We're pretty lucky when it comes to sunshine in Perth - but winter brings plenty of opportunities to discover the amazing variety of rainy day activities Perth has to offer!
From arcades and aquariums to glow rooms and galleries. We have it all. So take off your oodie and grab your raincoat because you're spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do. Don't let a bit of drizzle get you down. We've got you covered.
Let's start north of Perth
Karrinyup Shopping Centre
If you haven't been to Karrinyup Shopping Centre lately, do yourself a favour and make a day (or two) of it with the family. You could easily spend a whole day here with over 300+ places to eat, drink, shop and play. From arcade games, mini golf, bowling and laser tag at Strike, Holey Moley & Archie Brothers and escape rooms at Hijinx Hotel to the latest movies at HOYTS Karrinyup - the first cinema in WA to have DBOX cinema. Perhaps some retail therapy is more your style, followed by a relaxing afternoon lunch in one of the many cafes. The options are endless. And they can even valet park your car!
AQWA
Head up the highway and you'll hit AQWA - The Aquarium of Western Australia, at Hillarys Boat Harbour. Offering a range of unique underwater adventures and experiences, they have a lot of cool things for kids (big and small) happening in winter. There is Sea School for the little ones, and bigger kids have the opportunity to be a marine scientist for a day for some hands-on fun. For kids that want to get even more up close and personal with the sea animals, they have a Behind the Scenes Pass, which includes a glass-bottom boat experience at Shipwreck Coast Shark aquarium.
Lakeside Joondalup Shopping City
For a full day undercover, head to Lakeside Joondalup Shopping City, one of Western Australia’s largest shopping centres just 25km north of the CBD. With major retailers, more than 300 specialty stores, HOYTS cinema and multiple dining precincts all under one roof, it’s easy to while away a rainy afternoon. Conveniently located next to Joondalup train station, Lakeside offers a modern, all-in-one destination for shopping, entertainment and relaxed indoor dining.
Heading into Perth City?
Art Gallery of WA
If you are craving culture then start with the Art Gallery of WA, located in the heart of the Perth Cultural Centre. Browse the impressive collections of artworks by First Nations and Western Australian artists, alongside works from around Australia and the world. If the weather is fine, they have a rooftop bar open on Fridays and Saturdays. Enjoy a sunset drink taking in city views and the sculpture park.
WA Museum Boola Bardip
While you're in the city, don't miss a visit to the WA Museum Boola Bardip, where Western Australia’s many stories come to life. Explore standout exhibitions such as WA Treasures, housed in the heritage-listed Hackett Hall, showcasing significant objects collected by cultural institutions across the State. For something immersive, Origins draws inspiration from WA’s dramatic landscapes, blending rare artefacts, artwork and science to explore our place in the Universe. And for families, Wild Life is a favourite, bringing the State’s diverse environments - from Ningaloo Reef to the Swan River - vividly to life.
Escape This
Speaking of pirates, put a pirate escape room on your to-do list. Escape This in Northbridge has a total of ten totally immersive themed escape rooms to choose from. You might want to live out your Harry Potter fantasies in the Wizard Chamber escape room. Are you up for the challenge? Escape This also has a Perth City venue to check out, with 15 brand new themes to explore.
Lumber Punks Axe Throwing
If you have some pent-up frustration you need to release, we've got the place for you. Head straight to WA’s first axe throwing venue located in East Perth - Lumber Punks Perth and sling some steel. Thankfully the experienced axe throwing coaches will give you some training beforehand so there are no nasty accidents!
Scitech
Treat your little (or big) scientists to a fun day out with a line-up of shows, experiments and hands-on activities at Scitech. Learn about static electricity and other ‘hair-raising’ facts, or sit back and explore the solar system in the space dome.
The Perth Mint
Who doesn’t want to get their hands on some gold? The Perth Mint’s original building that still stands in East Perth, is one of Perth’s most impressive monuments. Built in 1899, it’s also home to the world’s largest coin according to The Guinness Book of World Records, weighing one tonne and valued at $90 million. They have tours that run daily. Witness a traditional gold pour in the original 1899 melting house or you may get a chance to hold a large gold bullion bar.
Head south of the River
FOMO Fremantle
Heading to Fremantle? Be sure to check out FOMO Freo. FOMO weaves together art, architecture, culture, retail, food and experience, right in the heart of Walyalup Koort. If you are a foodie - then you won’t be disappointed with the choices. Grab a burger at Varsity, or try some traditional Japanese Otsumami (tapas) and Yakitori (chicken skewers) at Eda Izakaya. Or if a steaming bowl of laksa is more your thing, then head to Yin Yang Wok & Soup bar. There’s also Korean BBQ, amazing Indian and Indonesian cuisine on offer and plenty more. Also within FOMO is Strike, Holey Moley and B. Lucky & Sons for bowling, games and mini golf!
Glowing Rooms 3D Mini Golf
How about a family day out that will really get you ‘glowing’? Glowing Rooms in Fremantle is the first 3D Mini Golf Experience in Australia, with more than 800sqm of hand-painted artworks that jump out at you with your magic glasses on. Be transported to outer space for an astronaut’s eye view of the galaxy. Or explore the undersea world of Atlantis where hammerhead sharks, turtles and octopus come to life. Look out for King Neptune and the shipwreck with buried treasure!
Fremantle Markets
Of course, Fremantle Markets are always a winner too, with an eclectic mix of buskers, stalls and fresh produce. Grab a coffee and spend an afternoon soaking in the atmosphere.
Cockburn Ice Arena
Has it been a while since you last went ice-skating? Get your skates on and head out to Cockburn Ice Arena. They even have Perth's own drift trikes on ice. Drift, slide and glide on an ice byke with your mates.
Mandurah Performing Arts Centre
Less than an hour south of Perth by road or train, Mandurah Performing Arts Centre is one of Australia's leading regional arts venues. Set against sweeping waterfront views, the centre is home to the 800-seat Boardwalk Theatre, the intimate Fishtrap Theatre and the Alcoa Mandurah Art Gallery. With a diverse program of live theatre, music, comedy, dance and visual arts exhibitions throughout the year, it’s the perfect excuse to escape the drizzle and enjoy a cultural day trip beyond the city.
WA Shipwrecks Museum
Just a short stroll away, WA Shipwrecks Museum uncovers the dramatic stories of Australia’s oldest shipwrecks. Housed in a historic 1850s building, the museum showcases artefacts recovered from shipwreck sites along WA’s coastline, offering a compelling insight into early exploration and maritime trade. Younger visitors will love discovering the Cabin of Curiosity, filled with strange and marvellous finds from the sea.
WA Maritime Museum
Perched on the edge of the Indian Ocean in Fremantle, WA Maritime Museum celebrates Western Australia's deep connection to the sea. Explore historic vessels, maritime relics and hands-on exhibits that bring the State's seafaring stories to life. Get up close to Australia II, the yacht that won the America's Cup, or step aboard HMAS Ovens submarine for a fascinating glimpse into life beneath the surface.
Heading inland?
Motor Museum of Western Australia
Located in Whiteman Park just 30 minutes from Perth's CBD, the Motor Museum of Western Australia offers a fascinating indoor escape for motoring enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. Explore more than 200 historic vehicles spanning the late 1800s to today, including Daniel Ricciardo’s 2014 Red Bull RB10 — the only winning Formula 1 race car on permanent display in Australia. With thousands of scale models, rotating highlights and knowledgeable volunteers ready to share stories behind the collection, it’s an engaging way to spend a rainy afternoon before continuing on to the Swan Valley.
Swan Settlers Market
Swan Settlers Market is a vibrant weekend destination in the heart of the Swan Valley, bringing together local makers, foodies, and creatives under one historic roof - the perfect place for a rainy day! Visitors can wander through stalls offering handcrafted goods, homewares, artwork, fresh produce, and unique gifts you won’t find anywhere else. Food lovers are spoiled for choice with a lineup of global eats, sweet treats, gourmet specialties, a gin distillery, and a local cellar door. For those seeking a bit of adventure, the indoor axe-throwing is a must-try and perfect for groups.
Sweet Treats & Tastings in the Swan Valley
Rainy days are the perfect excuse to indulge, and the Swan Valley delivers with a string of cosy tasting stops just a short drive from the city. Warm up with honey tastings at The House of Honey, watch confectionery being crafted at Morish Nuts and Mondo Nougat, sample handmade fudge at Swan Valley Fudge, or step inside Whistler's Chocolate Company for a decadent chocolate fix. It's a delicious way to spend a winter afternoon under cover.
Mundaring Arts Centre
Nestled in the heart of the Perth Hills, Mundaring Arts Centre is a creative haven showcasing the work of Western Australian artists. Browse curated exhibitions featuring contemporary and traditional art, discover handmade pieces in the on-site gallery shop, or take part in workshops and events that connect artists with the community. Open six days a week and free to visit, it's an inspiring indoor escape when the hills are wrapped in mist and rain.
So Perth, who said you need to stay inside this winter? There are even more options waiting for you on the Destination Perth website. Your go-to guide for planning your perfect day out. Grab your raincoat and get out there.
