Perth is such a beautiful sunny place that you'd be forgiven if our cooler, wetter winter takes you by surprise!
While Perth often enjoys sunny, dry winter days, there are also times when it's a little too chilly and damp for the great outdoors - which can be a challenge when you have kids bursting with energy. You can't spend too much time curling up with a glass of Shiraz and wood burner, wonderful as that sounds. So put away the bathers and beach towels, bring out the boots and fleeces, and choose from these fun winter activities for kids!
For inquisitive minds
Kids love to discover things they didn't know that they didn't know! And if they can do this while having heaps of fun with experiments and real experiences, so much the better. Scitech, The Perth Mint and AQWA are popular family attractions offering some the best indoor events for children in Perth.
Scitech
Scitech is a discovery centre guaranteed to keep the whole family busy through a rainy morning. The interactive exhibits and displays are designed to engage the curiosity of young minds by answering fascinating questions and letting kids get hands-on with science. The Scitech Planetarium is a 180 degree domed theatre with surround sound and lasers to transport you into the night sky. The Science Theatre is a must for exciting demonstrations that youngsters will love. For younger children, the Puppet Theatre is a great way to learn about science and technology through simple story-telling.
AQWA
Right in the heart of the Sunset Coast, is Australia's largest walk-through aquarium - AQWA. The whole family will love meeting the weird and wonderful creatures that teem in the waters of WA's 12,000km coastline, from intricate sea dragons to sleepy crustaceans, colourful fish to magnificent sharks. AQWA also hosts a Marine Scientist for a Day experience, perfect for those budding scientists.
The Perth Mint
Experience Western Australia’s golden history with a visit to The Perth Mint - a true hidden gem. Explore the heritage building and discover the Gold Exhibition, where guided tours bring the state’s rich gold rush past to life. Highlights include a live gold pour, the Guinness World Record One Tonne Gold Coin, and the chance to hold a 400-ounce gold bar. Kids can also take part in The Perth Mint Challenge, a fun interactive quiz with a medal at the end.
Burn some energy
Perth has indoor activities for children and teenagers that will wear out even the most unstoppable. Here are four attractions guaranteed to get youngsters letting off steam.
Glowing Rooms 3D Mini Golf
Glowing Rooms 3D Mini Golf & VR Escape Rooms offers an immersive and unforgettable entertainment experience. Step into a world of vibrant colors and optical illusions as you and the kids navigate through their spectacular 3D mini-golf course. The glowing walls and floors come alive with mesmerizing artwork that transports you to another dimension. With each swing of the putter, you'll find yourself immersed in a fantastical environment, making it a perfect outing for families.
Escape This
Escape This Perth and Escape This Northbridge are both a haven for puzzle enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Nestled in the heart of the city, these escape room experiences offers a thrilling and immersive journey into the world of mystery and intrigue, think pirate quests, wizards and more! As you enter the doors of Escape This, you're immediately transported to a realm where your wit, teamwork, and problem-solving skills will be put to the ultimate test, as the minutes tick away, you'll feel the adrenaline rush as you unravel the mysteries, connect the dots, and work together with your team to find your way out.
Armadale Reptile Centre
Armadale Reptile Centre is the perfect outing for reptile enthusiasts and nature lovers. From colorful snakes to scaly lizards, children are captivated by the unique characteristics and behaviors of these incredible creatures. Knowledgeable staff engage the the kids in interactive presentations, where they learn about the reptiles' habitats, diets, and importance in the ecosystem. The highlight of the visit is of course the opportunity to get a chance to touch and hold some of the reptiles under the guidance of the experts.
Cockburn Ice Arena
Get your skates on and visit one of Perth's three large ice skating rinks for suitably icy winter activities for kids. The largest is Cockburn Ice Arena in Bibra Lake Reserve, which claims the state's only full Olympic sized rink. Frostbite Café overlooks Rink 1 and serves fresh hot and cold food, drinks, confectionery, cakes and slices, sandwiches and wraps (made daily).
Fun ways to snack
All parents know how important it is to keep kids fuelled. Rather than simply grabbing some fast food, make snacking fun with some of these imaginative foodie things to do with kids indoors.
Swan Valley Sweet Temptations Trail
If you're treating the kids to something deliciously sweet, follow the Swan Valley Sweet Temptations Trail in the Swan Valley. Enjoy French macarons, scrumptious nougat, gourmet nuts, delicious cakes, handmade chocolate and pure honey sourced straight from the hive at The House of Honey.
Pasta in the Valley
Pasta in the Valley offers an exciting and hands-on culinary experience for kids with their cooking classes called Mini Chef. Designed to inspire and empower young chefs, these classes provide a fun and educational environment where children can learn the art of pasta making. From mixing ingredients to kneading dough and shaping pasta, they develop essential culinary skills while unleashing their creativity.
Swan Settlers Market
For a vibrant all-in-one outing, head to Swan Settlers Market in the Swan Valley. This lively indoor market brings together local makers, food stalls and family-friendly entertainment under one roof. Kids can sample sweet treats and global eats, while parents browse handcrafted goods, artwork and unique gifts. With live music, regular events and even indoor axe throwing for older kids, it’s an easy way to spend a relaxed day snacking and exploring.
Fremantle Markets
Fremantle Markets is a must-visit for a fun foodie adventure. This iconic indoor market is packed with fresh produce, street food, baked goods and sweet treats, with plenty of options to keep little ones happy. From fresh juices and crepes to handmade chocolates, it’s the perfect place to let kids choose their own snacks while soaking up the lively atmosphere.
Arts and culture for kids
Kalamunda History Village
For a step back in time, head to the Kalamunda History Village in the Perth Hills. This open-air museum features over 40 historic buildings filled with fascinating artefacts, offering kids a chance to experience what life was like in the early days of Western Australia in a fun and interactive way.
Fremantle Arts Centre
The Fremantle Arts Centre offers art courses for little kids (5–8), older kids (9–12) and teens across a diverse range of art forms, including pottery, drawing, animation, painting and shirt printing — there’s something to suit all ages and interests. Classes are small, hands-on and taught by friendly and experienced artists.
Art Gallery of WA
In the heart of the city, the Art Gallery of WA offers a welcoming space for families to explore creativity together. Alongside its impressive collection of contemporary and Indigenous art, the gallery regularly hosts family-friendly activities, workshops and exhibitions designed to inspire young imaginations.
WA Museum Boola Bardip
Just next door, the WA Museum Boola Bardip is a must-visit for curious young minds. With interactive exhibitions, hands-on displays and stories that bring Western Australia’s people, places and wildlife to life, it’s an engaging indoor experience for all ages.
Need more inspiration? We have compiled a list of events and activities that can be enjoyed in Perth, WA this season, visit our What's On page.
