Free Museums in Rottnest Island

"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."

"Art Gallery of Western Australia holds collections and programs showing off Western Australia’s Indigenous art and the art of the world. Located at the south-eastern corner of the Perth Cultural Centre, the gallery provides a complete view of the State Art Collection, with the world’s finest compendium of Indigenous art, the pre-eminent collection of WA art and design, as well as the country’s international arts and design collection. Apart from adoring the displays of creativity, you’ll also have a chance to take home a piece of art, as the gallery hosts the AGWA shop for arts enthusiasts and collectors."

"Founded in 1895, this excellent gallery houses the state's preeminent art collection as well as regular international exhibitions that, increasingly, have a modern, approachable bent. The permanent collection is... Beach in Scarborough to Cottesloe"

"Visitors with kids — or visitors who themselves are still just big kids at heart — absolutely must include this not-for-profit science and technology museum on their Perth itinerary. For three decades now, Scitech has been thrilling nerds with its rotating program of interactive exhibits, live shows, lab workshops and cutting-edge planetarium. City West Centre, Sutherland St & Railway Street, Perth WA 6005, +61 8 9215 0700"

"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."

"The science museum includes a planetarium, theatres and a range of exhibitions each year. Here little ones will get hands-on science fun with interactive and educational STEM programs aimed at kids 12 and under. The perfect thing to do in Perth with kids on those wet weather days."

"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?"

"Located on Bathers Beach, Kidogo Arthouse is located in a heritage listed 1884 building. Originally the Old Kerosene Store on Bathers Beach, it is now used for special events and art exhibitions. On the western side is a magical spot to sit and watch the sun go down with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean."

"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."

"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"

"One look at the snow-white sand, glittering turquoise water, lush green lawns and towering Norfolk pine trees and you’ll learn exactly why Cottesloe is Perth’s most popular beach. The main strip of sand is great for swimming or grabbing a coffee in the iconic Indiana teahouse. North Cottesloe is heaven for snorkelers and South Cottesloe is a surfer’s paradise."

"Cottesloe Beach, or as the locals refer to it ‘Cott’, is one of Australia’s most iconic beaches, and it’s only 20 minutes away from Perth city by public transport!. It is wildly popular due to its laid-back surf culture and clear aqua waters, and nearby pubs and restaurants to grab a bite or beer. It’s honestly like one big natural water park!"

"Trigg Beach was named after a colony settler back in the 1800s. While the naming origins aren’t as significant to visitors anymore, it’s developed into a major attraction for surfers. Trigg Beach is known as a surfer’s beach with surf-able conditions year-round."

"Located near RAC Arena, Market Grounds is set over two beautifully decorated floors, both indoor and outdoor. Celebrating the best of combined bar and dining, Market Grounds definitely serves up some of the best steak in Perth – whether that be a scotch fillet or a whopping one-kilogram tomahawk rib-eye. Delicious and perfectly cooked, Market Grounds will also cover everything else you’re looking for in a steakhouse in Perth including cocktails, beers, wine and even Champagne."

"Get a lunch bowl takeaway from Market Grounds in the CBD for $15 (available Monday-Thursday, 11am-3pm). There’s a tasty Vietnamese bowl with king prawns, a Moroccan veg bowl or a Meze bowl with lamb shoulder. See alsoWestern Australia Gourmet Escape Is Back & Even Gourmet"

"This waterfront hideaway in Elizabeth Quay invites you to forget the bustle of the city and lose yourself in glamorous cocktails and golden sunsets over Perth's Swan River."

"If you’re finding your 30 walking along the coast then be sure to pop into this Scarborough stalwart for a caffeine fix or fresh juice. They’re open from 7am each day."