The 13 best things to do in Launceston

What is it? A 5km urban reserve of bushland and cliffs with walking trails for visitors of all experience levels, located just a 15-minute walk from the city centre along the North Esk River.

Why go? Looking for a bit of fresh air and greenery after exploring the CBD? Hit the trail on either the beginner-friendly Cataract Walk or the more advanced (and steep) Zig Zag Track. If you're not much of a hiker, you can drive up to the First Basin car park where you can hop on the world's longest single-span chairlift. It spans 457 metres and offers spectacular views of the Gorge from 308 metres above. Visitors can also go for a dip in the outdoor swimming pool, enjoy a meal in the Gorge restaurant or settle on the lawns for a sunset picnic. Keep an eye out for the peacocks and pademelons who are waiting to pounce on your crumbs.  

What is it? Tasmania is home to several colonies of little penguins which, at just 40cm tall, are the smallest penguin species in the world. You can spot them on a Low Head small-group, sunset tour, which includes bookable bus transfers from Launceston.

Why go? Because it's absolutely adorable. This is a rewarding, but responsible way to enjoy seeing the fairy-sized black and white birds in one of Launceston's most charming seaside towns. The tour’s environmentally friendly approach ensures that the 4,000 or so penguins in the area are not disturbed as they waddle out of the water and into their burrows for the night. 

What is it? Australia’s largest regional museum featuring a planetarium, colonial art collection and blacksmith shop, along with an ongoing exhibition on the extinct Tasmanian tiger.

Why go? It's almost too good to be true, but this underrated museum is free of charge. The QVMAG is split across two sites with the Museum at Inveresk dedicated to natural science and history, and the Art Gallery at Royal Park home to traditional and contemporary art. Over at Inveresk, you can gaze in wonder at the stars in the full-dome Planetarium, explore an old blacksmiths' shop and study the centrepiece wall map of Tasmania depicting the territories occupied by 57 known clans over more than 30,000 years of pre-colonial history. Meanwhile, at Royal Park, you can wander through interactive installations, Aboriginal art displays, photography exhibitions and the Guan Di Temple.

What is it? Hidden inside an original 1880s homestead on a 61-hectare vineyard, Josef Chromy offers one of Tasmania’s most memorable food and wine experiences. 

Why go? It’s rare to find a top-tier winery so close to an Australian city centre, but Josef Chromy estate is exactly that. With its minimal intervention methods, the winery sets the benchmark in cool climate winemaking and is particularly renowned for its exemplary Tasmanian sparkling wines, which have a signature Granny Smith apple acidity. Drive ten minutes from Launceston city for an afternoon at the cellar door where you can sample a flight of four wines, followed by an immersive two-course lunch at the seasonally-driven restaurant.

What is it? Feast your eyes on up to 80 stalls brimming with Tasmania’s freshest seasonal produce at this wholesome community farmers’ market, held every Saturday morning from 8.30am. 

Why go? Here, you'll be able to savour locally roasted coffees, along with ciders, craft beers, meads and drops from local distilleries. Sample your way through award-winning dairy products from the likes of Elgaar Farm and Red Cow Organics, and take home some homemade preserves, premium produce, artisan bread and pastries. Don’t be shy about tasting.

What is it? An intimate fine eatery and boutique seven-room accommodation overlooking the kanamaluka / River Tamar.

Why go? First built in the 1830s as a flour mill and water supplier, this historical building at the mouth of the Cataract Gorge has gone on to become one of Launceston's premier destinations for fine dining and boutique accommodation. With a strong focus on sustainable local produce like Cape Grim beef, abalone and wallaby, it’s a firm local favourite as well as a national award winner. Co-owner Kim Seagram is also half of the Abel’s Gin team – a great excuse to kick off with a cocktail.

What is it? On the outskirts of Launceston, this wheelchair-friendly boardwalk weaves through the grasses and over footbridges along the kanamaluka / River Tamar. It’s a prime spot for bird enthusiasts, but keep your eyes peeled for other Aussie critters like reptiles, frogs, fish and creepy crawlies.

Why go?  If you're feeling under the feather (get it?), this peaceful boardwalk is just the ticket. You can spot about 60 bird species here, from ducks and black swans to egrets, cormorants, and swamp harriers. Pack a picnic for some stunning views down the Tamar Valley – and remember, no feeding the birds.

What is it? Tasmania’s craft beer scene has taken off in the last few years, but Saint John was one of the originals. At any one time, they offer up to 18 taps and more than 150 bottled beers, craft ciders, wines and top-shelf spirits.

Why go? Don’t be fooled by the industrial aesthetic: this is a super-friendly spot with bar staff who know their hops. The lunch and dinner menu leans on locally sourced, seasonal produce and it's delivered with a South American spin, including spicy chicken burgers, pulled lamb tacos and charcuterie boards (with vegan cheese available). Take note: the super crunchy fries are legendary.

What is it? The pinnacle event of Launceston’s arts and culture scene, packed with local gigs, family-friendly shows, literary chats, cabaret nights and dance performances. It happens every year in September.

Why go? Launnie comes alive with a kaleidoscope of colour, spectacular sounds and magical surprises for the city’s greatest arts and music festival. Shake off the winter blues with a boogie to the island’s best local beats, feast on local snacks and spirits, and be wowed by circus and cabaret performances.

What is it? A not-for-profit shop, exhibition space and home to Australia’s only museum collection of contemporary wood design.

Why go? For a short but sweet adventure, head to this modern design gallery dedicated to all things wood. It's been almost 50 years since Design Tasmania opened, and they've since acquired more than 80 pieces, giving them bragging rights to the largest public collection of contemporary wood design in Australia. From weaving workshops to pop-up galleries and a gift shop of locally crafted items, this is a special opportunity to appreciate the work of top designers and artisans working with amazing (and rare) types of wood.

What is it? A whole new way of seeing Tasmania’s beautiful forests. This 2.5-hour tour takes you through the treetops via zipline, making your way from platform to platform up to 50 metres above the forest floor.

Why go? This is the perfect way to combine spectacular scenery with a thrill-seeking experience. To really up the ante, pair your zipline adventure with one of Hollybank's other experiences, including an off-road Segway adventure, ropes course or mountain biking.

What is it? Much more than just a green space, City Park is the beating heart of Launceston, hosting events and festivals almost year-round. If you’ve got tired feet, explore the park via the miniature railway.

Why go? In addition to mature trees and shrubs, flower displays, a beautiful conservatory and a sense garden, the park is home to an enclosure of macaque monkeys – a gift from Launceston’s sister city Ikeda City in Japan.

What is it? With its numerous antique shops, car boot sales and auction houses, Tasmania is an absolute paradise for second-hand fans. Tulloch’s is one of the best, selling fine art, antiques, jewellery, collector cars and quality general goods.

Why go? Browse the Tullochs showroom and then sign up for an online or in-room auction, and you might find yourself leaving Tasmania with anything from a collection of pottery marbles, an old enamel advertising board or a 1980s DeLorean.