Kings Park and Botanic Garden

Covering an area of 400 hectares in the busy heart of Perth, right beside the city’s central business district, Kings Park is a popular destination. It is home to the State Botanical Gardens, native scrubland and towering trees, as well as attractions for all the family and even the State War Memorial.

Admire the wildflowers from Western Australia and further afield at the State Botanic Gardens, where you can see the remarkable ancient boab tree. Enjoy the captivating view of the city and the surrounding landscape from the same hill where you’ll find the Wishing Well, or climb the stairs to the 15-metre high DNA Tower, shaped (appropriately enough) as a double-helix molecule.

The park is a great place to take youngsters, with play areas and barbecue spots aplenty. Synergy Parkland has a playground where you’ll find life-sized statues of extinct Australian beasts. Elsewhere you can check out Lotterywest Family Area for very young children, or go and have a picnic at Saw Avenue then venture across the rocks and bushes at Naturescape.

Here you’ll find the State War Memorial with its eternal flame kept alive in honour of all Australians who have perished in war. You can see the commemorative plaques and gardens with a leisurely stroll along the Fraser Avenue Ceremonial Walk.

Head for Federation Walkway to see the eucalyptus trees, or explore the Bushland Nature Trail and venture into unspoilt native forest. Also worth a visit is the Boodja Gnarning Walk dedicated to the Noongar Aboriginal tribe, where you’ll be treated to a fascinating insight into the landscape and its importance to the native peoples.

Less than two kilometres from central Perth, the park is open all day long, though some parts close at night. For information about all the walks and trails check online before you visit or head straight for the park administration building. All round the park there are cafes, restaurants and shops that are well worth a visit.