Filled with picturesque scenery and indulgent experiences, the little island of Tasmania holds so many gems that even the most avid travellers have yet to fully explore and appreciate the many delights first-hand. There are simply so many things to do in Tasmania!
Visiting with the family? Prepare yourself for nature trails, beaches, must-eat foods, and a whole lot of fun! Here are the top 10 things we would definitely recommend for families that are visiting Tasmania:
Tip from tour guide
In Tasmania, adventure trails and treats come in the form of spectacular native landscapes, quiet trails of discovery, and local treats. Whether you have a sweet tooth or are a savoury lover, the region will have you covered. Look out for local boutique wine and spirits, artisan cheese and chocolate platters or local orchards' seasonal fruits throughout your visit!
Also, for an unforgettable journey, you can go on a private multi-day wilderness and whiskey walk in the region. It's a great chance to witness the untamed wilderness, indulge in a delectable local gourmet lunch, and partake in exclusive visits to renowned distilleries or wineries.
1. Find yourself at the bottom of the world (from 96.97 USD)
One of the big-ticket tourist spots in Tasmania, visiting Port Arthur and its vicinity can earn you the title of ‘Visitor of the Bottom of the World’. Truly a sensory wonderland, there is plenty to look at and explore in Port Arthur.
The Tasman Arch is a testament to the power of nature, as its rugged geological formation edges the sea and makes for a wonderful photo. It is also a pretty sturdy look-out point and can be the place where your kids can SnapChat those views to make their followers jealous.
Otherwise, drive to the Maingon Bay Lookout where the sun beats down on the emerald clear blue sea, highlighting the landscape of the coastline and illuminating the depth of the water.
Port Arthur
Price: from 96.97 USD
Duration: around 8 hours required
Website:
2. Pig out at Burger Haus
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Definitely a huge hit with many kids, the Burger Haus is usually popular with the parents too!
Generally crowded during peak hours, it’s a testament to the deliciousness of the food served here; it is a good sign that others also can appreciate the flawlessness of this burger in terms of taste.
With interesting combinations and names like the Mary’s Lamb Burger, it is no wonder that this place is a hotspot for locals looking to sink their teeth into some decadent delights. When you’ve finished your burger and think it’s time to go, don’t forget to order one of their shakes that are on the last page of the menu; you know you want to top off your experience with something sweet!
Both burgers were delicious and although very messy to eat, that was part of the fun. Prepare to wait for a seat on a busy night. We waited 20 mins on Tuesday night. The Ferrero Rocher shake was like a dessert. DecJKT
The Burger Haus
Address: 364A Elizabeth Street, Hobart, Tasmania 7000
Opening Hours: Sun - Wed (11.30 am - 9 pm), Thurs (11.30 am - 9.30 pm), Fri - Sat (11.30 am - 10 pm)
Duration: around 1 hour required
Contact: +6162349507
Website: The Burger Haus
3. See a Tasmanian Devil up close
Despite their cute looks and mini bear-like form, these carnivorous marsupials are nowhere near angels. Tasmanian Devils grow to a similar size as a small dog, and they are fierce to strangers when threatened. It is a tradition for visitors to look for one of these and capture a good shot of them running around in the wild as they are only found on the Australian island of Tasmania.
Like the well-loved koala bears of mainland Australia, the Tasmanian Devil is a local pride and joy. However, due to poaching and fighting amongst the species, these little guys are dwindling in numbers, so, if you get a chance to visit down-under, make sure you catch one of these little creatures zipping around the countless wildlife parks in Tasmania.
4. Feel on top of the world at Mount Wellington
One of the top spots (literally and figuratively!) in Tasmania, this attraction is always full of surprises.
During the winter period, its pearly-white snow-capped mountains lure travellers from Hobart (the capital city of Tasmania) to get involved in winter spots. But it is no less desirable to trek up the mountains in the summer season because the picturesque snow scenery gives way to lush greenery and perfect grounds for hiking.
Mount Wellington is an ideal distance from the capital city and is also a great spot to catch glimpses of the little white boats bobbing in the rivers and seas nearby. There are many ways to get to Wellington Park, the park that sits atop the mountains, but Pinnacle Road is the only road with vehicle access to the summit, so get your gears ready to zoom off for those views.
The observation deck is perfect for evening visits to admire the beautiful panoramic scenes of the city. Be well-prepared for the journey up and beyond with a good pair of walking shoes and the best camera you have. After all, you will surely want to share such amazing views with those you love, right?!
The whole family can enjoy active adventures in the great outdoors all throughout the year at Mount Wellington.
Mount Wellington
Price: No entry fee
Opening Hours: Daily from 8 am - 8 pm
Duration: around 5 hours required
Contact: 03 6238 2176
Website: Mount Wellington
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Tasmania Tour Guide
Ben Andrews
Hello, You found me. First of all i am a father of three healthy adventurous boys and a happy wife. The love and passion for adventuring was installed in me by my patients. They gave me a diverse experience all over the world, from extensive bushwalking adventures, cultural immersion, education and relationships . This has taken me to many explorations amongst the tourism industry, outdoor ... Read more
Tours by Ben
5. Enjoy the emerald waters at Wineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park
Like many other spots in Tasmania, Wineglass Bay is one of those natural hotspots that will just make you go ‘Wow’. Its natural emerald-coloured waters make you wonder where have such beaches been all your life. The coast is flanked by rock walls and red rocks, which make the pristine beaches look even better than in the photos.
The bushes surrounding the area are home to Tasmanian Devils, wallabies, and other creatures that roam in the wild. So if you’re lucky, you might spot some of these native animals. Offshore, there are seals, bottlenose dolphins, and whales if you feel like doing some sea-watching. Children are sure to be delighted by the wildlife.
About 3 hours’ drive from Hobart, Wineglass Bay is a comfortable drive away for some great scenery and good wildlife-spotting opportunities. Not to mention, you can relax on the stunning beaches whilst your kids run around and have fun!
Wineglass Bay
Address: Coles Bay Rd, Coles Bay TAS 7215, Australia
Duration: around 3 hours required
Contact: +61 3 6256 7000
Website: Wineglass Bay
6. Run through the lavender fields at Bridestowe Estate
If you’re visiting Tasmania at the beginning of the year, you’re in luck!
The purple fields that bloom in early January to February make for picture-perfect shots and smell heavenly at the same time. The vivid hues and strong scents cannot fail to appeal to your children’s imaginations. These impressive-looking lavender fields are open to the public, so be sure to check out the website to stay up to date on the blooming periods!
The vibrant purple makes the scene so beautiful you will be tempted to capture it with your camera, but really, nothing beats seeing it first hand. Nevertheless, make sure you get some great snaps of your little ones frolicking in the bright purple all around. Rows and rows of lavender bushes fill the land. It makes for a perfect afternoon of walking or even a picnic, often a firm favourite with kids, amongst the nice-smelling lavender.
One of the main highlights of taking a trip to the lavender fields is the expert knowledge of the staff on culinary lavender. Whilst one of the most common uses for lavender is to make scents, Bridestowe Estate uses lavender for many different things. Have you ever thought about adding lavender to your cooking? From lavender brownies to tubs of ice-cream and fudge, the cafe showcases how culinary lavender is used by blending it with other edible ingredients. Treat the family to some tasty and unusual treats!
Bridestowe Estate
Address: 296 Gillespies Road, Nabowla, Tasmania Australia
Opening Hours: May - August, 10 am - 4 pm. September - April, 9 am - 5 pm. Closed on Christmas Day
Duration: around 5 hours required
Contact: +61 3 63528182
Website: Bridestowe Estate
7. Hopscotch along the Tessallated Pavement
The Eaglehawk Neck Tessellated Pavement in Tasmania is an odd-looking coastal feature that looks like you can play hopscotch on it … and live to tell the tale!
The carvings are not only formed naturally, but they are also fractured in specific formations that make them look like paving tiles. Such a unique-looking pattern can only be seen after years of water erosion by the high tides.
This phenomenon can be found on the strip of land that connects the Tasman Peninsula to the mainland of Tasmania. Considering the rarity of such a phenomenon, it would be great to let the kids explore and take as many photos as they like.
Best caught during sunset or sunrise, these little squares reflect the setting / rising sun and form lovely light patterns along the entire strip.
Eaglehawk Neck
Website: Eaglehawk Neck
8. Hunt for cute wild wombats
One of Tasmania’s most well-known attractions, it is great to be mainstream and visit Cradle Mountain National Park. There is a variety of day walks for visitors who are looking for a good hike. Alternatively, you can try out the multi-day trek if you’re feeling up to it!
Climb Marion’s Lookout for the best views of the area. Otherwise, Hanson’s Peak is another great lookout with much less hype and more of a local’s perspective. If the entire family is here in Tasmania, you could even splurge on a private helicopter ride to take in the breathtaking views.
Cradle Mountain
Address: Weindorfers Tower, Cradle Mountain TAS 7306, Australia
Duration: around 5 hours required
Website: Cradle Mountain
9. Admire tulips galore at Table Cape
Remember how visiting the Bridestowe Estate lavender fields is best in the early part of the year? Don’t be disappointed if you missed that flower festival, instead look out for tulips galore in October.
Table Cape Tulip Farm is truly iconic of Tasmania and it is situated just on the north-west coast. Admire the views of the flowers as you walk through the fields of multi-coloured flora, or take the lavish option and book a 15-minute joy ride with the local helicopter operator to see the fields from a bird’s eye view.
The land the farm sits on is actually an extinct volcanic vent and viewing this attraction not only enriches your Tasmanian experience but also makes for lovely pictures and memories. Bring the kids to this location for one of the most unique experiences around and it is sure not to disappoint!
Just make sure the dates of your travel coincide with the blooming periods of these lovely flowers and you’re guaranteed to have a great time!
Table Cape Tulip Farm
Address: 363 Table Cape Rd, Wynyard, Tasmania
Duration: around 3 hours required
Contact: +61 3 64 422 012
Website: Table Cape Tulip Farm
10. Be amazed at the Southern Lights
Everybody’s going gaga over the Northern Lights, but relatively few know about the Southern Lights.
Equally as mesmerising and charming as their famous big brother, the Southern Lights makes for one of the best pictures to take in Tasmania. Star-gaze in the peaceful environment and teach the kids to join the little dots in the night sky.
There are plenty of places in Australia to go view to stars but to see the wondrous Southern Lights, Tasmania is the best spot to head to. With its vast skies and unpolluted air, it is the perfect Australian destination to see the Aurora Australis.
Check out the following places if you’re interested in catching this phenomenon happen before your very eyes:
Cradle Mountain
This region has one of the best natural landscapes around and is one of Tasmania’s most popular parks. With the help of a caravan, visit Cradle Mountain on a clear night for an unblocked view of the Southern Lights.
Eaglehawk Neck
One of the more popular spots to see the Southern Lights, this small coastal town is about 76 kilometres (47 miles) from Hobart and offers great opportunities to see the Aurora Australia.
Appearing in a multitude of colours, the lights make their appearance in pink, yellow, and green.
Howrah
A lesser-known place to spot the Southern Lights, Howrah is a small suburb of Clarence and a short drive across the Derwent River from the city centre.
Best seen during the month of September, it is recommended to use an interactive astronomy guide to catch the entire Aurora in action along with the Milky Way in view.
Experience tranquility
An all-natural experience in Tasmania is what you need if you want to take a break from work or school or just enjoy a simple holiday to recharge. Filled with activities that will satisfy all, children and adults alike, Tasmania is definitely a must-visit for families.
Tasmania: welcome to a different side of Australia!
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