Whiteman Park
Located on the doorstep of the Swan Valley, in Perth’s north-east, Whiteman Park beckons visitors with its delightful mix of attractions. It is one of the best parks in Perth for outdoor enthusiasts, promising a diverse range of activities to enjoy for your next day trip.
Master some Museums
Transport heritage is a strong theme in the Park, thanks to Lew Whiteman, after whom the Park is name. Three transport museums showcase Western Australia’s motoring, agricultural and transport history, while three more groups offer historic transport rides, allowing for a ‘living’ museum experience for your youngsters. If you have a mini transport enthusiast, this is definitely the best place in Perth to take them!
Vintage train rides are a particular hit, with midweek rides offered around lunchtime on Wednesday and Thursdays, while heritage electric tram rides are a real delight on Tuesdays and Fridays. There are even vintage buses operating low-cost tours on Mondays to help you explore the Parks two recreation areas. Couple these with a visit to the Motor Museum or Revolutions Museum, both open every day, or the Tractor Museum, complete with their cute monthly tractor parades on once a month.
Explore the Trails
Not only does the Park have three great bush trails for the avid outdoor adventurers, there is also the Children’s Forest to get lost in (we mean figuratively, not literally!). Planted by kids and their families over 18 years, this area of bushland restoration showcases many of the Park’s native plant species, intertwined with winding bush paths and artworks to discover. Pop into the Visitor Centre to pick up a range of activity sheets to help explore the many stages of the Forest, including a Fairy Door Trail, Eye Spy and Fauna of the Forest spotto sheet. You can also download these before your visit.
For those wishing to venture further than the centrally located Children’s Forest, three bush trails offer walkers the opportunity to enjoy the Park’s banksia woodlands (Wunanga Trail), the start of Bennett Brook (Goo Lorto Trail) and the Conservation category wetland, Horse Swamp, with all its birdlife (Werillyiup Trail).
Encounter Australian Wildlife
Get up close with Australia’s native animals at Whiteman Park. For an unforgettable experience, visit Caversham Wildlife Park, located within the park itself, and have a heartwarming encounter with koalas, or join one of their evening tours of Woodland Reserve to see Critically Endangered woylies and other nocturnal critters for yourself.
The park’s conservation areas are also a haven for a wide range of bird, mammal and reptile species, including kangaroos, quenda, and the iconic wedge-tailed eagle to name just a few!
Unwind with a Picnic
Imagine a perfect family picnic or a delightful barbecue with friends amidst the scenic beauty of native bushland. Whiteman Park offers over 30 designated picnic areas complete with tables,
benches, and barbecue facilities, making it an ideal spot for outdoor dining. Some areas even boast nearby playgrounds, keeping young ones entertained while adults relax.
Whiteman Park Essentials
To navigate the park with ease and ensure a memorable experience, pick up a map from the Visitor Centre or download one from their website. It’s also wise to pack essentials like comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, and plenty of water. If you’re visiting in summer, there is a mini splash pool that is sure to be a hit, so add swimming gear to the list too. Bring some snacks or a picnic lunch to fuel your adventures, and don’t forget your camera to capture the park’s breathtaking beauty!
Getting There
Reaching Whiteman Park is a breeze. It’s easily accessible by car with ample parking close to all the Park’s attractions and facilities. A new train station at the Park’s eastern entrance offers another way to get there, but this is best utilised on weekends when there is a shuttle bus service in operation, otherwise expect a long walk (2km or ~30 minutes) through open paddocks and bushland to get to the heart of the Park where all the good stuff is.
Parks in Perth
While Whiteman Park is undoubtedly a must-visit destination, there are plenty of other parks in Perth worth exploring. Here are some other parks to add to your itinerary:
Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Located in the heart of Perth, Kings Park and Botanic Garden is one of the largest inner-city parks in the world. With stunning views of the city skyline and over 400 hectares of natural bushland, this park is a popular spot for picnics, walks, and cultural events.
Yanchep National Park
Just an hour’s drive from Perth, Yanchep National Park is a popular day trip destination. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, and a range of bird species. Visitors can also explore the park’s underground limestone caves and take a walk along the Koala Boardwalk.
Bold Park
Located in the coastal suburb of City Beach, Bold Park is a popular spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The park is home to over 300 plant species and a variety of bird species, making it a haven for wildlife. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the Indian Ocean from the park’s lookout points.
