Elizabeth Quay has transformed Perth’s waterfront into a vibrant hub of activity, offering families a perfect blend of play, dining, and scenic beauty. Located in the heart of the city, this stunning precinct provides endless entertainment for children and adults alike, with spectacular views of the Swan River and Perth’s skyline.
Playground
The centrepiece of Elizabeth Quay for families is undoubtedly the Island Playground. This impressive play space sits on its own island, connected by a bridge, and features climbing structures, swings, and interactive water play elements. The Playground is designed to engage children of all ages, with plenty of shade sails providing protection from the Perth sun. Parents can relax on nearby benches while keeping a watchful eye on their little ones as they explore the various play zones. Read the Buggybuddys review.
BHP Billiton Water Park
During the warmer months, the BHP Water Park becomes the star attraction. This free water Playground features jets, sprays, and fountains that provide hours of cooling entertainment for kids. The water park operates seasonally, typically from September to May, and is a fantastic way for children to cool off while parents enjoy the surrounding cafes and restaurants. Don’t forget to bring towels and a change of clothes! Read the Buggybuddys review.
Venetian Carousel
The beautifully crafted carousel adds a touch of old-world charm to the modern precinct. This traditional merry-go-round features hand-painted horses and other creatures, delighting younger children with its gentle rotation and cheerful music. It’s a perfect activity for toddlers and preschoolers, offering a classic amusement park experience right on the waterfront. Read the Buggybuddys review.
Swans on Swan
Swans on the Swan brings a quirky, swan-themed experience to Elizabeth Quay with its Swan Train – a swan-shaped boat that takes families on a scenic loop around the inlet. Operating from the quay, the Swan Train ride lasts around 20 minutes and is booked per boat, with each boat seating up to four people, making it ideal for a small family to ride together. As you glide across the water you’ll enjoy fantastic views of the city skyline, watch the action along the waterfront, and grab plenty of cute photo opportunities with the swan-shaped vessel. It’s a shorter, easy option that slots perfectly into a day at Elizabeth Quay, especially for younger children or anyone who prefers a relaxed ride on the water rather than paddling themselves.
Read the Buggybuddys review.
Gusto Gelato
No visit to Elizabeth Quay is complete without a scoop from Gusto Gelato. This popular gelateria serves up small-batch artisan gelato in a wide range of flavours, including several that are perfect for kids and some more adventurous options for grown-ups. It’s an ideal reward after a big play at the Island Playground or a wander along the promenade. Grab a cone or cup and stroll along the water’s edge, or sit and watch the world go by while the kids happily work their way through their ice creams.
Read the Buggybuddys review.
The Island Brew House
The Island Brew House (on “The Island” at Elizabeth Quay) is a relaxed, family-friendly spot to take a break between Playground time, water play and exploring the quay. With indoor and outdoor seating, lawn areas and plenty of space, it’s a great place to park the pram and refuel. The menu includes pizzas, pub-style favourites and share plates, and there’s a kids’ menu with simple crowd-pleasers. Parents can enjoy a drink while the children enjoy the views of the water and watch the ferries and boats come and go. It works well for a casual lunch, early dinner or just a snack stop.
Bell Tower
The Bell Tower is one of Perth’s most recognisable landmarks and a fun stop when visiting Elizabeth Quay with kids. Rising above the waterfront, the striking glass and copper structure houses historic bells from London’s St Martin-in-the-Fields church. Families can head inside to learn a little about the history of bell ringing, enjoy hands-on displays, and take in sweeping views over the Swan River and city from the observation areas. It’s an easy add-on to a day at the quay, and older children in particular enjoy the chance to head up the tower and spot familiar city landmarks from above.
Read the Buggybuddys review.
Transperth Ferry
The Transperth ferry is both a handy transport option and a fun mini-adventure for families. Running between Elizabeth Quay and Mindeerup at South Perth, the short trip offers lovely views back to the city skyline and across the Swan River. Kids usually love the novelty of hopping on a “real” ferry, and it’s an easy, low-cost way to extend your outing – you can ride over to South Perth for a walk or Playground visit and then return to Elizabeth Quay afterwards. Prams are welcome on board, making it simple for families with younger children.
Other Places to Eat Nearby
Beyond The Island Brew House and Gusto Gelato, there are several other family-friendly spots to grab a bite around Elizabeth Quay. Milky Lane at Barrack Square serves over-the-top burgers, desserts and fun cocktails in a colourful, hip-hop themed setting that older kids and teens will love, with waterfront views across the quay.
Amberjacks offers classic fish and chips that are perfect to enjoy by the water, while Six Senses at the Quay dishes up flavour-packed Thai favourites in a relaxed, sit-down setting that works well for families who enjoy sharing plates.
Around the promenade you’ll also find a handful of cafés and kiosks offering coffee, toasties, snacks and light meals. Being right on the edge of the CBD, you’re only a short walk from even more options in the city, so it’s easy to choose something that suits your family – whether that’s a quick takeaway to eat by the river or a sit-down meal to round off your Elizabeth Quay adventure.
Events and Entertainment
Elizabeth Quay regularly hosts free events, markets, and entertainment, particularly during weekends and school holidays. From live music performances to cultural festivals, there’s often something special happening that adds extra excitement to your visit. Check the events calendar before you go to see what’s on during your visit.
Elizabeth Quay truly offers a dynamic and engaging experience for families, blending stunning waterfront scenery with a diverse range of activities and dining options. From the excitement of the Island Playground and BHP Water Park to the charm of the carousel and the unique perspective from a Swans on the Swan ride, there’s always something to capture the imagination of both children and adults. With its accessible location and continuous evolution, Elizabeth Quay remains a must-visit destination for anyone looking to enjoy the best of Perth’s vibrant city life by the beautiful Swan River.
Elizabeth Quay
Address: Elizabeth Quay, Perth WA 6000
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours (individual attractions and venues have varying hours)
Website: Elizabeth Quay
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After spending 11 years in London working in the television industry for the BBC, Jennie McNichol made the move to Perth in 2010. As the Co-Founder and Editor of Buggybuddys, she has been able to use her experience and passion for helping families to create a trusted online resource for parents across Perth.
Jennie is the proud mother of two daughters, aged 16 & 14 and is a big advocate of the family-friendly lifestyle that Perth has to offer.
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