Hobart is such a relaxed and easy city to visit, which has become increasingly popular over the last 10 years. The art culture, exceptional food and wine and beautiful scenery all make Hobart a top holiday destination. This city of hills is one to visit for a short or long trip, with lots of things to do in Hobart for families. If you’re traveling from mainland Australia, you can take a short flight or overnight boat from Victoria.
When I last visited Hobart, the capital city of Tasmania, I took a plane from Melbourne. After landing beside two small airport terminals, I took a short Uber ride to the centre of town. I soon learned that there are lots of options for memorable and unique things to do in Hobart.
Visiting MONA (Museum Of Old and New Art) has put Hobart on the map as a forward thinking, cultural city in Australia. You could spend a whole day at the iconic art gallery. Taking in the themed ferry ride, touring art exhibitions, permanent collection, mind opening installations, to the classy wine bars and dining. MONA is worth the experience if you are in Hobart for more than a day.
Hobart is a city full of fun activities, in all seasons. The population is growing to over 189000 people in the small city, and there are more events created each season.
Here are 5 of my personal reccomedations of entertaining things to do in Hobart.
Shopping
In the centre of Hobart, you will see record shops, cafes, clothes stores and even a cow that jumps over the moon. There’s plenty to see and buy as you meander through the shops in the main streets.
This is one of the easiest things to do in Hobart for families. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to have a stress free shopping day. Take your time to visit your choice of stores. You can break up the day with lunch, coffee or a cocktail at one of the many restaurants or bars.
Frank Restaurant
Frank is a modern Argentinian restaurant situated on the wharf. With feasting menus, specialty dishes and quirky and fun decor, this is an eatery to consider for a memorable dinner.
Some of the standout meals at Frank Restaurant are Kingfish, Fried Potatoes and the Spiced Grilled Chicken.
The service is friendly and a high standard at this restaurant, making Frank a great place for a special occasion. The convenient location beside the Wharf is great to see how picturesque Hobart is. And to take in the historic buildings from old Hobart.
North Hobart
North Hobart is the perfect area to visit for any type of meal. and is a one of the top things to do in Hobart for families. I visited for lunch and noticed there are plenty of cafes along the Elizabeth street strip to choose from.
Consider Room For A Pony for fritters and fries, or the Boodle Beasley for Vietnamese dishes and pub food. Alternatively wander along Elizabeth street and take your pick from the varied selection of restaurants and pubs.
Hills Of Hobart
If the weather is fine, wandering the streets of the hilly city is rewarding for its views and hiking challenges. Its fairly easy to walk through most of the streets of inner Hobart. Once you venture into the suburbs, the hills are steep and not for the faint hearted. Climbing the hills is worth it for spectacular views and taking in the vintage houses and cottages along the way.
Alternatively, if you’re after a designated trek in Hobart there are plenty of established hikes to choose from. All Trails have listed some of the best hikes in Hobart. Kunanyi/Mt Wellington is one of the most famous and recommended hikes in Hobart, for the epic views in good weather. Please keep in mind that the views aren’t as clear in rainy or foggy conditions!
Rektango
Rektango is a free event, showcasing live latin, funk and disco music, dancing, fires, and wine. This historical event is held every Friday night in the Salamanca Arts Centre courtyard and is a top thing to do in Hobart for families. The event goes ahead without fail, with the exception of public holidays and heavy rain.
Rektango began in year 2000, and continues from 5:30pm at the end of each week. When I visited in 2019, the atmosphere at Rektango was fun, casual with a strong sense of community. Set amongst historic buildings of old Hobart, its easy to imagine these kind of social gatherings hundreds of years ago.
Drop in for a drink and a dance at Rektango if you are interested in the local music culture.
Conclusion
If you are considering traveling to Tasmania for a holiday or short getaway, Hobart is the perfect city. You will experience art and food culture, with a relaxed and laid back atmosphere.
The surrounding hills really are pretty and the close proximity of things to do in Hobart for families, make it easy to visit. The experience is unlike any on mainland Australia, due to the size of the city and painting-like scenery.
Best times to travel to Hobart are during October – March, to appreciate the outdoor activities in this city. The winters are very cold. But if you’re interested in hiking and seeing some snow, then hiking one of the mountains is popular. There are also many events held throughout the year in Hobart, reflecting the art, music and food of the area.
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