8 Unmissable Adventures in Tasmania with Kids for 2025

Tasmania, Australia’s island state, is a playground of natural wonders, unique wildlife, and captivating history, making it the perfect destination for a family holiday. But where do you start when planning a trip that keeps everyone from toddlers to teens entertained? Forget endless searching; we’ve curated the ultimate list of family-friendly experiences across the Apple Isle. From meeting Tasmanian devils up close to exploring surreal art museums and pristine beaches, this guide provides actionable tips and insider knowledge to help you craft the perfect itinerary.

Planning any family trip comes with its own set of challenges, from packing lists to managing different energy levels. To help you navigate your journey with little ones, we’ve also found a comprehensive guide on traveling with kids that covers all the basics.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, educational fun, or simply a chance to make lasting memories, our roundup of the best things to do in Tasmania with kids ensures your family trip is packed with excitement and discovery. We’ll cover everything you need to know, including age suitability, travel logistics, and pro tips to make your journey seamless and stress-free. Let’s dive into the must-see spots that will make your Tasmanian adventure truly unforgettable.

1. Museum of Old and New Art (MONA)

Taking kids to an art museum might seem like a gamble, but MONA is an experience that turns traditional museum-going on its head. Forget stuffy, silent halls; this subterranean art playground is one of the most engaging and surprising things to do in Tasmania with kids. The journey itself is an adventure, with many families opting for the scenic MONA ROMA ferry from Hobart’s waterfront.

The museum, founded by the eccentric David Walsh, is designed to provoke thought and conversation. While some exhibits are for mature audiences, many are fascinating for younger visitors. The architecture alone, carved into a sandstone cliff, will capture their imagination. The museum uses an app called ‘The O’ instead of traditional wall labels, and there’s a family-friendly version that guides children to age-appropriate artworks with fun, easy-to-understand descriptions.

Highlights for Families

• Interactive Installations: Kids are often drawn to installations like the ‘Fat Car’ (a comically bloated red Porsche) and various sound and light displays.
• Outdoor Spaces: The grounds feature lawns, a trampoline, and often have live music, providing a perfect space for kids to burn off energy.
• Family-Focused Programs: Check MONA’s website for special school holiday workshops, family art-making sessions, or kid-friendly tours.

Pro Tip: Plan your visit to last around two to three hours. This is enough time to see the major family-friendly works without causing sensory overload for the little ones. Don’t forget to pack a jumper, as the underground galleries can be quite cool.

2. Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Immersing your family in the raw, dramatic beauty of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is an unforgettable Tasmanian experience. Part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, this iconic destination offers some of the most accessible and rewarding outdoor adventures in Tasmania with kids. From spotting wombats grazing at dusk to walking through ancient rainforests, the park provides a perfect natural playground.

The journey into the park sets the stage for adventure, with winding roads offering breathtaking glimpses of the rugged landscape. The area is a haven for native wildlife, and the chances of seeing wallabies, echidnas, and even the elusive Tasmanian devil (at the local sanctuary) are incredibly high, creating magical moments for children. The park’s well-maintained facilities, including a visitor centre and shuttle bus service, make exploring with little ones surprisingly straightforward.

Highlights for Families

• Enchanted Walk: This 20-minute boardwalk loop is perfect for toddlers and young children. It winds through a mossy, fairytale-like rainforest along a babbling creek, with interpretive tunnels for kids to crawl through.
• Dove Lake Circuit: For families with slightly older children, this 6km walk offers spectacular views of Cradle Mountain reflected in the glacial waters of Dove Lake. It’s mostly flat and takes about two to three hours. Explore a comprehensive guide to Cradle Mountain walks to find the best trail for your family.
• Devils@Cradle: Located right at the park entrance, this sanctuary offers fantastic up-close encounters with Tasmanian devils during daytime keeper tours and evening feeding sessions.

Pro Tip: Wildlife is most active in the early morning and late afternoon. Plan your drives and walks around these times for the best chance of spotting wombats and wallabies. Always pack for all seasons; the weather can change in an instant, so warm layers and waterproof gear are essential.

3. Salamanca Market

No family trip to Hobart is complete without a visit to the iconic Salamanca Market. Held every Saturday, this bustling outdoor marketplace is a feast for the senses and one of the most vibrant activities in Tasmania with kids. Sprawling along the historic Salamanca Place, it brings together local artisans, farmers, and chefs, creating an atmosphere that is both exciting for children and fascinating for adults. It’s a perfect opportunity to immerse your family in local Tasmanian culture.

The market offers a fantastic blend of sights, sounds, and smells. From the lively tunes of buskers to the sweet aroma of fresh food, it’s an experience that captivates all ages. Kids will love the freedom to explore the wide-open space, sample local treats, and see handcrafted goods being sold directly by their makers, offering a tangible connection to Tasmania’s creative spirit.

Highlights for Families

• Taste of Tasmania: Let the kids try local specialities like scallop pies, fresh berry ice cream, or warm poffertjes (tiny Dutch pancakes). Many stalls offer samples of fudge, honey, and cheese.
• Unique Souvenirs: Forget generic keepsakes. Here you can find beautiful handmade wooden toys, colourful textiles, and unique pieces of art that make for meaningful mementos.
• Live Entertainment: The market is filled with talented buskers and street performers, providing free, family-friendly entertainment as you wander through the stalls.

Pro Tip: Arrive early, around 8:30 AM, to beat the biggest crowds and enjoy a more relaxed stroll. Bring cash, as not all vendors have card facilities, and pack a few reusable bags for your purchases. Plan for about two to three hours to explore without rushing the little ones.

4. Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

For an unforgettable animal encounter that’s both fun and educational, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-do. This isn’t just a zoo; it’s a sanctuary with a powerful mission to rescue and rehabilitate injured and orphaned native Tasmanian wildlife. It offers families a unique opportunity to get up close with iconic animals, making it one of the most heartwarming activities in Tasmania with kids.

The sanctuary operates Tasmania’s only 24/7 wildlife rescue service, and every visit directly supports these conservation efforts. Kids will love the free-roaming kangaroos and wallabies that gently eat from their hands, creating a magical and memorable interaction. The knowledgeable keepers provide fascinating talks that are engaging for all ages, explaining the stories behind the animals and the importance of protecting their habitats.

Highlights for Families

• Hand-Feeding Kangaroos: Purchase a bag of animal food at the entrance and let the kids experience the joy of hand-feeding the friendly Forester Kangaroos and Bennett’s Wallabies.
• Tasmanian Devil Feeding: Witnessing the famous Tasmanian devil feeding is a highlight. The keepers’ presentations are both entertaining and educational, providing insight into the fight to save this endangered species.
• Wombat Encounters: See the adorable wombats up close during their feeding times and learn about their quirky behaviours from the passionate staff. If you’re looking for more wildlife experiences, you can also explore similar conservation centres. Learn more about another Tasmanian wildlife park.

Pro Tip: Time your visit to coincide with the free daily tours, which are included in your entry fee. They run at set times and offer the best chance to see keeper talks and animal feedings. Allow at least two hours to explore without rushing.

5. Bay of Fires

For a truly unforgettable family beach day, the Bay of Fires on Tasmania’s east coast is a must-see destination. This stunning stretch of coastline is famous for its combination of pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and the iconic orange-hued lichen covering the granite boulders. It’s a natural playground that provides one of the best outdoor experiences in Tasmania with kids, offering endless opportunities for swimming, exploring, and simply soaking in the spectacular scenery.

The area is not just one beach but a series of them, each with its own charm. The vibrant contrast of colours makes for incredible family photos, and the calm, shallow waters in many spots are perfect for little ones to paddle and splash safely. From building sandcastles to searching for shells and discovering marine life in rock pools, a day here is a simple, classic Aussie adventure that your kids will talk about for years.

Highlights for Families

• Binalong Bay: As the main access point, it’s well-serviced and offers beautiful, safe swimming conditions. It’s an ideal starting point for your exploration.
• The Gardens: Head further north to discover more secluded coves and dramatic rock formations that are fantastic for a bit of family adventure and photography.
• Swimcart Beach: This popular spot is fantastic for families with young children, known for its gentle waves and easy access, making it a stress-free beach day location.

Pro Tip: Pack everything you need for the day, including plenty of food, water, sunscreen, and beach toys, as shops and facilities are very limited along the coast. The Tasmanian sun can be strong, even on cloudy days, so reapply sunscreen regularly.

6. Seahorse World

For a truly magical marine encounter, Seahorse World offers an unforgettable experience that is one of the most unique things to do in Tasmania with kids. Located at Beauty Point in the picturesque Tamar Valley, this facility is the world’s first working seahorse farm open to the public. It provides a fascinating look into the life cycle and conservation of these delicate, enchanting creatures in a way that is both educational and completely captivating for all ages.

The experience is built around a comprehensive guided tour that takes you from nursery to adult tanks. You’ll learn all about seahorse biology, why the male seahorse carries the babies, and the important conservation work being done here to protect them. The guides are passionate and excellent at engaging children, answering their endless questions with patience and expertise. It’s a fantastic indoor activity, making it a perfect choice for a rainy day.

Highlights for Families

• The Touch Pool: A definite highlight for little hands, the touch pool allows kids to gently hold a starfish, feel a sea anemone, or even touch a hermit crab.
• Nursery Tanks: Seeing thousands of tiny baby seahorses, some smaller than a fingernail, is an incredible sight that will leave your children in awe.
• Diverse Species: Discover the differences between over 10 species of seahorses and other captivating marine life like the weedy seadragon and giant Tasmanian crabs.

Pro Tip: The guided tour takes about 45 minutes, but plan to stay for at least an hour and a half to fully enjoy the touch pool and gift shop. Ask about feeding times when you arrive, as seeing the seahorses actively feeding is a special treat.

7. Tasmanian Transport Museum

For a delightful journey into Tasmania’s past, the Tasmanian Transport Museum offers an experience that captivates both children and adults. Located in Glenorchy, this charming museum is a treasure trove of vintage vehicles, allowing families to get up close with the engines and carriages that once connected the island state. It’s a wonderfully hands-on attraction and one of the most engaging historical things to do in Tasmania with kids who love anything with wheels.

Run by passionate volunteers, the museum brings history to life. Instead of just looking at static displays, children can climb aboard historic buses, explore old train carriages, and marvel at the intricate details of beautifully preserved steam locomotives. The highlight for most families is the chance to ride a heritage steam train on the museum’s own track or take a trip on a vintage tram, offering a nostalgic and memorable experience.

Highlights for Families

• Heritage Train and Tram Rides: The main event for little ones is the thrilling ride on a real steam train or an old-fashioned tram. Check the schedule as these usually run on specific days.
• Interactive Displays: Kids can get behind the wheel of a historic trolleybus, wander through railway carriages, and see impressive model railway layouts in action.
• Volunteer Guides: The friendly volunteers are a font of knowledge and love sharing stories about the vehicles, adding a personal and educational touch to your visit.

Pro Tip: The museum operates on a limited schedule, typically on weekends and during school holidays, so check their website before you go. The train rides are especially popular, so arriving a little early on running days is a great idea to avoid disappointment.

8. Wineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park

Visiting a world-famous, postcard-perfect beach is a must-do, and Freycinet National Park delivers an unforgettable experience for families. Home to the iconic Wineglass Bay, this is one of the most rewarding natural destinations in Tasmania with kids. The park combines breathtaking lookouts, pristine white-sand beaches, and accessible walks that allow families to immerse themselves in stunning coastal wilderness.

The main draw is the Wineglass Bay Lookout walk, a moderately steep but manageable trail that rewards you with one of Australia’s most celebrated views. While the full walk down to the beach is more challenging, several other family-friendly options within the park ensure everyone gets to enjoy the scenery. The journey is as much about spotting wildlife, like wallabies and wombats, as it is about reaching the destination, making it an exciting adventure for curious children.

Highlights for Families

• Wineglass Bay Lookout: This 1.5-hour return walk is a fantastic goal for families with school-aged kids. The view of the perfectly curved bay from the top is a spectacular reward for their efforts.
• Cape Tourville Lighthouse: For those with toddlers or strollers, this 20-minute circuit is a fantastic alternative. The flat boardwalk offers panoramic coastal views with minimal effort.
• Friendly Beaches: Just a short drive away, this area provides easy access to vast, beautiful beaches where kids can run, build sandcastles, and paddle in the shallows without the big hike.
• Hazards Beach Circuit: An easier, flatter walk that takes you to a quieter but equally beautiful beach. It’s a great option for a more relaxed day of exploring.

Pro Tip: Start your walk early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and the biggest crowds. Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a small first-aid kit. If you plan to spend the day, consider the benefits of Freycinet National Park camping to truly soak in the atmosphere.

Top 8 Tasmania Family Attractions Comparison

Ready to Explore? Make Your Tasmanian Family Holiday a Reality

Tasmania is more than just a destination; it’s a giant, natural playground waiting to be discovered by you and your family. From the quirky, thought-provoking halls of MONA to the ancient, moss-covered trails of Cradle Mountain, this island state offers a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to every age and interest. We’ve journeyed through bustling markets, met unique native wildlife up close, and stood in awe of some of the world’s most beautiful coastlines. The key takeaway is clear: a holiday in Tasmania with kids is an opportunity to create a shared story, built from moments of wonder, adventure, and connection.

The secret to a successful family trip here lies in thoughtful planning and embracing the diversity on offer. It’s about balancing a stimulating museum visit with an afternoon spent spotting wombats, or following a spectacular coastal walk with a simple, delicious meal of local fish and chips. This guide has provided the building blocks, showing you that it’s entirely possible to visit iconic spots like Wineglass Bay and the Bay of Fires, even with little ones in tow. The trick is to plan ahead, book key attractions like Bonorong or Seahorse World, and always leave a little room in your itinerary for spontaneous fun.

Your Next Steps to an Unforgettable Trip

As you start piecing together your own adventure, remember these core principles for a fantastic family holiday in Tasmania:

• Pace Yourselves: Don’t try to cram too much into one day. Tasmania’s winding roads and captivating scenery invite a slower pace. Choose one major activity per day and supplement it with smaller, local explorations.
• Book Ahead: For popular attractions and accommodation, especially during school holidays, booking in advance is essential. This avoids disappointment and helps you structure your days.
• Embrace All Weathers: Tasmania is famous for its “four seasons in one day.” Pack layers, waterproof jackets, and sturdy shoes so that a sudden shower doesn’t derail your plans. A little rain never stopped a wombat, and it shouldn’t stop you either!

Ultimately, a trip to Tasmania with kids is an investment in memories that will last a lifetime. It’s a chance to disconnect from screens and reconnect with each other amidst some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. Whether you’re teaching your children about conservation at a wildlife sanctuary or marvelling together at a perfect, crescent-shaped beach, these are the moments that count. So, take these ideas, start planning, and get ready for an adventure your family will be talking about for years to come.

Ready to make your family adventure completely seamless? Let the local experts at Tasmania Tours handle all the details, from transport to accommodation and sightseeing. Explore their family-friendly itineraries and discover how easy your dream Tasmanian holiday can be at Tasmania Tours.