Often overlooked by holidayers set on visiting the south of Tasmania, Launceston is a city that captures the heart of its visitors with its understated elegance and urban nature. Its great outdoors are just a stone’s throw away from the city center, while its food and coffee culture abound in sleek-styled streets. Discover the best attractions in Launceston for every kind of traveller with this handy travel guide!
At the lower edge of South Esk River lies Cataract Gorge Reserve, a natural water basin that doubles as a wilderness refuge in the heart of Launceston. Its hiking trails are a popular escape from the city, where towering cliffs, wild bushland, and the intersecting river body can be seen through various paths. Families can also enjoy the natural park’s playground and Victorian-era gardens, where peacocks and wallabies freely roam.
City Park’s expanse is home to Launceston’s various brands of simple entertainment. Chess tables, a Japanese macaque enclosure, art exhibits, live music performances, and so much more await locals and tourists alike. Immerse yourself in the laid-back way of life in Launceston, with most of the people lazily enjoying an afternoon picnic on the grass. Be in touch with nature through a walk in the gardens, or use your last slice of bread as feed at the duck pond.
Discover Launceston’s origins and Tasmanian history at the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery. Learn the story of Tasmania’s native settlers at the First Tasmanians Gallery, where history stretches as far back as the Stone Age and the region’s Aboriginal beginnings. Don’t miss out on John Glover’s restored works of the colonial era, the most valued collection in the museum. Scientific history is also included, with dinosaur exhibits and the planetarium growing in popularity thanks to kids. End your visit with a bite at the on-site cafe or a souvenir purchase at the gallery shop.
Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or a curious tourist, Tamar Island Wetlands Centre will surely captivate you. As its name suggests, this nature reserve is home to various specifies of birds, reptiles, mammals, fish, and more wetland animals. Access various enclosures by foot through the boardwalk path and footbridges, guarded by tall Tasmanian grass in true wetlands fashion. Check out the bird observation area and visitor center to see more of birdlife, or enjoy the sunny weather on Tamar Island’s picnic grounds.
Venture into the Tamar Valley and encounter more than a hundred exotic wildlife at Tasmania Zoo. Opened in 2003 by an animal-loving family, this park houses native species, such as primates and the Tasmania devil, alongside rare bird species and big cats. Discover the second largest home of privates in this private zoo during your visit. Learn more about wildlife conservation through their entertaining educational showcases fit for all ages.
Live the good Tasmanian life at Country Club Tasmania, Launceston’s premier hotel resort. Enjoy a family-friendly lakeside accommodation close to nature and wildlife. all while being a 10-minute drive from the city’s central business district. Go horseback riding, take a dip in the pool, relax at the spa, or play a game at the golf course during your stay. Bars, restaurants, and a casino are also available on-site, as well as free parking for guests. Book a stay for a hassle-free starting point to the region’s best attractions.
Indulge in a beer and cheese tasting tour at the James Boag Brewery. Best known for its informative walking tours, the James Boag Brewery Experience shares insight into the site’s brewing process from 1881. You’ll also discover how Tasmanian water is turned into the best-tasting beer from your tour guide. An exhibit about James Boag’s journey from his homeland Scotland to Tasmania is up for viewing at the in-house museum, as well as the venue’s rich background as a historical site.
Experience Tasmanian fun like no other at the Penny Royal Adventures. This village-size theme park is perfect for adrenaline junkies of all ages, with its wide variety of rides and attractions. Be the notorious Matthew Brady for a day in the Dark Ride, the retelling of a true local story about a dangerous escaped convict. Cliff adventures abound too, such as cliff walking, rock climbing, and zip lining. Other adventures are also available like panning for gold, wine tasting, a ride on the Brig Tamar Cruise, and many more.
Go ona historical journey along Tamar Riveer with the Tamar River Cruises. This informative boat tour takes you through the beautiful Cataract Gorge, world famous vineyards, cultural heritage sites, and quaint local neighborhoods. Enjoy the beautiful scenery with a guide as you indulge in various kinds of local cheese and wines. Or, you can hop off and go on one of the many wine tasting tours available in the Tamar Valley.
Not a fan of hiking? Skip the walk and take the Gorge Scenic Chairlift instead, the longest single chairlift ride that connects the First Basin and the Cliff Grounds. Get a bird’s eye view of the river basin from your seat, as well as the crystal blue natural swimming pool right below the cable car. See more of the scenery from the suspension bridge, or grab a bite at the nearby cafe. Score a ticket as early as you can since tourists and locals frequent this attraction year-round.
Launceston’s great outdoors make for a scenic respite from the city. Unlike its crowded big city neighbors, the atmosphere is laid-back and friendly with lots of food and wine to sample. Staycations are also highly-recommended thanks to their premium hotels and lodgings.
From treetop adventures to wine tasting, you'll never run out of things to do in Launceston. Most of the more adventurous activities and winery tours are best done from March to May though, when the sun is at its highest. The calm weather also welcomes the blooming season.
The best way to maximize your visit to Launceston is to stay in the city center, where most of its attractions are located. If you want a view to wake up to, check out accommodations near the North Esk River or City Park. This area is near the Tamar River, making it easier for tourists to explore the city from north to south.