10 Best Museums in Hobart

The Museum of Old and New Art, known as Mona, is one of Hobart’s unmissable delights. You’ll encounter fabulous exhibitions of eclectic art as well as restaurants, bars, a library, a recording studio and even a tennis court. To make the most of your time at Mona, download an app called ‘the O’ to guide you through the galleries, artworks and facilities. The app lets you queue effortlessly for special exhibits and saves your visit so that you can recreate it later.

Mona is in the northern suburbs of Hobart, and a fun way to get there is by ferry. Sit on a sheep or tiger as you travel, or upgrade to the Posh Pit, which includes free drinks.

At the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery, the second-oldest museum in Australia, you can delve into collections that highlight Tasmania’s natural, cultural and scientific heritage. Witness the journey of generations of Tasmanian Aboriginal people as you explore an extensive permanent exhibition. Wander through the 3 levels of galleries to investigate the making of Tasmania and its transformation over the years and discover enthralling facts about the plants and animals that are native to the state, including the Tasmanian tiger.

The main museum occupies a block that’s close to Hobart’s central business district (CBD) and encompasses Tasmania’s oldest public building, the 1808 Commissariat Provision. Entry to the museum is free, with donations always welcome. Pop into the courtyard cafe for some refreshments and treats.

The Cascades Female Factory Historic Site in South Hobart is a poignant reminder of the forced migration in Australia's colonial past. It offers a glimpse into the lives and struggles of female convicts during the harsh penal era.

Take a self-guided audio tour through history and wander at your own pace, exploring the solitary cells, workrooms and yards where women endured their sentences. Or try one of the engaging guided tours to gain further insights into the daily routines and punishments faced by the convicts, as well as the rebellion and triumph that highlights the women’s strength of character. If you’re visiting with young children, the free Factory Tales tour provides activities and illustrations that make history come alive.

Step back in time to an era of Antarctic exploration at the Mawson’s Huts Replica Museum, a faithful reconstruction of the historic huts of Cape Denison, Antarctica, during the 1912 expedition to the South Pole.

Through the intricate details and compelling biographical information provided, you’ll discover the gripping stories of geologist Douglas Mawson and his team of intrepid explorers. Find out how they lived and worked, and marvel at the authentic items that recapture the spirit of the original expedition. If you have any questions, volunteers are available to give answers and explanations. Next door to the museum, opposite Constitution Dock, you can continue your voyage of discovery by browsing through a gallery of Antarctic art and photography.

Whether you're a history enthusiast or just interested in Tasmania’s vibrant heritage, Narryna Heritage Museum offers a fascinating window into the past. Built in the 1830s, this Georgian townhouse invites you on an enchanting journey through time. Immerse yourself in the riveting stories that unfolded within the historic walls, in a space that has been occupied by large families, a boarding house and a hospital. Marvel at the carefully preserved and restored architecture and exquisite period furnishings and take a stroll through the peaceful spring garden.

Narryna is in the bustling Battery Point suburb of Hobart, close to cafes, restaurants and art galleries. There are often special events and exhibitions on offer, as well as themed guided tours.

When you visit the Salamanca Arts Centre, you’ll find a lively mix of galleries, venues, arts organisations and public spaces, as well as a theatre that hosts a wide variety of performance, music, dance and film events. The centre is housed in historic sandstone warehouses a short walk from the centre of Hobart.

If you’d like to view or buy original artworks, try browsing through the ground floor shops, where you’ll discover a selection of Tasmanian art and design. Or wander up to the artists’ studios, where you might have a chance to talk to the artists as they create their masterpieces. There’s a fantastic atmosphere throughout the week and free live music on Friday evenings.

Uncover tales of crime and punishment in the heart of Hobart’s CBD. The Penitentiary Chapel Historic Site houses the remains of a processing centre for male convicts, a chapel with underground solitary confinement cells and the former Hobart Gaol and Supreme Court.

Join a thrilling tour through the courtrooms and tunnels, ending in an immersive film experience in the chapel. Or try a spooky guided walk after dark and hear the hair-raising stories of the inmates who met their fate at the gallows. Avid ghost-hunters might also want to take part in a special paranormal investigation or ‘lockdown’ event, where you can join a team of investigators to explore one of Australia’s most significant convict sites.

Set sail on a voyage through Tasmania’s rich maritime history at the Maritime Museum of Tasmania. This not-for-profit museum is led by friendly and enthusiastic volunteers who are experts on the island state’s seafaring past. Discover a unique collection of artefacts from shipwrecks and models of ships, as well as paintings, photographs and Indigenous watercraft. You’ll gain fascinating insights into the work of mariners and hear spellbinding tales of past adventures at sea.

The Maritime Museum of Tasmania is in central Hobart, close to Constitution Dock. While the museum doesn’t have a cafe, there is a wonderful maritime bookshop and gift shop for you to browse through.

If you’re interested in viewing an extensive and extraordinary exhibition of creative works by Aboriginal artists, a visit to Art Mob is essential. The artworks in this commercial gallery come from various parts of Australia, reflecting the diversity of the world’s oldest living culture. The exhibition is ever-changing, often featuring the work of young up-and-coming creators as well as established leading artists. The gallery’s owner is passionate about his collection and is happy to share his expertise and answer any questions you might have.

Art Mob is a wonderful place to stop when you’re enjoying a stroll along Hobart’s waterfront. Any art you buy can be carefully packaged and posted nationally and internationally.

The Allport Library and Museum of Fine Arts is a charming collection of paintings, photos, rare books, manuscripts, decorative arts, porcelain and furniture. These intriguing items are displayed within a series of rooms that are set up to resemble the Victorian home of the wealthy lawyer Joseph Allport, whose possessions were left to the state. If you’re fond of books, you’ll appreciate a glimpse of the Allport family library.

You’ll find the museum on the ground floor of Hobart Library, with free admission. The lighting is kept low, and you’re requested not to use flash if you take photos. You can buy artistic prints, posters, tote bags and notebooks as delightful souvenirs of your visit.