Top 12 Must Do Launceston
When In Launceston
With Tamar Valley just a stones' throw from our doorstep, Launceston is a wine lovers' dream and a foodie paradise. While you probably have your trip planned out step for step & eat by eat, here are our 'Top 12 Must Do Launceston'.
Cataract Gorge
Experience the magnificent Cataract Gorge just 15 minutes’ walk from the centre of the city. Take a ride on the world’s longest single-span chairlift that delivers stunning views of the Gorge and cliff grounds. If time permits, stop for a coffee or take a ‘Gorgeous Guided Walk’ with local experts. There are many scenic walking tracks suitable for all levels of fitness, Victorian gardens to look at and if you’re lucky you can meet the famed resident peacocks.
Seaport Precinct
Wander the boardwalk along the Seaport Precinct, which is home to high-class award winning restaurants & unassuming casual family dining experiences. Seaport is promenade along the Tamar and North East rivers, taking in great views upstream to the Cataract Gorge and the landmark of Richie’s Flour Mill (Circa 1836). The bustling marina is filled with locals’ yachts and boats which add to the perfect waterfront scenery.
City Park
Amble through City Park, named by Trip Advisor as one of the top 10 parks in Australia. The park was established in the 19th century, located in the heart of Launceston’s CBD and features mature trees, flower displays, Japanese Macaque monkeys, children’s playground, the John Hart conservatory, duck pond, and senses garden. Marvel at the grandeur of the Albert Hall, located on the western edge of this historic parkland.
A Scenic River Cruise To Remember
Cruise the rivers aboard the ‘Lady Launceston’ absorbing the rugged beauty of the Gorge’s sheer cliffs and wide landscape along the Tamar. Sail past historical King's Wharf, and the city’s vibrant Riverside Precinct.
Immerse Yourself In The Bustling Arts, History & Theatre Scene
Did you think Port Arthur and MONA were Tasmania's only hype-worthy treasures? Then it will be a shock to you that Launceston's Arts & Theatre scene is one rivalled by no other. Whether you're a lover of local theatre, design enthusiast or want to learn about Tasmania's history you won't be disappointed - we have compiled a few places to get you started.
Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery
Expand your mind at the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, Australia’s largest regional museum. With two sites, QVMAG houses national colonial pieces, contemporary craft and design, Tasmanian history and natural sciences.
Displaying an impressive range of exhibitions from a preserved railway workshop to an Australia’s most exciting interactive science centre; Phenomena Factory – you won’t be disappointed.
Princess Theatre & The Earl Arts Centre
Experience the magic of Launceston's theatre scene, with the greatly cherished Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra & local theatre company's treading the boards.
The Design Centre Tasmania
Be inspired by The Design Centre Tasmania, located on the edge of City Park and home of the Tasmanian Wood Design collection amongst a handful of great exhibitions held annually.
National Automobile Museum
Zoom into the National Automobile Museum located just opposite the City Park and view an impressive collection of vintage and contemporary vehicles. Wander amongst the opulent and elegant Rolls-Royce, Bentley’s, Mercedes-Benz and Jaguars.
Experience The Local Produce At Harvest Markets
A trip to Launceston without exploring its food scene would be a travesty and one without visiting Harvest Market would border on a crime.
The food fair and culture at this market is rivaled by no other - boasting a very strong community you can find local produce in every nook.
Hosted every Saturday morning, enjoy the live music, the spirit of the volunteers and some of Tasmania's best produce.
If you're staying at Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston during your stay, you will be happy to hear this one is a swift walk across the road.
Cradle Mountain ![]()
Possibly one of the most Instagrammed destinations in Tasmania. Whilst this alpine landscape isn't in Launceston - it is just west of our beautiful city, with many transportation services available from our hotel. With majestic rugged peaks, wildlife and a variety of walking tracks this is one marvel you don't want to leave off your list.
James Boags
Who is James Boags? ‘The Boags Centre of Beer Lovers’ is the logical place to discover his true identity. Take a guided tour of the Boags Brewery and learn about the key elements of their traditional brewing process and taste award-winning beers.
UTAS Stadium
The home to the Hawthorn Football Club, catch a Tiger Bus down and catch a game of AFL or summer cricket and join in the excitement at Tasmania’s largest stadium.
A must see when visiting Launceston, this world-class venue hosts a range of entertainment and sporting events.
Embark on one of Launceston's Famous Ghost Tours
Believe in Ghosts? Be enthralled as you meander down the dark alleyways of Launceston. Listen to the stories and secrets of buildings and sites on an intriguing Launceston Ghost Tour after dark.
Championship Golf & Fly Fishing; Launceston has it all
Sport – Maybe it’s not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Launceston, but it’s definitely not because we’re lacking. In a city of abundance, where you can go abseiling in the Gorge or kayaking in the Tamar it’s hard to nail down what you will choose to do. Here are our suggestions:
Fishing fanatic?
Launceston has been crowned as the river fishing capital of Tasmania and it’s not hard to see why. Some of Australia’s most famous rivers are just 25 minutes from our front door with Brumbys creek South & North Esk, St Patrick’s river, meander & Mersey rivers some would say it’s more than a capital, but a dream.
With the World Fly Fishing Championships 2019, enthusiasts from around the world are flocking to the waters of Launceston. So on your next trip, we suggest you reel your fishing boots and see what the fuss is about.
Want a guided tour? Click here
Golfing for the pro & the socialite
Whether you’re a professional, socialite or a beginner there is a golfing trip for you.
Home to Lost Farm and 7 championship golf courses, it would be hard to resist a day on the green while in Launceston.
The Tamar Valley Wine Region
If there is one place on this list that has something for everybody, the Tamar Valley is it.
Famous for its wine route with 32 vineyards along 170 kilometres of beautiful scenery. The wine isn’t the only treasure to be desired. You can expect to find great food through the valley cafes and restaurants showcasing the local talent. The kids will enjoy the likes of Grindelwald, Seahorse World & Platypus House.
With notable heavy hitting wine producers such as Tamar Valley Wines & Josef Chromy, you could easily spend a day or a lifetime exploring its twists and turns.
Check out our Top 10 Must Do’s when visiting the Tamar Valley here.