Local Attractions

Tucked just above Salamanca, Battery Point is one of Hobart’s most character-rich suburbs — a storybook mix of sandstone steps, seafarers' tales, and heritage charm. The area takes its name from the... Mulgrave Battery built in 1818 to defend the port, but its true spirit lies in its narrow lanes and colonial-era homes. Accessed via Kelly’s Steps, carved into the cliff by whaling captain James Kelly in 1839, the neighbourhood was once the go-to for Hobart’s maritime workers. Today, it’s a peaceful enclave of dockworker cottages and merchant mansions — including Narryna, a Georgian-era house museum, and Lenna of Hobart, now a boutique hotel with sweeping views and a boutique distillery. At the heart of it all is Arthur Circus: a ring of quaint cottages circling a tiny green, once affordable housing for working families, now among Hobart’s most coveted addresses. With its layers of history and evolving character, Battery Point is where Hobart’s past and present meet.

Just a short stroll from Hobart’s city centre, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens are a peaceful haven tucked away on the edge of the Derwent River. Established in 1818, these gardens are not only... Australia’s second-oldest botanic gardens, but also one of the most picturesque spots in the state – perfect for a lazy afternoon or a scenic picnic. The gardens are home to a diverse collection of native and exotic plants, including a tranquil Japanese Garden, vibrant seasonal flower beds, and one of the world’s only Subantarctic Plant Houses, where you can experience the icy environment of Macquarie Island without leaving Tasmania. There’s something to see in every season, from tulips in spring to fiery leaves in autumn. Visitors love wandering the winding paths, spotting platypus in the ponds, and stopping by the café for a cuppa with a view. It’s free to enter (with donations welcomed), making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re a keen gardener, a nature lover, or just looking to unwind, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens is a serene slice of Hobart you’ll want to return to again and again.

Just an easy drive from Hobart, Mount Field National Park is one of Tasmania’s most diverse and spectacular natural escapes. As one of the state’s oldest national parks—alongside Freycinet—and... part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Mount Field offers visitors a rich blend of cool-temperate rainforest, alpine scenery, and dramatic mountain landscapes. At the base of the park, three stunning waterfalls cascade through lush rainforest, including the iconic Russell Falls, one of Tasmania’s most photographed natural wonders. Venture higher and you’ll discover glacial lakes, the beautifully scenic Tarn Shelf, and unique Tasmanian alpine flora such as pandani, scoparia, pineapple grass, and cushion plants. In autumn, Mount Field becomes a destination for the “turning of the fagus”, as the native Nothofagus gunnii bursts into colour—an annual event for photographers and hikers alike. In winter, the upper reaches of the park transform into one of Tasmania’s two alpine ski fields. Standing tall among the park’s rainforest giants is the swamp gum (Eucalyptus regnans), the tallest tree species in Australia, growing up to 100 metres high—second only to California’s redwoods among the world’s tallest flowering plants.

Located in the heart of Hobart’s CBD, the Playhouse Theatre is a beautifully preserved Italian-style theatre and the heritage home of the Hobart Repertory Theatre Society (HRTS). Originally a chapel,... this charming and intimate venue exudes the atmosphere of live performance from every wall. One of Tasmania’s most respected performing arts organisations, HRTS has been bringing productions to life since 1927 and has called the Playhouse home for over 80 years. With seating for 230 and a central location near Hobart’s best restaurants and hotels, it’s the perfect place to enjoy live theatre in a warm and welcoming setting. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the Playhouse Theatre offers great entertainment at popular prices, and remains a beloved part of Hobart’s vibrant cultural scene.

Step back in time as you explore the historic Trout Hatchery and Angling Museum, set within a beautifully preserved 19th-century English-style public space. Wander among mature trees, manicured lawns,... and tranquil fish ponds that bring Tasmania’s rich angling heritage to life. Visit the Museum of Trout Fishing and Angling Hall of Fame, then enjoy a delicious meal at Pancakes by the Ponds—a licensed restaurant and café with scenic views. The site also offers conference and convention facilities, a peaceful picnic area with BBQs, and a charming gift shop, making it an ideal stop for families, fishing enthusiasts, and history lovers alike.

The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) is Tasmania’s premier institution for natural history, cultural heritage, and art. Located in the heart of Hobart, TMAG combines a museum, art gallery, and... herbarium, offering an immersive journey into Tasmania’s unique identity and environment. Established in 1843 by the Royal Society of Tasmania—Australia’s oldest scientific society—TMAG is the second-oldest museum in Australia. The museum precinct spans one of the country’s most historically significant sites, featuring heritage buildings such as the 1808–10 Commissariat Store, the Private Secretary's Cottage (built before 1815), and the 1902 Custom House, Tasmania’s first federal building. With free entry and engaging exhibitions for all ages, TMAG is a must-visit for those wanting to explore Tasmania’s rich natural and cultural legacy.

Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary offers visitors a unique opportunity to get up close to Tasmanian Devils and other native Australian wildlife in an ethical, relaxed, and friendly setting. At Bonorong, you... can meet the iconic Tassie Devils, gently pat wombats and koalas, and hand-feed the sanctuary’s friendly kangaroos. The kangaroos often approach visitors for a scratch—interestingly, they particularly enjoy a chest rub, as their short front paws can't quite reach that spot themselves! If you notice an unusual orange, curry-scented stain on your hands after petting the larger male kangaroos, don't worry—it's completely normal, washes off easily, and facilities for handwashing are readily available. Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary plays a vital role in Tasmanian wildlife conservation by rescuing injured animals, rehabilitating them, and releasing them back into the wild whenever possible. Animals that remain at Bonorong are those that couldn’t survive independently due to their injuries. The sanctuary actively participates in the Tasmanian Devil population insurance program and is working toward establishing Tasmania’s first dedicated native wildlife hospital. If you're especially fortunate during your visit, you might encounter Greg Irons, Bonorong's passionate director. As a young boy, Greg famously declared he would one day run Bonorong, and today he's a respected local conservation hero dedicated to protecting Tasmania’s wildlife. The best times to visit Bonorong during the day are during the guided tours, offered daily at 11:30 am, 2:00 pm, and 3:30 pm. During these tours, you'll have the opportunity to pat a koala, perhaps meet a baby wombat (if one is in care), and see the Tasmanian Devils during their feeding time. Because most marsupials are nocturnal, the animals are typically sleepy during daylight hours. For a more active wildlife experience, the night tour is highly recommended. Bonorong is peaceful and relaxing, featuring picturesque views that make it a perfect spot for a picnic lunch. A small snack kiosk is available on-site. We love Bonorong so much that we purchase an annual pass each year—it truly is one of our favourite places to visit!

The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is located within the Moorilla winery on Hobart’s picturesque Berriedale Peninsula. Owned by David Walsh, MONA is Australia's largest privately funded museum and... is internationally acclaimed as one of Tasmania’s premier tourist attractions. Known for its challenging, thought-provoking, and often controversial collections, MONA offers a unique experience through its extraordinary art, stunning architectural design, and scenic surroundings. A particularly popular time to visit is during summer, when the vibrant MONA market takes place each Sunday. Getting to MONA is easy by car, with ample on-site parking available. However, for the complete MONA experience, we highly recommend taking the MONA ferry—an iconic "urban camo" catamaran departing from Brooke Street Pier on Hobart’s waterfront. The ferry fare is $25 return. Parking near Brooke Street Pier is limited, so walking into the city to board the ferry is usually the best option. For ferry schedules and detailed visitor information, visit MONA’s official ferry information page at https://mona.net.au/visit/ferry-to-mona. Museum entry fees are $25 for adults and $20 concession. Entry is free for Tasmanian residents and visitors under 18.

Salamanca Market is Tasmania's most visited tourism attraction and runs each Saturday from 8.30 am to 3 pm, rain, hail or shine. The market extends the full length of Hobart's historic Salamanca Place,... from the silos end to the top of Davey Street. You will find a huge selection of locally made products and you can meet the makers, the artisans, the designers and producers. With over 300 stallholders, the market includes fresh produce from local growers, hot coffee, delicious breakfast and lunch options, lots of gift ideas and plenty of handmade products. The market is one of those special places where you can find plenty of handmade and home-grown produce, mingle with the locals, enjoy the vibrancy and atmosphere, and discover the heart of a creative island.