Free family fun in Stirling

The City of Stirling is packed with free adventures for families, from beachside playgrounds and nature trails to wildlife encounters, story-filled walks and community experiences. Pack some snacks, round up the kids and start exploring.

Stirling Farmers Market and Civic Gardens

Start the day with a wander through the Stirling Farmers Market, where you'll find fresh produce, local treats and a lively community atmosphere. Once you've browsed the stalls, make your way to the nearby Stirling Civic Gardens Playground, complete with climbing equipment, swings, slides and plenty of space for the kids to burn off energy. The surrounding gardens and lake make it a great spot to linger a little longer. 

Something extra: Treat yourself to a coffee from Lady Latte and pick up some freshly baked goodies from Tammy's Bakery.

Scarborough family adventure

Scarborough isn't just about the beach. Spend a day discovering some of the area's most family-friendly attractions, starting at the iconic Whale Playground, where kids can climb, swing, dig and let their imaginations run wild. Then follow the Scarborough Beach Play Trail to uncover stories about marine life, surf culture and public art along the esplanade. Finish with a stroll along the Scarborough Public Art Trail and head up to Sunset Hill to watch the sun dip into the Indian Ocean. 

Something extra: Grab fish and chips from Peter's by the Sea or treat the family to a scoop (or two) from Dumbo Gelato before settling in for the sunset.

Lake Gwelup Story Trail

Slow things down with a walk around Lake Gwelup, where the Story Trail brings the landscape to life through stories about the people, nature and history that have shaped the area. It's a great way for curious kids and grown-ups alike to learn something new while enjoying the outdoors. Lake Gwelup is also home to one of the City's Play Trails, where families can discover local wildlife and plants along the way.

Something extra: Grab some bakery goodies from Umberto's Bakehouse and Continental Deli or on a hot day, a Yo-Chi from Karrinyup. 

Nature reserves and playground adventures

Need to burn off some energy? The City is home to some incredible parks, playgrounds and nature reserves that make getting outdoors easy and fun.

For playground lovers, there are plenty of options to keep kids entertained. Bina Parkland in Balga is a local favourite, featuring a BMX track, skate plaza, flying fox and plenty of open space for running around. Breckler Park Playground in Dianella offers climbing equipment, swings and adventure play, while Clarko Reserve Playground in Trigg combines fantastic play equipment with a stunning coastal location.

Something extra: If you're exploring Herdsman Lake, make a stop at the Herdsman Lake Discovery Centre, located alongside the Olive Seymour Boardwalk, to learn more about the area's unique wetlands and wildlife.

Stories of the Sunset Coast

Become a local explorer with Stories of the Sunset Coast, a self-guided experience that reveals the fascinating people, places and landscapes that make Perth's northern coastline unique. Follow your curiosity through locations including Mount Flora Regional Museum, Herdsman Lake, Lake Gwelup and Scarborough, uncovering stories connected to local heritage, natural environments and community life.  

Something extra: After exploring Mount Flora Regional Museum, head down the road to Yelo North Beach for a cold drink and a bite to eat.

Mettams Pool

One of the coast's hidden gems, Mettams Pool is perfect for introducing kids to snorkelling. The sheltered reef creates calm, clear water where families can spot fish and marine life just metres from shore. Bring your snorkels and enjoy one of the most accessible underwater experiences on the Sunset Coast. 

Something extra: Grab a post-swimming snack or milkshake at Salt & Oak.

Hop on your bike

For families who enjoy getting active, grab your bikes and hit the Sunset Coast Tourist Drive. Following the coastline, this scenic ride serves up spectacular ocean views, plenty of places to stop and endless opportunities for a family photo. Ride as much or as little as you like and discover a different stretch of the coast each time.

Something extra: Reward your efforts with a gelato from Zoie Café at the end of your ride.

Scarborough Sunset Markets

No matter the season, the Scarborough Sunset Markets bring a vibrant atmosphere to the beachfront. Enjoy live music and entertainment in the amphitheatre, browse retail pop-ups and soak up the community vibe with the ocean as your backdrop.

Something extra: Sample delicious food from the food trucks or support one of the many local businesses operating around Scarborough Beach.

Hamersley Public Golf Course

Hamersley Public Golf Course has become a popular family destination, with Sunny Social’s nature playground, and Tuart Estate regularly hosting free and low-cost community events throughout the year. From family-friendly entertainment and live music to special dining offers, there's usually something happening for all ages.

Something extra: Add some friendly competition at the driving range, where interactive technology makes hitting golf balls surprisingly fun for kids and adults alike.

Inglewood Creature Trail

Ready for a creature hunt? The Inglewood Creature Trail is home to 17 quirky hidden creatures scattered throughout Inglewood Town Square. Pick up a trail guide from Stirling Libraries – Inglewood and see how many you can find. Some are strange, some are funny and all of them are guaranteed to keep little explorers engaged. 

Something extra: Refuel afterwards with a delicious sandwich or conti roll from one of Beaufort Street's local favourites.

Whether you're exploring the coast, discovering local stories, spotting wildlife or letting the kids run wild at a playground, there's no shortage of free family fun.

And if you're looking for even more inspiration, there's always something happening around the City, including special programs during school holidays. Keep an eye on the City's Events Calendar to see what's coming up next.