Free or Cheap Things to Do in Perth: Beaches, Nature & Local Culture

Laid-back and sun-soaked, Perth is the perfect blend of coastal lifestyle and urban adventure—and you don’t have to spend much to experience it all. From river walks to public art and free cultural attractions, here’s how to explore Perth on a budget.

🌊 Enjoy Perth’s Outdoor Beauty for Free

Perth offers some of Australia’s most stunning outdoor spaces—and many are completely free to access:

• Kings Park and Botanic Garden – Over 400 hectares of gardens and bushland with panoramic views of the Swan River and city skyline.

• Cottesloe Beach – One of Perth’s most iconic beaches, perfect for swimming, picnics, and sunset photography.

• Swan River Foreshore – Walk or cycle along the river between South Perth and Elizabeth Quay.

• John Forrest National Park – Free entry walking trails and waterfalls (entry by car may require a fee).

• Blue Boat House (Crawley Edge Boatshed) – A favourite free photo op for locals and tourists alike.

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🖼️ Free Cultural Attractions in Perth

Perth’s cultural institutions offer plenty of free-entry exhibitions and spaces to explore:

• Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA) – Contemporary and historical Australian art, free general admission.

• WA Museum Boola Bardip – Explore Indigenous culture, Western Australian history, and science exhibitions.

• State Library of Western Australia – Free exhibitions, events, and historical displays.

• Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts (PICA) – Free rotating exhibitions in the heart of Northbridge.

• Fremantle Arts Centre – Free exhibitions, markets, and outdoor concerts in a historic setting.

🎭 Free Events, Music & Festivals

Perth knows how to entertain—for free or cheap:

• FRINGE WORLD Festival (January–February) – Many free performances, buskers, and outdoor installations.

• Perth Festival (February–March) – Includes free concerts and public art throughout the city.

• City of Perth & Northbridge Piazza – Hosts free outdoor movies, music events, and cultural showcases.

• Sunday Music at Fremantle Arts Centre – Free live music in the courtyard every Sunday (seasonal).

• Subiaco Street Party & Hyde Park Fair – Community-run festivals with free entertainment and family fun.

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🛍️ Markets, Walks & Budget-Friendly Finds

• Fremantle Markets – Iconic weekend market full of handmade goods and food vendors (free entry).

• Perth Cultural Centre – Public art installations, exhibitions, and events throughout the year.

• Elizabeth Quay – Stroll along the waterfront, catch buskers, and visit public art.

• Northbridge Laneways – Discover murals, pop-up galleries, and street performers.

• Kalamunda Farmers Market (Sundays) – Local produce and crafts with live music—free to browse.

🍽️ Cheap Eats in Perth

You don’t have to splurge to enjoy Perth’s multicultural food scene. Here are a few wallet-friendly options:

• Toastface Grillah (CBD) – Gourmet toasties from $6.

• The Moon Café (Northbridge) – Late-night cheap eats and indie vibes.

• Emma’s Seafood & Dim Sum (Victoria Park) – Authentic and affordable Asian fare.

• Govinda’s (Northbridge) – Vegetarian meals from $7–$10, run by Hare Krishna community.

• Spicy Bites (Northbridge) – Indian lunch specials under $10.

👉 Discover more with Perth dining deals on Groupon.

🛶 Water, Wildlife & Budget Nature Experiences

• City of Perth Free CAT Buses – Travel around central Perth and Fremantle at no cost.

• Matilda Bay Reserve – Spot dolphins, BBQ, or just enjoy the riverside views.

• Caversham Wildlife Park – Entry fee applies, but look for discounted family deals on Groupon.

• Heirisson Island – A hidden gem with free-roaming kangaroos!

• Snorkel at Mettam’s Pool (Trigg) – Clear water, fish spotting, and no entry fee.

📅 Free Event Calendars for Perth

Keep your calendar full without emptying your wallet:

• Visit Perth – What’s On

• Eventbrite – Free Perth Events

• Buggybuddys – Events

• Time Out Perth – Free Things to Do

💡 Local Tips

• Use free public Wi-Fi in the CBD – Great for tourists on the go.

• Student & concession discounts – Widely available at museums, cinemas, and public transport.

• Check local council websites – Perth’s local shires often host free events and workshops.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Perth offers the best of both worlds—natural beauty and vibrant city life, often without spending a cent. Whether you’re hiking Kings Park, gallery hopping in Northbridge, or catching a sunset at Cottesloe Beach, there’s always something affordable to enjoy.

👉 Make your budget go further with Perth Groupon deals.