Visiting Perth for the weekend or looking to explore more of this fabulous city we call home? 

Forget about whipping out the wallet to enjoy the best of West Oz. The best things in life are free and we’ve put together 15 awesome things you can do in Perth right now without spending a single cent.

Check out our list below and get ready to have fun without breaking the bank.

Go surfing at one of the city's many beautiful beaches

From Leighton Beach to Scarborough Beach, Perth is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Australia.

Grab your board and hit the waves for a day of sun and surf without spending a dime.

You can also book surf lessons with Go Surf if you want to invest in one of the most iconic West Australian experiences. Just remember to reserve in advance!

Increase your IQ at the Perth Cultural Centre

The Perth Cultural Centre is a hub of free events and activities, including film screenings, live music performances and art exhibitions.

There's the Western Australian Museum, the State Library of Western Australia, the Art Gallery of Western Australia and the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art – all practically next door to each other!

Spend an afternoon exploring the exhibitions and soaking up some culture. No cover charge or cost for entry.

Immerse yourself in Perth's stunning natural surroundings

Perth is surrounded by fantastic nature on all sides.

From Kalamunda National Park to Shoalwater Islands Marine Park, you can hike, ride and snorkel to your heart's content without spending a single penny.

It's great not just for individuals and couples but also for families with young kids and dogs. A must for all nature-lovers who find themselves in Perth

Get your steps in at Kings Park

With over 400 hectares of stunning parklands, walking trails and beautiful gardens overlooking the city skyline, Kings Park is one of Perth's must-visit destinations.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll or challenge yourself to complete the popular Lotterywest Federation Walkway.

Don't forget either that it's also one of the best places to watch the sunset in Perth!

Take a dip at the iconic Cottesloe Beach

No trip to Perth is complete without a visit to the iconic Cottesloe Beach.

Known for its clear blue waters, white sandy beach and Instagram-worthy sunsets, it's no surprise that Cottesloe is one of the city's top tourist destinations – and it's free!

Spend the day swimming, sunbathing or enjoying a picnic on the grassy foreshore.

Admire the incredible First Nations artwork at Aspects of Kings Park

Get a feel for what makes Western Australia so unique with a visit to Aspects of Kings Park.

This free gallery showcases incredible artwork from local First Nations artists, including paintings, sculptures and textiles.

You can also find some beautiful handmade gifts and souvenirs at the onsite shop.

See kangaroos up-close on Heirisson Island

Located in the middle of the Swan River, Heirisson Island is home to a sanctuary of wild kangaroos.

Take a short ferry ride or walk across the bridge to get up close and personal with these iconic Australian animals.

Just remember to keep your distance and never feed them.

Take a stroll through the colourful and vibrant Fremantle Markets

Have you really been to Perth if you haven't visited the Fremantle Markets?

This historic 100-year-old market is a bustling hub of local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to unique crafts and gifts. 

Take a leisurely stroll through the market and soak up the vibrant atmosphere, but be warned. 

Even though entry is free, we can't guarantee you won't end up spending a small fortune on all the tempting goods on offer.

Have a picnic and watch the boats at Matilda Bay Reserve

What ever happened to picnics?

They've got to be one of the most underrated ways to enjoy a beautiful sunny day. And there's no better place for a relaxing chill session than at Matilda Bay Reserve.

Located on the shores of Swan River, this picturesque spot offers stunning views of boats sailing by and the Perth skyline in the background.

Go wildflower spotting between September and November

Western Australia comes alive with a spectacular display of wildflowers between September and November each year.

With over 12,500 species of wildflowers, you'll be amazed by the vibrant colours and unique varieties that can be found in the state's national parks, reserves and even throughout the city!

Explore the historic suburb of Guildford and its beautiful architecture

As one of Perth's oldest suburbs, Guildford is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture.

Located just 25 minutes from the city centre, this charming suburb is home to a wealth of historic buildings that showcase its early colonial past.

Check out Stirling Square park and the Gothic Revival St. Matthew’s Church, the 19th-century Colonial Gaol Guildford Courthouse and the Taylor's Cottage.

Visit the Perth Mint to learn about the city's gold rush history

This might not sound like the most exciting thing to do, but the Perth Mint is actually one of the city's top tourist attractions.

Built in 1899, it was originally used as a branch of Britain's Royal Mint to process gold from Western Australia's gold rush era.

Today, visitors can take a tour and learn about the history of gold mining in the region, see gold pouring demonstrations and even purchase their own gold souvenirs.

Take a hike through John Forrest National Park

Situated only 24 km east of Perth, John Forrest National Park is the oldest national park in Western Australia.

It offers a range of walking trails for all levels of fitness, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes through lush forests and past scenic waterfalls.

Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as kangaroos and birds, and kick back to enjoy stunning views atop the park's highest peak, Mount Lennard.

Discover local street art in Perth's laneways and alleys

There are free guided walking tours available to explore Perth's vibrant street art scene, which has been gaining more and more recognition in recent years.

Take a stroll through the laneways and alleys of the city centre and discover an array of colourful murals and graffiti created by local artists.

The tours also provide insight into the meanings behind the artworks and the artists themselves – an absolute winner for other artists and curious creatives out there!

Attend a free outdoor movie screening at Northbridge Piazza

Gone are the days of outdoor cinemas... or so we thought.

Northbridge Piazza offers free movie screenings under the stars throughout the year, making for a unique and enjoyable experience.

Pack some snacks and a picnic blanket, grab your friends or family and enjoy a movie sans ceiling in this lively public square. Be sure to check their schedule beforehand to see what's showing during your visit to Perth.

Enjoy a free concert at Elizabeth Quay during the summer months

Last but not least, you simply must experience a free concert at Elizabeth Quay during the summer months.

This popular waterfront location hosts a variety of live music events, ranging from jazz and classical to contemporary and world music. And with the Swan River and Perth skyline as your backdrop, it's sure to be a memorable experience. 

There's even a free carousel for the kids – what more could you ask for?

Conclusion

You don't need bottomless pockets or a mining magnate's salary to enjoy all that Perth has to offer.

From stunning natural landmarks and wildlife encounters, to enriching cultural experiences and vibrant street art, there's something for everyone in this charming Australian city.

So the next time you're wondering what to do in Perth, remember that the best things in life are often free, so get out there and explore!

Your wallet (and your adventurous soul) will thank you.