The Swan Valley, just 25 minutes from Perth, offers more than just wine and vineyards. It’s an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy a day of fun, adventure, and delicious food in a beautiful setting. With its diverse range of activities, from animal encounters to interactive playgrounds and chocolate tasting, the Swan Valley is a perfect getaway for families of all ages. Here are some of the best family-friendly activities in the Swan Valley that will keep both kids and adults entertained.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
1. Caversham Wildlife Park
For a fun and educational experience, a visit to Caversham Wildlife Park is a must. This popular attraction offers families the chance to get up close with Australia’s unique wildlife, including kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and emus. Kids can hand-feed kangaroos, take a photo with a koala, and watch interactive animal shows. The farm show is a favourite, where families can see sheep shearing, whip cracking, and learn about farming life in Australia.
With over 200 species of animals, Caversham Wildlife Park offers a great opportunity to introduce kids to Australia’s native wildlife in a friendly and accessible environment.
Tip: Arrive early to catch the koala photo sessions and kangaroo feeding, which are the highlights for younger children.
2. Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm
If your little ones love animals, they’ll adore the Swan Valley Cuddly Animal Farm. This interactive farm allows kids to hold and cuddle a variety of farm animals, including rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, and lambs. The farm also has pony rides, a bouncy castle, and a tractor-train ride, making it a full day of fun for younger children.
The friendly atmosphere and hands-on activities make this a fantastic destination for families with toddlers and preschoolers, as kids can feed the animals, learn about farm life, and enjoy the play areas.
Tip: Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated picnic area, or take advantage of the café on-site for snacks and refreshments.
3. The Maze, Home of Outback Splash
For a day filled with adventure and excitement, head to The Maze, Home of Outback Splash. This popular family destination features a variety of activities, including maze challenges, mini-golf, and the main attraction—Outback Splash Water Park. The water park features giant water slides, a splash playground, and plenty of space for kids to cool off during the warmer months.
For those who prefer to stay dry, the park also offers several mazes, a jumping pillow, and opportunities to see wildlife like koalas and kangaroos. It’s an all-in-one location for families looking for a fun day of outdoor activities.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
Tip: The water park is seasonal, so plan your visit during the warmer months to take full advantage of the water slides and splash zones.
4. Whiteman Park
Whiteman Park is a massive recreation and conservation reserve that offers a wide range of family-friendly activities. It’s a fantastic spot for a picnic or a bike ride along the scenic trails, and there’s plenty for kids to explore. The park is home to playgrounds, a miniature train, and pedal go-karts, making it a hit with young adventurers.
Whiteman Park also offers unique attractions like the Motor Museum of Western Australia and the Revolutions Transport Museum, where kids can learn about vintage cars, trains, and other modes of transport. The Children’s Forest is another highlight, where families can walk among the trees, spot wildlife, and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
Tip: Bring your bikes or rent them on-site to explore the extensive bike paths, or enjoy a family-friendly bush walk on one of the many nature trails.
5. Oggies Ice Cream Café
For a sweet treat the whole family will enjoy, stop by Oggies Ice Cream Café in the heart of the Swan Valley. Offering a delightful selection of homemade ice creams, sorbets, and waffles, Oggies is a favourite among families. The café uses local ingredients to create delicious flavours, from traditional vanilla to more adventurous options like mango sorbet and cookies and cream.
Kids will love the colourful cones and toppings, and parents can relax in the shaded outdoor seating area while indulging in some of the region’s best ice cream.
Tip: Try their freshly made waffles with a scoop of your favourite ice cream—it’s a treat for the whole family!
6. Swan Valley Adventure Centre
For families with older kids looking for a bit more adventure, the Swan Valley Adventure Centre offers a wide range of outdoor activities that promote teamwork, fun, and fitness. Set on over 89 acres, the centre provides activities like high ropes, flying fox, archery, and canoeing.
The Adventure Centre is perfect for a day of action-packed fun, with professional instructors ensuring everyone’s safety while participating in the challenges. It’s an ideal spot for families who enjoy being active and want to create lasting memories together.
Tip: Make sure to book your activities in advance, as sessions can fill up quickly during school holidays and weekends.
7. The House of Honey
For something a little sweeter and educational, visit The House of Honey, where kids can learn about bees and honey production. This family-friendly destination offers honey tastings, a live bee display, and an interactive honey shop with a wide variety of local honey products. Kids will love sampling the different flavours of honey, and the friendly staff provide informative talks about beekeeping and the importance of bees in the environment.
The on-site Sticky Spoon Café offers honey-themed treats like honey cakes, honey-flavoured ice cream, and more, making it a perfect stop for a light lunch or afternoon snack.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
Tip: Don’t miss the live bee display, where you can watch bees in action through a glass-walled hive.
8. Margaret River Chocolate Company – Swan Valley
No visit to Swan Valley is complete without a stop at the Margaret River Chocolate Company. This chocolate heaven is a hit with kids and adults alike, offering free chocolate tastings and a wide selection of chocolates, truffles, and fudge. The factory’s viewing windows let visitors see the chocolatiers at work, making delicious creations.
After sampling some chocolate, families can enjoy a meal or dessert at the café, which offers a menu filled with sweet and savoury options, including hot chocolates, milkshakes, and chocolate fondue.
Tip: The outdoor seating area is perfect for enjoying your treats while the kids play in the open garden space.
9. Yahava KoffeeWorks
While Swan Valley is known for its wine, there’s plenty for coffee lovers too. Yahava KoffeeWorks is a great stop for parents who need a caffeine fix, and the coffee experience is interactive and family-friendly. Kids will enjoy the sights and smells of coffee roasting while parents indulge in a coffee tasting session, where they can sample a variety of freshly brewed coffees from around the world.
The Koffee Academy offers workshops and tours where families can learn about the coffee-making process, from bean to cup, and even try their hand at making the perfect brew.
Tip: Try their iced coffee on a warm day or grab some freshly roasted beans to take home.
10. Supa Golf and Mini Golf at The Vines Resort
For some light-hearted family fun, head to Supa Golf and Mini Golf at The Vines Resort. Supa Golf is an exciting twist on traditional golf, using oversized clubs and balls, making it perfect for kids and adults alike. The course is designed with families in mind, offering a fun and easy way to enjoy a round of golf together.
The mini-golf course is also a hit with younger children, offering a simpler challenge with fun obstacles to navigate. With beautiful surroundings and a relaxed atmosphere, it’s a great activity for the whole family to enjoy.
Tip: Make a day of it by enjoying lunch at the Vines Resort Café after your game.
Final Thoughts
The Swan Valley offers plenty of family-friendly activities that go beyond wine tasting. From animal encounters and interactive farms to adventure parks and sweet treats, there’s something to entertain kids and parents alike. Whether you're exploring Caversham Wildlife Park, enjoying ice cream at Oggies, or trying your hand at Supa Golf, Swan Valley is the perfect destination for a family day out filled with fun, adventure, and delicious food.