Playgrounds in Perth

All four are free and within Perth itself, so the choice comes down to how much of the day you want to give and how old your kids are. Kings Park and Botanic Garden is the big commitment. One local guide counts four separate playgrounds inside it, and another names Rio Tinto Naturescape among its two favourite playgrounds in Perth, suited to roughly age 4 through to adults. Sealed paths take prams along the main routes, picnic lawns sit under large trees with city views, and free guided walks add something for school-age children. Reviewers warn that kookaburras go for unattended food, so keep snacks covered.

Hyde Park Playground is the relaxed inner-city option: a lake with swans, walking paths, a sandpit that calls for spare clothes, and a food truck on some days. A blogger's top 5 list calls it pretty perfect as parks go, with lawns and fig trees for picnicking, and says the playgrounds, including a water playground, are easiest reached from Throssell Street. The public toilets draw complaints about cleanliness, so come prepared or use cafe bathrooms.

Island Playground at Elizabeth Quay suits climbers aged 3 and up, with cafes in direct sightline of the equipment and toilets close by. It is currently listed as temporarily closed, so confirm before making the trip. Yagan Square is an urban gathering place rather than a playground: toddlers get sparse dedicated play space, but the dining and entertainment mix works for older kids and teenagers on a Friday or Saturday evening, when reviewers say the atmosphere peaks.