Albany City Centre
Albany’s city centre is a charming destination where history and modern living come together. With a rich maritime past and vibrant cultural scene, the city offers a unique combination of attractions, from local shopping and dining to historical landmarks.
Nestled by beautiful harbours and surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, the city centre is an ideal starting point for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the area’s heritage, as well as take in the picturesque surroundings.
Just a short distance from the coast, the heart of Albany boasts a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, making it the perfect place to explore and experience both the historic and contemporary sides of this fascinating city.
Albany’s Town Centre Historic Architecture
Albany’s town centre is a delightful blend of historical architecture that offers visitors a glimpse into its colonial past. The city boasts a collection of heritage-listed buildings that span a range of styles, providing a unique architectural experience.
One of the most notable landmarks is The Old Gaol, built in the 1850s. Originally a prison for convicts, the Old Gaol now houses the Albany Convict Gaol Museum, where visitors can learn about the city's convict history and early European settlement. Another significant building is the Residency Building, an 1850s government structure that once served as the residence for Albany’s first administrator. Now part of the Museum of the Great Southern, it tells the story of Albany’s role in the early colonial era and is a must-see for history enthusiasts.
Strolling through the city centre, you’ll find the Albany Town Hall and Albany Courthouse, both examples of Victorian and late-Victorian architecture. These buildings, with their grand facades and intricate details, reflect the town’s early civic pride and function.
The Stirling Terrace area, lined with heritage buildings, is another highlight of Albany’s town centre. This picturesque street features a mix of boutiques, cafés, and galleries housed in beautifully preserved historical structures, offering both a taste of history and modern-day commerce.
The Town Square has a blend of historic charm and contemporary energy, Albany’s town centre offers a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike to enjoy the city’s unique atmosphere.
Old Albany Post Office Tower
Albany Old Gaol and Museum
City Centre Shopping in Albany
York Street: The Heart of Shopping in Albany
Albany’s city centre offers a fantastic shopping experience, with York Street serving as the central hub. This bustling street is home to a wide variety of boutiques, local stores, and unique shops that cater to every taste. Whether you’re looking for fashionable clothing, locally made souvenirs, or unique homewares, York Street has something special for everyone. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll while discovering hidden gems along the way.
Albany Plaza: The City’s Largest Shopping Centre
In addition to the boutiques, Albany’s city centre features three main shopping centres, with Albany Plaza being the largest. Located close to the city centre, this shopping centre offers a diverse range of stores, from popular retail chains to local favourites, making it a convenient spot for all your shopping needs.
For more information on shopping in Albany, check out our Albany Shopping Guide.
City Centre Food in Albany
York Street boasts a delightful selection of eateries, perfect for relaxing and recharging during your visit. Some venues offer stunning views of the cityscape, while others provide a cosy and welcoming atmosphere.
For more information on Food in Albany, check out our Albany Food Guide for the best spots to explore Albany's cafés, restaurants, takeaways, and local fish and chip shops, along with insider tips to help you find your next favourite place to eat.
Albany Farmers Market: Fresh and Local
The Albany Farmers Market is a must-visit destination for lovers of fresh, locally produced food.
Held every Saturday morning, the market showcases the region's finest produce, including seasonal fruits and vegetables, artisan bread, gourmet treats, and more. It's the perfect place to connect with local growers and producers while enjoying the vibrant market atmosphere.
For more details check here: Albany Farmers Market
Accommodation and Peak Seasons
Although the city is home to just over 41,000 residents, its bustling atmosphere makes it a popular destination, particularly during the summer and school holidays. As accommodation fills up quickly during these times, booking in advance is advised. With a variety of options ranging from guesthouses to luxury hotels, there’s something for every type of traveller.
Albany offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveller. From luxury beachside villas with ocean views to secluded retreats in nature, you'll find the perfect place to unwind. Many accommodations are just steps from Albany’s beautiful beaches, so you can easily soak in the coastal beauty.
Recommended accommodation: Albany Accommodation Guide
For a comfortable stay, self-contained cottages and apartments offer well-appointed spaces, ranging from one to three bedrooms. Families and groups will enjoy the resort-style holiday parks, featuring amenities like a splash park, jumping pillow, mini-golf, and playground. For something more exclusive, luxury retreats and oceanfront houses provide a private, indulgent escape with stunning views. Albany also caters to pet owners, with pet-friendly self-catered chalets available. No matter what type of stay you’re after, Albany has something for everyone.
Albany Public Toilets
Albany offers clean and accessible public toilets in convenient locations across the city centre. Note the amazing historic architectue at the public amenities at the bottom of York Street (towards the harbour).
Albany Waterfront
The Albany Waterfront Marina Precinct
This vibrant area offers a variety of dining, retail, and entertainment options, along with walking trails that provide excellent views of Princess Royal Harbour. Located within the town centre, the marina provides a relaxing and scenic environment perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment by the water's edge. Known for its stunning sunsets, the waterfront is one of the best places to watch the vibrant colours reflect on the water.
The Albany Waterfront Marina includes:
- The Albany Waterfront Marina Precinct
- Albany Entertainment Centre: The Heart of the Waterfront
- Albany Waterfront Walking Trails
- Waterfront Dining Options
- ANZAC Peace Park
- The Port of Albany
- Meet Ruby… Our Famous Red Seadragon!
- The Albany Boat Shed & Markets
- Albany Port Theatre
- Albany Boat Trips from the Marina
For more information:
Albany Museums
Albany is home to some of Western Australia’s most significant museums, each offering a window into the region’s rich history.
The National Anzac Centre, set within the Princess Royal Fortress on Mt Adelaide, provides a moving and interactive journey through the personal stories of WWI service men and women.
Nearby, the Museum of the Great Southern highlights Albany’s Noongar heritage, early European settlement, and maritime history—complemented by a full-size replica of the Brig Amity.
At Frenchman Bay, Albany’s Historic Whaling Station offers a rare glimpse into the days of commercial whaling, with restored machinery and engaging displays. Together, these museums bring Albany’s past vividly to life.
Albany: A Destination for Every Interest
Albany offers a variety of attractions for all tastes. Enjoy the natural beauty of its stunning beaches. History lovers can explore the Albany Heritage Park, visit the replica Brig Amity, or marvel at The Gap and Natural Bridge. Foodies can enjoy fresh, local produce at the Albany Farmers Market every Saturday morning from 8am. Indoor fun includes a cinema and 10-pin bowling alley. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, rich history, or great food direct from the farm, Albany has something for everyone.
Princess Royal Fortress One of the best outdoor military museums in Australia. The Fortress is within the Albany Heritage Park, atop Mount Adelaide. Visit Princess Royal Fortress
Albany Heritage Park The heritage park consists of the parklands and monuments of Mount Clarence and Mount Adelaide including the National ANZAC Centre. Visit Albany Heritage Park
Natural Bridge The Natural Bridge is a granite formation caused by the gradual wearing away of the rock by the Great Southern Ocean. Visit Natural Bridge
Brig Amity Replica Experience the first settlers arrival in Albany, the first settlement in Western Australia, from onboard a replica of the Amity. Visit Brig Amity Replica
WA Museum Albany The Western Australian Museum Albany has exhibitions and information on the natural and social history of the region. Visit WA Museum Albany
Albany Wind Farm Beautiful and productive green energy from the wind of the Torndirrup, just outside Albany City towards Frenchman Bay. Visit Albany Wind Farm
Ellen Cove Ellen Cove, Ellen Cove Boardwalk and Ellen Cove Pier are at the far southern end of Middleton Beach, Albany. Visit Ellen Cove
Albany Agricultural Show The Albany Show happens at the Albany Showgrounds, corner of Lockyer & Cockburn Rds in November each year. Visit Albany Agricultural Show
Albany Farmers Market Saturday mornings. Fresh fruit and veggies from local growers. Organic produce available. Visit Albany Farmers Market
Albany Museums Albany's Museums offer an immersive journey through the region’s rich history. Visit Albany Museums
Albany Waterfront Marina A variety of dining, retail, and entertainment options, as well as walking trails that all provide excellent views of Princess Royal Harbour. Visit Albany Waterfront Marina
ANZAC Desert Mounted Corps Memorial ANZAC Desert Mounted Corps Memorial sits atop Mount Clarence. Visit ANZAC Desert Mounted Corps Memorial
Former HMAS Perth Dive Wreck The Location of the Former HMAS Perth Dive Wreck for scuba divers. Visit Former HMAS Perth Dive Wreck
