Albany, South West

Albany is a large coastal city in Western Australia, located in the southern part of the state. It was named after Prince Frederick, Duke of York and Albany.

One of its more famous attractions is the Whale World, which is designed for the enjoyment of the whole family. It commemorates the city as the last operating whaling station in the country. It features an actual whaling ship that visitors can explore to their heart's delight. Visitors are also entertained by its 3-D animated film and a multimedia show on whaling. There is also a collection of painting on whales and a skeleton exhibit. Located along the Frenchman Bay Road, the facility is also situated on a vantage point which allows visitors spectacular view of the King George Sound. The facility's playgrounds also add to its attraction to children.

Albany is also a well-known destination for those wishing to go whale watching. Its visitors center is offering the `Ocean Giants Lookout Kit' which provides a map for suitable lookouts all over the city and dispenses information on the behavior of these gentle marine giants.

Another popular attraction in the area is Mount Romance, which is accessed via the Down Road. This facility is actually focused on promoting its sandalwood products, including the exportation of its famous Sandalwood Oil. The establishment also retails several health and relaxation products. Visitors can tour the premises and observe on the process of distilling their oil products. There is also a restaurant that offers light meals and refreshments, as well as a relaxation center where visitors can have massages and other spa services.

The city is also the location of one of the largest patchwork shops in the state, the Albany Patchwork Warehouse. This establishment is located on Nakina Street and was established in 1998. Patchwork classes are also offered for interested individuals.

There are also several historic buildings located within the city. The Albany Courthouse is situated on Stirling Terrace and is still operational up to the present. This building was constructed in the later part of the 19th century.

The Albany Old Gaol Museum was built in 1851 and is a well-recognized landmark. Also located along the Stirling Terrace, this structure has served several purposes prior to being utilized as a museum. It now houses items related to the two World Wars, agricultural equipments, Aboriginal artifacts, and anything related to local history.

Near the museum is the Old Post Office, which was constructed in 1869 and is classified by the National Trust.

Along Duke Street is the Patrick Taylor Cottage Museum, which houses items related to the everyday life of people who lived in the area centuries ago.

Another attraction that showcases the lives of early settlers in the area is the Old Farm Strawberry Hill, accessed via the Middleton Road. The house was constructed in the early 19th century and contributes to the architectural and social history of Albany. Visitors can tour its interiors, which contains authentic period furnishings.

Albany also boasts of several historic religious structures that are worth visiting. This includes the Roman Catholic Church & Convent that was constructed in 1877 and located on Aberdeen Street, and the St. Johns Church of England, which was consecrated in 1848, the first one being done so in the state. It is located on York Street.

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