From exploring geological mysteries to ogling gold at the Perth Mint, there are numerous attractions in Perth you can do with the family even on a tight budget. If you’ve been able to score some inexpensive airline flights to Perth, here are 10 fun, family-friendly things to do for under $50.

Aviation Heritage Museum

Aircraft on display include a Spitfire, Lancaster Bomber, DeHavilland Tiger Moth and an Avro Ansen. Apart from display aircraft, the Aviation Heritage Museum also features books, photographs and other types of memorabilia and aviation heritage artefacts. The collection is extensive, making the museum a great destination for all the family.

Cottesloe Beach

Probably the most popular beach in Perth, Cottesloe beach is easy to get to by train or car. You can choose to spend your time on the sand and in the water, perch on the grassed terrace or sitting in comfort in one of the many Cottesloe cafes and restaurants. If you want some peace and quiet, then just head a little way down either end of the beach.

The Swan River

Meandering right through central Perth, the Swan River is a great place to bring the family for a day’s fun. Whether you prefer to be on or off the water, there’s a lot to do along the Swan River. Take a boat ride or fishing trip, bike along the open, flat cycle tracks or picnic along the river bank under the trees.

Kings Park and Botanical Gardens

Only a short walk from the city centre, Kings Park is set on 400 acres of beautiful recreational and bush land. It offers views of the city and Swan River, and various restaurants and cafes to sit back and relax. If you’re feeling up to it, you can take a climb up the DNA Tower. The Botanical Gardens, with thousands of native plants and wildlife to explore, are not to be missed. A day at Kings Park and the Botanical Gardens will surely satisfy your whole family.

Western Australian Museum

With a great selection of artefacts, from dinosaurs to Aboriginal art, the Western Australian Museum easily fits in our top 10 list. The museum has regular travelling exhibitions that will keep you wanting to come back for more. Best of all, admission is free, making a day at the museum a bargain for your family.

Mettam’s Pool

If you happen to be visiting Perth in the summer, you’ll certainly be looking for somewhere to cool off. Mettam’s Pool is a great beach, located about 15 minutes from central Perth. A natural pool protected by a reef, Mettam’s Pool is a great place for young kids to swim safely. Also of interest is the abundant ocean life around the reef, making it a great place for the kids to learn to snorkel.

Fraser Avenue Lookout

Not far from the city, Fraser Avenue Lookout offers spectacular views of the Perth city centre and the meandering Swan River. This is a great place for a picnic during the day or head up in early evening to see the sunset and the city lights. If you want, you can always combine the sightseeing view with a meal at nearby Fraser’s Restaurant.

Kings Park War Memorial

Located in Kings Park, the War Memorial is an impressive structure dedicated to those who have fought and died in war. With beautiful views overlooking the Swan River, Kings Park War Memorial is a great place for a relaxing picnic or a walk through the park grounds.

Perth Mint

The Perth Mint is a stunning architectural building where you can spend an entire day with your family. With a range of exhibitions, demonstrations and activities for everyone to enjoy, the Perth Mint has guided talks, Australia’s largest natural nugget collection on display and the largest collection of gold bars to view. You can even watch gold being poured.

St George’s Cathedral

Situated in the heart of the city, St George’s Cathedral is an Anglican cathedral, and one of the few constructed using handmade bricks. With its beautiful jarrah roof trusses and arches, the use of Fremantle limestone, bluestone pillars and gorgeous stained-glass windows, this cathedral doesn’t disappoint. Whether you’re here for a tour or a service, St George’s Cathedral has a very peaceful and reverent feel to it.

About the Author: Born and bred in Perth, Janet Moore works as a travel guide for one of Perth’s popular city tour companies. She often contributes articles about the best ways to experience all that Perth has to offer.

This entry was posted on Tuesday, March 26th, 2013 at 1:40 am and is filed under Australasia. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.