Memorable Experiences & Highlights in Hobart

Getting to the famous art museum is an attraction in its own right. The dedicated fast ferries are painted in striking camouflage patterns and feature incredibly eclectic interiors, complete with sheepskin seats and a cocktail bar. Sitting on the back deck with a local beer while cruising up the wide river is thoroughly enjoyable. It builds the anticipation perfectly before arriving at the subterranean gallery. Upgrading to the VIP 'Posh Pit' section provides complimentary drinks and pastries.

The surrounding valleys produce some of the finest Pinot Noir and sparkling wines in the country, owing to the long, cool growing seasons. Exploring a local vineyard allows you to sample elegant, highly aromatic vintages right where the grapes are grown. The tasting rooms often feature striking modern architecture and sweeping views of the river. It is a highly sophisticated experience that pairs perfectly with locally sourced cheeses and cured meats. The passion of the winemakers here is palpable in every glass.

Tasmania has quietly become one of the most respected whisky producing regions in the world, and this venue is where the modern boom started. The founder lobbied to overturn a century old distillation ban, paving the way for a booming boutique industry. You can sit in a highly atmospheric tasting room and sample incredibly smooth, complex spirits crafted with pristine local water and barley. The knowledgeable staff happily guide you through the intricate tasting notes. It is a brilliant way to warm up on a chilly afternoon.

This specific waterfront strip features an incredible row of massive, beautifully preserved jam factory warehouses from the nineteenth century. The buildings have been masterfully repurposed into a luxury art hotel, fine dining restaurants, and university art schools. You can freely wander the corridors to admire the exposed timber beams and the contemporary artworks hanging on the walls. It perfectly encapsulates the city's ability to blend its rugged industrial past with high end modern culture. The area is particularly beautiful when lit up at night.

This beloved, century old independent cinema complex features a fantastic outdoor screen on its roof. Watching a curated arthouse or classic film under the southern stars with a glass of local wine is incredibly atmospheric. Blankets are provided to keep the evening chill at bay while you recline in comfortable deck chairs. It is a highly popular summer activity for locals looking for a relaxed, cultural night out. The adjoining bookstore and cafe make it a wonderful hub for lingering before the screening begins.

It is incredibly rare to find wild platypuses living so close to a capital city centre, making this a highly unique wildlife experience. By walking quietly along the shaded, historic waterway, you have a genuine chance of seeing these elusive creatures diving for food. The local community is fiercely protective of them, having successfully campaigned to clean up the waterway. It requires patience and a sharp eye, but spotting one is genuinely thrilling. The surrounding weeping willows and old stone bridges add to the magic.