Top 15 Experiences in Launceston, Australia

Tasmania’s northern second city is strategically located at the head of the extensive Tamar River estuary.

Launceston boasts several unique features, such as an impressive river gorge situated just a short walk from the central business district and a city park that houses an island populated by macaques.

The Cataract Gorge can be explored via a record-setting chairlift, while the city is adorned with architecture reminiscent of its early 19th-century origins.

Additionally, Launceston serves as an excellent starting point to venture into Tasmania’s renowned wilderness, whether by cruising along the Tamar River or heading towards the iconic Cradle Mountain.

1. Cataract Gorge

Few cities can claim the presence of a magnificent gorge only 15 minutes on foot from their central business district.

The first European known to have discovered the Cataract Gorge was the early settler William Collins in 1804. Today, it has developed into a prominent tourist destination, featuring a swimming pool, chairlift, funicular railway, scenic suspension bridge, two cafes, and the elegantly landscaped gardens of Cliff Grounds, frequented by peacocks.

As you wander through the bushland, you can admire the rocky walls of the gorge and the amphitheater-like bowl of the First Basin from various walking tracks and scenic viewpoints.

Further upstream lies the old Duck Reach Power Station, which now operates as an interpretative center for this unique location.

2. Cataract Gorge Chairlift

Deserving of its own distinction, the gorge’s chairlift holds the title of the longest single-span chairlift in the world.

Opened in 1972, it spans 457 meters, with an impressive record-breaking span of 308 meters, uninterrupted by pylons.

Riders are treated to breathtaking views of the gorge, the South Esk River, and the First Basin, all framed by wooded hills.

The chairlift traverses through the gorge’s enchanting landscaped parkland, abundant with tree rhododendrons and ferns.

The slow pace of the ride allows ample time to appreciate the stunning surroundings.

3. Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery

Launceston is home to the largest museum in Australia outside of a state capital.

This cultural institution has two sites: the Royal Park Art Gallery, established in 1891, and the industry-focused railway workshop from the 1870s at Inveresk.

At the former, visitors can view art and artifacts from the colonial period, along with contemporary design pieces.

A captivating exhibit here includes a complete Chinese temple dating back to the 1880s, constructed by migrant tin miners, featuring artifacts from the Chinese community that migrated to northeast Tasmania for employment.

The Inveresk location exhibits an eclectic collection that includes artifacts from Australia’s oldest merchant shipwreck, dinosaur fossils, historical aircraft, specimens of Tasmanian natural history, and genuine death masks, alongside a functional planetarium.

4. Boag’s Brewery

This brewery, established in 1881 by James Boag I, a Scottish immigrant, has become a significant employer in Launceston, producing over 80 million liters annually.

Boag Draught, a staple since the 1880s, is complemented by several more recent varieties including Premium Lager, Premium Light, Strongarm Bitter, and Draught Light, along with various limited editions and local brews.

Guided tours are available seven days a week, originating from the James Boag Brewery Experience, situated in the historic Lake Dog Hotel from 1826. During the 90-minute tour, guests learn about the beer-making process from hop to bottle and have the opportunity to sample three different labels from Boag’s range.

5. City Park

As of 2020, Launceston’s principal urban park has been continuously operating for 200 years.

Initially serving as a botanical garden for the Launceston Horticultural Society, the park was acquired by the city council in the 1860s and was first referred to as the People’s Park.

The charming Park Caretakers Cottage, now the headquarters for City Park Radio, dates back to the park’s early days and features wisteria vines that were planted in 1837, next to the eclectic Albert Hall from the 1890s.

City Park maintains its historic charm, complete with monuments and amenities such as the John Hart Conservatory, the bandstand, and the intricately designed Jubilee Fountain.

The park is interspersed with themed gardens and includes a “Monkey Island,” where a colony of macaques is separated from the public by a moat and glass partition.

6. Alexandra Suspension Bridge

Approximately ten minutes from the Cataract Gorge car park, visitors will encounter this elegant suspension bridge, which was originally completed in 1904. Spanning 67 meters, it is reinforced by two steel towers on either side of the gorge.

The initial structure was swept away by floods in 1929, reconstructed in 1955, and underwent further renovations in 2004 to commemorate its centenary.

Information boards provide a detailed account of the bridge’s rich history.

Walking across this slender span permits splendid views down the gorge and across the First Basin to the north.

Although the pathway is narrow, it can accommodate two individuals passing side-by-side, albeit with a noticeable sway.

7. Tamar Island Wetlands

Located just on the outskirts of town, Launceston features an urban wetland ecosystem comprising islands, lagoons, and mudflats.

This vital habitat supports a diverse array of birds, amphibians, mammals, reptiles, and invertebrates.

Among the 60 bird species recorded at the wetlands are several types of ducks, swans, cormorants, swamp harriers, egrets, and migratory visitors from the northern hemisphere, such as the common greenshank.

An interpretive center outlines the site’s delicate ecosystem and cultural history, and from there, visitors can access the boardwalk which includes a bird-hide for optimal birdwatching.

8. Franklin House

The only historic house museum in Launceston, this Georgian mansion was constructed by convicts and is now maintained by the Tasmanian National Trust.

Commissioned in 1838 by brewer, innkeeper, and former convict Britton Jones, Franklin House later expanded to serve as a school for boys.

An imposing Ionic porch greets visitors at the entrance, while the interior, furnished with period furniture and decorative arts, showcases an extensive use of imported Australian red cedar.

This property became the National Trust’s first acquisition in 1960 and is open for guided tours.

The grounds include stables, an 180-year-old oak tree, and a preserved Victorian kitchen garden.

After your tour, enjoy tea and scones at the onsite tearoom.

9. Lilydale Falls

A simple yet rewarding excursion from Launceston, Lilydale Falls is located on the Second River in the picturesque countryside to the north of the city.

The reserve features two waterfalls that cascade into delicate, fern-fringed pools and can be accessed via stairways and viewing platforms.

The lower waterfall is the taller of the two, standing just under ten meters, while a trail leads to the second waterfall, approximately five meters high.

Both waterfalls continue to flow during years of low rainfall and are rendered even more scenic by their lush, wooded surroundings.

The hiking route typically takes less than an hour and is suitable for families, with barbecue facilities and a children’s playground available within the reserve.

10. National Automobile Museum of Tasmania

Having relocated in September 2019, the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania initially opened its doors in 1987 under the guidance of prominent racing car engineer Geoff Smedley and his partner Sylvia.

The museum’s extensive collection spans over a century, featuring everything from an E-Type Jaguar to a vast array of motorcycles, with informative plaques accompanying each exhibit.

The highlight is the Hall of Muscle, dedicated entirely to the Australian muscle car, showcasing standout vehicles like the 1967 Ford Falcon XR GT, the 1969 Holden HT 350 Monaro, the 1973 Valiant Charger, and the 1974 Holden Torana L34.

11. Josef Chromy Wines

Tasmania was one of the earlier regions in Australia to cultivate vineyards during the early 19th century.

The region’s temperate oceanic climate is conducive to growing cool-climate varieties such as Pinot Noir, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Merlot, and Chardonnay.

Since the 2000s, Tasmanian wine has unexpectedly benefited from climate change, with prolonged summers enabling the fruit to ripen thoroughly.

The Josef Chromy Wines estate, located in the pastoral countryside southeast of Launceston, provides an introduction to the island’s wine industry.

The cellar door (tasting room) resides within an 1880s homestead where guests can sample all the aforementioned varietals.

This venue is open daily, with a tasting session priced at $5 per person, which is credited towards any purchases made.

12. Tamar River Trips

Starting in Launceston, the longest navigable river estuary in Australia extends towards the Bass Strait for 70 kilometers.

The most effective way to explore the estuary is by water, with Tamar River Cruises offering a variety of excursions departing from the Home Point Terminal, conveniently located near Launceston’s CBD.

For those interested in a quick tour of the Cataract Gorge, there are departures throughout the day.

Alternatively, consider a four-hour round trip to the Batman Bridge, located 30 kilometers downstream, allowing you to drift past the region’s vineyards and historical homesteads, culminating at a noteworthy cable-stayed bridge built in 1966.

13. Penny Royal Adventures

The rocky cliffs of the Cataract Gorge provide a dramatic backdrop for a recreational area designed to give visitors a glimpse into life during 19th-century Van Diemen’s Land.

The principal attraction at Penny Royal Adventures is the cliff walk, where participants traverse a series of twelve rope bridges and zip lines.

Additional activities include rock climbing and a 20-meter cliff jump.

Additionally, children can steer a brig during a cruise, pan for gold and gemstones, and engage in the Matthew Brody Dark Ride, which narrates the story of an escaped convict and pirate from the 1820s.

Lastly, the Barefoot Sensation trail invites visitors to walk over a variety of surfaces including mud, bark, sawdust, sand, gravel, and stepping stones.

14. Cradle Mountain Day Trip

Launceston’s advantageous location makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Tasmania’s breathtaking landscapes.

The jagged silhouette of Cradle Mountain in the Central Highlands is among the island’s most iconic images.

This area has been protected within the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park for over a century, enabling visitors to spend a day immersed in renowned natural beauty.

A day trip to Cradle Mountain, available through online tour platforms such as GetYourGuide.com, includes a hike around Dove Lake at the mountain’s base, a nature walk through the rainforest, a visit to Sheffield to admire its famous murals, and excursions to local producers like the Ashgrove Cheese Farm.

15. Launceston Community Farmers’ Market

Every Saturday morning, a nationally recognized farmers’ market operates in the shadow of Albert Hall.

For those who prioritize sourcing quality food, this event offers an opportunity to connect directly with farmers and producers, who can provide insights on their products and tips for optimal usage.

Many vendors specialize in particular items, offering asparagus, cherries, hazelnuts, berries, mushrooms, olives, or peonies exclusively.

Among the diverse array of stalls, you will find eggs, truffles, cheese, cider, fresh sourdough, seafood, coffee, ethically raised meats, honey, beer, kimchi, and many other delicacies.

Additionally, for on-the-go dining, options include crêpes, paella, gelato, Afghan bolani, vegan treats, and Korean pancakes (hotteok).