Famed for its riverside location, panoramic views, long history and eclectic art scene, Launceston is an absolute dream location for thrill seekers and history buffs alike.
There are so many ways to soak up the beauty and culture of this Tasmanian city. If you’re planning an adventure in Launceston, be sure to squeeze a few of these fun activities in your itinerary.
Vendor at Harvest Market. Image: Tourism Australia.
Harvest Market Launceston
Held every Saturday morning, the Launceston Community Harvest Market (or ‘Harvest’ to the locals) brings the best local produce to the heart of the city. Here you can find wine, beer, cheese, bread, baked goods, and all sorts of delicious goodies from local makers. It’s an essential part of the community in Launceston, and with over 50 stalls, it’s a great way to sample the diversity and flavours of northern regional produce.
The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG). Image: Tourism Australia
Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery
The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG) is the cultural hub of Launceston and a leading destination for art, history and natural sciences in Northern Tasmania. The collection has been in the making since 1942, featuring dinosaurs, native Tasmanian species, convict history, artefacts from Australia’s oldest shipwreck, the Phenomena Factory and the Launceston Planetarium.
Launceston City Park. Image: Nick H Visuals
Launceston City Park
Launceston City Park is one of the oldest parks in Australia, with a long and fascinating history dating back to the 1800s. This lush and beautiful parkland features mature trees and shrubs, a display of annual flowers, the John Hart Conservatory, a duck pond, senses garden, monuments, chess board, historic Albert Hall, barbeque area and a children’s playground. It is perhaps most well known for its Japanese Macaque monkey enclosure, which ties back to the long tradition of displaying exotic animals in the park.
James Boag Brewery. Image: Nick H Visuals
James Boag’s Brewery Tour
Spend the afternoon exploring one of Launceston’s hottest tourist attractions. The James Boag Brewery is packed with fascinating history, dating back to the 1840s. Learn about the process from grain to glass on a guided tour and finish up with a tasting session at the James Boag bar. You can also grab a bite to eat after the tour, peruse the museum and grab a souvenir from the gift shop.
Take a cruise with Tamar River Cruises. Image: Tourism Tasmania & Dominic Zeng
Cruise through Tamar Valley and Cataract Gorge
Looking for a serene way to spend an afternoon in Launceston? Jump aboard this fine vessel and soak up the stunning views as you explore the Launceston riverfront precinct, into Cataract Gorge and on towards Tamar Island. Spot historic buildings, churches and gorgeous homesteads as you make your way to the Batman Bridge. This four-hour cruise includes morning tea, a light lunch, fruit and cheese platter and Tasmania beer and wine tasting. A truly relaxing, gourmet experience!
Saddle up and explore Mersey Valley. © RedBalloon
Horse trail ride in Mersey Valley
Get out of the city for the day and explore Tasmania’s stunning Mersey Valley on horseback. From eucalypt forests to sprawling farmland, both beginners and expert horseback riders will enjoy this gentle trot through the hinterland. Keep an eye out for wallabies and platypus along the way. You’ll be accompanied by an expert guide who will share the stories behind the spectacular landscape.
Where to stay?
The Best Western Plus Launceston is an ideally located hotel on Earl Street in the heart of the city – just minutes away from the city’s main shopping strip, The Mall, as well as restaurants, cafes and theatres.
The hotel also boasts a fantastic in-house restaurant and the iconic Tram Bar which contains a Circa 1911 Launceston Tram. If you feel like staying in, you can also order from the hotel’s 24-hour room service menu.
Other great attractions such as the famous Launceston Gorge and picnic grounds, Boag’s Brewery and Launceston City Park are also all within walking distance.
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