Explore Launceston these school holidays

Published on 08 July 2022

Tasmanian families are being encouraged to visit Launceston during the upcoming school holidays.

Launceston Acting Mayor Danny Gibson said Launceston was perfect school holiday destination for locals and visitors alike, boasting fun-filled attractions like Riverbend Park, the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery and Launceston Leisure and Aquatic Centre.

"Launceston is often lauded as one of Australia's most family friendly cities and these school holidays are a perfect opportunity to explore some of what our city and region has to offer," Cr Gibson said. "If you're into action and adventure and have a head for heights, Riverbend Park's feature attraction, the Sky Walk, is always a hit with the kids.

"But, if you're after something slower-paced, the beloved City Park train is operating every day of the school holidays, winding its way through one of the best municipal parks in the country.

"The ever popular Cataract Gorge has something for everyone, with a range of short walks, the Gorge Scenic Chairlift, a popular play-space and the historic Alexandra suspension bridge.

"The Queen Victoria Art Gallery is showcasing ArtStart 2022, featuring art from kindergarten to Grade 6 students from across Northern Tasmania.

"While many residents love Launceston in the winter time, with its cool, crisp mornings and clear sunny days, there are those that like to experience a more tropical climate — and you can find that at the Launceston Leisure and Aquatic Centre where the temperature is always set at a balmy 28 degrees Celsius."

Cr Gibson said that as a designated UNESCO City of Gastronomy, Launceston was a diner's delight with some of the best restaurants, cafes and eateries in the entire State.

"During the school holidays, the popular Launceston Competitions are also on at the Princess Theatre, which provides plenty of activity for participants, and also affords parents an opportunity to enjoy some good old fashioned retail therapy in our CBD businesses."

Cr Gibson said there were a range of free or low-cost activities and short walks around Launceston, including:

● A visit to luyni mungalina, or 'raining rock', a natural rock fissure at Punchbowl Reserve.

● A visit to the Sentinel Lookout, overlooking the Cataract Gorge, accessed via the First Basin Track from the Cataract Gorge or from Denison Road.

● A visit to the historic Duck Reach Museum, accessed via Corin Street.

● A visit to Lilydale Falls Reserve, accessed via Golconda Road, Lilydale.

● A visit to the Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery, which is open from 10am to 4pm each day.

● A visit to the Launceston Aquatic and Leisure Centre, open weekdays from 6am to 8pm, and on weekends from 8am to 6pm.

● A ride on the Gorge Scenic Chairlift, which operates each day during winter from 9.30am to 4.30pm.

● A ride on the City Park train, which operates each day of the school holidays between 10am and 3pm.