Best family-friendly road trips to take with the kids this summer
Looking for summer road trip ideas with the family? We've curated a list of unique Western Australian destinations that promise new adventures for parents and kids alike! Discover something new about our great state, and let your kids minds wander with excitement as you explore new collections, items, and incredible stories.
South West
Start your South West trip at the iconic Busselton Jetty. Dive into its history at the Busselton Jetty Interpretive Centre, unravelling the stories of its construction, marine conservation, and more. Continue your journey into town at the Busselton Museum located in the Old Butter Factory, where themed rooms narrate the town’s important history. Remember to pack a picnic morning tea to enjoy while overlooking the tranquil Vasse River.
Heading south, indulge your taste buds at the world-class Vasse Felix winery. Savour a meal amid the stunning art collection of the Holmes à Court Gallery while the kids play in the expansive outdoor gardens. Don't forget to visit the Bellview Shell Collection, a quirky Margaret River gem that has been drawing visitors for more than 40 years. Cool off at the Margaret River Library, stopping by the Cocoon Gallery while the kids join in story-time at the puppet theatre, and conclude the day at the Margaret River Historical Society to explore the Old Settlement Museum dating back to 1920.
Southern Forests Region
Discover the natural beauty in the lesser-explored Southern Forests region starting at the South West Rail and Heritage Centre in Boyanup. A must-see favourite for any train-obsessed kids or big kids at heart, explore old-fashioned railway carriages and engines, and watch artisan blacksmiths at work in the forge. Keep heading south to discover the secrets of the Freemasons secret society at the Boyup Brook Museum and make sure to drop in at the nearby Harvey Dickson Country Music Centre. Hosting music gigs, rodeos, and poetry events and a music festival every February, even if country music isn't your vibe this incredible collection of memorabilia and lush gardens are well worth the visit.
If you love the idea of a quiet holiday surrounded by nature then look no further than the Donnelly River Village. This peaceful old town has sports facilities, a refreshing lake to cool off in and an intriguing museum offering a chance to spot the local wildlife. Nearby, the Manjimup Heritage Park also boasts the Timber Museum and Power Up Electricity Museum, as well as an educational native bushland trail and exciting adventure park, perfect for a day of family exploration.
The Great Southern
For a more extended adventure, head down to Albany in the Great Southern Region of Western Australia. Discover the Wesley Wedding Gown Collection and its unique dresses dating back to 1863, and explore the City of Albany’s exceptional Historic Collection and Art Collection housed in the library. Explore the modern National ANZAC Centre that pays tribute to Australia’s brave soldiers, voted the best museum in Australia by TripAdvisor for consecutive years.
Stop in at the Albany Historic Whaling Station, the only complete whaling station in the world open to tourists. Overlooking King George Sound, this popular attraction includes the full-sized sperm whale skeleton and one of the last whaling vessels in Australia, the Cheynes IV, which you can still see in person. Make sure to visit the Museum of the Great Southern before you leave. Offering engaging daily talks and seasonal exhibits, make sure to check What’s On during your visit.
Coral Coast
Heading up the coast? Stop in at Cervantes to learn about the fascinating Europa shipwreck at the Cervantes Historical Society and visit the second-hand shop and craft store next door. No trip on the Coral Coast is complete without a visit to the Pinnacles! Plan a trip to the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre for deeper insights into the region's geography, flora, and fauna.
Motor enthusiasts will love the world's largest collection of vintage Vincent motorcycles at the Motorbike Museum in Jurien Bay. One man’s private collection, this lounge room turned showroom features an E-Type Jaguar and a smuggled Gilera Saturno San Rem factory race bike. You won’t find a collection like this anywhere else in the state! On the return journey, be sure to drop by the Gravity Discovery Centre for interactive science displays like the unique Leaning Tower of Gin Gin. Come by for a nighttime tour and enjoy a stargazing experience like no other, with traditional Dreamtime stories shared on Aboriginal Astronomy Night.
Day Trips
If you’re short on time, check out some of these destinations less than a day’s drive from the Perth metro area. The Coca Cola Museum and Cafe in Toodyay is a nostalgic delight, featuring memorabilia from across the decades, like a Coca Cola portable TV! Make sure to stay for lunch at the retro 1950s diner next door. In Northam, the Bilya Koort Boodja Cultural Centre showcases Ballardong Nyoongar culture through interactive exhibits, providing educational experiences for all ages. Learn about the Nyoognar six-season calendar and explore the rich cultural heritage of this land from the banks of the Swan River.
Start planning your unforgettable summer road trip today. Let the WAnderland itinerary builder help streamline your travel plans so you can enjoy every moment of your adventure. Get Started!
