3 Best Sights in Western Australia, Australia

Founded in 1895, the Art Gallery of Western Australia is home to more than 17,500 treasures and numerous free exhibitions of Indigenous and modern art, which makes it worth an afternoon's devotion. The collection of Indigenous art is impressive, while other works include Australian and international paintings, sculptures, prints, crafts, and decorative arts. In 2021, major renovations were undertaken to improve the rooftop galleries and bar and create a new foyer. See the website for special exhibitions and be prepared to pay a fee to gain entry. 

Bunbury's art scene starts here at the Bunbury Regional Art Gallery, affectionately known as BRAG to the locals. This former convent is easy to find, just look for the pretty pink Gothic-style building. Inside, you'll find six gallery spaces filled with traveling exhibitions, local artworks, and the original 20 paintings donated by Claude Hotchin in 1949. Be sure to visit the third floor and check out the stained-glass windows and stunning floor tiles, remnants of its nunnery past. Entry to the gallery is free of charge and open daily 10--4. Check the website for current exhibitions and events.

Like most of Fremantle, the Gothic-looking Fremantle Arts Centre (FAC) was built by convicts in the 19th century. First used as a lunatic asylum, by 1900 it was overcrowded and nearly shut down. It became a home for elderly women until 1942, when the U.S. Navy turned it into its local submarine base in WWII.

As one of Australia's leading arts organizations, FAC has an engaging, year-round cultural program. There are also dynamic exhibitions, a gift shop, and an expansive live music and special events program, which includes free live music on Sunday afternoon from October to March; people like to bring picnics and blankets but there's also an on-site bar-café.