Parks and playgrounds
City Park
Arguably one of Launceston's best parks, City Park is loved by locals its variety of spaces and attractions. Dotted throughout with large English trees and flower beds, manicured lawns and many level and easy access pathways, attractions include a giant chess set, rotunda, the John Hart Conservatory and barbecue area.
The park includes a popular children's playground with a variety of play equipment suitable for toddlers to older children, as well as a duck pond and 'Monkey Island,' which houses a group of Japanese Macaques.
The City Park train operates every day except Mondays and Public holidays. Incredibly popular with children, rides are only $3.50 per person, with multi-trip tickets available for regular riders.
One of Launceston's heritage parks, City Park was established in 1820. Bordering the park you'll find The Tasmanian Design Centre, Albert Hall and the former Park Caretaker's Cottage, which has one of the oldest wisteria vines in Australia. City Park also plays host to the annual Festivale food and wine festival, as well as a schedule of live music throughout the summer months.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
- Multiple attractions that kids love
- Manicured lawns and beautiful heritage trees perfect for a picnic
- Part park, part zoo (what other park in Tasmania has monkeys!)
- Plenty of areas to explore, you'll be sure to find somewhere peaceful to take a break from the city
Princes Square
Princes Square's fountain is somewhat of a Launceston landmark. The park has a colourful history - originally a brickfield and site of past military drills, rowdy political meetings and hangings, the park now plays host to city workers after some fresh air and sunshine, and Junction Arts Festival also sets up shop in the park grounds each year.
Bordered with timber bench seats and mature trees providing ample shade, the park is popular in the summer months. With local cafes like Bread and Butter, Mad Apple and Tinka Coffee Brewers just a hop skip and jump away, we recommend getting a takeaway to enjoy while you sit by the fountain and watch the world go by.
Civic Square
Civic Square is the perfect place in the city to take a break. Here you'll find lots of seating options and a grassed area, with a coffee cart operating on weekdays. The square is popular with families as children can run around and stretch their legs after a busy day's shopping. Kids also love the interactive water play area, (but be warned, you'll need a spare change of clothes!).
You'll also find sculptures by Stephen Walker and a Japanese garden, which was a gift to the city from Ikeda, Launceston’s sister city.
Civic Square plays host to a number of events throughout the year, from World Street Eats, to outdoor cinemas and the Fire and Fog winter festival.
Riverbend Park
Riverbend Park gives new meaning to the term playground. Here you'll find much more than the obligatory swings and slide, with four expansive play zones zones: The River Play area, Gorge Play area, Wild Core area, and Urban Plaza.
Each zone contains a range of play equipment and experiences, including swings, diggers, sand pits, a wheelchair carousel, a water play area, musical instruments, outdoor table tennis, see-saws and a full size sports courts. The park's largest attractions are the Sky Walk and the 'confluence net', two of the largest pieces of play equipment in Australia.
You'll also find barbecue facilities, public toilets, a giant mural, and a fenced toddler play area.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
- Enough to keep the whole family entertained for hours
- Bespoke play equipment that engage all of the senses
- Areas for all ages and abilities
- An easy walk to the Seaport, Silos or the city for lunch
- Plenty of parking