Free Museums in Western Australia

"Appropriately located on Fremantle’s waterfront, the Maritime Museum tells the story of WA’s nautical history, from the ocean explorers of the early days to naval defense during the wars. This fantastic museum is a must for anyone keen to learn how the state of WA was discovered and created. The Maritime Museum is home to many permanent collections but throughout the year, you will find a number of pop-up exhibitions featuring fascinating maritime history from around the world, not always specific to WA."

"Located in a sail shaped building, the maritime museum is famous for its amazing displays of Australian maritime souvenirs and memorabilia. There are many boats on display including the famed Australia II, which one the American Cup. There are interactive displays and exhibits for kids that are great fun."

"The Fremantle Maritime Museum discusses the town’s history as a port and how it became the town it is today because of its prime coastal position. The museum features the submarine HMAS Ovens, the Parry Endeavour and America’s Cup yacht, which were all crucial in Western Australia’s history."

"It almost goes without saying, but if you’re going to talk about art in Perth, you’ve got to start with AGWA. This Bauhaus and Brutalist behemoth is worth a trip just to enjoy the architecture, but it also houses the State’s art collection, which includes over 3000 First Nations artworks. The touring exhibitions are also mighty impressive – February sees the stunning Awavena; a virtual journey and collaboration between director Lynette Wallworth and the Amazonian Yawanawa people told through XR technology."

"Home to a number of cultural institutions like Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA), the multi-level Art Gallery of Western Australia, and the Western Australia Museum. The Art Gallery of Western Australia is free to browse but donations are accepted."

"Through their collections, programs, and stimulating exhibitions the Art Gallery of WA offers visitors unique and exciting encounters with the art of Western Australia, Australian Indigenous art and the art of the world."

"There’s a bunch of school holiday regulars we imagine most families roll through at least a couple of times a year. Places like The Zoo, AQWA, Adventure World and so on, but in terms of value for money it’s hard to go past Scitech. Passes for kids under the age of 17 are only $12, and while adults are $19 (cheaper concession), you can get great family deals that push it way down."

"Scitech is an educational and engaging science centre conveniently located in the heart of Perth. As Western Australia’s leading science education institution, this unique centre offers interactive science experiences for people of all ages to enjoy. For more details click here."

"Kalamunda History Village is the largest folk museum in Western Australia, depicting the early years of life in the Perth Hills and the industries that developed in the area. Stand in the old Upper Darling Range Railway Station built in the 1890s and imagine the trains transporting timber on the Zig Zag line from Canning Mills to the main line at Midland Junction. Then turn back the clock as you enter the School House, queue in the Post Office, grade fruit in the Orchard Shed and even visit the Dunny!"

"Spread across two floors of a heritage listed warehouse, Japingka Aboriginal Art Gallery is home to a curated collection of works from indigenous artists from across Australia, with all works ethically sourced using fair trade practices. 47 High St, Fremantle"

"The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) Education and Heritage Centre is located in the original Perth Central Fire Station. Now refurbished, the old station characterises both past and present emergency services’ through displays dedicated to the history of Western Australian (WA) fire services and a natural hazards and disasters education gallery. The centre is open to the public and offers an interactive, interesting and fun experience for schools, tourists, families and community groups."

"Given that the Perth Hills just went through one of the most devastating bushfire disasters in recent memory, these coming school holidays seem like a great time to help your kids learn about what the Department of Fire & Emergency Services (DFES) do. The DFES Education & Heritage Centre is located within the original Perth Central Fire Station on Murray Street, and documents Perth’s extensive emergency service history. A must-visit for any budding firefighter, and who wasn’t as a kid?"

"Mudita Gallery is a new gallery and event space in Perth's vibrant and busy CBD. Easily accessible by public transport and within walking distance of most major attractions. The gallery specialises in contemporary modern art and provides exposure of the new and exciting work by local creatives."

"Western Australia is blessed with some of the country’s best fresh foods and produce, from Rottnest Island scallops to juicy Denmark blueberries, and this stylish Hay St eatery makes the most of these quality, locally sourced ingredients. Café by day and bistro by night, Tiisch even hosts a bottomless brunch every Saturday and Sunday — tuck into two courses and enjoy endless boozy bevvies, too."

"There has never been a time to serve up restaurant meals and claim them as your signature dish, passed down through the generations. Tiisch are making this even simpler with their vacuum packed meal selections of everything from braised beef cheek in tomato jus to pork and fennel bangers in onion jus paired with a choice of sides."

"Drop into your friendly neighbourhood café at East Fremantle, set on a leafy courtyard. Located on Marmion Street, this homely café brews some of the best coffee in Fremantle. The food menu features modern Australian Brunch with classics featuring new favourites."

"If your idea of romantic involves watching the sun sink into the ocean, this is the spot for you. With views over City Beach, Odyssea celebrates all the flavours of Australia, in dishes such as their chargrilled kangaroo and linguine with Shark Bay crab. If you are looking to go on a real journey, why not book in for one of their degustation evenings?"