Hobart Tourist Attractions

If you're looking for an undiscovered corner of the world that offers a unique cultural and culinary experience, then look no further than Hobart. Located at the base of Mount Wellington in southern Tasmania, Hobart is Australia's second oldest city and a charming hidden gem waiting to be explored. From historic convict-built buildings to the breathtaking natural beauty of Bruny Island, and from nature reserve & aquarium, to a hillside castle or palace, there is something to enjoy for everyone in Hobart.

Tourist Attractions in Hobart's City Centre

Hobart's city centre is as much of a treasure trove for tourist attractions as the surrounding areas. From historical buildings and museums to beautiful parks, there is no shortage of exciting sights in downtown Hobart. Whether you are looking for cultural experiences or a bit of relaxing by the river, there is something to appeal to all tastes within Hobart’s city limits.

The most renowned downtown attraction is St David’s Cathedral. This Anglican cathedral was built in 1874 and boasts an impressive Gothic-style facade with its high towers and intricate design – it is well worth a visit. Other unmissable landmarks include Anglesea Barracks, the government house complete with manicured gardens, the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens and St George’s Anglican Church. These age-old buildings serve to remind visitors of Hobart’s rich history and culture.

If you prefer more activities than just sightseeing, then you won't be disappointed in downtown Hobart either. Salamanca Market is one of Australia's oldest and most iconic markets, and there you can find handmade arts and crafts by local artisans and stalwart artisan street food stalls which serve up some delicious eats from around the world. The docks along Elizabeth Street Pier offer ferry rides for passengers seeking the waterfront experience and the daytrips are sure to be memorable. Finally, Constitution Dock is home to wonderful walking trails that bring hikers with stunning views of the River Derwent along with quaint cafes and restaurants.

No matter what kind of holiday experience you are after, Hobart's City Centre has something to offer everyone - both locals and tourists alike! With so much on offer here, it would be foolish not to come explore the many incredible offerings Hobart has available within its city limits. But why limit yourself to only what the city centre provides? Embarking on a tour of some of Hobart's historic sites will take your journey even further.

The Historic Sites

Following from the city centre attractions in Hobart, many historic sites are located close by. History buffs may be tempted to explore some of these sites, as they boast fascinating stories and tales of the city's past citizens.

On one hand, some may argue that these sites don't make the most interesting tourist destinations due to the lack of interactivity offered. However, evidence shows that travel today can offer learning experiences away from traditional classrooms or museums. And in this regard, some might argue that Hobart's historic sites provide a prime example of how travel can open minds to different cultures and contexts.

From the convict halls at Cascades Female Factory Historic Site to Battery Point Historic Village, there is no shortage of ways to traverse back in time within Hobart. The Craigbourne Complex, Tasmanian Transport Museum and Anglesea Barracks are also popular venues for history buffs seeking unique perspectives into the city's sense of place.

Exploring these sites will take visitors on an educational journey, encouraging them to reflect on past generations before shifting their attention to incredible modern attractions such as the Royal Botanical Gardens and Zoo - one of Hobart's most treasured destinations.

Royal Botanical Gardens and Zoo

Tropical flowers and exotic animals – these are just two of the things visitors will find at Royal Botanical Gardens and Zoo. The Gardens, established in 1818, are home to over 100 species of plants and trees. From native and exotic conifers to colourful orchids, these gardens provide a beautiful backdrop for photos or a peaceful stroll. The nearby zoo is home to many rare and threatened species of Tasmanian wildlife, such as the Tasmanian devil and bettong, as well as some Australian favourites like kangaroos and wallabies. In addition to viewing the flora and fauna onsite, visitors can sign up for educational walks or lectures provided by experienced tour guides that cover topics from bird spotting to plant identification.

Royal Botanical Gardens and Zoo have something for everyone – whether you’re looking for an interactive learning experience or just a quiet walk with some furry friends. With attractions that range from historic monuments to vibrant gardens and wild animals, Hobart truly has it all. As we move on to exploring other ways to enjoy Hobart, let's consider how activities outside the city centre offer yet another look into this renowned destination.

Out & About in Hobart

Having explored the wondrous natural attractions of Hobart, such as the Royal Botanical Gardens and Zoo, it’s time to get out and explore some of what the city has to offer. Transportation around Hobart is fantastic, making it easy for visitors to get to and from attractions, hotels and so on. Hobart is home to a variety of cafes, restaurants, and shopping for visitors to indulge in. With plenty of options for every budget, taste, and style, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking for a great place for breakfast or lunch, a visit to The Drunken Admiral – an old-fashioned bar downstairs with a delicious spread of homemade pastries and pancakes – is just the ticket. For something more upscale, The Peacock & Jones is a great seafood restaurant located on the waterfront with stunning views of the Harbour.

For shopping enthusiasts, Elizabeth Street Mall in Hobart’s CBD is a great spot. It boasts more than 60 stylish stores, offering everything from handcrafted souvenirs to high-end fashion brands. Visitors can also explore the exhibition centres at Salamanca Place and Constitution Wharf which are both packed with unique finds perfect as memorabilia.

During the warmer summer months in particular, visitors can take full advantage of the picturesque views along the waterfront deck stretching from Brooke Street Pier to Sullivans Cove. Here you can simply relax by absorbing panoramic views of Mount Wellington or take part in watersports activities.

With plenty of things to see and do in Hobart, it’s easy to plan an exciting and eventful trip that suits your style and budget. However, if you're after panoramic views or beach walks that a sea-side view can provide then head off away from the city centre towards golden beaches and viewpoints for an unforgettable experience - next up on our exploration of Hobart!

Beaches and Viewpoints

Continuing the exploration of Hobart, the pristine beaches and mystical vista viewpoints in the city must not be overlooked. With some of the most picturesque natural scenery on offer in Australia, it’s no surprise that beaches and viewpoints are a highlight of a visit to Hobart.

Of course, the popular beach destinations in town include Battery Point Beach, Sandy Bay Beach, and Long Beach. There’s also Doctor’s Cove up north for those who don’t mind a drive away from town and facing rough seas. The beautiful Meehan Range further north provides one of the best panoramic views across Hobart.

If you stay in central Hobart, many locals recommend taking a quick afternoon drive to Mount Nelson Lookout for spectacular views over the Derwent River and sandstone cottages located around town. Other noteworthy sights include Cascade Brewery near South Hobart and Blackman’s Bay along Kingston. Pack up some lunch or dinner to enjoy while soaking up your special moment at any of these stunning locations!

From prominent beaches to broad-reaching visual offerings, there’s something for everyone when it comes to exploring Hobart’s coasts and vistas. Next on our exploration is finding exciting creatures and important historical sites – so let's press on!

Wildlife Parks and Cemeteries

After exploring the various beaches and expansive viewpoints of Hobart, take a journey to explore the city's beautiful wildlife parks and incredible cemeteries. From scenic seaside havens, to serene mountain-top sanctuaries, Hobart has something for everyone.

At Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, visitors can explore the diversity of Australia’s native wildlife as they wander around idyllic lakes and picturesque hillsides. There’s also plenty of opportunity to feed kangaroos and koalas under supervised care, making it popular destination for wildlife lovers from near and far.

Hobart's cemeteries are laid out much like nature reserves; offering really unique insights into the area's local flora & fauna. Spend an afternoon walking through the gardens of Cornelian Bay Memorial Park or appreciate the majestic grandeur of Queenborough Cemetery from its lookout point. Whether you're looking for contemplative solitude or an opportunity to learn a little more about Hobart's history, these tranquil spaces are sure to provide something special.

From remote gardens and forests to panoramic lookouts and engaging wildlife encounters, Hobart offers up a diverse range of tourist attractions in its parks, reserves and cemeteries. Don’t forget your camera as there is not shortage of exciting moments waiting to be forever captured! We can't forget about the choppy waters and stunning coastal views that serve as the backdrop to Hobart's dockside activities either - the next section will offer some insight into those attractions too!

Dockside Activities in Hobart

When it comes to dockside activities, Hobart offers plenty of exciting options. Visitors can take a guided cruise along the Derwent River, which provides not just beautiful views of the city but also the opportunity to see some of the rare wildlife that inhabit the Hobart area. Alternatively, visitors could opt for a more relaxed kayaking trip with some friends or family and explore more off-the-beaten path places in the city such as Battery Point, Castray Esplanade, Montagu Bay or Bellerive Beach.

On the other hand, those looking for a unique adventure may want to check out one of the diving sites located around Hobart - Whale Point, Pirates Lookout and Macquarie Wharf are all popular places for divers. These diving sites provide abundant marine life and fantastic underwater landscapes for divers to explore. For landlubbers feeling adventurous enough, there are also land dive tours available in Hobart that will bring you close to ocean animals such as seals and sea lions.

No matter what type of dock activity visitors undertake during their stay in Hobart, they’re sure to have a great time while discovering some amazing sights. With these many options to choose from, tourists can find something that fits their needs and interests perfectly as they explore this thriving city. And now that we’ve discussed some fun activities to get involved in on Hobart’s docksides, let us look at where tourists can go in order to find a delicious bite to eat in the city.

Restaurants in Hobart For Tourists

When it comes to dining in Hobart, tourists have no shortage of options. From fine dining to casual eateries and everything in between, the city’s restaurants offer something for everyone. With its diverse cuisine, Hobart provides visitors with an opportunity to explore all kinds of local and international flavors.

The first place to start is with the traditional Tasmanian seafood that is found on many restaurant menus. Hobart’s location right on the waterfront makes it easy to find all types of fresh seafood dishes, including locally-caught salmon, rock lobster, crab, and more. The local seafood is also often paired with top-notch wines from genuine Tasmanian wineries, making these meals truly special.

If seafood isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other options too. Fine dining establishments offer up fusion menus filled with Asian, European and local flavors, while casual eateries serve up hearty pub food and classic coffeehouse fare. Many places focus on using locally sourced ingredients in their dishes for a unique flavor that reflects the area’s terroir. For those who aren’t feeling too adventurous, international-style restaurants provide something more familiar.

Whether you are looking for a romantic dinner or a quick lunch break between sightseeing excursions, Hobart has some fantastic dining spots for tourists. Eating in the city is an excellent way to sample some of Tasmania's unique flavors and immerse yourself in the culture of the area.