Cooler weather is upon us again and if you’re looking for things to do in Perth with kids, hop in the car or take the train and head to the Swan Valley or Guildford.
At the Museum of Natural History - Academy of Taxidermy in Guildford, you can travel back in time millions of years to an era when dinosaurs roamed the earth.
Or you can experience the diversity of the Aussie bush with beautifully curated displays by Master Taxidermist, Michael Buzza.
There are hundreds of exhibits to explore, spanning local wildlife to ancient megafauna.
The Museum of Natural History is housed in the heritage-listed Regent Theatre, just five minutes from Guildford train station.
On a sunny day, head next door after exploring the museum to sample some of Perth’s best ice cream at Mimmo's Gourmet Gelato.
If the 100-year-old walls of the Swan Settlers Co-Operative building could talk, they would tell plenty of colourful stories.
Today the historic building is home to the Swan Settlers Market, with a wide range of local stores run by local artisans, growers, producers, crafters and collectors.
Plus, there’s a covered play area for kids, and treats and food stalls galore.
Swan Settlers Market comes alive every weekend from 9am to 5pm and on Monday public holidays.
Visiting the market is one of the best things to do with kids on weekends, whether you stop in for a coffee, browse the local wares, or sample a selection of Swan Valley produce. Or all of the above!
Cool weather is all about comfort food, and there are few better comfort foods than chocolate. The Swan Valley has not one, but two world-class chocolate shops where sweet tooths can sample and shop some of Perth’s best treats. Both locations are free to visit, with cosy cafés, large outdoor areas for kids, ample parking, friendly staff, and daily opening hours.
WA’s oldest chocolate company, Whistler's Chocolate Co & Cafe, has been a must-visit destination among chocoholics for over 40 years.
The cosy café and chocolatier’s showroom has plenty for every taste, from handmade fudge to chocolate truffles, traditional delights like rocky road and coconut rough, ice cream, delectable dark chocolate and modern favourites like chocolate pretzels.
Margaret River Chocolate Co West Swan location brings the best of the South West to the Swan Valley.
Kids love watching the chocolatiers at work while parents try some free samples.
Plus, with a balcony café, safe play area and fully stocked chocolate shop, you’re encouraged to take your time and test your tastebuds thoroughly.
Swan Valley animal farms are always one of the most popular things to do in Perth with kids during winter.
Whether your kids want to learn about Australia’s incredible nature or cuddle a few cute animals (or both), Caversham Wildlife Park and Swan Valley Cuddly Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm & Cafe are great days out.
Kids love meeting the friendly locals, from bottle-feeding baby goats to getting up close with wombats and reptiles, while friendly staff guide an entertaining visit.
The entry price to both animal farms includes a huge range of activities, exhibits and shows.
Both venues have on-site catering, or you can pack a picnic to enjoy the winter sun before making a few new furry friends.
Guildford, one of Perth’s first colonial settlements, is full of intriguing history and old-world charm.
Winter’s cooler days are perfect for exploring Guildford on foot by following one of four self-guided heritage walks.
Journey back in time to explore the early days of Perth’s modern history or meander past iconic colonial and art deco architecture at your own speed while learning fascinating facts about the people who shaped Guildford.
The walking trails are clearly marked and range from 450 metres (~20 minutes) to 2.25 kilometres (60-75 minutes).
Drop into the Swan Valley Visitor Centre, open every day from 9am to 4pm, to start your journey.
There’s no shortage of wet-weather entertainment in the Swan Valley. Thanks to the region’s rich, well-preserved history, there are museums and exhibitions galore catering to curious kids.
Between 1841 and 1969, the Colonial Gaol held petty criminals and offenders awaiting transport to Perth or Fremantle. None were more famous than Moondyne Joe, Perth’s most notorious bush ranger. Today, kids can visit the historical gaol to learn about the characters who passed through the cells and tour the grounds four days a week.
From horse-drawn carriages to vintage Holdens, and even Daniel Ricciardo’s F1 car, the museums in Whiteman Park have a fantastic array of history on display.
The three museums housed in Whiteman Park are:
With iconic vehicles on display and interactive exhibits geared toward young tinkerers, the transport museums are one of the best things to do in Perth with kids when the forecast calls for indoor fun.
Swan Valley’s Family Fun Trails are ideal when the kids have been cooped up inside for too long, and you need an easy-going day out.
Follow Stirling the Black Swan on the Great Valley Rally, a thrilling treasure hunt for kids aged five to 12 years.
Older kids and adults will get days of entertainment out of the Kids in the Valley Trail. From hiking trails to meeting reptiles and mini-golf to locally-made chocolate, the Trail is a ready-made guide to the best things to do in Perth with kids these school holidays.
We recommend making a day out of it.
Choose an adventure your family will enjoy, pick a lunch spot to relax, and don’t forget to stop in for a special Swan Valley treat on the way home.
Looking for more school holiday activities in Perth? Check out what's on.
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