If you Google “Things to do in Perth”, you will get a horde or results telling you all the same thing. “Go to King’s Park, Cottesloe Beach, Margaret River” etc.
Yes, those places are fantastic and I highly recommend you take the time to check them out, but this blog is going to focus on the stuff you’re not going to find on a travel blog or in a guide book.
For those of you who are looking something different, I am going you the low-down on some of the great hidden attractions of Perth, the place I have lived my entire life. I’ll tell you about the places that I take visiting family and friends
Araluen Botanic Park
Nestled in the Roleystone hills only 35 km from the city is Araluen Botanic Park. It is 59 hectres of bushland and gorgeous botanical gardens. It contains 1000s of native and international species of flora and is a great way to see animals like kangaroos, kookaburras and blue tongue skinks.
The park is particularly popular with bird watchers, as it gives them ample opportunity to see some birds in their native environment. They have free BBQ facilities there, some make sure you pack supplies, so you can enjoy a lunch out in the aesthetic surroundings or settle into one of the local motels in the area.
The Escape Hunt Experience
Imagine this – you’re locked in a room with friends and family. The only way to escape is if you use all put your heads together and work out the puzzle! It may sound like a horror film, but it is actually an interactive gaming experience that will challenge your problem solving skills.
The rooms are designed for 2-6 players, but there is also an option to split into two teams that compete to see who escapes first. The Escape Hunt Experience will bring your inner kid out. I loved it.
Subiaco Markets
Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Subiaco Markets open their doors to the public. It looks like a big shed from the outside, but within you’ll find a treasure trove or fresh produce and mouth-watering delights.
I go weekly to pick up my fruits and veggies. Subi Markets has a bustling atmosphere and great produce at dirt cheap prices. There are a number of food stalls there too. I love to stop at the Vietnamese stall for some rice paper rolls or pho, before heading to the French café for coffee and a pastry.
Penguin Island
Forget Rottnest Island! Sure, it has pristine beaches and adorable quokkas, but does it have penguins? No. Penguin Island isn’t just a name, it’s a home to a colony of penguins. You will also be greeted by the other inhabitants – dolphins and sea lions.
If that’s not enticing enough, you might like to know that there are tours that let you kayak amongst the limestone cliffs and to swim with the dolphins. If that’s not your idea of a good time then I really question what your idea of a good time is.
Bradley Rowe is a writer, tech geek and lifelong Liverpool fan. Learn more here.
