Author: 
Dive into Western Australia’s culture with our pick of Perth museums, art galleries, and heritage sites. Find out where to go, what to see, and where to stay near Perth’s cultural treasures.
On the Heartbeat of History
Basked in year-round sunshine, Western Australia’s lively capital offers more than just crystal-clear beaches and gourmet experiences. It’s a haven for history buffs just as much as it is a hub for adventure-seekers, with Perth’s museum exhibitions, artistic showcases, and other heritage centers leading the way.
In fact, Perth is home to Western Australia’s oldest standing public structure, the Fremantle Roundhouse, which dates as far back as 1831. Interestingly, Perth was also one of the last two places on earth with a Blockbuster store. Now, that’s what we call historic!
Each of Perth’s museums, art galleries, and historic sites act as a window into the city’s journey from a colonial hub to a dynamic, contemporary city. Of course, you can always opt to visit Perth’s major landmarks with the help of our other guide. But if you want a more in-depth exploration, we’ll help you navigate the cultural tapestry of this corner in the Land Down Under!
The Best Perth Museums, Art Galleries & Heritage Sites
Dive into Perth’s dynamic arts, relish its rich history, and journey through diverse traditions. Here’s your curated list of ten must-see Perth museums for your trip:
ART GALLERY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Perth Cultural Centre, Roe Street, Perth, WA 6000
Delve into the myriad facets of Australian art at the Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA). The gallery is a tribute to the nation’s vivid artistic spirit, blending Indigenous and non-Indigenous masterpieces. Apart from its ever-changing exhibits, the gallery also boasts an open-air social space on the rooftop, allowing you to revel in sculptures, gastronomic delights, and Perth’s picturesque skyline.
FREMANTLE PRISON
1 The Terrace, Fremantle, WA 6160
Step into the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Western Australia – the Fremantle Prison. Operational from the 1850s until 1991, it offers a raw glimpse of Western Australia’s convict epoch. Guided explorations will take you on a boat tour of subterranean tunnels made by prisoners, painting a vivid picture of life behind these formidable walls. There are also torchlit tours for those with a penchant for the eerie and macabre.
KINGS PARK AND BOTANIC GARDEN
Fraser Avenue, Kings Park, WA 6005
Though not strictly a Perth museum, Kings Park and Botanic Garden stands as a verdant representation of Western Australia’s diverse plant life. Its roots in Indigenous tradition make it a pivotal cultural hub in the city. With breathtaking vistas of the Swan River and the city’s skyline, this park is a serene urban escape amidst urban hustle.
There are more must-visit places in the city like Kings Park and Botanic Garden. Luckily, we have a guide to the best places to visit in Perth that lists those attractions, so do check it out!
PERTH MINT
310 Hay St, East Perth, WA 6004
Embark on a luminous journey into the golden annals of Western Australia at the Perth Mint. Ranging from gold molding displays to rare metal exhibits, it’s a treasure trove for gold enthusiasts. Feel the heft of an authentic gold bar and traverse the mint’s illustrious timeline over a hundred years deep.
STATE LIBRARY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA
25 Francis Street, Perth Cultural Centre, WA 6000
More than just a bibliophile’s paradise, the State Library of Western Australia stands as a beacon of the region’s cultural and historical fabric. With its evolving exhibitions and vast compendium of Western Australian chronicles, it’s a hidden gem in the milieu of Perth museums. Plus, for the visiting digital nomad, it is an ideal space to get some work done.
ABORIGINAL & TRIBAL ART GALLERIES
Creative Native, Japingka Aboriginal Art, Artitja Fine Art Gallery, Marco Pinto Gallery
Plunge into the soul of Indigenous artistry at Perth’s top Aboriginal & Tribal art galleries. Ranging from Creative Native to Marco Pinto, each venue showcases the vibrant and poignant tales of Aboriginal artists. Beyond the mesmerizing artworks, partake in immersive workshops and events, each rooted in Indigenous lore and tradition.
THE BELL TOWER
Barrack Square, Riverside Drive, Perth, WA 6000
Blending the new with the old, The Bell Tower, with its avant-garde design, safeguards the ancient Swan Bells, tracing back to the 14th century. This juxtaposition weaves a fascinating tale of Perth’s modern vibrancy and time-honored roots. Engage in interactive bell-chiming demonstrations, followed by a serene pause at the view deck, which provides spectacular city views.
WA MARITIME MUSEUM
Victoria Quay, Peter Hughes Dr, Fremantle WA 6160
A gem among Perth’s museums, the WA Maritime Museum narrates Western Australia’s profound bond with the ocean. From the iconic Australia II yacht to immersive narratives of naval defense and shipwrecks, this Perth museum is an ode to the maritime legacy of the region.
SCITECH
City West Centre, Corner Railway Street & Sutherland Street, West Perth WA 6005
Focusing on Perth’s future over its past, Scitech celebrates the city’s technological and scientific feats. While kids remain its primary audience, adults too can revel in interactive showcases and starlit planetarium displays. It’s the perfect spot for families who are naturally curious or harbor a deep interest in STEM subjects.
Where to Stay in Perth, Australia
After a fulfilling exploration of Perth’s museums, art galleries, and heritage landmarks, the quest for the ideal spot to relax and reflect beckons.
We have a curated list of top accommodations in Perth for any kind of traveler. But if you just need a general idea of where to book your stay, here are five dynamic districts that pulsate with vitality, conveniences, and more cultural gems to unearth:
1. SOUTH PERTH
Just a short hop across the Swan River from the CBD, South Perth unveils dazzling urban vistas juxtaposed with tranquil surroundings. Notably, the renowned Perth Zoo finds its home here, promising a delightful day for families. Its foreshore realm is dotted with culinary havens, where Coco Belle Espresso Bar shines for morning treats. Rambler On Swan, on the other hand, is a go-to for picturesque waterfront meals. Embrace the charm of meandering walks or idyllic picnics in this locale.
2. FREMANTLE
With a legacy of timeless architecture, Fremantle beckons visitors from all over. Here, the illustrious UNESCO-endorsed Fremantle Prison and the Western Australian Maritime Museum stand tall. Culinary enthusiasts can dive into the ocean’s bounty at Kailis’ Fish Market Cafe or relish artisanal brews at the Little Creatures Brewery.
3. NORTHBRIDGE
Adjacent to the CBD, Northbridge emerges as Perth’s vibrant heart of culture and revelry. Among its jewels is one of the city’s esteemed Perth museums, the Art Gallery of Western Australia. The district sparkles with a gamut of global cuisines, distinctive boutiques, and buzzing nightlife. Literary erudites or casual readers can also find solace in the State Library of Western Australia.
4. WEST PERTH
Offering a peaceful residential vibe, West Perth is just moments away from the verdant expanse of Kings Park and Botanic Garden. Dive into local cafes, with the Gordon Street Garage being a notable mention, and indulge in retail therapy at Watertown Brand Outlet Centre.
5. EAST PERTH
Transitioning from its industrial roots, East Perth has blossomed into a chic residential and leisurely district. It’s home to the iconic Perth Mint, making it a gold aficionado’s dream. Culinary adventures await at locales like the Royal on the Waterfront, or begin your day at Toast East Perth for heartwarming breakfasts. The scenic vistas of Swan River are just the cherry on top.
Curate Your Adventures With Hotala
As the sun sets on your exploration of Perth’s museums, art spaces, and heritage sites, you’ll need a quiet, comfortable, and contemplative space to ruminate on the day’s discoveries. Let Hotala help you find the perfect accommodation!
With thousands of hotels, resorts, and holiday rentals in Perth, you’ll never have to compromise your needs, preferences, and sense of aesthetics. With our travel content and 10 million worldwide listings, Hotala ensures that your stay enriches your cultural expedition, wherever it may be.
Unlock the narratives of Perth’s history and ethos, then create your own. Plan extraordinary trips and find the most memorable vacation stays with Hotala today.
And if you’ve been there and done that, you can subscribe to The Hot List to get weekly updates on the Hottest destinations! Travel farther, experience more, and discover hot deals in hot destinations with Hotala.
