22 Things to do in Tassie for under $22
Tasmania has well and truly become the place everyone wants to be in recent years. In 2021, the island state saw an influx of new and old visitors, in awe of the natural beauty and abundance of things to do. It was the year people finally ticked Tassie off their travel bucket list, and plenty of the world’s biggest celebrities came too!
In 2022, many people’s mission is to do more, explore more and of course, save more! With that in mind, we’ve compiled an epic list of things to do on a budget during your Tasmanian motorhome holiday.
Natural wonders, mind-blowing art installations and sipping on famous apple cider, Tassie has an abundance of things to see and do – all for under $22!
Walk amid The Wall
Admission Cost: $18
The Wall is one of Tasmania’s lesser-known attractions – and we can’t fathom why it’s not talked about more often! This beautiful wall art is entirely huon pine and carvings, 3 metres high and over 100 metres in length. It is one of the most epic art installations you will ever see, just over 2 hours out of Hobart.
Visit the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
Admission Cost: Free
When people think of art and Tassie, Mona (Modern Museum of Art) is generally the first to come to mind these days. The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) can now fly under the radar – and it certainly shouldn’t! TMAG has free entry and will provide you hours of enjoyment, reflection and education. Not to mention the location - you’ll find TMAG right by the famous Hobart waterfront. As a local and tourist tradition, you should stop at a floating dock for seafood and ice cream after your visit.
Ride The Nut Chairlift
Admission Cost: $18
?Lusy Productions
The Nut in Stanely is one of the most iconic and picturesque scenes in the State – a fascinating geological formation that towers above the town. What better way to see it than via a cruisy chairlift!? You will get 360-degree views of the rock formation, the Bass Straight and Rocky Cape National Park.
Explore the Curiosities of Grindelwald Swiss Village
Admission Cost: Free
For something unique and a little out of this world, head to Swiss Village in Tamar Valley. After a holiday to Switzerland, Tasmanian woman Mrs Vos pleaded with her husband to move there permanently. He refused to pack up and move, so they compromised and made their very own swiss village! Entry is free, and there is a range of activities to get involved in! Think mini golf, paddle boating, arcade games and ice cream tasting.
Drive The 99 Bends Road To Queenstown
Admission Cost: Free
Some of the best moments in Tasmania unquestionably, are free
An epic drive that will provide some incredible memories - and unbelievable photos if you happen to have a drone! The 99 Bends Road doesn’t actually have 99 Bends, but it will feel that way. A popular spot for motorhome travellers looking to cruise their way into Queenstown. You might also recognise the curvy roads from Targa Tasmania! When it comes to your destination, be sure to check out the Iron Blow Lookout while you’re here.
Discover Hastings Caves & Enjoy Thermal Springs
Admission Cost: From $19.20
Hasting’s Caves is undeniably, one of Australia’s most fascinating cave experiences. The chambers that began to form more than 40 million years ago still stand today, and the stories you’ll hear from your tour will amaze! The low cost admission fee will give you access to explore the caves, swim in a thermal spring pool, have a BBQ and go scouting for Platypus and Pademelons in the surrounding forest!
Wander Around Mount Field National Park
Admission Cost: Free
Walk through an incredible rainforest full of towering trees, alpine tarns, and ever-changing native flora. This world heritage area is seriously stunning, home to some of Tasmania’s most spectacular wildlife, epic greenery and the world’s tallest eucalypt. A leisurely walk here will soon bring you to one of the most breath-taking waterfalls, the three-tiered beauty, Russel Falls! This is all free to enter, but be sure to have a pre-purchased park pass for any national park adventures.
Ride the Don River Railway
Admission Cost: $15
Immerse yourself in some Tassie history while taking in the views of the town during a Don River Railway ride! For only $15 you can ride the historic train for 30 minutes before returning to visit their fascinating museum and workshop. Whether you’re a train lover, adventure seeker or history buff – you’re sure to all have an enjoyable day out.
Enjoy a Cider at Willie Smith Apple Shed
Admission Cost: $0 ~ Drinks start from $7 ~
Willie Smith Apple Shed has become an icon in Tasmania in recent years. Thanks to its stunning mountain views, rustic exterior and famous apple cider, it’s where everyone wants to be when the sun comes out! If you’re willing to stretch the budget a little for this one, perhaps indulge in a share platter. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting on a Saturday, a morning market is held in the beer garden full of local artisan products.
Walk On the Tessellated Pavement
Admission Cost: Free
This coastal landmark is only an hour’s drive from Hobart – and well worth the short and stunning drive! Whether an amateur phone photographer or a professional one, the tessellated pavements are a complete showstopper! Thanks to the presence of salt crystals and erosion, incredible tiled rocks may appear as if they glow and have to be seen to be believed!
Drive to the top of Mount Wellington
Admission Cost: Free
If you travel to the top of Mount Wellington during the warmer months, you’ll discover the most incredible panoramic views of Tasmania. Go during the cooler months, and you’re likely to be surrounded by snow! Whether you’re there to discover the history, see the views or make a snowman - it’s all free! An extraordinary and historic landmark of Tassie that shouldn’t be missed.
See a Movie at The State Cinema
Admission Cost: $18.50-$20.50
This independent cinema has been an icon in Tasmania since 1913 – and is a big part of the growing hip culture in North Hobart. There are always great films showing, from local to international screenings. It also boasts a great bookstore, bar and nightly rooftop sessions. The best part is taking their beautiful coffee, tea and wine into the session with you!
Visit the Little Penguins
Admission Cost: Gold Coin Donation
Just a few minutes walk from Burnie’s city centre, you will find the incredible Penguin Observation Centre. Try and spot some of the many penguins living in the area, or be guided by knowledgeable volunteers. The guides will be there in the evenings every night from October 1st – March 31st – absolutely take this opportunity up if you can! It is best to visit here during dusk, that will give you the best chance of spotting some penguins!
Picnic at Royal Botanical Gardens
Admission Cost: Gold Coin Donation
Just ten minutes drive from the Hobart Branch, you’ll find Australia’s second oldest botanic gardens. The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens is 14 massive hectares of enchanting beauty, perfect for a day of relaxing or having the kids run around! For just a gold coin donation, you can wander the park, set up a picnic and check out the sub-zero antarctic room!
Visit an Exhibit at Moonah Arts Centre
Admission Cost: Free
Moonah Arts Centre, better known by locals as MAC, has a mission to provide accessible and affordable arts and cultural experiences – and they do exactly that! There are always free exhibits, affordable theatre and crafty workshops. MAC is a fun way to spend the day at a minimal cost.
Get a coffee at Hobart Cat Café
Admission Cost: $5-10
If you’re missing your furry friends or just generally obsessed with cats – the Cat Café in Hobart is an absolute must. For only $10 ($5 before 9am) – you play board games, sip coffee and dine alongside some of the cutest cats in town.
Smell the Flowers at Bridestowe Lavender Farm
Admission Cost: $0-22
Every year, Bridestowe Lavender Farm seems to gain more and more popularity! Kmart now sells a lavender-scented puzzle featuring the Tassie destination! If you’re in Tasmania between December and February, be sure to visit the North East coast, even if purely for a walk between the blooming lavender fields! After a romantic stoll, try one of the many lavender-filled options at the café – the most popular being their famous ice cream. Take some lavender-filled treats home with you; there is plenty of room in your motorhome!
Binge on Oysters at Bar Wa
Admission Cost: From $5 – Oyster Happy Hour from 4 pm til 6 pm daily.
If you want fresh and affordable oysters while in Tassie, skip the waterfront restaurants and head to Hobart’s favourite Japanese restaurant, Bar Wa. From 4 pm-6 pm every day, you can choose from an assortment of divine, fresh oysters and pay half price! The average cost for a dozen oysters during happy hour at Bar Wa is $20 – this is a tough price to beat in the Tassie market. Bar Wa can get busy most of the year, so it’s best to book ahead of arrival.
Stroll the Iconic Salmon Ponds
Admission Cost: $8 ($22 for family pass)
Park your motorhome and stroll alongside beautiful ponds and historic buildings at the Salmon Ponds. You can even feed trout or see the breeding process of salmon along the way! This uniquely Tasmanian experience provides a relaxing day with the family. Keen anglers will love it here, due to a dedicated museum showcasing the history of fishing and equipment.
Discover the fuss about Bay of Fires
Admission Cost: Free
This iconic slice of Tasmania is famous for its incredible colours – whites, oranges, blues and crystal clear water! You can spend days lounging at this beautiful reserve thanks to the clean air and abundance of great campsites suitable for motorhomes! When you park, you will find a giant national park full of greenery and wildlife, turn around and you’ve got the iconic, sparkling beach. It is undoubtedly one of the islands greatest natural wonders.
Beat the Rupertswood Farm Crop Maze
Admission Cost: $20
Open exclusively on weekends, the Rupertswood Maze is one of the better options. This incredible, family-owned crop maze is fun for the entire crew, young and old! With an ever-changing design, you never know where you might end up – but you’re sure to laugh along the way. The Rupertswood team encourage you to bring your own picnic hamper and lounge in their glorious paddock before or after. There is also their must-try homemade ice cream, the perfect treat when you conquer the end of the maze!
Explore the beauty of Cataract Gorge
Admission cost: $0-16
?Discover Tasmania
The Gorge is a wilderness wonderland just 15 minutes walk from Launceston City. Entry is free and you’ll find scenic walking/hiking trails, a café, a swimming pool and incredible wildlife, including colourful peacocks! It’s the place to be for romantic strolls, the kids to release some energy, or to take in the epic Tassie views and flora. The best way to do the latter is to take a ride on the world’s longest single-span chairlift – which is just $16 for a return trip.