Perth’s reputation for endless sunshine can lull visitors into a false sense of security. While the city enjoys around 265 days of sun annually, those other 100 days can catch tourists off guard, especially during the winter months from June to August when sudden squalls roll in from the Indian Ocean. Whether you’re fearing being holed up in a Perth hotel for a week or you’re visiting the City of Lights just for the day, rest assured that some of the city’s best experiences actually happen indoors.

Art Gallery Of Western Australia

As the state’s premier art institution, this modernist concrete building anchors the Perth Cultural Centre, housing one of Australia’s finest collections of Indigenous art. The rooftop sculpture park offers spectacular city views and thought-provoking installations, worth visiting even in light rain. The Indigenous art section on Level 2 is particularly compelling, featuring rotating exhibitions of Western Australian Aboriginal artists. 

Pro tip: Time your visit for Wednesday afternoons when local artists often give informal talks about their work. The gallery’s café, AGWA Café, serves some of the best flat whites in the Cultural Centre precinct.

WA Maritime Museum

Situated on Victoria Quay in historic Fremantle, this striking contemporary building celebrates Western Australia’s relationship with the sea. While the submarine tour draws most visitors, the real gems are the museum’s lesser-known exhibits. 

The Shipwreck Galleries in the separate Commissariat building houses artefacts from the Batavia, one of Australia’s most infamous shipwrecks. The museum’s location in Fremantle means visitors can duck into nearby Bread in Common for lunch, a restored warehouse serving incredible sourdough and local produce.

Independent Cinemas

Perth’s independent cinema scene offers far more character than the mainstream multiplexes. The Backlot, tucked away in West Perth’s business district, is an intimate 50-seat cinema beloved by local film industry insiders that screens advance previews and rare indie films. Their membership programme includes invites to filmmaker Q&As and special screenings. If you’re in Northbridge, the heritage-listed Paradiso offers £5 tickets on Mondays and serves local craft beers – perfect for a rainy evening.

The Nostalgia Box

The Nostalgia Box, Australia’s first and only museum dedicated to video game history, sits in a converted warehouse in Northbridge. This unique venue is more than just retro games – it’s a living museum of technological evolution. The owner, Jessie, regularly hosts tournaments on classic consoles, and their collection includes rare Australian-released games found nowhere else. Thursday evenings are particularly special, when local gaming developers often drop by to test their newest projects on visitors.

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The Bell Tower

One of Perth’s most unique landmarks, the Bell Tower is home to the historic bells of Saint Martin-in-the-Fields. Situated overlooking the picturesque Swan River, the Bell Tower offers an interactive, educational experience for all ages. Visitors can enjoy the striking architecture, take part in bell ringing demonstrations, and learn about the tower’s incredible history. The Observation Deck provides stunning panoramic views of the city and river, a sight that is especially impressive during a passing storm.

Perth’s Day Spas

While the city offers numerous spa options, Bodhi J in Wembley stands out for its thoughtful approach to wellness. Their indigenous-inspired Li’Tya treatments use native Australian ingredients and traditional healing techniques. The Marta Kodo treatment combines pressure point therapy with rainforest-scented oils – ideal for easing travel-worn muscles. Advance booking is essential as they’re usually booked out weeks ahead.

The Perth Mint

Standing as Australia’s oldest operating mint, this heritage-listed limestone building has been striking coins since 1899. While the gold pour demonstration draws crowds, the vault tours (bookable in advance) offer the rare opportunity to handle a 400-ounce gold bar worth millions. The 1:30 pm tours sometimes include access to the heritage vault, displaying rare coins from the mint’s opening year. The gift shop sells unique jewellery featuring pink diamonds from the Argyle mine – a truly Western Australian souvenir.

Historic Shopping Arcades

Rather than heading to modern shopping centres, explore the historic London Court, a weather-protected Tudor-style arcade between Hay and St Georges Terrace. This architectural gem, built in 1937, recreates the atmosphere of medieval England. Pigeonhole offers uniquely Western Australian gifts, while Western Australian Pen Specialists crafts writing instruments from local timber. Creative Native stocks genuine Indigenous art with certification of authenticity.

Indoor Climbing

Located in Malaga, City Summit isn’t just another climbing gym – it’s the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. The recently added crack climbing section prepares enthusiasts for scaling the granite peaks in Margaret River. Tuesday evening technique classes welcome beginners, and professional climbers from the Southwest regularly host guest workshops.

Perth Weather-Proofing 101

• The Bureau of Meteorology’s radar loop provides more accurate predictions than general forecasts for Perth’s rapidly changing weather
• Many venues offer reduced rates during poor weather – enquire at the desk
• Free CAT buses connect most indoor venues mentioned here, saving wet walks
• Multi-venue RAC member passes offer good value for stays longer than a week

Perth’s unpredictable weather adds to the city’s character. These indoor activities aren’t just wet-weather alternatives – they’re essential experiences that reveal a different side of this sun-soaked city. Whether dodging a summer storm or escaping winter winds, these spots will see you right.

Next up, check out our thoughts on the most affordable family holiday destinations in Australia, if you’re keen to zoom out on your trip somewhat.