If you’re looking for an outing that’s educational, interactive and free, then Perth’s Old Central Fire Station Heritage Centre ticks all the boxes. Tucked away in Perth’s historic East End, this hidden gem is packed with 125 years of stories, firefighting gear and hands-on fun that will captivate kids (and adults) of all ages.
Whether you’ve got toddlers who love trucks, preschoolers who love to climb or older children fascinated by history, this heritage-listed fire station is a wonderful place to spend a morning or afternoon exploring together as a family.
A Place to Touch, Try, Climb and Play
This is no ordinary museum. At the Old Central Fire Station, kids don’t just look — they do.
From crawling through a smoky escape tunnel and dressing up like a firefighter, to climbing a rock wall and steering a real fire truck, every part of the centre is designed to engage children with hands-on experiences. It’s immersive, playful learning at its best — where fire safety meets fun and imagination.
Step Into WA’s Firefighting History
The Heritage Gallery
This beautiful two-storey building once housed Perth’s first purpose-built fire station. Inside, you’ll find exhibits that bring WA’s firefighting history to life.
From antique brass helmets and hoses to a timeline of fire appliances and uniforms, the gallery offers a powerful glimpse into how firefighting has changed over the past century.
Volunteers are on hand to answer questions and share fascinating stories – many with a spark of humour and a twinkle in the eye. Their passion and knowledge add a truly personal touch to the experience.
The All Hazards Gallery
This modern and informative gallery explores the range of natural hazards WA faces – from bushfires and floods to cyclones and tsunamis. It’s a great conversation starter for families about safety, preparedness and resilience in emergencies.
The Heritage Trail
Follow the stainless steel plaques and explore what life was like living and working in the fire station from 1901 to 1979. Head upstairs via the lift or stairs and step out onto the balcony – a favourite spot where firefighters once relaxed and rested between calls.
Tip: Ask a volunteer about the fig tree and the stories behind it – some may be legend, others might surprise you!
Rock Climbing & Escape Mission – Everyday Adventures
Two of the biggest hits with kids at the Old Central Fire Station are the rock climbing wall and the dark crawl tunnel – and the best part is, they’re available every time you visit.
The mini climbing wall is ideal for young children, especially preschoolers and early primary-aged kids, with soft mats underneath and just the right amount of challenge to build confidence.
The crawl-through escape tunnel teaches an essential fire safety lesson – “Get down low and go, go, go!” Children love crawling through the darkened space, simulating what it’s like to escape a smoky room. Our toddler couldn’t get enough of it – he was ready to go back in again and again.
These permanent features make every visit engaging and hands-on, with a perfect mix of movement, learning and play.
Fire Trucks, Dress-Ups & the Iconic Fire Pole
No fire station visit is complete without checking out the fire trucks – and here, you’ll find both vintage and modern on display.
Climb into the driver’s seat of a Scania Medium Pumper, dress up in firefighter gear and pose on the iconic fire pole. Don’t forget to admire the beautifully restored 1921 Dennis Light Pumper, a true piece of firefighting history that served from 1923 to 1969.
Kids’ Corner – Ideal for Toddlers and Preschoolers
Need a quieter moment? Head to the Kids’ Corner, perfect for little ones from toddlers through to early primary school, where they can enjoy themed picture books, jigsaw puzzles, colouring-in activities and toys at low tables and chairs. It’s a calm, inviting space for younger visitors to engage with the theme in their own way.
School Holiday Fun
While the centre is a joy to visit year-round, school holidays bring a little extra sparkle. We’ve visited during holiday periods and found it busier, but also buzzing with energy and thoughtful programming.
Recent activities this school holidays include scratch art for NAIDOC Week, inspired by the Noongar word for fire – Karla – allowing children to create their own symbol story to take home. Activities are often facilitated by friendly students from Mercedes College as part of their Mercy Service program.
Annual Family Heritage Day
One of the biggest events on the calendar is the Annual Family Heritage Day – and if you’re able to attend, we highly recommend it. It gets busy, but the atmosphere is full of excitement and fun.
Expect:
- Dress-ups, crafts and old-fashioned games
- The mischievous Igor the Spider prank from the balcony
- Tug-of-war and giant Ropes & Ladders
- Meet real firefighters and explore both vintage and modern trucks
- Vintage souvenir photo opportunities
- A ride around the block in a vintage fire truck
It’s a full day of free fun that mixes history with hands-on action – but do arrive early as it’s a very popular event.
Accessibility and Amenities
The Centre is thoughtfully designed with families and accessibility in mind:
- Lift access to all public areas
- Universal access toilets with baby change facilities
- Quiet times are best after 1pm (excluding school holidays)
- Public Wi-Fi (ask at the Information Desk)
- Pram parking encouraged at the front (at own risk)
- Seating throughout gallery spaces
Sensory Sessions: On the first Saturday of every month from 9.00–10.00am, the Centre offers early access sensory sessions for children with sensory needs and their families. These sessions include reduced noise and lighting, a designated quiet area and sensory touch tables. Bookings are essential to keep the session calm and uncrowded.
Getting There
Location: 25 Murray Street, Perth
Public Transport is best:
- Train: Short walk from Perth, Perth Underground and McIver stations
- Red CAT Bus: Disembark at Stop 26 – Royal Perth Hospital
- Parking: Closest is Pier Street Car Park, offering 3 hours free parking on weekends
Opening Days and Times
- Open:
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
First and third Saturday of the month - Hours:30am – 2.00pm
- Closed: Public holidays, including Easter Saturday
Entry is FREE, with no bookings required for general visits. If you’re visiting as a group or vacation care, be sure to book online.
There’s no café onsite, but nearby Hibernian Place is perfect for a post-visit picnic or snack.
Final Thoughts
The Old Central Fire Station Heritage Centre offers a rare blend of learning, history and imaginative play – all in one compact and welcoming space. With dedicated volunteers, engaging exhibits and thoughtful details for families, it’s a memorable and meaningful day out for all ages.
Ideal for toddlers, school-aged kids and curious parents — a must-do Perth outing for any season.
Whether your child dreams of becoming a firefighter or you simply want a unique, free activity in the city, this heritage centre is well worth the visit.
For more information visit: www.dfes.wa.gov.au/oldcentral
Located on the corner of Murray and Irwin Streets, Perth
Open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10am to 3pm
www.dfes.wa.gov.au
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