8 Things to do in Hobart with Kids
Looking for things to do in Hobart with kids? Check out this list of our favourite parks, museums, and food spots within walking distance of the Hobart CBD.
Tasmania is a wild, natural, and homey state. Underappreciated by many mainland Australians, the rugged island is filled with epic beaches, serene mountains, and abundant wildlife. If you are interested in exploring Tasmania, you will likely fly into the Hobart airport and drive around the island from there.
Hobart is the capital of the state. As with most places in Tasmania, it is very small and somewhat underrated. However, even without big name tourist attractions, kid-friendly Hobart itineraries can be fun and informative. We included time for sunny park afternoons, stimulating interactive museums, and occasionally gourmet casual dining.
One of my biggest frustrations when planning our family trip to Tasmania is how many “Things to Do” lists included activities a thirty minute drive from Hobart. We prefer to walk or bike while staying in cities (even though Hobart barely surpasses 200,000 occupants, we’ll call it a city) to get acquainted with the character and culture of the place. Instead of venturing out of the city for paid attractions, we explored kid-friendly Hobart offerings within the CBD.
While I wouldn’t necessarily plan your trip around the below spots, we always appreciate knowing the best/unusual playgrounds for a short play, which museums encourage kids to explore, and where to grab a quick bite.
Kid-friendly Hobart Walks and Parks
Admire the architecture in Battery Point.
On a circuitous walk to see Arthur’s Circus, we admired the historical architecture and beautiful restorations in Battery Point. I have to say that Arthur’s Circus disappointed JZ and I; it is essentially a large round-about on a lovely street. However CZ loved the swing under the large tree and we played in the circular park for a few minutes. Older kids will enjoy going down the hill to Prince’s playground for pirate-themed play equipment.
Climb into child-size trains at Caldew Park.
The trains at Caldew park fascinate the preschool crowd. Pack a picnic, use one of the public BBQs, or grab a coffee from a nearby cafe. If you happen to have your child’s bike, the park includes a short riding track as well. The park is at the corner of Hill & Warwick Streets, in West Hobart. Restrooms are available.
Splash in the water at Long Beach
If you are visiting in the summer and looking for a local beach, check out Long Beach in Sandy Bay. Play in the (cold) water or stroll along the beach. For a picnic on the go, peruse Lipscombe’s Larder. Between the deli, selection of snacks, and prepared meals you should be able to find something for everyone. Or, grab a takeaway pizza from Sandy Bay Woodfired Pizza.
On Friday nights during the summer, walk down the beach to the Long Beach Reserve. When the weather is good, stop by the Hobart Twilight Markets for artisan foods, live music, and mingling with the locals.
Kid-friendly Hobart Museums
Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
If you want to learn about Tasmanian history and culture, or just a place to duck in from the cold, visit to the Tasmanian Museum! From modern art, restored architecture, to Antarctica, the museum offers interesting exhibits for all ages. The museum welcomes kids with two options to encourage exploration: for ages 4-7 take along a free Discovery Toolkit, for ages 7-12 borrow a Discovery Backpack. Some exhibits are temporary, but the Islands to Ice Antarctic display is a permanent wonder.
Admission: Free
Open: Tuesday-Sunday 10am-4pm
A gem of a museum tucked into CBD near Constitution dock. The Hut Museum shares the story of the 1911-1914 Australasian Antarctic expedition led by Douglas Mawson. The main attraction is a replica of the small hut the men lived in during their ten month stay on Antarctica. Plan to spend about 60-90 minutes exploring the little museum.
Admission: Adults $12, Children $4, Family $28
Open: Daily 9-6 (Oct 1–April 30)
Daily 10-5 (May 1–Sep 30)
photo credit
Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)
The great controversial art mecca in Hobart, this expansive museum is easily accessed by ferry from the Brooke St Pier. After a ferry ride from downtown, wander around the large property and experience art aimed to confront, startle, and amaze you. If outlandish art is not interesting to you, don’t visit for the hype alone; however, many of the exhibits are interactive and interesting for even the youngest in the bunch. While some exhibits are not suitable for children, the front desk will help you map our your visit. Alternately, you can check out the website to better plan your visit.
Admission: Adults $28, Children (under 18) free
Open: Wednesday-Monday, 10-5
Adjustments to opening hours and days during peak season and winter. See details here.
Kid-friendly Hobart Food and Drink
Fish and Chips on Constitution Dock at Fish Frenzy
Constitution Dock is worth a visit whether or not you are particularly hungry. JZ loves meandering through the wharf and looking at the boats. Even I appreciated the variety and vast number of boats in the harbour. After exploring the harbour, choose from an array of fish and chip restaurants for lunch.
Fish Frenzy came highly recommended to us and we were delighted by our meal. I prefer the light and fluffy tempura-style batter, which is exactly how the fish were prepared. We sat in an enclosed patio to enjoy the views but have protection from the sun and seagulls.
Pick up local produce at the Salamanca Markets.
Salamanca markets feature crafts, artisan foods, and local business adored by locals and tourists alike. I enjoy browsing crafts and home goods, in search of unique pieces that I ultimately never purchase. On the food front, however, we often leave with a number of treats. These busy markets are perfect for selecting a range of souvenirs or just shopping for tonight’s dinner.
note: Check out Mumma Needs Coffee for a local’s take on all of the baby and kid-friendly offerings organized by neighborhood.
We enjoyed our Hobart trip with a 15 month old, and would love to return with an inquisitive older toddler! The city offers numerous kid-friendly entertainment and dining options we can’t wait to further explore.
