Wonders of Western Australia | Hidden Gems for Your Next Road Trip
If you love exploring quirky museums, rich cultural heritage, and local curiosities, this is the ultimate Western Australia road trip guide for you!
Whether you're heading north, south, or inland, these hidden gems will make your journey even more memorable.
With the help of our itinerary creator, you can map out your perfect itinerary and uncover the best-kept secrets of Western Australia!
The Wheatbelt’s Whimsical Wonders
Take a drive through the Wheatbelt and discover some truly unique museums that celebrate the region’s history, creativity, and passion.
The Coca-Cola Museum, Toodyay
Nestled in the charming town of Toodyay, this collection is a must-see for lovers of nostalgia and pop culture. The museum is packed with Coca-Cola memorabilia from around the world, making it a fun stop on any road trip.
The Kulin Museum & Men’s Shed
The Kulin Museum and Men’s Shed is a little-known gem in Kulin. It is a treasure trove of vintage cars, machinery, and memorabilia. Lovingly cared for by local volunteers, it’s a great place to soak up some history and country charm.
The Museum of New Norcia
Step back in time to New Norcia, Australia’s only monastic town. Founded in 1847 by Spanish monks, the New Norcia museum and art gallery showcases religious artefacts, historic books, and beautifully preserved buildings that tell the fascinating story of the region. The magnificent monastery, olive trees and church bells feel as though they would be more at home in Europe than in the Western Australian bush!
The South West’s Secret Stunners
Venture south to discover a mix of history, art, and unusual collections that will add a touch of wonder to your road trip.
Belleview Shell Museum, Busselton
A hidden wonder for nature lovers, the Belleview Shell Collection houses over 40 spectacular collections of shells from around the world. Each piece tells a story, making it a fascinating stop for all ages.
Holmes à Court Gallery at Vasse Felix, Margaret River
Wine lovers and art enthusiasts alike will adore this stop at Holmes à Court Gallery at Vasse Felix. Enjoy a fine wine tasting experience while taking in contemporary art exhibitions from local and national artists. As you make your way past the Cellar Door to the Gallery, make sure you say hello to ‘Big Red’, the bronze sculpture of a relaxed kangaroo by Bodo Muche.
The Old Butter Factory Museum, Busselton
The Old Butter Factory Museum offers a fantastic look into Busselton’s rich history. Within the Old Butter Factory, themed rooms and interactive displays tell of many aspects of the area’s history, including the important industries of dairy, timber and agriculture, as well as its maritime history.
The Great Southern’s Greatest Secrets
If you're heading to the Great Southern, you’re in for a treat. This region is packed with intriguing stories, cultural gems, and unexpected finds.
Albany’s Historic Whaling Station
Did you know that Albany’s History Whaling Station is the only intact whaling station in the world? This museum offers a fascinating insight into WA’s whaling past. Step aboard an old whale-chasing ship and explore the interactive exhibits.
Looking out from the well-worn flensing deck, the view of King George Sound and its islands is breathtaking. The quiet tranquillity is in sharp contrast to the noisy, steamy, and very odorous scene from its past!
Museum of the Great Southern, Albany
A must-visit for history buffs! The Museum of the Great Southern brings Albany’s maritime, Menang Noongar people, and colonial history to life with immersive exhibits and a fantastic school holiday program for families.
Wesley Wedding Gown Collection, Albany
The Welsey Wedding Gown Collection has to be one of the most unique in WA. This museum showcases stunning wedding dresses from different eras, all housed in the historic Wesley Church.
The Coral Coast’s Curious Collections
Road-tripping up the Coral Coast? Add these hidden gems to your itinerary for an unforgettable journey.
Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery Centre
Learn about the fascinating natural and cultural history of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed region at the Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery Centre. From Indigenous heritage to ancient stromatolites, there’s so much to uncover here!
The Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre, Nambung National Park
More than just a scenic wonder, the Pinnacles are rich in history. Visit The Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre to learn about the formation of these limestone spires and the stories of the land’s traditional custodians. There’s also a shop selling nature-based books and souvenirs and picnic tables outside - just the spot to soak up the natural wonders.
The Motorbike Museum, Jurien Bay
One man's love of motorcycles led to an obsession. Ian Boyd started the collection because of his love for Vincent motorcycles, and constructed a new house and purpose built loungeroom to accommodate this extensive collection! A paradise for rev heads, the Motorbike museum in Jurien Bay boasts an impressive collection of classic and vintage bikes, along with stories from WA’s riding community.
The North West’s Cultural Narratives
If your road trip takes you to WA’s North West, immerse yourself in its deep cultural roots and breathtaking landscapes.
Mowanjum Aboriginal Art & Culture Centre, Derby
This world-class centre showcases the rich artistic traditions of the Worrorra, Ngarinyin, and Wunumbal peoples. At the Mowanjum Aboriginal Art and Culture Centre you can experience powerful Indigenous artworks and learn about Dreamtime stories passed down through generations.
It is the creative hub for the Worrorra, Ngarinyin and Wunumbal people, who make up the Mowanjum community and who are united by their belief in, and custodianship of, the Wandjina as a sacred spiritual force and the creators of the land.
Broome Historical Museum
A fascinating insight into Broome’s multicultural history, from pearling to wartime events. The Broome Historical Museum exhibits bring the past to life in an engaging way. The grounds include Bragge’s sail-making shed, the old CWA hall, Vietnamese refugee boats, old gravestones, machinery and gardens.
Marble Bar Comet Gold Mine Museum
Discover the gold rush history of the Pilbara in this historic mine site, where you can see original mining equipment and learn about the life of prospectors in the region. The Marble Bar Comet Gold Mine Museum Situated 9 kilometres from Marble Bar, The Marble Bar Comet Gold Mine Museum, adjacent to the old Comet gold mine, is a gem of a museum that has a diverse collection of stones, rocks and minerals that can be found in the region. Gold, quartz, jasper, tin, copper, rare earth metals and Pilbara jade are displayed amongst a rich collection of historical paraphernalia and machinery associated with the mining and pastoral life of the area.
Ready to start planning your adventure?
With so many hidden gems to explore across WA, why not start planning your next adventure today?
Visit WAnderland to create a personalised itinerary that takes you to these incredible museums, cultural sites, and unique attractions. Whether you're after history, art, or something completely unexpected, Western Australia has something to surprise and delight every traveller.
