Dark Tourism in Perth: Spooky Sites for an Unforgettable Tour

1. Fremantle Prison

If you’re looking for an authentic dark tourism experience in Perth, start with Fremantle Prison. Built in the 1850s, this imposing prison is steeped in history—and horror. From public executions to escape attempts gone wrong, the stories of those who were once held behind these thick limestone walls are chilling. The prison was operational for nearly 140 years, and its dark past makes it one of the most visited dark tours Perth spots. Visitors can explore the old cell’s punishment rooms and even take a night tour for the full ghostly experience.

2. The Old Perth Gaol

Another must-visit site for dark tourism in Perth is the Old Perth Gaol, located within the Western Australian Museum. This historic building housed prisoners during the colonial era, and many of its inmates were sentenced to death. Today, it’s a museum, but its shadowy history and unsettling energy remain. The gaol has been the subject of countless ghost stories, making it a perfect stop on any dark tour Perth itinerary.

3. Point Peron Bunkers

For something a bit off the beaten track, head south of Perth to Point Peron, where you’ll find abandoned World War II bunkers. Hidden among the rugged coastline, these dilapidated concrete structures once formed part of Australia’s wartime defences. While their original purpose may not have been sinister, the eeriness of these deserted bunkers, coupled with their stark isolation, makes them an intriguing site for dark tourism enthusiasts. A visit here is both historically significant and spine-tingling.

4. East Perth Cemeteries

Nothing says dark tourism like a walk through an old cemetery, and East Perth Cemeteries offers the perfect setting. Established in 1829, these cemeteries are the final resting place for some of the earliest settlers in Western Australia, many of whom met tragic ends. The weathered gravestones, some crumbling and covered in moss, tell stories of hardship, illness, and untimely deaths. Wandering through this eerie site on a quiet evening adds to its haunting allure—ideal for dark tours in Perth.

5. Kings Park’s DNA Tower

At first glance, Kings Park might not seem like a typical dark tourism destination, but the DNA Tower has its own share of ghostly tales. This spiral staircase, resembling the double helix of DNA, is said to be haunted by the spirits of those who died tragically in the area. Local legends claim that people have seen shadowy figures at night and heard inexplicable sounds while climbing the tower. For those looking to add a touch of the supernatural to their dark tourism itinerary, the DNA Tower is a must-visit spot.