An insider’s guide to the quirky side of Perth

Australia and OceaniaPerth

Unique Places to Visit in Perth Australia

You can find beautiful cities on the seaside all over the globe. But staying in Perth is all that plus an offbeat character that creates a delightfully unique experience for travellers. Whether you’re climbing a twisting tower high above the city or savoring the taste of locally distilled whiskey, there are plenty of quirky ways to be charmed by Perth.

 

Nostalgia Box Video Game Museum

Nostalgia Box Video Game Museum

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Whether you’re a longtime gamer or just enjoyed a few video games as a kid, you will not want to miss the Nostalgia Box Video Game Museum. This fun facility will help you walk down a digital memory lane with old favorites like Pac-Man, Sonic the Hedgehog, and Super Mario Brothers. The gaming area features dozens of old game systems most people haven’t seen for decades. For kids, it’s a chance to discover the magic of the world’s earliest video games for the first time and marvel at the history of digital play.

For this totally retro experience, plan to check out the museum between 10:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. every day of the week.

 

DNA Tower

DNA Tower, Perth Australia

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Visiting Perth’s DNA Tower is a great excuse to experience the beauty of the Kings Park and Botanical Gardens—one of Perth’s many spectacular outdoor destinations—but the real fun happens while winding up the 101 steps of this unique structure. The beauty of the tower is worth the trip alone. Designed like the double helix of a DNA molecule, the tower was made from stones quarried from all around Western Australia. The climb is free, and though it can become busy during festivals, the tower is usually accessible without a wait. It is located on the highest point of the park, and while the climb can be a bit strenuous for some, those who reach the top will be treated to some of the best views in the city. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Indian Ocean.

 

Whipper Snapper Distillery

Whipper Snapper Distillery - Perth

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If you’re thirsty for a unique Perth experience, Whipper Snapper Distillery is just the place to get one. The original whiskey recipe (which would later become the business’s signature Upshot variety) was developed by two World War II fighter pilots who were separated for 50 years and each continued their whiskey-making adventures in Australia and the American West. The two met up to combine their experiences and refine their whiskey-making techniques in Scotland before opening the Whipper Snapper. In addition to a great history, the distillery is home to an innovative art space, whiskey tours and even two-hour workshops that can add a distinctive education to a Perth getaway.

Their tasting room is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

 

Clancy’s Fish Bar

Clancy's Fish Bar - Perth, Australia

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You can find plenty of fancy restaurants in Perth, but among the most memorable dining experiences to be had is at Clancy’s Fish Bar. A visit here gives you the chance to enjoy whale watching, walking on the beach, and a gorgeous sunset over the Indian Ocean—oh, and there’s food, too. Clancy’s offers unique twists on local flavors, from the toasted coconut and goji berry granola breakfast to seafood favorites for lunch and dinner, like grilled barramundi, chips, and citrus-sesame slaw. You won’t want to miss the kingfish crudo served with blood orange, avocado, fennel and white anchovy. And the most fun part of it all is the atmosphere: an explosion of multicolored, beach-y wood furniture and decor surrounding a roaring fireplace makes diners feel like they’re at the liveliest, coziest party on the coastline any time of day.

This offbeat itinerary will make your Perth visit one that isn’t just memorable, but one you can’t stop talking about.

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