Launceston, Australia, is a charming city known for its natural beauty and historic sites. While popular attractions like Cataract Gorge and Tamar Valley are must-visits, there are also plenty of unusual things to do in Launceston Australia that offer a unique and memorable experience. From exploring the eerie underground tunnels of the Old Launceston Seaport to discovering the quirky street art scattered throughout the city, Launceston has a variety of offbeat activities to delight adventurous travelers. Whether you’re seeking out hidden gems or looking to step off the beaten path, Launceston has something special in store for you.
Cataract Gorge Chairlift
Essential Information
– Address: Basin Road, West Launceston, Tasmania, Australia
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
– Fee: $15 for adults, $10 for children
– Visit Duration: 30 minutes
– Ideal for: Families, nature enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
Cataract Gorge Chairlift in Launceston, Australia, offers a unique experience for visitors seeking a different perspective of the stunning natural surroundings. What sets this attraction apart is the thrilling chairlift ride that takes you high above the gorge, providing panoramic views of the rugged cliffs and cascading waters below.
As you glide through the air in the open chairlift, you can feel the cool breeze on your face and witness the mesmerizing beauty of the gorge from a bird’s eye view. This unconventional mode of transportation offers a sense of adventure and excitement, making it a memorable experience for all ages.
The chairlift ride is not only a fun way to explore the gorge but also a great opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture breathtaking shots of the landscape from a unique vantage point. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for an adrenaline rush or a nature lover seeking tranquility, the Cataract Gorge Chairlift promises an unforgettable experience that is truly out of the ordinary.
Tamar Valley Wine Tours
Essential Information
– Address: Tamar Valley, Launceston, Australia
– Opening Hours: Varies depending on the tour operator
– Fee: Prices range from $50 to $200 per person
– Visit Duration: Half-day to full-day tours available
– Ideal for: Wine enthusiasts, food lovers, and nature seekers
Why is it so unusual
Tamar Valley Wine Tours offer a unique experience for visitors looking to explore the lesser-known aspects of Tasmania’s wine region. While wine tasting is the main attraction, there are several unusual activities that set these tours apart.
One of the standout features of Tamar Valley Wine Tours is the opportunity to participate in grape stomping sessions. Visitors can roll up their pants, jump into a barrel filled with grapes, and experience the traditional winemaking process firsthand. This hands-on activity provides a fun and memorable way to learn about the initial stages of wine production.
Another unusual aspect of these tours is the chance to blend your own wine. Participants are given the opportunity to mix different varietals to create their unique wine blend. This interactive experience allows visitors to unleash their inner winemaker and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of blending.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, some tour operators offer helicopter rides over the picturesque Tamar Valley vineyards. This aerial perspective provides a breathtaking view of the sprawling vineyards and the meandering Tamar River, making it a truly unforgettable addition to the wine tour.
In addition to wine-related activities, some tours also include visits to local artisanal food producers, where visitors can sample gourmet cheeses, chocolates, and other delicacies that complement the wines of the region. This culinary aspect adds a unique dimension to the tour and showcases the diverse flavors of Tasmania.
Overall, Tamar Valley Wine Tours offer a blend of traditional wine experiences with unexpected and exciting activities that cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur looking to expand your palate or a nature lover seeking a new adventure, these tours provide a refreshing and unconventional way to explore the beauty and flavors of the Tamar Valley.
Penny Royal Adventure Park
Essential Information
– Address: 1 Bridge Rd, Launceston TAS 7250, Australia
– Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM daily
– Fee: Starting from $25 per person
– Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
– Ideal for: Families, adventure seekers
Why is it so unusual
Penny Royal Adventure Park in Launceston, Australia, stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its unique blend of historical charm and thrilling activities. While many visitors come for the picturesque setting and rich heritage, it’s the unexpected adventures that truly set Penny Royal apart.
One of the most unusual activities at Penny Royal is the cliff walk, where visitors can test their courage by traversing a series of suspended bridges and platforms high above the ground. This adrenaline-pumping experience offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a favorite among thrill-seekers.
For those seeking a more immersive historical experience, the park’s gold panning activity provides a hands-on glimpse into Tasmania’s mining past. Visitors can try their luck at finding gold nuggets in the authentic mining troughs, adding a touch of excitement to their visit.
Another standout feature of Penny Royal is the zipline adventure, offering a bird’s eye view of the park as participants soar through the treetops. This exhilarating activity combines speed and height for an unforgettable experience that is sure to get the heart racing.
In addition to these unique attractions, Penny Royal also offers boat cruises along the picturesque Tamar River, providing a relaxing way to take in the natural beauty of the region. Whether exploring the park’s historic buildings or embarking on an outdoor adventure, visitors are sure to find something out of the ordinary at Penny Royal Adventure Park.
Platypus House
Essential Information
– Address: 200 Flinders St, Beauty Point TAS 7270, Australia
– Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM daily
– Fee: $20 for adults, $10 for children
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Nature enthusiasts, animal lovers
Why is it so unusual
Platypus House in Launceston, Australia, stands out as an unusual tourist attraction due to its unique focus on the elusive and fascinating platypus. Visitors to Platypus House have the rare opportunity to witness these intriguing creatures up close in their natural habitat. The highlight of the experience is the chance to observe the platypuses swimming and playing in specially designed indoor enclosures, providing a close encounter that is both educational and memorable.
In addition to the platypuses, Platypus House also offers a glimpse into the world of echidnas, another iconic Australian animal. Visitors can observe these spiky creatures as they forage for food and display their distinctive behaviors. The combination of both platypuses and echidnas in one location makes Platypus House a truly unique destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
For those seeking a hands-on experience, Platypus House offers the opportunity to participate in feeding sessions and interactive encounters with the animals under the guidance of knowledgeable staff. This interactive element sets Platypus House apart from traditional wildlife attractions, allowing visitors to engage with these remarkable creatures in a meaningful way.
Overall, Platypus House provides a rare and unforgettable opportunity to learn about and appreciate two of Australia’s most iconic and enigmatic animals in a setting that is both informative and entertaining. Whether you are a nature lover, animal enthusiast, or simply curious about the wonders of the natural world, a visit to Platypus House is sure to leave a lasting impression.
National Automobile Museum of Tasmania
Essential Information
– Address: 86 Cimitiere St, Launceston TAS 7250, Australia
– Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
– Fee: Adults $14, Children (under 16) $8, Family (2 adults + 2 children) $35
– Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
– Ideal for: Car enthusiasts, families, history buffs
Why is it so unusual
The National Automobile Museum of Tasmania stands out as a unique tourist attraction due to its collection of rare and vintage vehicles that offer a glimpse into the rich automotive history of Tasmania. What makes this museum truly unusual are the interactive experiences it offers visitors, allowing them to not only admire the vehicles but also engage with them in a hands-on way.
One of the standout features of the museum is the opportunity for visitors to sit behind the wheel of select vintage cars and imagine themselves cruising down the roads of Tasmania in a bygone era. This hands-on experience sets the National Automobile Museum apart from traditional museums, making it a must-visit for car enthusiasts of all ages.
In addition to the interactive displays, the museum also hosts special events such as vintage car rallies and restoration workshops, providing visitors with a deeper insight into the world of classic automobiles. These unique activities make the National Automobile Museum a hub of excitement and learning, appealing to both seasoned car aficionados and curious tourists looking for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Overall, the National Automobile Museum of Tasmania offers a refreshing and engaging take on traditional museum visits, making it a standout attraction in Launceston that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery
Essential Information
– Address: 2 Invermay Rd, Launceston TAS 7250, Australia
– Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Tuesday to Sunday
– Fee: Free entry
– Visit Duration: 2-3 hours
– Ideal for: History buffs, art enthusiasts
Why is it so unusual
The Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery in Launceston, Australia, offers a unique experience for visitors seeking something out of the ordinary. While many museums focus solely on traditional art and historical artifacts, this museum stands out for its unconventional attractions.
One of the most unusual features of this museum is the preserved Tasmanian Tiger exhibit. Visitors can marvel at the taxidermy specimen of this extinct marsupial, providing a rare glimpse into a creature that once roamed the Tasmanian wilderness.
For those intrigued by the macabre, the museum also houses a collection of death masks from notable historical figures. These eerie yet fascinating masks offer a haunting look into the faces of individuals from centuries past.
In addition to its more unconventional offerings, the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery boasts a diverse range of interactive exhibits. Visitors can try their hand at traditional crafts, participate in hands-on art workshops, and even engage in live demonstrations by local artists.
For a truly offbeat experience, don’t miss the museum’s quirky collection of vintage medical equipment. From archaic surgical tools to peculiar medical devices, this exhibit sheds light on the evolution of healthcare practices throughout history.
Overall, the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery provides a refreshing departure from the typical museum experience, offering visitors a chance to explore the strange, the unusual, and the unexpected.
Boag’s Brewery Tour
Essential Information
– Address: 39 William St, Launceston TAS 7250, Australia
– Opening Hours: Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
– Fee: $25 per person
– Visit Duration: Approximately 1 hour
– Ideal for: Beer enthusiasts and history buffs
Why is it so unusual
Boag’s Brewery Tour in Launceston, Australia, offers a unique experience for visitors seeking a glimpse into the world of beer production. What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to witness the traditional brewing methods that have been preserved over generations. Unlike modern breweries that rely heavily on automation, Boag’s Brewery prides itself on maintaining a hands-on approach to crafting their renowned brews.
During the tour, visitors can observe skilled brewers meticulously overseeing the brewing process, from mashing and lautering to fermentation and conditioning. One of the most unusual aspects of the tour is the chance to taste the different stages of the brewing process, allowing guests to appreciate how flavors develop and evolve.
Another highlight of the Boag’s Brewery Tour is the historic brewery building itself, which exudes charm and character. The tour guides share fascinating stories about the brewery’s rich heritage, dating back to the 19th century, and provide insights into the brewing techniques that have stood the test of time.
For those interested in the cultural significance of beer in Australian society, the tour offers a glimpse into the role that Boag’s Brewery has played in shaping the country’s brewing landscape. From the iconic Boag’s XXX Ale to the innovative new brews being developed, visitors can gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship behind each pint.
Overall, Boag’s Brewery Tour stands out as an unusual attraction for its commitment to tradition, hands-on approach to brewing, and dedication to preserving the heritage of Australian beer culture. Whether you’re a beer aficionado or simply curious about the brewing process, this tour offers a unique and memorable experience that showcases the best of Tasmanian brewing tradition.
