Frommer's Review
In prime position, overlooking both the city and Swan River, is this 406-hectare (1,000-acre) hilltop jewel of parkland, botanical gardens, and native bush. The main entry, along Fraser Avenue, is lined with magnificent lemon-scented gums. You can inspect Western Australian flora; experience the solitude of the bush; and bike, stroll, or drive an extensive network of roads and trails. A walk through the Botanic Garden showcases many of the state's plant species, including banksias and boabs, and leads to the Federation Walkway, a glass arched bridge that soars through the treetops. Visiting the spring wildflower displays (which peak Aug-Oct) is a highlight for many, with an excellent Wildflower Festival running through September. There are barbecue and picnic facilities, several extensive playgrounds, tearooms, an information center manned by volunteer guides, the stylish Aspects of Kings Park craft shop, and the incomparable Fraser's restaurant.
Pick up self-guiding maps from the Visitor Information Centre, or join one of the free guided walks leaving from opposite the Centre. Walks depart daily at 10am and 2pm and take 1 1/2 hours, or 2 1/2 hours for bushwalks (May-Oct only). For an Aboriginal take on the park and the entire Perth region, don't miss the Kings Park Indigenous Heritage Tour (tel. 08/9483 1111). Greg Nannup provides an excellent 1 1/2-hour tale of his people and their use of the area and its resources, including a riveting description of the local Creation story. Bookings are essential; the tour costs A$15 (US$14/£7).
The Perth Tram Co. (tel. 08/9322 2006) runs half-hour (hop-on and -off) tours of the park in replica wooden trams. Tours depart from the main car park off Fraser Avenue daily at 10:50am and 12:05, 12:55, 2:15, 2:50, and 4:00pm. Tickets cost A$6 (US$5.40/£2.70) for adults, A$4 (US$3.60/£12) for children. Buy tickets on board.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
