Are you planning a trip to Hobart, Tasmania and wondering what are the best things to do in Hobart with a toddler? We absolutely loved our time in Hobart with our 2-year-old toddler. Although it’s a small city, Hobart had a little bit of everything, from exploring the city, getting out in nature, and spending time near and on the water. We found Hobart to be incredibly kid-friendly. In this guide, we will go through all of the best things to do in Hobart with kids, the best places to eat including toddler-friendly restaurants, and the best day trips from Hobart with kids.
Contents
- The Best Things To Do In Hobart With A Toddler
- More Things To Do In Hobart With Kids
- Cafes, Coffee Shops & Bakeries
- Toddler-Friendly Restaurants In Hobart
- Best Day Trips From Hobart With Kids
- Where To Stay In Hobart With A Toddler
The Best Things To Do In Hobart With A Toddler
Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens are one of the best family-friendly activities in Hobart. They are about a 30 – 40 minute walk from Hobart CBD, depending on where you’re staying.
Travelling with a toddler, we attempted to order a taxi with a child seat, however these need to be booked days in advance. So instead we used the hop-on/hop-off bus (Red Decker bus) to go from Elizabeth Street to the gardens and back. We didn’t buy a full ticket to do the entire loop, as it wasn’t needed. To do this, you buy a return ticket to the gardens with the bus driver and you get on the bus that is going there next. This cost us $20 return for 2 adults (total) and our toddler was free.
We all enjoyed the gardens, with highlights being the Sub-Antarctic Plant House, The Japanese Gardens, The French Explorers Garden, The Community Garden, and the Lilly Pond. Clara in particular enjoyed the change in temperature going into the Sub-Antarctic Plant House. Having said this, we were lucky to visit on a 28-degree day in Mid-March, I’m not sure what she would have thought on a cold day :)
We spent about 2 hours here, but it was at a leisurely pace. There are toilets and a cafe here, however, we just packed our food to enjoy in the gardens.
The bus leaves Elizabeth Street every hour on the hour and takes about 15 minutes to get to the gardens. The bus leaves from the gardens every hour at a quarter past.
How To Get There | Walk, scooter, drive, taxi, use the Red Decker bus, or cycle
Opening Hours | October – March from 8 am to 6.30 pm & April – September from 8 am to 5 pm
More Information | Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens Official Website
Salamanca Market
Salamanca Market is one of the best things to do in Hobart, especially if you’re visiting for the weekend. These markets happen every Saturday Morning from 8.30 am til 3 pm. We arrived just after 8.30 am and although it was busy, we still had our own space. Within about an hour, it was a lot busier, and then it only seemed to get busier from there. So we would recommend getting there at 8.30 am if you can.
We spent a couple of hours wandering around the stalls and stopping for a few things to eat. We loved Lady Hester’s sourdough doughnuts and the bacon and egg roll from Rockwall at the markets. Visiting Salamanca Markets was fun for the whole family.
We also popped into Salamanca Square to enjoy a coffee/chai/babycino break at Parklane Espresso. Clara also loved looking at the fountain in Salamanca Square.
Whilst in the area, you will see the striking Georgian sandstone warehouses from the 1830s that line Salamanca Place.
Address | Salamanca Place, Hobart
Opening Hours | Every Saturday from 8.30 am to 3 pm
More Information | Salamanca Markets Official Website
Battery Point Historic Walk
We followed the ‘In Bobby’s Footsteps’ historic walk of Battery Point. We didn’t do it in the same order, but we used this to see the main historical landmarks in Battery Point. It was interesting reading about all the places on the website before visiting, it gave a lot more significance to each place.
Narryna House was one of our favourite stops. We walked in the garden around the fountain at the front.
Kelly Street and Kelly’s Steps, South Street and Arthurs Circus were all interesting to see. We also loved the houses and shops along Hampden Road.
Lenna of Hobart was a grand beautiful building (now a boutique hotel), and just behind this was the lovely Princes Park. There is a playground in Princes Park, which Clara enjoyed, although I feel it’s more suited for older kids.
Battery Point was a lot smaller than we first thought, which was great with a toddler. We took Clara in her travel pram and she walked some of the way too. Doing a historic walk around Battery Point wasn’t at the top of my list of things to do in Hobart with a toddler, but Clara enjoyed it. She loved looking at all the different buildings and pointing out ones that caught her attention too.
More Information | ‘In Bobby’s Footsteps’ History Walk Official Website
Kunanyi/Mount Wellington
Visiting beautiful kunanyi/Mount Wellington is one of the main attractions in Hobart. The views of Hobart and its surroundings are stunning. I also loved the natural landscapes at the summit.
We visited Mount Wellington on the Explorer Bus. We booked about a week in advance to make sure we could get on the first bus in the morning, to fit in with our toddlers’ naps.
We booked our tickets through Get Your Guide as the app was easy to use and access tickets.
We had about 40 minutes at the top, which gave us enough time to see the main lookouts.
Overall, we would recommend the kunanyi Mount Wellington Explorer Bus. It makes the trip very easy, you learn some interesting facts about the mountain, Hobart and Tasmania, and it makes it possible to visit Mount Wellington without a car.
More Information | Book Your Explorer Bus Here
Read More: Hobart To Mount Wellington Without A Car (Explorer Bus)
Fern Tree To Silver Falls Bush Walk
We got off at the Fern Tree stop on the way down Mt Wellington with the Explorer Bus. Here we did the beautiful Fern Tree to Silver Falls walk, a pram-friendly 40-minute walk. We had about 1.5 hours until the next Explorer bus.
The walk was a beautiful way to get out in nature, adding more variation to our Mt Wellington trip. It also made good use of the Explorer Bus. Being a short walk it was one of the best things to do in Hobart with a toddler in nature.
Read More: Hobart To Mount Wellington Without A Car (Explorer Bus) + Fern Tree To Silver Falls Walk
Heritage Horse Drawn Carriages
We all loved our 15 – 20 minute ride with Steve on the Heritage Horse Drawn Carriages around Hobart.
We chose the shortest option just to get a taste, ‘Salamanca Jaunts’. It started in Salamanca and continued around the waterfront and back.
Our toddler (2.5 years old) loved patting the horses (Red & Micky) and sitting in the carriage seeing the horses ahead of us and hearing them trot. It was very comfortable, a great introduction to Hobart and one of the best things to do in Hobart with a toddler.
The carriage comfortably fits 4 adults and a toddler.
Other options include 30-minute waterfront jaunts, 1-hour around Battery Point and more.
More Information | Heritage Horse Drawn Carriages Official Website
Explore Hobarts Waterfront
A great thing to do throughout your time in Hobart is explore the waterfront. We loved doing this as soon as we arrived as a little introduction to Hobart.
You can wander along the many wharves and piers, see the boats, and you will also see beautiful heritage buildings.
Notable places to see include Constitution Dock, where the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race finishes, Brooke Street Pier, Franklin Wharf, Elizabeth Street Pier, Hunter Street and Salamanca Place.
MONA Ferry and Grounds
Are you wondering, is MONA Museum suitable for children? Well, so were we. We opted out of the museum due to the themes as we thought the imagery might be too much for a toddler. We decided to visit MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) for the grounds only, and of course, for the ferry ride.
After visiting we are super happy with this decision. As we came home for Clara’s nap in the middle of the day, we only had time for the ferry and to explore the grounds.
MONA Ferry
We got on the first ferry at 9.15 am. Children under 4 are free but you do need to contact MONA to reserve an infant ticket. The ferry ride goes by quickly, with lovely views of Hobart along the River Derwent, under two bridges, all in 25 minutes.
We got standard tickets, rather than the Posh Pit, as we thought the area would be better for Clara and didn’t see the need for more. The standard area is where you will find the animals to sit on. On our boat, we had some sheep, which Clara enjoyed seeing.
There is some commentary on the boat about what you are passing which is nice. You will also find a place to buy drinks and snack foods on the boat.
You can take a tunnel and lift to enter MONA if required, but we opted for the 99 stairs, which Clara not only managed fine but enjoyed. We took a light travel pram with us which was also fine to carry up the stairs.
We took the tunnel back down to the boat on the way out to experience both ways. By taking the lift and the tunnel you get to see some of the interiors of the unique building.
We got the 11.45 am boat back to Hobart, which allowed for 2 hours at MONA. This was just enough time to explore the outside grounds leisurely and stop for snacks.
MONA Grounds
Once there, we asked the staff for the best things to see outside. We first went on the musical trampoline, which Clara loved. It wasn’t as musical as I expected, but it was still fun.
Then we walked over to the rainbow room, which had some sunlit rainbows coming through. It was also very echoey which was very entertaining.
From here, we continued past the vineyard, which was lovely to see. Then back up the hill to the grass area, where we stopped for some food.
Then onto the house of mirrors. The house of mirrors is out behind a car park, past the MONA accommodation. There is a $10 entry fee for adults and kids are free. We enjoyed it and Clara loved it. It was made harder because we were spinning around and being silly with Clara, so we got a little disoriented, which added to the fun. Having said that, I feel like the entry fee is a little high for what you get.
From there we went back to the main grass area, had some food and went to the playground. Then it was time to get back on the boat.
Overall, we loved our time here. Visiting the MONA grounds and going on the ferry is one of the best things to do in Hobart with a toddler.
More Information | Book Your MONA Ferry here
Waterfront Fish and Chips
Having fish and chips at the waterfront was a Hobart experience we didn’t want to miss.
We went to Fish Frenzy which is located on Elizabeth Street Pier. Fish Frenzy is a restaurant with inside and outside tables on the pier. You can also get takeaway fish and chips if you prefer.
It was so nice sitting outside with the water and the boats enjoying our fish and chips. We tried the ‘fish frenzy’ pack, which included prawns, calamari, fish and chips. We enjoyed the chips, and the seafood was nice without being amazing. Really, this is all about the experience of where you are, and we loved it.
Address | Elizabeth Street Pier, Hobart
Opening Hours | Every day from 11 am to 9 pm
More Information | Fish Frenzy Official Website
Ice Cream
Van Diemens Land Creamery (VDL Creamery) on the waterfront has delicious gelato, ice cream and sorbet. The location floating over the water adds to the experience as it feels like something iconic to Hobart.
We ordered the choc-mint gelato and Anvers chocolate gelato and ate it on the pier nearby. All three of us, predictably, enjoyed the gelato and the experience.
Address | Constitution Dock, Hobart
Opening Hours | Sunday – Thursday 12 pm – 9 pm + Friday – Saturday from 12 pm – 10 pm
More Information | VDL Creamery Official Website
Playgrounds
There are many great playgrounds in Hobart. We took Clara to the one in Princes Park, which is a beautiful park in itself. Clara loved it, although it’s probably more suited to older kids.
Other ones I had on my list but didn’t make it to are Train Park (located in West Hobart), Long Beach Reserve, Kingston Park, and Bellerive Beach Park Playground.
Bellerive Beach is actually across the other side of the river, but we thought it might make a nice morning to catch the Derwent ferries from Brooke Street Pier to Bellerive, visit the beach, the playground and a coffee shop (we liked the look of Audrey coffee or Marla Singer) and come back. We didn’t get time to do this, but if you have a longer stay in Hobart it might be interesting.
There are also some nice fountains in Salamanca Square and Franklin Square.
St Davids Park
St Davids Park is a beautiful green space near Salamanca Place. The Salamanca Markets start near St Davids Park and continue down Salamanca Place.
Although there is no playground here, there is plenty of green space to run around, relax, have a picnic or just enjoy walking through.
St David’s Cathedral
St David’s is a beautiful Cathedral in the heart of Hobarts CBD. We loved the stained glass windows and wooden beams and also happened to be there whilst the lovely organ was playing. St David’s Cathedral is worth taking a look at during your time in Hobart.
Whilst in the city centre, be sure to wander around and take in the many beautiful historic buildings.
Address | 23 Murray Street, Hobart
More Information | St David’s Cathedral Official Website
Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has a specific section for children aged 0 – 3 years old and 3 – 7 years old called ‘Mapiya Lumi – around here’. This section, along with the entire museum and art gallery, is free to enter. Unfortunately, we ran out of time to visit the museum, but being an indoor activity, it’s one of the best things to do in Hobart with kids when it’s raining.
Address | Dunn Place, Hobart
Opening Hours | Tuesday – Sunday from 10 am – 4 pm (also open Mondays from 10 am – 4 pm from December 26th to March 31st)
Entrance Fee | Free Admission
More Information | Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery Official Website
More Things To Do In Hobart With Kids
Here are some more great ideas of what to do in Hobart with kids. The ones mentioned below we didn’t get time to do, but they looked like fun.
- Farm Gate Market
- Derwent Ferries To Bellerive (Beach & Playground)
- Sandy Bay – Walk, Long Beach & Reserve Playground
- Hobart Historic Cruises – 1 hr cruises and lunch cruises
- Mount Nelson Signal Station
- Tasmanian Transport Museum
- Hire Bikes (cycle South Hobart Rivulet or to the Botanical Gardens)
- Mawson’s Huts Replica Museum
- Pennicott Wilderness Journeys Iron Pot Cruise (best for older kids)
- Cascades Female Factory (again we thought it best for older kids)
Cafes, Coffee Shops & Bakeries
Cafes, coffee shops and bakeries are great for all ages, but super handy for trips with a toddler, whether for a babycino, a quick snack, or casual breakfast and lunch options. Here are some of our favourites from our time in Hobart.
- Parklane Espresso | A great place to visit when in Salamanca or to take a break from the Salamanca Markets.
- Dandy Lane Cafe | A nice cafe in a laneway with plenty of space for kids to explore outside, with both inside and outside tables.
- Pigeon Whole Bakers | A fantastic bakery on Argyle Street. We loved the croissants, pretzels, and lemon poppy seed cake. You can also get coffee here too.
- Little Amsterdam | A cute little coffee shop near Battery Point. We enjoyed the coffee, chai latte and babycino.
- Rosie In My Midnight Dreams | A coffee shop located within Brooke Street Pier, convenient if you want a drink before your boat ride to MONA.
- Hobart Coffee Roasters | A centrally located cafe, we only picked up some takeaway pastries here but it looked nice.
- Queens Pastry | We didn’t make it to the pastry shop but enjoyed their pastries at Little Amsterdam coffee shop.
- More coffee shops that looked great but we didn’t make it to; Villinio Coffee, Ecru Coffee, Yellow Bernard, Capulus Espresso, Vilicia Coffee and Somewhere Coffee Bar.
- More Cafes that looked great but we didn’t make it to; Born In Brunswick, Island Espresso, Pigeon Hole, Ozus, Stabla, Sisterhood, Little Lotus Cafe, and Straight Up Coffee and Food.
Toddler-Friendly Restaurants In Hobart
- Ti Ama | A great Italian restaurant in Salamanca. We loved the pizza and pasta dishes.
- Farzi | A cafe during the day, but on Friday and Saturday nights it becomes an Indian fusion restaurant, which is when we visited. We loved the food and service, although the dishes are somewhat small. High chairs were available, however, Clara was happy sitting on the bench seat.
- Urban Greek | A modern Greek restaurant in Hobart CBD that accommodates large groups. Booster seats are available. We ate from the banquet menu here and enjoyed all the dishes, most of which are pretty toddler-friendly. Service was also nice.
- In The Hanging Garden | This outdoor venue is nestled behind the city centre buildings. Here you can eat and drink at many different venues. It was fairly busy the night we went, but they do open in the afternoon so you can probably avoid the crowds and eat at a toddler-friendly time. We enjoyed the pizza from ‘Pizza Pizza’, and the sandwiches/rolls from St. J’s Deli. There is also a lovely wood fire upstairs.
- Fish Frenzy | If you want to experience iconic fish & chips on the waterfront, then Fish Frenzy on Elizabeth Street Pier is a great place to go. Here you can have eat-in or takeaway fish and chips. It’s lovely sitting on the outside tables looking at the water and boats. It’s also open throughout the day so easy to fit in an early dinner.
- Sushi Track | We stumbled onto this place looking for a quick lunch to get Clara home for her nap. We ended up going back twice because it was great sushi, quick service, and we loved sitting outside looking at the water. It’s located just opposite Elizabeth Street Pier. Clara also enjoyed the avocado rolls.
Hobart Day Trips With Kids
Although there are plenty of things to do in Hobart with a toddler, there are also some incredible destinations nearby. We were visiting Hobart without a car, so we spent most of our time in Hobart, except for Mt Wellington on the Explorer Bus, and MONA on the MONA ferry. However, if you have a car, or want to do a tour, then below are some of the best day trips from Hobart with kids.
- Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary (see Tasmanian Devils and more) – half-day tour here
- Visit the historic village of Richmond
- Bruny Island Day Trip
- Mount Field National Park & Russell Falls
- Berry Picking (we loved the look of Littlewood Berry Farm)
- Salmon Ponds, New Norfolk Area & The Agrarian Kitchen
- Huon Valley
- Hastings Caves & Thermal Springs
- Visit A Farm (alpaca farms, Highland Getaway farm tours)
- Railtrack Riders
- Port Arthur Historic Site (although I would stay a night or two over a day trip with young children)
- Tasmanian Devil Unzoo
Where To Stay In Hobart With A Toddler
It’s best to stay in central Hobart, so you can easily walk to most places in Hobart. This includes areas like Hobart CBD, Salamanca, and Battery Point. If it’s your second visit to Hobart or you have a car, Sandy Bay is another option if you want to be close to beaches. Here are some of the best family-friendly places to stay in Hobart:
Best Luxury Hotels In Hobart For Families:
Best Boutique Hotels In Hobart For Families:
Best 4-Star Hotels In Hobart For Families:
Best Apartments In Hobart For Families:
- Sullivans Cove Apartments
- The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel
- Salamanca Wharf Hotel
- Salamanca Suites
- Hobart City Apartments
For more details about the best places to stay in Hobart for families, see our blog post here.
Read More:
4-Day Hobart Itinerary: Best Things To Do & Places To Eat (coming soon)
Where To Stay In Hobart, Tasmania: Best Areas & Hotels (coming soon)
Hobart To Mount Wellington Without A Car (Explorer Bus)
Best Places To Stay In Hobart For Families (coming soon)
24 Hours In Sydney With A Toddler: Best Things To Do & Itinerary