Fremantle

Fremantle, or 'Freo,' is a port city at the mouth of the Swan River, about 30 minutes from Perth by train. The 19th-century buildings, including the Roundhouse (Australia's oldest public building) and Fremantle Prison (a former convict lockup, now a museum), give the area a different feel from Perth's glass towers. The free CAT Bus loops through town past street art and heritage buildings. The Fremantle Markets run Friday through Sunday, selling produce, crafts, and souvenirs. The WA Maritime Museum has the America's Cup yacht Australia II. The Cappuccino Strip along South Terrace is the coffee and café district. Fresh rock lobster is the local seafood to try. Rottnest Island is a short ferry ride away, home to quokkas, the small marsupials that became famous for looking like they're smiling in selfies. Perth's Kings Park, with its elevated walkway through the treetops, is an easy train ride if you have the time.