Is the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens free?

Entry to the gardens is generally free, though special events or some areas may charge. The listing has the latest arrangements.

Can we picnic at the botanical gardens?

Yes, picnics are what the lawns are for. Pack a rug and lunch, and look at the listing for any garden rules.

Is the garden good for toddlers?

Yes, with open lawns, ponds and flat paths. Stay close to the water and bring snacks.

Chilled days: gardens, parklands and picnics in Hobart

The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens are the easy answer for a chilled day in Hobart, and they deserve the reputation. Sitting beside the Derwent, the gardens have wide lawns, shaded paths, ponds and plant collections that suit slow wandering. Children can run, collect leaves, look for ducks and eat a picnic under a tree, while parents take in the colour. It is a place that works in every season. Spring and summer bring flowers and long light, autumn gives the trees a turn, and winter offers a quiet, crisp walk with a hot drink. The other listed options are small but worth knowing. The Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry and KickstART Arts at New Town add a creative or sweet detour, and the listing explains what is available. The pace of a chilled day in Hobart is unhurried: a late start, a long walk, a pause for a hot chocolate. Because the weather moves fast, it helps to have a plan B, such as the museum or a cafe, if the wind picks up. Weekdays are quiet, and weekends bring more families, but the gardens are large enough to absorb them. Bring a rug, a flask and a book, and let the kids run until they are ready to sit.

Our picks

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens Hobart
The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens on Lower Domain Road, Queens Domain are open every day with free entry.

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Before you go

Best for which ages

The gardens suit all ages, from babies on a rug to older children exploring the paths. Toddlers love the open lawns and ponds, and pre-schoolers like looking for birds and flowers. Teens may prefer the creative spaces or a quiet bench.

What to bring

A picnic rug, food and water, plus warm layers and a windproof jacket. A hat and sunscreen in summer. A ball or a book for the lawn, and a bag for any leaves or stones collected along the way. A flask of hot chocolate is worth packing for the younger ones when the wind picks up.

Parking and facilities

The botanical gardens have nearby parking, toilets and a cafe, though spaces fill on sunny weekends. The smaller venues have limited facilities, so check the listing for what is on site and for how each one runs. Visiting on a weekday morning usually means a quieter car park and a shorter wait at the cafe.

Prams and accessibility

The main paths are generally suited to prams, with some gentle slopes. Lawns give extra room, but gravel paths can be bumpy. If a step-free route matters, the listing is the place to confirm it. Lawns beside the paths give prams room to turn, and most main entrances are level and easy to find.

Best time of year

Spring and summer are lush, with flowers and long evenings. Autumn offers gentle light and colour. Winter is quiet and cold but beautiful on a clear day, and good for brisk walks and hot drinks. On windy days, the sheltered corners behind the hedges and under the big trees make a calmer spot for a rug.

Botanic gardens and big parklands

Open lawns, shaded paths and room to run, with toilets and a picnic spot close by.

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens Hobart
The Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens on Lower Domain Road, Queens Domain are open every day with free entry.

★ 4.7 (7,478)

All gardens and parklands in Hobart, free and paid

More free days out

Community farms, wildlife spots and other places that cost nothing to get into.

Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry
The Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry is a chocolate maker at 3 South Street, Taranna, on the Tasman Peninsula, a day trip from Hobart.

★ 4.4 (250)
Youth Arts & Recreation Centre (Youth ARC) Hobart
The Youth Arts & Recreation Centre (Youth ARC) at 1 Market Place, Hobart, is a City of Hobart youth program for young people aged 12-25.

★ 4.6 (39)
KickstART Arts New Town
KickstART Arts is a community arts organisation based in St John's Park, New Town, running programs on site and in the community, along with studio hire and a community…

★ 4.3 (54)

Questions parents ask

Is the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens free?: Entry to the gardens is generally free, though special events or some areas may charge. The listing has the latest arrangements.
Can we picnic at the botanical gardens?: Yes, picnics are what the lawns are for. Pack a rug and lunch, and look at the listing for any garden rules.
Is the garden good for toddlers?: Yes, with open lawns, ponds and flat paths. Stay close to the water and bring snacks.