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.

A Blend of Heritage and Modern Living

Albany City Centre offers a unique combination of historic charm and contemporary convenience. The city’s central area is renowned for its colonial architecture, with original buildings now housing museums, galleries, and local eateries.

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.

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.

Discover Hidden Gems: Boutiques and Unique Stores

Whether you’re seeking a unique piece of clothing, homeware, or a memorable souvenir, the many boutiques and local stores lining York Street offer a delightful shopping experience. It’s a great area to uncover one-of-a-kind finds and enjoy a diverse selection of products.

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 shopping trip. From casual cafés to refined dining experiences, there's something to suit every taste. Some spots offer stunning views of the cityscape, while others provide a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for enjoying a meal or drink.

For more information on Food in Albany, check out our Albany Food Guide for the best spots to explore Albany's incredible food culture. Discover top 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.

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.

Recommended accommodation: Albany Accommodation Guide

Vibrancy from UWA Albany Campus

Additionally, the presence of the University of Western Australia (UWA) Albany Campus adds to the city’s vibrancy, attracting students, academics, and visitors alike, contributing to the dynamic, family-friendly environment of Albany's city centre.

Albany Public Toilets

Albany offers clean and accessible public toilets in convenient locations across the city centre. Public Toilet Map

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 area is part of the Albany 2050 Waterfront Master Plan, aiming to rejuvenate the waterfront into a lively hub for community and economic activities. Ample free parking is available for visitors.

Albany Entertainment Centre: The Heart of the Waterfront

Perched on the edge of Princess Royal Harbour, the Albany Entertainment Centre is a striking symbol of modern design and community spirit. Inspired by crystalline molecular structures, this state-of-the-art venue offers a dynamic calendar of comedy, music, theatre, and special events, all set against the stunning waterfront backdrop. Complete with a Modern Australian restaurant, it’s truly the cultural heartbeat of the Great Southern region.

Check out: What's on at the Albany Entertainment Centre.

Boat Trips from Albany Foreshore

The harbour serves as a departure point for various boat tours and scenic safaris, including seasonal whale-watching cruises from June to October. Year-round options include coastline exploration, yacht charters, and sailing adventures through Ataturk Channel, past Point King Lighthouse, and along picturesque shores.

Albany Boating Guide

The Albany Boating Guide is an essential resource for boating enthusiasts, providing important safety information for navigating the waterways around Albany. This guide includes detailed instructions on safety equipment requirements, how to log on and off, monitored radio channels, and essential rules for different types of water activities, including water skiing, personal watercraft (PWC), and diving. It also covers the guidelines for paddle craft, kiteboarding, and windsurfing, along with helpful information on courtesy moorings, GPS validation markers, navigation lights, and coast cameras. Whether you're a seasoned boater or a newcomer, this guide will ensure you have the knowledge needed to enjoy the waters of Albany safely and responsibly.
For more information: Albany Boating Guide.

Walking Trails

The Albany waterfront features two popular walking trails: the Boats and Beaches Trail, lasting 20 minutes, and the Historical Views Trail, lasting 15 minutes. Both offer scenic views and highlight the natural and historical beauty of the area.
For more information: Waterfront Trails Map

Your Guide for Walking, Cycling, and Using Public Transport in the City of Albany

This guide is designed to help you navigate the City of Albany easily, whether you're walking, cycling, or using public transport. It provides essential information on how to get around the city by foot, bike, or bus, highlighting key features like bus routes, accessible bus numbers, and shared paths for cyclists and pedestrians. The City of Albany is committed to making cycling and walking easier with dedicated bike racks and secure locations to store your bike.

You will find useful information such as details on bus stops, footpaths, shared paths, water fountains, picnic areas, and the Munda Biddi Cycle Trail. Whether you’re exploring local neighbourhoods, enjoying a day out, or commuting, this guide offers all the details you need for an easy and enjoyable journey. Download the Map and Guide.

Waterfront Dining Options

Enjoy a variety of dining options along the waterfront, including lively pubs, relaxed spots, and kiosks offering quick bites or refreshing drinks. The View, located within the Albany Entertainment Centre, provides great food with stunning harbour views. The waterfront dining experience is perfect for enjoying sunsets, as vibrant colours reflect on the water.

ANZAC Peace Park

This tranquil green space features gardens, walking paths, and memorials that honour Albany's ANZAC legacy. Located at the bottom of York Street, it offers a peaceful retreat with stunning harbour views, open areas for picnics, and a symbolic connection between the city and the waterfront. Key features include a memorial wall, interpretive signage, and the Lone Pine Grove, planted with Aleppo Pines as a living link to Gallipoli.

The Port of Albany

Adjacent to the marina, the Port of Albany is a hub for fishing and commercial activities. Facilities include a two-lane boat ramp, service wharf, visitor jetty, fishing platform, and boat pens, making it a key feature of Albany’s waterfront with scenic views and practical amenities.

Meet Ruby… Our Famous Red Seadragon!

The iconic Ruby Seadragon mural celebrates Albany’s rich marine life and urban art scene. Created by Yok and Sheryo in 2018, the mural transforms the CBH silos into a vibrant piece of the Australian Silo Art Trail. Using 180 litres of paint over 17 days, the artists brought to life the ruby seadragon, a rare and remarkable marine species discovered along Albany’s shores.

The Albany Boat Shed

The Albany Boat Shed is a historic and iconic structure that reflects Albany's deep maritime roots. Located along the picturesque foreshore, this charming building has been a significant part of the town’s history. It continues to serve as a community focal point where visitors can enjoy the beautiful views of Princess Royal Harbour and watch the boating activity.

The Albany Boat Shed Markets

The markets take place every Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm at the Boatshed on Princess Royal Drive, Albany.

These lively markets are home to a wide range of local sellers offering fresh produce, gourmet foods, and wines from the Great Southern region. In addition, local artisans display their handmade crafts and artwork, giving visitors the chance to discover unique, one-of-a-kind items.

Live music performances add to the vibrant atmosphere, creating a relaxed and enjoyable environment. The markets also feature cooking demonstrations, where you can pick up new culinary tips and techniques. With plenty of parking nearby, it’s an easy and enjoyable outing for both residents and visitors.

Whether you're shopping for fresh produce, looking for a special handcrafted piece, or simply enjoying the lively vibe with some entertainment, the Albany Boat Shed Markets provide a wonderful experience every Sunday.

Albany's Port Theatre

Managed by the Albany Light Opera and Theatre Company (ALOTCO), the Port Theatre hosts performances a few times a year, with tickets often selling out quickly. This vibrant venue is a source of pride for ALOTCO, fostering local talent and providing high-quality entertainment. Many former members have pursued successful arts careers in Australia and beyond.

Albany's City Centre Museums:

Museum of the Great Southern

Located just across from the picturesque waterfront, the Museum of the Great Southern offers an immersive journey through the region’s rich history. Positioned on Residency Road, this museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the natural and cultural stories of the Great Southern region.

Opening Hours & Admission

The Museum is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, and admission is free for general entry, making it an accessible and welcoming spot for all visitors. For those planning a group visit, bookings are recommended for parties of 10 or more. For more details, call the Museum at (08) 9841 4844 or visit the Museum’s website.

What's in the museum?

Brig Amity

One of the museum’s key attractions is the Brig Amity, a replica of the convict ship that journeyed from Sydney to King George Sound in 1826, marking the establishment of the first European settlement on the west coast of Australia. Visitors can walk aboard the ship and learn about the perilous six-week voyage, the challenges faced by the passengers and crew, and the daily life aboard. Knowledgeable volunteers are on hand to guide your visit and provide additional insights about the ship and the Museum’s other exhibits.

Eclipse Building

The Eclipse Building is home to a range of long-term exhibitions including the Lighthouse Exhibition, Fishing Collection, and the Fish Wall. The star attraction here is the Eclipse Island Optic, a stunning array of rotating glass lenses that light up the space in dramatic fashion. The Discovery Centre is also located on the bottom floor of the Eclipse Building, offering hands-on, interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. .

Residency Building

Dating back to 1850, the Residency Building now serves as a gallery space showcasing the diverse histories of both the Minang Noongar and non-Aboriginal communities. The building also highlights the area’s rich biodiversity and cultural stories, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about the region’s fascinating past and present.

School Room

The School Room is a tribute to the early days of rural education in Western Australia. This quaint, one-room schoolhouse offers a glimpse into the life of pioneer teachers and the challenges they faced in the early settlement days.

Albany Convict Gaol Museum

Located on Stirling Terrace in Albany, Western Australia, the Albany Convict Gaol Museum invites visitors to explore the region’s convict history through a detailed and immersive experience. This historical site offers a fascinating insight into the lives of those who were once incarcerated here, alongside displays that tell the story of the Gaol's evolution over time.

Opening Hours & Admission

The Museum is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission: Adults: A$6.00 Children: A$2.50 Concessions: A$4.00 Family: A$15.00 For more details, call the Museum at (08) 9841 5403.

Visitor Experience

Today, the Albany Convict Gaol Museum offers a range of activities to educate and engage visitors. Explore the historic cell blocks, read the informative plaques about the lives of the convicts, and view the extensive displays within the warder’s quarters and Great Hall. The museum also offers guided tours, night-time ghost tours, and venue hire for special events.

Special Features

The Gaol boasts an impressive collection of over 8,000 historical photographs, 500 pieces of artwork, and thousands of artefacts, providing an in-depth look at the history and significance of the site. Visitors can also purchase souvenirs, postcards, and historical books in the museum shop.

Whether you're interested in the convict past, the stories of those who lived and worked here, or the mysteries that linger in its halls, the Albany Convict Gaol Museum provides a unique and fascinating experience.

Patrick Taylor Cottage Museum

Nestled in the heart of Albany, Western Australia, the Patrick Taylor Cottage Museum offers an intriguing window into the region’s early European settlement. As the oldest surviving dwelling in Western Australia, dating back to 1832/33, this heritage site provides a rare and authentic glimpse into the lives of Albany’s first settlers, with fascinating exhibits and a rich history on display.

Opening Hours & Admission

The Museum is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm.
Admission:Adults: A$5.00 Children: A$2.00 Concessions: A$4.00 Family: A$12.00

For more details, call 9841 5403 or visit Patrick Taylor Cottage Museum.

Visitor Experience

Visitors to the Patrick Taylor Cottage Museum are invited to step back in time as they explore this beautifully preserved building. The cottage showcases a unique blend of early settler tools, household items, and period furnishings. Guests can wander through the rooms, guided by informative plaques and volunteer staff from the Albany Historical Society. A visit offers a comprehensive experience of the history, architecture, and daily life of early Albany settlers.

The museum also hosts special events and educational programs for those interested in deepening their understanding of Albany’s history. The surrounding gardens, with their mature trees and charming atmosphere, add to the immersive experience.

Special Features

The Patrick Taylor Cottage Museum stands out for its rare example of wattle-and-daub architecture, one of the few remaining examples of this construction style in Australia. The museum’s collections, including artifacts from the early settlement period, highlight the resilience and resourcefulness of the region’s pioneers.

Whether you’re a history buff, a local resident, or a curious visitor, the Patrick Taylor Cottage Museum offers an enriching and educational experience that brings the past to life.

Albany Heritage Walk

Discover the History of Albany

The Albany Heritage Walk, takes around 90 - 120 minutes, and offers a chance to explore the charming colonial streetscape of Albany and discover the key locations that played a pivotal role in the early settlement of Western Australia. This 3 km walk takes you through the heart of Albany, bordered by Residency Point, Parade Street, Duke Street, York Street, and Stirling Terrace. Along the way, you’ll visit historic buildings and sites that stand as monuments to the people and events that shaped the region’s foundation.

Beginning at the Old Convict Gaol, the walk features iconic landmarks such as the oldest street in Western Australia, Parade Street, and reveals the rich history behind each heritage site. Highlights include the Old Convict Gaol (1852), Albany Courthouse (1896), St John’s Church (1848), Patrick Taylor’s Cottage (1832), and the Residency Building (1850), offering a glimpse into Albany's important role in the early years of Western Australia.

Download the Heritage Walk Map

To guide you on this historical journey: Download the Albany Heritage Walk Map

Albany City Centre Public Art Trail

The Public Art Trail in Albany’s city centre is a captivating journey through art, history, and culture. With its self-guided map, visitors can explore a range of vibrant artworks, from bronze sculptures to intricate murals, scattered across key locations. This trail highlights Albany’s rich heritage and celebrates local and international creativity.

Download the Public Art Trail Map (PDF) to plan your visit and discover Albany's artistic treasures.

Key Artworks Along the Trail

1. Allison Hartman Gardens

Located on York Street, this park is a central hub for public art, featuring several notable works:

• Mokare (1997) by Terry Humble: A cast bronze sculpture honouring Mokare, a significant figure in Albany’s history.
• Community Tiles (2019) by Donna Williams: A series of inlaid fired tiles showcasing local stories and creativity.
• Dog Rock & Heart of the Emu (2019) by Michael Cummings: An interpretive panel celebrating local landmarks.
• Six Noongar Seasons (2019) by Kiya Watt: A stunning paving inlay depicting the Noongar seasonal calendar.
• Bush Garden (2019) by Shandelle Cummings: A combination of interpretive panels and native plantings.

2. Albany Public Library

• The Sleeping Giant (2016) by Darren Hutchens: A unique installation reflecting the natural beauty and stories of Albany.

3. Upper York Street Laneways

This area boasts dynamic murals commissioned by Paperbark Bookshop and the City of Albany, including:

• From Cheynes to Mutton Bird (2016) by Chad Marwick.
• The Beginning (2016) by Karim Jabbari.
• Metrical Geometrical (2016) by Add Fuel, blending bold patterns with local flair.

4. Lower York Street Laneways

Visitors can discover evocative murals such as:

• So the Wind Won’t Blow it Away (2016) by Stormie Mills.
• Returning Home (2016) by Andrew Fraser.
• Fearless (2016) by Gonzalo Borondo.

5. Stirling Terrace (Police Station)

• Banksia Grandis Panel (2003) by Kevin Draper: A tribute to local flora.
• Untitled (2003) by Jon Tarry: A thought-provoking installation blending art and architecture.

6. Stirling Terrace (Car Park)

• Southern Lights (2016) by Tellas: A large-scale mural inspired by Albany’s natural beauty.

7. Albany Port

• Leafy Sea Dragon (2018) by The Yok and Sheryo: A vibrant mural on the silos, showcasing marine life.

Albany: A City Rich in Natural Beauty and Heritage

Albany is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and its preservation of heritage. As the oldest permanently settled town in Western Australia, it predates both Perth and Fremantle. The city offers a unique combination of history and modern vibrancy, making it a perfect destination for visitors.

The Arts and Live Music Scene

The city is alive with the arts, offering a vibrant cultural scene. The state-of-the-art Albany Entertainment Centre attracts international and national artists, hosting a variety of performances, concerts, and events. Albany’s live music scene provides a great platform for local and touring artists, enhancing the cultural experience of the city.

Film and TV Productions in Albany

Albany's diverse and pristine natural environments make it a sought-after location for film and TV productions. It has been featured in several popular movies and TV shows, including Frederickstown (2024), We Bury the Dead (2024), Itch (2020–), H is for Happiness (2019), and Breath (2017).

Leisure and Business Visitors

Albany is a popular destination for both leisure and business visitors, offering a variety of attractions and services. Its beautiful seaside location provides the perfect backdrop for tourism, while also attracting business travellers and event organisers.

Western Australia's First Settlement

Albany was the first official settlement of Western Australia and it was also the departure point from which the ANZACs left for Gallipoli.

Albany's History and Photos of Albany pre 1918.

Albany has a number of historic sites including: the Albany Heritage Park, National ANZAC Centre, Princess Royal Fortress, commonly known as The Forts, Patrick Taylor Cottage, the oldest dwelling in Western Australia, c1832, and the replica of the Brig Amity ship.

There is a memorial to the ANZAC Desert Mounted Corps on top of Mount Clarence, this was also where the first commemorative Dawn Service was held on 25 April 1923. A Dawn Service has been held ever since.

Popular Destinations:

• Albany Wind Farm
• National ANZAC Centre
• The Brig Amity Replica
• Frenchman Bay
• Middleton Beach
• Mount Clarence

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.