If you are finally going to Tasmania and need to know what to see in Launceston, we have great news for you. The city combines nature and architecture like no other place in Australia. So if you are into breathtaking scenery and culture, you made the right choice.
Launceston is in a basin with nature all around. Some of the greatest natural spots in Tasmania are nearby. Nature lovers will enjoy the epic views and things to do outdoors, like hiking, biking, and seeing wildlife. You can also check out old buildings, museums, and art galleries to learn about the city’s history.
The city is famous around Australia for its nice parks and gardens. Its Central Business District feels calm and welcoming. You’ll find all types of stores, coffee places, eateries, and bars. In fact, Launceston is today a food lover’s paradise. You will eat delicious Australian and international cuisine.
Best Places to Visit in Launceston
Cataract Gorge Reserve
Cataract Gorge is the main reason why Launceston is worth visiting, even more than once. No other city in Australia has such an amazing natural beauty next to its center. You can walk from the CBD to the gorge in approximately half an hour. You won’t believe your eyes.
The gorge is a natural wonder with steep cliffs and a river. Lush vegetation surrounds walking trails, and a suspension bridge offers stunning views. The chairlift provides a scenic ride. It’s a beautiful spot with unique rock formations and lush flora. There’s a pool where you can swim and paddle boat in the summer.
There are cute kangaroos and other marsupials hopping inside the gorge. You can trek for hours through nature. The most popular trek takes approximately 1.5 hours. Don’t exert yourself and walk at your own pace. We always stop for a bite and a glass of wine at The Basin Cafe, near the entrance.
Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery
Of all of the places to visit in Launceston our favorite is the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery. Who would have thought that the second biggest city in Tasmania had such a fantastic museum? The museum is in two spots: one at Inveresk and the other at Royal Park.
Both buildings, completed in the 19th Century, are as interesting as the art inside. The QVMAG features a large art collection, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. It showcases both local and international artists, spanning different periods. The Natural Sciences Collection exhibits specimens of Tasmanian flora and fauna, fossils and minerals.
Regarding history, the museum covers topics like colonial life, Indigenous heritage, and early exploration in Tasmania. The museum is the best place to learn about the Tasmanian Tiger. You will learn about its biology, history, and the challenges it faced leading to its extinction. Sad but fascinating stuff.
City Park
Our favorite green area in downtown Launceston is the City Park. The 37 acre (15 hectare) park is in the middle of the city. Everyone in the city visits the park to exercise, walk, socialize, picnic, and rest. That’s why it’s such a great place to experience local life.
The park has a super cool glasshouse showcasing a diverse range of plants and flowers. It’s named the John Hart Conservatory after a famous politician that died in 1909. Too bad nothing in the city is named after the original inhabitants of Tasmania, the people that protected and cared about nature.
In fact, there’s the Victoria Cross Memorial Fountain, commemorating recipients of the Victoria Cross. Makes you wonder. The Japanese Macaque Monkey Island inside the park homes macaque monkeys. As fun as it seems, we do not like caged animals. Better focus on the gorgeous birds that populate the park.
James Boag Brewery
Even if you are not into beer you must visit the James Boag Brewery. If you like beer, you’ll be in heaven. The brewery is in the center, one block from the City Park. It’s got a long history, dating back to 1881 when it was established by James Boag and his son.
Today, it’s one of Australia’s most renowned beer brands. You can take guided brewery tours to learn about the beer-making process, the history of the brewery, and enjoy tastings of James Boag’s premium beers. It’s also a tour about the history of Launceston and Tasmania.
The tour guides are local and excellent. You will have a ball and learn a lot about Tasmanian culture. We strongly recommend taking the tour, tasting the beer and having a bite in the garden. The small museum is free. The brewery holds local events all the time.
Design Tasmania
Art enthusiasts and architects must visit Design Tasmania, a lovely modern shop and gallery inside a historic building. The gorgeous white building is in the City Park. It was completed in 1896. Fully restored to its original glory, it homes an impressive collection of local arts and crafts.
The organization that runs the center was formed in 1976 and is connected to most of Australia’s museums and art centers. That’s why it constantly holds art programs and exhibits. One of us is an architect, and believes it’s one of the most unique buildings in the country.
It was originally a church. It got demolished and the Price Memorial House was erected. Local architects re-did the hall respecting the original design. The courtyard is gorgeous and features a very old and beautiful Chinese elm. The Albert Hall is meters from Design Tasmania. The 1891 building is now a concert venue.
National Automobile Museum of Tasmania
The National Automobile Museum of Tasmania is next to the River Bend Park, where the Tamar River and the North Esk River meet. It’s a lovely place with memorable views over both rivers and the city. You can walk to the museum from the center in approximately 20 minutes.
The collection inside the museum includes vintage cars and motorcycles, and new ones too. It also holds itinerary exhibits. It’s got a big souvenir shop. After or before visiting the museum, spend some time at the River Bend Park. It’s got games for kids and picnic areas.
History buffs will be happy to know that there’s a tram museum nearby. The Launceston Tramway Museum is housed in a historic locomotive roundhouse, which adds to the unique character of the venue. The roundhouse was built in the early 20th Century as part of the Inveresk Railyards.
The Town Hall and the Post Office
The Launceston Centenary Clock and Chimes is in the heart of the Central Business District, on the corner of Cameron and St. John Streets. It’s arguably the city’s most famous landmark. Construction began in 1901 to celebrate Launceston’s centenary. However, the clock was installed in 1909 and the tower completed in 1910.
The City of Launceston Visitor Center is inside the building. They’ve got lots of information on the city and Tasmania. The clock goes off every 15 minutes. Some of our local friends complain about the noise, we love it! The historic Post Office is next to the clock tower. It opened in 1890.
The Town Hall is in front of the clock tower. Tasmania’s most celebrated architect Peter Mills designed the Town Hall. Opened in 1867, it’s one of the oldest buildings in Tasmania. The building underwent renovations and extensions over the years, most notably in the early 20th Century.
Tamar Valley
Many people choose Launceston over Hobart because of its wonderful surroundings. The beautiful Tamar Valley is approximately 20 miles (30 kilometers) north of the city. Bus 784 departs from the River Side Highschool and takes 1 hour to reach Batman Bridge. The journey is an attraction in itself so be sure to grab a window seat.
Enjoy scenic views of the Tamar River, rolling hills, and charming towns. Visit wineries like Josef Chromy or Tamar Ridge, known for their award-winning wines. Explore the historic Rosevears (aka Batman) bridge, one of the most iconic in Australia. You won’t believe the stunning views over the river and valley.
As nature enthusiasts we always stroll through the valley in awe admiring the views and the cute kangaroos that hop all around. In all honesty, it’s very hard to go to the Valley on your own. That’s why we strongly recommend taking this tour. It includes transportation and wine tasting.
Where to Stay in Launceston
The best places to stay in Launceston are the CBD and close to Cataract Gorge. Launceston is not that big and you can walk everywhere in no time. We always stay at the Balmoral On York. Considering its class and location, the 4 star hotel is great value for money.
The rooms are big and feature extra comfy beds. The complimentary breakfast is delicious. Book a top floor room for the best views in Launceston. You will see the river and beyond. Another option in the center is the 109 on Cameron. If you visit in the summer, book the room with a balcony.
The Auldington Hotel features luxurious rooms close to the Cataract Gorge. You will recognize the hotel from its tall arches. It used to be a convent. Today, it’s all about personalized service, comfort, and class. You will love its lovely garden and its full size spa.
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