School Holiday Activities in Hobart October 2023

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When it comes to finding the best school holiday activities in Hobart over October we have you covered. It can be tough for parents to continually come up with school holiday ideas with everything else we have to do as parents, sometimes even getting out of the house can be a total struggle!

So leave the spring school holiday activities in and around Hobart to us and you just choose what works best for you and your family.

Kids school holiday fun activities don’t have to be a chore, even if you stay at home this spring (check out our stay at home ideas included below). So no matter the weather, you will find something to entertain children of all ages with these kids school holiday activities and things to do in Hobart.

We have compiled the complete guide to the best school holiday activities in Hobart over the October school holidays to help make your life so much easier!

State schools finish on Friday 29 September and return to class on Monday 16 October 2023

Spring school holidays in Tasmania are Saturday 30 September 2023 to Sunday 15 October 2023

Fun things to do for the Hobart school holidays this October

We have broken our list of Hobart school holiday activities for October into five sections to help you:

As with everything at the moment, please check with the venue directly (either by their website or social media pages) to ensure they are open during the times you wish to attend. You should also check their current policy around advanced bookings, entry requirements and timings.

10 fun FREE school holiday activities in Hobart this spring

Who doesn’t love a free day out! Why not take an informative visit to the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, a historical family stroll around Richmond, or even a hike up Mount Kunanyi, these are just some of the best things you can do in Hobart without spending a cent during the school holidays.

Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery

Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) is Tasmania’s leading natural, cultural and heritage organisation. It is a combined museum, art gallery and herbarium which safeguards the physical evidence of Tasmania’s natural and cultural heritage, and the cultural identity of Tasmanians.

With an onsite coffee shop it is the perfect spot to drop off with the kids and enjoy a spot of sneaky history lesson while you are there.

Find out more about the museum here.

Richmond

Richmond is one of Tasmania’s most popular destinations, steeped in history, family-friendly and a hub for food and wine lovers.

Conveniently located just 20 minutes drive from the Hobart CBD and 15 minutes from Hobart airport, Richmond is an ideal base from which to explore Hobart and beyond  to southern Tasmania, Freycinet and the East Coast, and the Tasmanian Midlands, including the food, wine and heritage of the beautiful Coal River Valley.​

Sweets and treats lollyshop is a must stop if you visit Richmond.

Find out what there is to do in Richmond these school holidays here

kunanyi / Mt Wellington

No matter where you are in Hobart you are never far away from the city’s beloved mountain, kunanyi / Mt Wellington.

An extensive network of walking and mountain bike tracks are great ways of exploring the mountain, taking visitors past waterfalls, through fern glades and gullies, and opening up great views of Hobart and, on good days, the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area.

Find out more about Mt Wellington here

Salamanca Place

Salamanca Place is home to the famous Salamanca Market which takes place every Saturday in the heart of Hobart.

Salamanca Place consists of rows of sandstone buildings, formerly warehouses for the port of Hobart Town that have since been converted into restaurants, galleries, craft shops, offices and much more.

Click here to find out more about Salamanca Markets

The Kingston Park playground

Located in Kingston, the play space provides play opportunities for all ages and abilities and consists of zones specifically designed for babies, toddlers, primary-aged children, and teenagers. The playground offers a range of genres of play inspired by animals and habitats native to Kingborough.

Kingston Playground information can be found here.

Dru Point Park, Margate

Dru Point Bicentennial Park is a big park area in Margate. This park is perfect for families, dog owners, people looking for a group picnic spot or for anyone who likes a pretty spot to take a walk. With an onsite cafe it is the perfect spot to relax and unwind.

Find out more about Dru Point Park here.

MONA  – Museum of Old and New Art

Located on the banks of the Derwent River a short ferry trip from Hobart, Mona is Australia’s largest private museum with three levels of underground galleries, which visitors explore with custom-built, handheld technology, called the O, that tells them about the artworks on display.

Entry is FREE for Tasmanian residents.

Click here to find out more about Mona Museum.

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

The Royal Hobart Botanical Gardens are a must see for visitors to the State. It’s a lovely way for anyone to fill in a few hours in beautiful, stress free surroundings. The Asian gardens are gorgeous anytime of the year. There is a small restaurant onsite and it is also adjacent to Government House.

You will find out more about school holiday activities in the gardens here.

Cornelian Bay

Cornelian Bay is large area that includes sporting fields and an awesome playground, resting on the shore to Cornelian Bay, with tracks through the famous and heritage protected boat sheds and cornelian bay cemetery.

Click here for more information.

Mount Nelson Lookout

The Mount Nelson Lookout is a great way to get a bird’s eye view of the city of Hobart, River Derwent and surrounds. The historical Signal Station site has some of the best views any eatery in Tasmania has to offer capturing over 180-degree views across the southern Tasmanian coastal landscape.

You will find more information here.

10 fun CHEAP school holiday activities in Hobart

While unfortunately not everything in life is free, we promise these activities won’t break the bank. These 10 low cost things to do in Hobart are great options for the kids these October school holidays.

Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs

Newdegate Cave tour

The magical underground world of Hastings Caves is 105 kilometres (1 hour and 45 minutes) from Hobart city centre. This stunning location will open your eyes to what lies beneath the picturesque Tasmanian landscape. The mystery of these Tasmanian caves is revealed beneath a dense green forest and ferny glades.

Back on the surface, you can relax in the swimming pool, which is fed by mineral-rich thermal springs. Experience warm thermal pool water that remains 28 degrees, year-round.

Find out more about the caves and springs here.

Salmon Ponds

At the Salmon Ponds located in New Norfolk about 45mins from Hobart visitors can view fish feeding and breeding in all its stages, from fingerlings to full-grown Brown, Rainbow and Brook Trout and Atlantic Salmon.

Anglers with an interest in the history of their sport can also appreciate the museum collection showing the changes to fishing equipment over time and the history of angling in Tasmania. And if you are lucky, you may catch a gilmpse of their local, wild platypus!!

You can read more about the Salmon Ponds here.

Bonorong Wildlife Park

Bonorong is Tasmania’s largest 24/7 Wildlife Rescue Service and army of volunteers who bring aid to thousands of suffering animals every year.

Bonorong is not a zoo –  it is a sanctuary for animals to get healthy and back to the wild. All of them undergo meticulous assessment to ensure they are happy and healthy before being returned to their natural habitat.

You can buy tickets to Bonorong here.

Tahune Adventures

The famous Tahune AirWalk and Adventures is an elevated walkway 30 metres above the forest floor, with the final cantilever section sitting at a height of 50 metres above the Huon River, with spectacular views to the confluence of the Huon and Picton and beyond to the peaks of the World Heritage Area.

Located in the beautiful Huon Valley, it’s a scenic 90-minute drive south from Hobart to Tahune.

Click here for more information here.

Hobart Aquatic Centre

The Doone Kennedy Hobart Aquatic Centre is a major, $17 million aquatic sporting facility located upon the Queens Domain, within less than 1 kilometre of the CBD of Hobart.

The venue has hosted some major swimming events and caters for the more serious swimmer to the casual splash around and play swimmer. Open 7 days.

You can find out about their school holiday activities here.

Maritime Museum of Tasmania

The Maritime Museum of Tasmania is in the Carnegie Building on the corner of Davey & Argyle Streets in Hobart, Tasmania.

The Maritime Museum of Tasmania has been operating for nearly 50 years. It provides an insight into the connections and significance you will see displays that explore aboriginal watercraft, ship building, navigational instruments, shipwrecks, historic dinghies and Tasmania ‘s role in naval warfare.

Click here for more information.

Hyperdrive Kart Racing

The Hyperdrive karts are all 100% electric powered by large solar panels with no nasty gas fumes. They don’t roar and scream, meaning you can actually hear yourself think. Located in Kingston with an onsite cafe it is a great little spot to sit and unwind while the kids have a total blast.

Check out their karts and prices here.

Putters Adventure Golf

Putters Adventure Golf is a world class indoor and outdoor family entertainment facility in Hobart, Tasmania. Central to the Putters concept is the creation of indoor and outdoor Adventure Golf courses. 

You will also find an awesome games arcade, children’s play areas and of course a cafe!

Click here for more information.

Tas Laser Skirmish

Tasmania’s premier outdoor laser tag facility. The large outdoor bush venue is conveniently located in Kingston, just 10 minute’s drive from Hobart, Tasmania. A unique non-contact, action-packed fun activity.

Tas Laser Skirmish details are here.

Hobart Paintball

Hobart Paintball is located in Cambridge, only 15 minutes from Hobart city. Open for bookings 7 days a week. You’re sure to Have a Blast with Hobart Paintball.  ​

Check out Hobart Paintball here.

10 BIG days out in Hobart these school holidays

Want to make a big impression these school holidays? Then these brag-worthy activities are sure to leave an impact and have the kids talking non-stop when they return to school after holidaying BIG in Hobart.

Bruny Island Cruise

Leave the city behind for a chance to unwind on an adventure cruise around Bruny Island. Explore the area on a custom designed wilderness cruise and reconnect with nature. Travel alongside towering cliffs and see the stunning Breathing Rock up close while watching the abundant coastline wildlife: seals, whales, sea eagles, dolphins, and more.

Book your adventure tour here.

Port Arthur

Explore the famous Port Arthur Historic Site! This humble site used to be a penal colony where convicts were sent to live and work; many of the structures there were built by the hands of the inmates. Visit it in all its glory today and ponder at what life was like for those convicts many moons ago.  

Book your adventure here.

Zoodoo

Zoodoo is a visitor funded, family run, Tasmanian animal park. About 40 mins from Hobart, Zoodoo is set on the hinterlands of the Coal River Tier a beautiful bushland backdrop directly adjoining the zoos rear boundary and the Coal River Valley. It is situated between the towns of Tea Tree and Richmond. Their school holiday activities include keeper for a day, guided safari walks, daily animal presentations, an indoor play centre, interactive learning and a barnyard animal farm.

You can book your tickets here.

Hobart City Sightseeing Tour

See the best of Tasmania’s capital at your leisure with 20 of Hobart’s top attractions and must-see sights. This sightseeing bus stops at essential Hobart highlights such as historic Battery Point, Salamanca Place, St. George’s Church, the Cascade Brewery and much more – ideal for those visiting Hobart that won’t be renting their own private transport.

Book your adventure here.

Mount Wellington Morning Tours

Visit Hobart’s most renowned local highlight on this Mt Wellington tour that will let you rise early and experience the natural highlights and views when the air is at its clearest. The bus tour will take you from Hobart in stress-free comfort and provide you with informative, entertaining commentary about all the surrounding features along the way, along with some outstanding photo opportunities at the summit!

You can book here.

Night Tours Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary

Join a tour of Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary at night, the nocturnal world comes alive and provides the ultimate in up-close-and-personal animal experiences. Join the famously friendly Bonorong staff and, over the course of 2.5 hours, venture into the enclosures to hand-feed various wondrous animals including golden possums, bettongs, sugar gliders and tawny frogmouth owls – or even a Tasmanian Devil!

Book your tickets here

Hobart City Scenic Flight

View the iconic, historic maritime city of Hobart from the air and take in all of its natural surroundings and architecture on this 30 minute scenic flight.

Join your friendly and experienced pilot/guides as they take you up, up and away over Tasmania’s capital for some unmatched, panoramic views of the city and its iconic Mount Wellington which makes for a wonderful panorama in the background.

Book your flight here.

Hobart City Kayaking

Experience the iconic waterfront of Tasmania’s capital from an entirely different angle, as you’re taken by expert guides on a journey from Sandy Bay past all the city’s major seaside highlights.

Enjoy a fresh batch of fish and chips straight from your kayak as you learn about the history and geography of the area from your friendly guide. 

Book your kayaking tour here

Scenic tour from Hobart to Launceston

Witness incredible scenery touring regional Tasmania on this 1 day tour from Hobart to Launceston via the famous Wineglass Bay and Freycinet National Park.

Drive through coastal towns of Swansea en route to the Freycinet National Park. The tour includes stops at the Freycinet Marine Farm to try fresh, local oysters and a guided walk on one of Tasmania’s Great Short Walks to the Wineglass Bay Lookout for amazing panoramic views of the bay. 

Book your tour from Hobart to Launceston here.

Tasmanian Wilderness Tour

Discover the glorious wilderness of Tasmania’s South on this 6 hour adventure from Hobart that includes return scenic flights to Melaleuca, a peaceful wilderness cruise and a delicious seafood feast. Embark on a spectacular morning flight over Bruny Island and Australia’s most southern point at South East Cape.

Book your adventure tour here.

5 things to do at home these school holidays

When you really just can’t leave the house for one more day, these stay at home activities will be sure to please the kids. Sometimes the best memories are made in your own home.

Resusable water bombs

Tie sponges to make reusable water bombs. Dip them in a bucket of water and watch the kids go crazy.

Make some healthy ice blocks

Freeze bananas, oranges or watermelon on sticks and make your own healthy ice blocks.

Make cloud dough

Mix together 1 part baby oil to every 4 parts flour and make your own fun cloud dough.

Bob for apples

Drop some apples in a bucket of water and watch the kids squeel with delight as they try to catch those little blighters in their mouths.

Go on a treasure hunt

Make a list of things you can easily find in your backyard and send the kids out to find them. Make it even more interesting by getting them to draw some things as well.

Theatres with kids shows on in Hobart these school holidays

These Hobart theatres and arts centres listed below are all very family friendly and often have lots of fun kids shows and activities on during the school holidays. Check them out.

The Playhouse Theatre

The Hobart Repertory Theatre Society is one of Hobart’s most respected theatre organisations. The Society presents four high quality productions each year, with a mixture of classic dramas, comedies, murder mysteries, family-friendly plays, musicals, and much more.

Find out what is playing at the Playhouse Theatre here.

Theatre Royal

Hobart’s Theatre Royal showcases a mix of live theatre shows to suit everyone young and old.

Find out what is playing these school holidays at the Theatre Royal here.

Salamanca Arts Centre

The Salamanca Arts Centre, is a major arts hub in Hobart. It is a combination of theatres, galleries and arts administration located behind the historic facade of Salamanca Place.

Find out what is on at the Salamanca Arts Centre here.

Hobart kids holiday ideas

If you’re looking for more things to do in Tasmania, click here.

Soooo…. what do you think? Plenty of Hobart days out ideas here to keep you and the kids entertained for the whole school holidays? These Hobart holiday ideas are updated every term, so remember to bookmark this page.

Let us know if we missed your favourite or if you would like us to add your venue or event!

Even more Tasmanian school holiday ideas:

If you are heading off on a Tasmanian road trip these school holidays check out our other articles:

If you are heading to the mainland, check out these capital city articles:

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Prue Money

Residing in Brisbane, Prue is a trained primary school teacher, where she has a passion for teaching our next generation. She is also trained in business administration and sports and recreation. With this breadth of professional background, Prue is perfect to write blog content covering a range of topics. Outside of writing you will find Prue being a Mum to her young son and reading books of all genres.

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