Kings Park and Botanic Garden : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- By
- Aparna Patel
- |
- 19 Jun, 2023
- |
Are you looking for a great spot to take a stroll outdoors and enjoy nature’s beauty? Look no further than Kings Park and Botanic Garden. Located in Perth, Western Australia, Kings Park and Botanic Garden provides breathtaking views and many beautiful Australian native plants. Not only is it a popular spot for locals, but it’s also attracts many tourists from around the world. In this blog, we will explore some interesting facts about the park, important information for travelers, and a travel guide to help you plan your visit. So come on and join us as we uncover all the secrets of Kings Park and Botanic Garden.
Table of Contents
Interesting Facts About Kings Park and Botanic Garden
1. Kings Park and Botanic Garden covers an area of approximately 400 hectares and is one of the largest inner city parks in the world.
2. The park features over 3000 species of plants, 400 of which are endemic to Western Australia.
3. Kings Park features over 18km of walkways, including an iconic 14km bush track on the western face of the park which allows visitors to experience some of the local flora and fauna of the area.
4. Every year over 6 million people visit the park, making it one of the most visited tourist attractions in Australia!
5. The park is home to the State War Memorial, which was unveiled in 1971. It is dedicated to the Western Australians who served in World War I, World War II and subsequent conflicts.
6. Kings Park is an official Anzac Day Dawn Service site and commemorates Anzac Day with a moving commemoration ceremony at the war memorial.
7. There is also a war cemetery and a memorial grove of trees, honouring fallen soldiers, within the park.
8. During World War II, the park was used as a motor park for military vehicles.
9. In the 1960s, Kings Park became the home of an aircraft detection station, which was part of Australia’s Cold War defence system.
10. The park is home to the Aspects of Kings Park, an annual festival showcasing local arts and culture. It is held every November and includes music, theatre, dance, art and cultural talks.
History & Information About Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Kings Park and Botanic Garden in Perth, Western Australia is Australia’s largest inner city park; it covers an area of 400 hectares and overlooks the Swan River and the city skyline. The park has been a popular recreational area since the late 19th century and contains a variety of native flora and fauna, sprawling lawns, spectacular views and diverse recreational activities, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
The park’s history began in the late 1800s when the government set aside land for a park including what is now known as Kings Park. The Royal Engineers initially cleared the area of vegetation to make way for a number of public buildings including a museum, a court-house and a weather station. As the area grew, Kings Park was laid out in a formal style with terraced lawns and gardens filled with local native vegetation.
In 1895, the government released 150 acres of land in the park as Kings Park Reserve and since then has grown to become one of the largest inner-city parks in the world. Today, the Botanic Garden features more than 3,000 species of native plants from across the state, while the park contains a range of recreational activities such as play areas, cycling, picnic areas and barbecue areas. There are also organised tours of the park and the Botanic Garden, which are popular with locals and tourists alike.
Kings Park and Botanic Garden is known as ‘the lungs of Perth’ due to its significant contribution to improving air quality in the city. It also contributes to the personal and mental health of the people living in the surrounding region. The park provides a safe and relaxing environment with numerous areas for passive leisure activities, allowing people to connect with nature and appreciate the local flora and fauna.
- Adelaide Oval : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
- Fitzroy Gardens : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide
Travel Guide For Visiting Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Overview
Kings Park and Botanic Garden is a stunning 4.06-square-kilometre park overlooking the city of Perth and Perth’s Swan River. It is the world’s largest inner city park, and is a mix of extensive gardens and parklands, bushland, natural bushland, and protected flora and fauna.
The park is also home to numerous spectacular views of the city, the Swan River, the Indian Ocean, and the Darling Ranges. It is one of Perth’s most visited attractions, and is brimming with activities and exciting sites to explore.
Location
Kings Park and Botanic Garden is located in Perth, Western Australia, on the narrow coastal strip between the Swan River and the Indian Ocean. It is around 4.5km from the CBD and can be reached on foot, by bike or car.
Getting There
Kings Park and Botanic Garden is easily accessible. It is located alongside the Stirling Highway and can be accessed both from within Perth city’s CBD and from the suburbs. The park is directly serviced by public transportation, with numerous bus and train links available.
Opening Hours
Kings Park and Botanic Garden is open 7 days a week, from sunrise to sunset.
Attractions
There are many attractions in and around the park, including:
The Rio Tinto Naturescape: Naturescape is a five-hectare section of the park located within the Kanyana conservation park that was purpose-built for children and families. It features interactive art and nature play spaces, a botanic walk, and a range of educational displays.
The Lotterywest Federation Walkway: This pedestrian bridge is made up of two curved steel arms that join the Kings Park and South Perth foreshore together. Spanning 200m across the Swan River, it offers beautiful views of the river and city skyline.
The John Forrest Lookout: Located in the centre of the park, this lookout offers views of the Perth city skyline, Swan River, and Darling Ranges. It is a great place to take a selfie or watch the sunset.
The Matilda Bay Lookout: This scenic lookout overlooks the iconic Matilda Bay, the Swan River, and Frasers Restaurant and Bar. It is the perfect spot for a picnic or romantic evening stroll.
Things to Do
Kings Park and Botanic Garden boast a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including:
• Explore the botanic gardens – a hub of incredible native and exotic plants from around the world
• Birdwatch and spot the local wildlife
• Take a tour or a guided walk of the grounds
• Participate in regular stargazing events
• Go for a picnic or barbecue
• Take part in annual events such as Kings Park Festival, and Bloom Night
• Play outdoor sports such as soccer, basketball, and lawn bowls
• Enjoy the stunning views and sunsets
Safety
Kings Park and Botanic Garden is generally a safe area, however visitors should take basic safety precautions such as not leaving any valuables in their car, not wandering off alone after dark, and keeping a watchful eye on children at all times.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kings Park and Botanic Garden
Q: How big is Kings Park and Botanic Garden?
A: Kings Park and Botanic Garden covers an area of 400 hectares.
Q: What activities are available at Kings Park and Botanic Garden?
A: There are many activities available including picnicking, walking, cycling, and visiting botanical and native gardens. There are also cafes and restaurants for visitors to enjoy.
Q: Can I bring my dog to Kings Park and Botanic Garden?
A: Yes, you can bring your dog with you to Kings Park and Botanic Garden, however they must be kept on a leash at all times.
Q: Are there guided tours at Kings Park and Botanic Garden?
A: Yes, there are guided tours available for both adults and children. You can even take a guided Segway tour through the park.
Q: How much is admission to Kings Park and Botanic Garden?
A: Admission to Kings Park and Botanic Garden is free but certain activities or areas may include a fee.