Perth Boom-and-Bust Walking Tour

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Perth Boom-and-Bust Walking Tour

Cultural and Theme Tours
Walking and Biking Tours
1 min guests
999 max guests

Highlights

  • Explore Perth's rich history at eight unique stops, revealing the city's transformation from the Swan River Colony to today.
  • Enjoy engaging audio narration at each location, offering fascinating insights and anecdotes that bring the past to life.
  • Receive curated hospitality suggestions for nearby cafes and restaurants, enhancing your experience with local flavours and atmosphere.
  • Follow clear directions from your virtual guide, Riley, ensuring a seamless journey through Perth's captivating streets.

Boom and Bust follows Perth’s history from struggling Swan River Colony to its coming of age as the City of Light. From First Contact to the present day, each stop on the tour progressively tells Perth’s story decade-by-decade.

Riley, your friendly virtual guide, will accompany you throughout the tour.

The tour has eight distinct stops, each with its own unique story and significance. At each stop, you’ll receive engaging audio narration sharing historical context, interesting facts, and anecdotes related to each location.

Wayfinding: Don’t worry about getting lost! Riley will provide clear directions and wayfinding tips to guide you seamlessly from one stop to the next.

Then/Now Images: Prepare to be amazed! Riley will show you captivating images that compare the past with the present. Witness how these locations have evolved.

Curated Hospitality Suggestions: Riley knows the best spots! For each stop, you’ll receive personalized recommendations for nearby cafes, restaurants, or cozy corners where you can take a break and soak in the atmosphere.

Linger Longer: Feel free to linger at the places that pique your interest.

So, put on your walking shoes, and let Riley be your guide as you explore these fascinating locations across Perth’s city streets.

Itinerary highlights

Elizabeth Quay

Nestled along the picturesque Swan River, Elizabeth Quay, is a vibrant waterfront precinct that seamlessly blends history, modernity, and natural beauty. Here, visitors can explore a captivating island playground, splash in the BHP Billiton Water Park, and admire striking public artwork. Stroll along the promenades, savour meals at waterfront bars and restaurants, and capture memorable selfies on the bridge. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this dynamic hub is the perfect place to start, or finish your adventure.

His Majesty's Theatre

His Majesty’s Theatre, an exquisite Edwardian Baroque gem, stands as a testament to timeless elegance. Constructed between 1902 and 1904 during a period of remarkable growth, this historic theatre graces the corner of Hay Street and King Street in the city’s central business district. As Australia’s sole operating Edwardian-era theater, it invites visitors to step back in time. With its ornate architecture, rich history, and captivating performances, His Majesty’s Theatre remains a cultural treasure.

Historic King St

Historic King Street, nestled in the heart of Perth’s Central Business District, exudes a uniquely European charm. Lined with early 20th-century buildings, this cobblestone street invites you to wander through time. As you stroll, admire the architectural details that blend history and modernity. Peek into boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. Discover hidden courtyards and laneways, each with its own story. Immerse yourself in its character, and let the past whisper its secrets as you explore this captivating precinct.

Hay Street Mall

Perth’s Hay Street Mall is a bustling pedestrian mall renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings. In the heart of the city, you’ll discover a captivating mix of architectural styles. From Perth’s inaugural skyscraper, the Gledden Building, to the art deco gem of the Piccadilly Theatre, and the charming Tudor-inspired London Court, this historic district invites exploration.
Keep an eye out for the bronze statue of Percy Button, the beloved Perth Street performer, forever frozen in a handstand over a newspaper. As you explore, let the stories of bygone eras unfold, and imagine the bustling days when horse-drawn carriages and traders filled these historic streets.

London Court

London Court is a visual delight that transports visitors to an Olde English world. This charming arcade, built in 1937, boasts Tudor-inspired half-timbered architecture, copper-coloured ships adorning its ceilings, and whimsical lions and unicorns lining the walkway. As you stroll through this historic gem, discover tiny shops, freshly roasted coffee, and intimate cafes. Whether you’re shopping, admiring the craftsmanship, or simply soaking in the ambiance, London Court invites you to step back in time and explore its enduring charm.

Council House

Council House, the result of a national architectural competition, stands as a modernist gem in Perth’s civic landscape. Set back from bustling city streets, it graces a reflective square of gardens. This discreet architectural object houses the city administration, town hall, and council chambers. Its sleek lines and minimalist design evoke a sense of purpose and efficiency. As you explore, appreciate the interplay of light and shadow on its facade.

The Bell Tower

The Bell Tower, perched on Barrack Square, is a harmonious blend of history and modernity. Its history is steeped in fascinating tales. The twelve bells of St Martin in the Fields, originally cast before the 14th century, were recast by Queen Elizabeth I in the 16th century. Later, between 1725 and 1770, three generations of the Rudhall family (bell founders from Gloucester, England) recast them under the order of the Prince of Wales, who would later become King George II. These bells have rung out to celebrate historic events, including England’s victory over the Spanish Armada, World War II victories, and the homecoming of Captain James Cook after his voyage of discovery.

Barrack Square

Barrack Square offers a unique space for visitors. Originally constructed between 1905 and 1907, it served as parkland for commuters crossing the river. Today, surrounded by vibrant food and beverage businesses, it features the iconic Bell Tower. With its central and easily accessible location, Barrack Square invites you to explore, relax, and enjoy the blend of history and modernity at the end of your tour.

Tour details

  • Cultural and Theme Tours
  • Walking and Biking Tours
  • Customised
  • Evening
  • Half Day or Less
  • Land – Self Propelled
  • Independent / Self-guided Tour
  • Basic
  • On demand

Features

Service facilities

  • Family Friendly
  • Public Toilet
Accessibility

Disabled access available, contact operator for details.

Access & Inclusion

  • An access and inclusion statement is available on the business website.

  • https://ef381a27-fa28-4ddb-86dd-f01453e68aec.usrfiles.com/ugd/bc80cc_675380b9252c49f6b9ebe64241d28c00.pdf

Operation information

Stories Unseen WA

Stories Unseen offers self-guided walking and driving tours that showcase West Australian secret stories, places, and spaces. Their immersive tours, which take place in the real world with a virtual guide, are a clever way to experience places differently. Itineraries range from half-day to multi-day adventures.

Using your phone’s GPS and camera, Stories Unseen delivers an experience like no other. Their native self-guided tour app takes you along a set tour route with iconic and forgotten destinations. On arrival at each location, the app provides an immersive experience detailing the rich history of people and places. They make exploring easy with their unique blend of tour narration; past-and-present photos, videos and audio; digital art and immersive experiences.

Tours range from half-day walking tours to multi-day driving tours. Stories Unseen tours shine a light on the unexpected so that you can experience some of Western Australia’s most iconic and known locations like a local. They’ll show you the way.

Explorers must provide their own transport and mobile devices. All walking tours can be accessed via public transport.

Activities

  • Walks

Tags

  • History & Heritage
  • Nature & Wildlife

Memberships

  • Regional Tourist/Tourism Association/Organisation
  • WA – Destination Perth

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