Culture vulture: The clutch of modern and heritage buildings on the city’s northern shoulder house the Western Australian Museum, the Art Gallery of Western Australia and the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts. Founded in 1895, the art gallery collection contains more than 15,000 works and showcases more than 1000 pieces at a time. A particular strength is 20th-century European and American paintings. Aboriginal art is among the highlights, with traditional and contemporary works from Arnhem Land, the Central Desert and WA. The neighbouring WA Museum is home to a vast collection, from dinosaurs to diamonds, mammals and birds, and a hands-on discovery centre that’s a huge hit with the kids. Sadly, the blue whale skeleton, once the must-see exhibit for wide-eyed youngsters, is in storage. Entry to all venues with a gold coin donation. www.artgallery.wa.gov.au; www.museum.wa.gov.au.