If you’re planning a trip to Hobart, Tasmania, I have rounded up the very best things to do in Hobart with kids.
Amid a city full of history, culture, and supreme grandeur, there’s something to do and see around every corner. Don’t be misled into thinking that all cities are expensive to visit. There are plenty of free things to do in Hobart to please an adventurous spirit.
Visiting Australia’s second-oldest capital city can include seeing historical landmarks and museums. It can also include strolling through leafy parklands and sampling delicious fresh produce.
It is the diversity of sights that attracts visitors each year to Hobart. A city that fuses old-world charm with a modern-day lifestyle.
How you spend your time in the city will depend upon your interests, timeframe, and the ages of your children. Do you prefer slow or fast-paced travel? You can use this guide to create your itinerary of what to do in Hobart with kids.
The below includes the top Hobart attractions for families. Along with all the best things to do near Hobart you shouldn’t miss.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the disclaimer for more information.
This article was updated in March 2023
Featured Image: © Inspire Family Travel
Table of Contents
Getting Around Hobart
If your accommodation is near the city centre or the Salamanca area you will be able to explore on foot or with public transport. There are many attractions located in these areas and within walking distance of each other.
Public buses leave from the main streets of Hobart and travel to some of these sights. For a full tourist experience, jump on board the Red Decker hop-on, hop-off bus that offers transport to all the main sights.
If you are limited in time, have young children, or want to continue on a road trip around Tasmania I recommend a car. For car hire, Inspire Family Travel recommends Bargain Car Rentals. They are an Australian-owned and operated company (founded in Hobart, Tasmania) with 14 locations and a wide range of vehicles.
Pro Tip: Always book your car in advance as this is the best way to avoid disappointment, and it will save you time and money. Bargain Car Rentals has kindly offered you a discount code. Simply use the code FAMTRAVEL when you make a booking and this will save you 5% on their best rates.
Top Things to Do in Hobart with Kids
Note: Hobart and the surrounding area have many top traveller experiences. To save you money and time, I have included in this guide links to all the top-rated tours and things to do through Experience Oz.
Salamanca Waterfront Area
Stroll along the picturesque Salamanca waterfront that stretches from Salamanca Place to Hunter Street. Home to fishing vessels, yachts, and many other boats, it’s a treat for the kids to watch them set sail into the open water. Whether you are a boating enthusiast or not, this port has been made famous by the Sydney to Hobart Yacht race that starts on Boxing Day each year.
Do you want to try some mouth-watering Tasmanian seafood? You will find many cafés and restaurants at Constitution Dock that will satisfy your tastebuds. Or, buy a live seafood feast from the local fisherman.
There is a great sense of balance between history and modern times in Hobart. The historical buildings along the waterfront and Salamanca Place show Hobart’s old-world charm. Yet the city still caters to modern-day essentials.
The 19th-century Georgian sandstone warehouses that were once used to store whale oil and grain have been beautifully converted into popular cafés, markets, shops, and restaurants.
Museum of Old and New (MONA)
While in the vicinity of the waterfront area, you have several choices if you would like to experience a culture hit during your time in Hobart. From Brooke Street Pier, you can catch a camouflaged catamaran. The catamaran travels to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art), taking around twenty-five minutes one way.
The edgy collection of ancient, modern, and contemporary art belongs to David Walsh and is one of Hobart’s famous attractions. Wondering if you can visit MONA with the kids. Staff will point out the rooms that are not suitable for children. This allows you to enjoy your time in the museum while not having to worry about them witnessing adult themes.
Practical Information: Opening hours, Admission, and the Mona Ferry information can be found here.
Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
The other option is the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery next to the waterfront area. The TMAG is the second oldest museum in Australia. There are no admission costs to enter and view the various collections making the museum one of the great free family things to do in Hobart.
The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is dedicated to offering a range of interactive exhibits and hands-on programs to attract people of all ages. The museum offers educational activities, a place to learn about Tasmanian history, or somewhere to admire art.
Browse the unique displays at your own pace or take a free guided tour. The museum hosts temporary exhibitions that change year-round. This offers visitors and returning locals a chance to see something new.
Salamanca Markets
If you are in Hobart on a Saturday, a stop at the famous Salamanca Markets is not to be missed. With nearly 300 licensed traders; it is one of Australia’s largest markets and now a local institution. It is easy to lose track of time as you wander Salamanca Place.
Bringing thousands of visitors every Saturday. It is not surprising these markets are one of the most popular attractions in Tasmania and the best things to do in Hobart.
Open from 8.30 am – 3.00 pm. The markets draw visitors and locals searching for art, craft, homemade delights, fresh food, second-hand books, Tasmanian wood products, jewellery, toys, and much more.
The grassy area alongside the markets is a perfect retreat to listen to the buskers or watch some local entertainment. Salamanca Markets are the perfect place to stock up on delicious local fresh produce and some sugary treats.
Getting to Salamanca Markets
On Saturdays, Salamanca Place is closed to traffic from 5.30 am to 6.00 pm. Street parking is very difficult to find which is why the council encourages public transport. You have the option of parking in a city car park and walking to the markets.
You can also take advantage of the free shuttle that runs in a continuous loop every 10 minutes from 9.00 am to 2.00 pm between the Hobart city centre and Salamanca Place.
Battery Point
One of the prettiest and most well-preserved historical areas in Hobart is Battery Point. The quaint streets are lined with original cottages and delightful gardens. Once a military outpost in the 19th century, this area is now an affluent suburb of Hobart. Battery Point is now filled with transformed guest houses and a popular café scene.
Depending on which streets you choose to explore, Kelly’s Steps are a historical landmark in this area. Constructed in 1839, the sandstone quarried to create these steps was used to build the warehouses that line Salamanca Place today.
When travelling with children, one of the fun things to do in Hobart for kids is to find a leafy escape that has a playground and wide-open spaces. You’ll find that place if you walk towards the water in Battery Point. Princes Park is a beautiful haven with a nautical-themed playground with lots of activities that children will enjoy.
Surrounded by lush green grass, colourful flowers, and large shady trees. Princes Park is a perfect way to relax and tuck into any takeaway goodies purchased from the markets.
Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
Established in 1818, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens are the second oldest botanic gardens in Australia and one of our favourites. Nestled in Hobart’s heart, a short drive from the city centre, explore the 14 hectares of gardens at your pace. Or opt for a guided tour and learn more about the displays and how they are unique to Hobart.
A café and restaurant are available on-site near the main gate serving lunch, snacks, and coffee, or pack a picnic and find a shady spot on the grounds.
If your time is limited, tailor your walk around the displays that appeal to you the most. You can find my four recommendations below:
- Conservatory – The Conservatory at the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens opened in 1939. Each year upwards of 10,000 plants are grown in the Conservatory to use in their four seasonal displays.
- Lily Pond – Formed in 1840, water lilies have grown here for over 100 years. The Nymphaea lilies are planted in pots at the bottom of the pond. If you are visiting throughout summer, you’ll be lucky to witness their beauty covering the entire pond.
- Japanese Garden – White pebbles, water displays, stepping stones, vibrant flora, and bridges are just some of the unique aspects of the Japanese garden display.
- Subantarctic Plant House – This is a garden display you will not encounter anywhere else! Enter into the World’s only subantarctic plant house where plants from subantarctic islands grow. The Tasmanian gardens have been able to create such a display by mirroring the COLD (very cold!) foggy and wet conditions in a climate-controlled environment.
© Inspire Family Travel
Mount Wellington | Kunanyi
Mount Wellington is an imposing sight to look upon as it casts a commanding presence over Hobart. Even more impressive is being on top of this giant, which stands 1,270 metres high. A trip up to Mount Wellington summit is one of the top things to do in Hobart, excuse the pun.
Sitting on the doorstep of Hobart being only a mere half-hour drive from the city, the views from the summit are spectacular. On a cloudless day, it gives a brilliant aerial view over Hobart, Bruny Island, and the Tasman Peninsula.
Located in Wellington National Park, adventure enthusiasts can enjoy a full range of activities from bushwalking, bike riding, horse riding, and rock climbing. The national park caters to anyone wanting to spend a day in nature or admire views from atop Mount Wellington Summit.
Tip: If you don’t have a form of transport, opt for the Explorer Bus, which offers transfers between the summit and Hobart.
There are many short walks on the summit, and the Pinnacle observation shelter is available when the weather conditions are not ideal. Wellington Park is never closed (except in extreme weather conditions), which gives visitors the chance to experience the magical views at sunrise or sunset.
Practical Information: Always check the road to ensure it is open before venturing up the mountain. It is best to prepare and take clothing for all conditions when you reach the summit as it can change suddenly. Layers are helpful and don’t forget hats and sunscreen for sunny days.
Mount Nelson and Truganini Reserve
Another viewpoint and one only 10 minutes south of Hobart is Mount Nelson. Enjoy panoramic views over Hobart and the River Derwent. On a clear day witness Bruny Island in the distance.
Mount Nelson may play second fiddle to its much higher rival Mount Wellington, but it still receives rave reviews. It is the lookout to visit when the summit of Kunanyi is covered in clouds. On the South-east side of Mount Nelson is the beautiful Truganini Reserve which protects an area of native bushland.
Inspect the Mount Nelson Signal Station which was colonial-built in 1811 and was the first signal station constructed in Tasmania. It now offers an insight into station life and early shipping in the Hobart area.
If you are feeling hungry The Signal Station Café is open 7 days a week from 9 am to 4.30 pm. It provides its customer’s breakfast and lunch options along with magnificent views.
Red Decker City Loop
When it comes to things to see in Hobart the red decker otherwise known as the hop-on/hop-off bus is an official sightseeing tour in Hobart.
Sitting on top of the double-decker bus you have 360-degree views of Hobart. With guided commentary throughout the trip, the full loop takes 90 minutes and offers 20 stops in Hobart. These stops consist of the most popular landmarks and attractions around the city.
Some of the popular stops along the route are Salamanca Place (Salamanca Market on Saturdays), Battery Point, Hobart Convict Penitentiary, Hobart CBD, Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery, and Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens.
Practical Information: Choose from a 24 or 48-hour ticket with tours starting from the Tasmanian Travel and Information Centre (corner of Elizabeth and Davey Streets) or any of the stops along the route
MORE THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN HOBART
Being Australia’s second oldest capital city, Hobart is rich in history. If you want to learn about Tasmania’s history, find more things to do in Hobart for families below.
Mawson’s Hut Replica Museum
The geologist and explorer Sir Douglas Mawson led a small party of men on the Australian Antarctic Expedition (AAE) of 1911 – 1914. For two years the Mawson Huts were the main base for this expedition. They are now a national treasure as they are significant in Australia’s scientific and geographical discovery of Antarctica.
A group of men sailed from Queens Pier Hobart over 100 years ago, on the 2nd December 1911 to explore the extensive coast. Under profoundly difficult conditions they gathered valuable scientific and geographical information. The Mawson Hut Site is now a National and Commonwealth Heritage place and efforts are focused on the conservation of this site.
Opposite constitution docks sit a replica of the buildings at Cape Denison constructed by heritage architects. Opening in 2013 the huts were built to help raise funds for the conservation program. With the mission of protecting and maintaining the original huts, all profits go towards the Mawson’s Hut Foundation.
Practical Information: Open 7 days a week, Monday – Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm.
Hobart Convict Penitentiary
Built in the early 1830s, the Hobart Convict Penitentiary housed the convicts that were making their way into the colony and was the Hobart Gaol for more than 100 years. The site spread over two acres and saw over 50, 000 male convicts enter the facility.
On your visit listen to tales of crime, punishment, and hardship on the guided tour. You will see the chapel, supreme court, tunnels, solitary cells, and gallows. Also included in the tour is a screening of the film Pandemonium. The film is projected onto four-metre-tall walls within the Penitentiary Chapel. It explores the journey from conviction to transportation and beyond.
Important Information: Pandemonium does feature some graphic content. It is advised to check with staff about this content so you can determine if it is suitable for your children.
Practical Information: Open Thursday – Sunday, 10 am – 3 pm. Closed Monday to Wednesday and public holidays. Bookings are preferred and a guided tour is the only option when visiting.
Cascades Female Factory
Built-in 1828 Cascades Female Factory is a former workhouse for female convicts in Hobart. With over half of the female convicts sent to Tasmania the Cascades Female Factory became the main place for their imprisonment.
In 1853 the transportation of convicts ceased, yet the factory continued as a prison, a depot for the poor, a hospital and a place for welfare activities. The prison is significant to Australia’s convict history being the only remaining female factory. It now operates as a museum giving you a comprehensive introduction to the factory and the women who were imprisoned there.
For kids, there is a ‘Factory Tales’ activity booklet which is an interactive way for kids to explore and learn about the site.
Practical Information: Open daily from 9 am – 4.30 pm. Take a self-guided tour with the site entry price including an audio experience. Guided tours run hourly from 10.00 am to 3.00 pm.
Best Place to Stay in Hobart
If you want to be close to the main attractions and dining areas, then the Hobart CBD and Salamanca Place are great locations. There are many choices for accommodation in Hobart, and you can find great deals for Hobart here.
I have compiled a list below of some popular accommodation suggestions for travelling with kids in Hobart.
Salamanca Inn | 4.5* all-suite hotel located in walking distance from all the attractions of Salamanca Place
The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel | Popular 4* hotel in Hobart’s CBD
Sullivans Cove Apartments | Boutique self-catering apartments, located in 5 different locations around Hobart’s waterfront area.
Hotel Grand Chancellor | 4.5* star hotel overlooking the Derwent River, and located a short distance from Salamanca Wharf
Somerset on the Pier Hobart | Contemporary style accommodation offering one and two-bedroom apartments close to Hobart CBD and attractions.
Read More: The Best Family Accommodation in Hobart
Where to Eat in Hobart
When it comes to dining out in Hobart there are many different cuisines and options to suit all tastes and budgets.
The Burger Haus
If you love burgers and want a delicious quick meal then this establishment is for you! There is a large selection of different burgers on the menu which also includes a kid’s selection. All produce is sourced locally and the burgers are very tasty.
Da Angelo Ristorante
This restaurant is very popular in Hobart. If you ask anyone where they would recommend Italian food, you will likely hear the name Da Angelo’s. Serving Italian cuisine since 1994 they have perfected the art and provide delicious authentic food.
Drunkin Admiral
The Drunken Admiral is one of the most popular and iconic seafood restaurants in Hobart. Located on Hobart’s Old Warf and operating since 1979 the restaurant prides itself on fresh Tasmanian in a maritime atmosphere.
Solo Pasta and Bar
Located in Sandy Bay is another Italian restaurant. SOLO provides fabulous service and delivers authentic Italian flavours. All within a family-friendly setting. With an extensive menu of pasta, pizza and more SOLO serves up fresh Tasmanian produce.
Fish Frenzy
For casual dining in a superb location visit Fish Frenzy. Well known for its fish and chips. Dine in or grab a meal to go.
Ball & Chain Grill
Located in Salamanca Place the Ball & Chain Grill is yet another firm favourite with the locals. If you are a steak fan then this place would be for you! Specialising in steaks the restaurant uses a traditional cooking method where the food is cooked on an authentic charcoal grill. There is also a kid’s menu with some different options for them to enjoy.
Tip for dining in Hobart: Book in advance for restaurants you would like to try as they often become quite busy (and fill quickly) even in off-peak times.
Day Trips from Hobart for Kids
As mentioned above there are many amazing things to do in Hobart. With the city being one of the main destinations in Tasmania it also makes for the perfect hub to discover the surrounding areas.
Tip: Most popular things to do around Hobart offer tours. These tours fill up quickly! If you would prefer to visit the surrounding areas on a tour book in advance. You don’t want to miss out on a fantastic Tasmanian experience.
You can find many of the top-rated day trips from Hobart here.
Richmond Tasmania
Distance – 30 minutes
The historic village of Richmond (which was once Tasmania’s 3rd largest town) is an easy 30-minute drive from Hobart. Richmond was established as a military staging post and convict station linking Hobart with Port Arthur. It is now a popular tourist destination famous for its galleries, tea shops, craft boutiques, and sweet shops that fill the historic Georgian buildings.
Things to do in Richmond Tasmania
- Visit the Sweets and Treats store to buy some delicious old-school lollies.
- Stroll over Australia’s oldest surviving stone arch bridge.
- Discover the areas of convict past at Richmond Gaol.
Tasman National Park
Distance – 1 hour
On your way to Port Arthur, take a short detour, and stop at Tasman Park Lookout. Join the many other tourists who stop to admire the views. The remarkable rock formations and towering sea cliffs that you can see in the distance soar some 300 metres high.
For a closer inspection drive into Eaglehawk Neck and visit the Tasman Blowhole. The other impressive geological wonders are known as Tasman’s Arch, and Devils Kitchen.
Things to do in Tasman National Park
- Tasman National Park has many walking tracks that show off the incredible coastline and natural scenery.
- See Tessellated Pavement – a natural phenomenon
Port Arthur Lavender Farm
Distance – 1 hour 17 minutes
The Port Arthur Lavender Farm is a family-owned business. Set on 18 acres it has been supplying visitors with a quality range of lavender products since 2014. A scenic drive from Hobart, the farm is open seven days and is free to enter.
The lavender flowers are in peak bloom from December through to February. Opening times change based on the season, so visit their website before the trip. While at the farm, enjoy a meal at their café. Offering savoury and sweet delights, with many options featuring their hero ingredient – lavender.
Things to do at Port Arthur Lavender Farm
- Try handmade lavender products.
- Indulge in lavender ice creams.
- Take a free, self-guided tour that describes the lavender farming process.
Port Arthur Historical Site
Distance – 1 hour 25 minutes
If you are after an insightful history lesson, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed site of Port Arthur is a must-visit location. Walk around the 40 hectares of manicured grounds exploring the ruins. Learn about the lives of the inmates that passed through Port Arthur.
There are over 30 historical buildings to explore. Choose to visit these at your own pace or on a free guided walking tour. Once you explored the land join the Carnarvon Bay cruise. Hop aboard the comfortable boat that takes you around the Isle of the Dead. You can easily spend a full day or more at Port Arthur.
If you would like to know more about Port Arthur and what you can expect on your visit read here my full guide to a day trip to Port Arthur.
Click here to purchase tickets to Port Arthur.
Russell Falls
Distance – 1 hour 11 minutes
Russell Falls is within Mt Field National Park, a little over an hour from Hobart. It is one of the most photographed places in Tasmania, and many say the loveliest waterfall.
The visitor section near the main entrance is where you will find stunning walks through vegetation with some of the tallest trees in the world. This is also where you access the falls 1.4 km circuit. It’s an easy track through the lush rainforest and is suitable to reach for those with strollers. After this point, the track has many stairs.
Practical Information: You will need to buy a parking pass for entry into the national park. There are hefty fines if you are caught without one. The money raised from the fees goes directly toward the upkeep of the parks and reserves.
Bruny Island
Distance – 1 hour 50 minutes
One of Tasmania’s sort after and best destinations for spectacular bushwalks, incredible produce, beach strolls, and picturesque natural scenery is Bruny Island.
Choose to explore on a self-drive day trip to Bruny Island or book a tour like this one. This tour includes lunch and visits some of the popular sights on the island. If you want to stay overnight there are various accommodation options from camping to Airbnb accommodation.
Things to do on Bruny Island
- Climb the stairs to the viewing area at “The Neck” and witness the 360-degree views of Bruny Island.
- Travel to the most southern point to Bruny Lighthouse
- Taste the delicious fresh produce including oysters, cheese, and honey.
Read More: A Bruny Island Day Trip Guide from Hobart
Hobart is one of our favourite cities to visit and I hope you found this guide useful. If you need any further inspiration or help with your Tasmania adventures be sure to check out some other articles. Such as this East Coast Tasmania itinerary the best places in Tasmania to visit with kids and the top day trips from Hobart.
Do you have any questions about Hobart? Ask in the comments below.
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