Where the North Esk and South Esk rivers meet in Tasmania, Australia, you’ll find the charming city of Launceston. Known as the “Second City,” since it is the second largest city in Tasmania, behind the capital of Hobart, Launceston is a great spot to visit!
The city centre offers convenient access to attractions such as the Tamar Valley wine region and wineries, making it especially appealing for wine-enthusiasts.
While Launceston’s most popular attractions are the museums, wine region, and Cataract Gorge, there are plenty of other, more unusual activities to do in Launceston Tasmania!
Keep reading to learn about 10 unusual things to do around Launceston on your next trip!
1. Find Your Thrill at Penny Royal Adventures
You’re likely to read about the Penny Royal Hotel, which is a historic location built into a cornmill from 1840. The entire property is full of fun, historical details, as well as nice scenery. However, this isn’t the most special part of the Penny Royal.
The Penny Royal Hotel also backs up to Penny Royal Adventures, a family-friendly theme park with fun activities, such as rope courses, zip-lining, and rock climbing.
You’d never guess all of these high-energy activities are tucked behind the Penny Royal Hotel! It’s a fun way to spend an afternoon, especially if you have kids with you on your visit to Launceston.
2. Visit the Platypuses at their House
If you’re willing to get a bit outside of Launceston, you’ll be able to say hi to the local platypuses!
Heading up to Beauty Point, you’ll run into the Platypus House, where you’re guaranteed to witness these incredible animals and learn about them in detail. Since platypuses and echidnas tend to be quite shy, you’re unlikely to see them out in the wild.
By visiting the Platypus House you can see these animals in action, swimming and wandering around their enclosures. Even for Tasmanians, it’s quite rare to see these animals in action!
Visiting the Platypus House is definitely a unique Launceston activity you should consider when you’re in the area!
This is also rated as one of the family friendly activities and can be on your list as one of the things to do at Launceston.
3. Appreciate the Tamar Island Wetlands
Though you may hear people talking about the “Tamar River,” don’t be fooled! It’s actually one of the longest estuaries in the Southern Hemisphere! Exploring the Tamar Island Wetlands is one of the unique activities you can do near Launceston.
These wetlands are home to over 60 species of birds, as well as other creatures. You can get into the action by walking along the boardwalk with the native flora. If you want to learn more about the area, consider dropping into the Wetlands Centre beforehand to read about the area’s heritage and importance. And, bring your camera! You never know what you’ll see!
4. Step into Switzerland in Grindelwald
You may feel like you’ve accidentally landed in Switzerland when you’re visiting Grindelwald Swiss Village!
This little town is a mere 15 minutes outside of Launceston, but offers a completely different look and feel.
Apart from the architecture and shops, you can also play on the mini-golf course, enjoy the nearby lake, or try out Tamar’s special spin on traditional golf, Splash Golf. By hitting special balls towards targets out on the lake, Splash Golf turns traditional golf into a quirky activity to try.
Whether you want to wander around town and dream of Switzerland or try your luck at this new form of golf, Grindelwald Swiss Village offers plenty of unique Launceston activities to enjoy!
5. Do a Tasting at the Tamar Valley Wineries
You won’t be able to leave Launceston without getting a sip of incredible Tasmanian Wine! The cellar doors of different wineries in the Tamar Valley offer unique experiences and picturesque views, making your visit unforgettable. Some wineries in the region are renowned for their expertise in Pinot Noir, providing an exceptional tasting experience.
If you want a bit more than a sip, that’s when the Tamar Valley Wine Trail can come in handy. The Tamar Valley Wine Trail maps out the best wineries in the area, as well as ways to customise your experience for the wines and tastes you most prefer.
As you hop from winery to winery, you’ll enjoy the scenery, speciality wines, and more!
Doing your own leg of the Tamar Valley Wine Trail is a unique way to sample several wines of the area and have fun doing it!
6. Grab a Drink at Cinco Passiones
If you’re looking for a unique cocktail with a laid-back vibe, you have to visit Cinco Passiones!
Part of what makes Cinco Passiones so fun is that if you’re not looking for it, you might miss it. Tucked onto the second floor, above the normal street level. This “libation lounge” brings together the best of Tasmanian single malt whiskey, Tasmanian sparkling wine, and fun cocktail creations with character. For a bit of a snack, they also offer charcuterie boards with local products to even out your experience.
While you’re grabbing a drink, don’t forget to have an excellent meal beforehand. Launceston is actually a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, so there are plenty of wonderful tastes to explore. From the wine to the farm-to-table dishes, your palette is sure to be delighted.
The fine dining experiences in Launceston, with a focus on sustainable local produce, create delicious dishes that are not to be missed.
Visiting this quirky cocktail bar is one of the fun, unusual things to do in Launceston!
7. See the City From a Hot Air Balloon
Riding in a hot air balloon is probably not the first thing you think of when you imagine Launceston, but trust us this unique Launceston activity is a great way to get to know the surrounding area.
Just as the sun is coming up, go with a registered guide up into the air about the Tamar and Meander Valleys. From above, you can appreciate the rolling countryside with peaceful views and witness the surrounding areas.
You’ll also get some special memories along the way, guaranteed!
8. Explore Mole Creek Caves
When you step into Mole Creek Caves, you’ll wonder how many tourists miss out on this hidden gem of Launceston! Located in Mole Creek Karst National Park, the Mole Creek Caves hold several wonders that will dazzle you. In fact, there are three tours offered nearly every day to allow visitors to explore the cave.
- For bright colours and a close-up view of crystal formations, check out King Solomon’s Cave Tour.
- To dip into the natural Cathedral of the caves, with beautiful formations along the way, try out the Great Cathedral and Glow Worms Tour of Marakoopa Cave.
- Finally, to focus on the lower chamber and its reflective pools, crystals, and formations, consider the Underground Rivers and Glow Worms Tour of Marakoopa Cave.
There really is no bad option, as all the tours will give you a glimpse of the natural wonders in Mole Creek Caves. If you plan to explore this natural wonder, we recommend booking in advance.
Due to the nature of the tours and the caves themselves, tour groups have strict size limitations. To ensure you get the date and time you want, make sure you call and book in advance. You can book up to two weeks in advance, so mark your calendar!
9. Grab a Brew or Two on a Cycling Beer Tour
Cycling is one of the best ways to see Launceston and the surrounding area. With plenty of gorgeous landscapes in and around town, especially in the Tamar Valley, you’re never without a place to explore.
Since cycling is such a great way to check out the landscape, there are many opportunities to rent bikes or take a local tour. So if you are looking for what to do in Launceston Tasmania, I have you covered.
You may decide to ride through rolling hills and sleepy towns in the wine region or try your hand at cycling downtown on a beer tour!
Though the wine scene is bigger in Launceston, there is also a thriving craft beer scene. You can get a taste of it yourself by hopping on a cycling brew tour! Just make sure you’re drinking some water between stops as well!
I don’t advise going drinking and riding!
10. Witness the Fields at Bridestowe Lavender Estates
Everyone will visit the wineries while they’re in Launceston, but not everyone knows to visit the Bridestowe Lavender Estate. This remarkable property is the largest lavender farm in the entire Southern Hemisphere, with rows of lavender rolling over the surrounding landscape.
In December and January, the lavender comes into bloom providing spectacular views, along with wonderful gardens and views. Once you’re done taking in the scenery, you can head inside to experience the lavender in a different way.
The estate produces a signature lavender oil which you can grab to take home. They also incorporate their lavender into soaps & bath products, as well as delicious lavender ice cream.
For a more hands-on experience, book a soap-making activity, so you can make your own bar to take home!
Exploring Tasmania: 10 Unusual Things to do in Launceston, including Cataract Gorge
Start your Saturday morning by attending the Harvest Market in Launceston. Don’t miss the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, which features a stunning collection of traditional and contemporary art. Visit the Art Gallery at Royal Park for educational exhibitions and fun events.
City Park, a central green space and notable attraction, is perfect for a scenic stroll and exploring the local food scene.
While you won’t want to miss out on the classic activities in Launceston, such as visiting the Cataract Gorge Reserve or the Queen Victoria Museum, you may want to add a special twist to your trip.
That’s where this list of things to do near Launceston Tasmania should come in handy!
Whether you’d like to take a hot air balloon ride or test out Splash Golf for yourself in Grindelwald, there are plenty of unique activities to do in this area of Tasmania!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a fun fact about Launceston?
Similarly Launceston was the first city in Australia that had underground sewage systems and was the first city in Australia that had water generating electricity.
Is it better to go to Hobart or Launceston?
Which is the best option for you? The activity or the National Parks that you want to do or see can visit can determine your decision. However, Hobart offers a better experience for city visitors than Launceston does and there are less things to do in Launceston Australia.
How many nights do you need to spend in Launceston?
Launceston is a nice place to visit in Tasmania. On one side is Cradle Mountain while on the other side is Bay of Fire. So I would say it is a good base to drive to and from while visiting Northern Tasmania. Launceston Airport serves as a major entry point for travellers visiting the region, offering convenience and excellent transport links.
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