drive Sorrento, 6020
South Perth StrEats
Thursday – Sunday evenings November – April | 5:00pm – 8:30pm
Balmy summer evenings spent by the river with some delicious food and BYO – say no more! Bring the whole fam down for this yummy event on the South Perth foreshore happening every weekend in summer.
Check out the StrEats Instagram for vendor updates
Location: Sir James Mitchell Park, Perth 6151
Foothills Family Night Markets
Second Friday of every month from September – May | 4:30pm – 8:30pm
The best of food, arts and crafts, entertainment and local treasures that the hills region has to offer. All wrapped up in a fun, family-friendly Friday night out!
Head to the Foothills Family Night Market website for the next market dates and to find out more.
Location: Fleming Reserve, Newburn Rd, High Wycombe 6057
Outdoor Adventures for Kids in Perth
Adventure World
Adventure World is the ultimate destination for families seeking thrills and fun in the summer holidays!
Featuring a mix of adrenaline-pumping rides like the Abyss Rollercoaster, family-friendly attractions, and the water park with the mighty Kraken and Goliath, there really is something for everyone to enjoy at Adventure World.
With loads of grassed area and shade, you can set up camp for the day with a BYO picnic. There’s also food and drinks available at the onsite cafes and if you’re feeling a little luxe – you can hire your own private poolside cabana!
Location: 351 Progress Drive, Bibra Lake, 6163
Rottnest Island Day Trip
Just a short ferry ride from Fremantle, Perth City, or Hillarys, Wadjemup or ‘Rotto’ as it’s often called, offers stunning beaches, cycling trails, and unique wildlife, including its adorable native quokkas.
Pack a picnic, rent bikes to explore at your own pace, or take a guided tour to discover the rich history and natural beauty of Rotto.
In the school holidays, the Rottnest Voluntary Guides run a program of free activities and tours just for families. Sign up to their newsletter for first access and all the info.
Getting to Rottnest by Ferry:
Caversham Wildlife Park
This family-friendly park lets you get up close and personal with Australian wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and wombats.
Kids will love feeding the kangaroos, meeting farm animals at Molly’s Farm, and watching interactive shows like sheep shearing and whip cracking.
With its relaxed pace and plenty of picnic spots, Caversham Wildlife Park is the perfect mix of fun and education for the whole fam.
Location: 233B Drumpellier Drive, Whiteman, 6068
Hillarys Boat Harbour
Sun, Snacks and Shelter is all in abundance at Hillarys Boat Harbour – a great destination to park yourself for a day out in the school holidays.
The protected and calm conditions at Hillarys Boat Harbour make it a popular family beach.
Jetty jumping and swimming out to the pontoon and water slides keeps older kids entertained, while the calm waters are perfect for toddlers and younger kids to paddle and play in.
Island Aqua Park also calls Hillarys Boat Harbour home over the summer hols – a floating inflatable obstacle course designed for ages 6-16 (Parental participation is required for younger children).
Plus there are oodles of pubs, cafes and restaurants to choose from so you can keep everyone happy!
Outback Splash
Enjoy one of Perth’s fave destinations for epic waterslides, pools, mini golf, and mazes.
Open year round, the highlight of Outback Splash (as the name suggests) is definitely the waterpark activities available in the Summer season from December to April.
With family-friendly favourites like Splash Island, or thrill-seeking delights the Wedgie, Blackout, The Wall and Gold Rush – it’s fun in the sun for the whole family.
You can also BYO picnic, shade or there’s the option to purchase goodies from one of the onsite cafes
Location: 1635 Neaves Rd, Bullsbrook WA 6084
Moonlight Cinema, Kings Park
Open 5 Dec 2024 – 30 Mar 2025
Get your mini grazing platters and popcorn ready for a summer of movies under the stars in Kings Park.
With screenings nearly every night of the week, you can have a squiz of the program for the fantastic family and holiday classics scheduled over the festive period. Plus it’s BYO too!
Location: May Drive Parkland Kings Park and Botanic Garden, Perth 6000
Telethon Community Cinema – Various Locations
Another lovely outdoor cinema to explore during the holidays are the Telethon Community Cinemas.
Hire yourself a comfy beanbag and preorder a Dominos Pizza online to create the ultimate night off with the kids!
With modest ticket pricing and locations across Perth – it’s a fun and hassle-free night out for the whole fam.
Telethon Community Cinema Locations:
- Bassendean: BIC Reserve (behind the Council Offices) on Guildford Road corner of Wilson Street Bassendean.
- Burswood: Burswood Parklands (Charles Paterson Park) near the Causeway and adjacent to Crown Perth.
- Joondalup: ECU Joondalup Pines Outdoor Community Cinema: Edith Cowan University Joondalup.
- Murdoch: Murdoch University: Forecourt of Building 122 on the south-side of Car Park 1.
Matagarup Bridge Climb
Zip+Climb is a family adventure precinct on the Burswood Peninsula – located on and around the Matagarup Bridge.
Climb the bridge and/or choose to fly through the air on one of two 400m ziplines running from the bridge to the riverbank. Zip+Climb offers a birds eye view of Perth like no other.
Suitable for 8 Years + only.
Location: Northern End of Camfield Drive, Burswood Park. Perth.
Wembley Golf Course Mini Golf
Wembley Public Golf Course features a unique, 18-hole landscaped miniature golf course unlike any other in Western Australia.
Designed as a scaled-down version of a full-size golf course, you’ll navigate sand traps, bridges, and sparkling water features, with the option to choose starter, intermediate, or advanced holes.
Perfect for both adults and children, this mini golf adventure delivers fun and challenges for all skill levels.
And it comes with a very profesh-looking podium to immortalise (or not) your bragging rights forever!
Indoor School Holiday Activities
AQWA – The Aquarium of WA
Explore over 12,000km of coastline in just one day at AQWA
Fun fact: AQWA only exhibits native Western Australian marine life, many of which are rare beauties endemic to our state!
You can even take a ride on the AQWA Glass Bottom Boat and get a close up of life under the sea (ages 4 + only).
They also have some exciting festive activities happening to wish you a Merry Fishmas!
Location: 91 Southside Dr, Hillarys WA 6025
Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq
With a mix of modern and retro arcade games, an XD Theatre, bowling, mini golf, laser tag, cutting-edge Virtual Reality, and dodgem cars, Archie Bros has endless entertainment for all ages.
Make a day of it with their full-service cocktail bar, gourmet kitchen, and versatile function spaces (perfect for birthday parties!). The fun’s guaranteed for everyone!
Location: West Deck at Karrinyup Shopping Centre – 200 Karrinyup Rd, Karrinyup 6018
Fremantle Prison
Tour of one of the worlds largest and most intact prisons built by convicts. Built between 1852 and 1859, Fremantle Prison remained operational until being decommissioned 1991 due to deteriorating conditions for the inmates.
If you’re feeling extra brave you could take a walk on the darker side of Fremantle Gaol beforehand with a torchlight tour! Night tours depart from 7pm (not recommended for children under 10) – a nice festive prelude to the Christmas Lights display as well.
Glowing Rooms
This is a one-of-a-kind mini golf course, VR and escape room adventure with over 800 square meters of hand-painted artworks that transform Glowing Rooms into an out-of-this-world experience!
Location: 1/1 Emplacement Cres, Hamilton Hill 6163
Bounce Inc.
Bounce is the place where kids can literally bounce off the walls! Burn off some energy and get their adrenalin racing with huge interconnected indoor trampolines, adventure activities, padding and airbags.
The perfect place to practice tricks, flips and parkour in a safe and controlled environment.
With locations across Perth, ensure you prebook your session during school holidays to avoid missing out.
- Cannington: 1371 Albany Highway, Cannington 6107
- Joondalup: 35/57 Joondalup Drive, Edgewater 6027
- Osborne Park: 5 O’Malley Street, Osborne Park 6017
Have you got an awesome Perth school holiday suggestion?
If there’s something you think is a must-do or see in Perth during the holidays, send me an email with your suggestions: hello@jessieparker.co
Or drop me a comment below.
Jessie Parker
Creative/Blogger
