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Launceston Top 10 Things to Do - Cataract Gorge, Heritage Streets & River Cruises
- Jan 24, 2022
- 6 min read
Updated: Jan 28
Launceston Top 10 Things to Do - Cataract Gorge, Heritage Streets & River Cruises
Launceston is Tasmania’s second-largest city and one of its most charming, beautifully blending historic streetscapes, lush natural scenery, and a thriving food and culture scene. Set at the meeting point of the Tamar, North Esk and South Esk rivers, the city feels both elegant and relaxed, offering plenty to explore without ever feeling rushed.
From the dramatic cliffs of Cataract Gorge just minutes from the CBD to scenic river cruises, heritage walks, lively markets and leafy parks, Launceston is a destination that rewards slow exploration. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or using the city as a base to explore northern Tasmania, Launceston delivers memorable experiences at every turn.
Visit Cataract Gorge Reserve
A visit to Cataract Gorge, just a short walk from Launceston’s city centre, is a must for anyone exploring the area. This stunning natural reserve features dramatic cliffs, walking trails, and the world’s longest single-span chairlift, offering breathtaking views of the gorge and surrounding bushland.
Visitors can enjoy peaceful strolls along the suspension bridge, explore the lush gardens, or take a picnic by the first basin. With its mix of walking tracks, scenic lookouts, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, Cataract Gorge is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and families looking to experience one of Tasmania’s most iconic natural attractions.
Enjoy a Tamar River Cruise
The award-winning Tamar River Cruises operate several times daily, 365 days a year, making it easy to fit a scenic river adventure into any itinerary. Guests can choose from morning, lunch, or afternoon cruises, each offering a unique way to experience northern Tasmania’s beauty.
The cruises wind along the picturesque Tamar River, taking in stunning riverside scenery, or you can opt for a cruise around the dramatic cliffs and bushland of Cataract Gorge.
Whether you’re looking to relax with a peaceful sightseeing trip, enjoy a delicious meal on board, or capture photos of the region’s natural and historic highlights, Tamar River Cruises provide a memorable and leisurely way to see some of Launceston’s most beautiful sights.
See the Monkeys at City Park Launceston
City Park, located in the heart of Launceston, is a beautifully maintained green space that offers something for everyone. Visitors can wander along shady pathways lined with flowering garden beds, relax by the tranquil duck pond, or challenge friends to a game on the giant outdoor chess board.
The park also features a charming conservatory filled with exotic plants, and a playground for children. One of the park’s most unique attractions is the enclosure of Japanese Macaque monkeys, giving visitors a chance to observe these fascinating animals up close. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll, a fun family outing, or simply a spot to unwind, City Park is a must-visit oasis in the centre of Launceston.
Visit Penny Royal for History, Adventures & Dining
Penny Royal in Launceston is a unique and vibrant attraction that blends history, adventure, dining, and family fun all in one riverside location next to the iconic Cataract Gorge. Originally developed in 1979 using convict‑era bricks and later revitalised and expanded with significant investment, the site was transformed into a modern adventure precinct in 2016 that showcases Tasmania’s rich past while offering exciting experiences for visitors of all ages.
Today, Penny Royal features a wide range of activities—from the thrilling cliff walk across suspended rope bridges and zip lines to indoor and outdoor rock climbing, gold panning, gemstone fossicking, and the immersive Dark Ride adventure. There are also history‑themed boat rides, remote‑controlled boat fun, relaxed dining options, cafés, and picnic spots, making it a great destination whether you’re after adrenaline, history, or a leisurely afternoon out.
Discover the Queen Victoria Museum
The Queen Victoria Museum (QVMAG) in Launceston is Australia’s largest regional museum and free to enter, making it a must-visit for families and history enthusiasts alike. Located at Inveresk, the museum showcases fascinating displays of dinosaurs, native wildlife, trains, planes, and Tasmania’s colonial history.
Many exhibits are interactive, offering hands-on learning for kids and adults alike. The museum also features the Launceston Planetarium, where you can explore the stars and planets in an immersive experience. With its mix of science, history, and interactive fun, QVMAG is a standout attraction in Launceston.
Heritage Walk around Launceston
Launceston is one of Australia’s oldest cities, and a heritage walk through its streets is a perfect way to step back in time. Wander past impressive Victorian and Colonial architecture, with some buildings dating as far back as 1804, and soak up the city’s rich history.
Along the way, you can visit Princes Park, where a remarkable fountain stands proudly in the centre of the square, offering a peaceful spot to pause and take in the historic surroundings.
Visit Boag's Brewery
The historic James Boag Brewery, located on William Street near the scenic banks of the North Esk River, is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts and history lovers alike. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing lunch or a cold beer at the brewery’s welcoming onsite restaurant and bar, soaking in the atmosphere of one of Tasmania’s most iconic beer makers.
For those wanting a deeper dive, the brewery tour offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the beer-making process, from brewing and fermentation to bottling. The experience concludes with a guided beer tasting, giving guests the chance to sample some of James Boag’s signature brews while learning about the rich history and craftsmanship behind each pint.
Wander around the Tamar Island Wetlands
On the outskirts of Launceston lies the Tamar Island Wetlands, a unique estuarine ecosystem of mudflats, lagoons, and small islands teeming with plant, bird, and animal life. This serene natural reserve is a paradise for birdwatchers, photographers, and nature lovers, offering the chance to spot native birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Visitors can explore the 4-kilometre circuit walking track, which typically takes around 1.5 hours to complete and is recognised as one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks. Along the way, interpretive signs provide insights into the wetland’s ecology, conservation efforts, and the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this fragile environment. With its peaceful scenery, abundant wildlife, and easy accessibility from Launceston, the Tamar Island Wetlands offer a perfect escape into nature without leaving the city behind.
Browse the Saturday Harvest Market
The Launceston Harvest Market, held every Saturday on Citimere Street from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., is a vibrant community farmers’ market that celebrates the best of local Tasmanian produce and artisanal goods.
Visitors can browse a wide variety of fresh fruit and vegetables, pick up gourmet products like cheeses, preserves, and honey, or sample delicious offerings from food trucks and specialty coffee vendors. The market is not only a place to shop but also a hub for the community, where locals and visitors mingle, enjoy live music, and soak up the friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you’re looking to stock up on seasonal ingredients, taste local delicacies, or simply enjoy a leisurely Saturday morning in Launceston, the Harvest Market is a must-visit experience that captures the region’s vibrant food culture.
👉 Click here to visit the Harvest Market Website
Explore Punchbowl Falls & Reserve
Punchbowl Falls is a lovely, seasonal waterfall tucked away within Punchbowl Reserve on the outskirts of Launceston, making it a peaceful escape into nature without leaving the city.
The reserve itself is a spacious, family-friendly park, offering plenty of open grass areas for picnics and play, a well-equipped playground, and convenient toilet and BBQ facilities. Visitors can enjoy scenic walking tracks that wind through native bushland, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a selection of artistic sculptures that add character to the park.
During the wetter months, the falls flow more dramatically, creating a picturesque setting for photography or a tranquil spot to relax and enjoy the sounds of cascading water. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll, a family outing, or a quiet moment surrounded by nature, Punchbowl Reserve and its falls are a hidden gem in Launceston’s green spaces.
Why Launceston Is Worth Visiting
Launceston offers the perfect balance of nature, history and modern comforts. From dramatic gorges and riverside walks to vibrant markets, museums and breweries, the city packs an incredible variety of experiences into a compact and welcoming setting.
Whether you’re visiting for a short break or using Launceston as a base to explore northern Tasmania, it’s a city that invites you to slow down, explore deeply, and enjoy the journey just as much as the destination.
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