Devonport, a charming coastal city in Tassie, is an absolute gem for travellers looking for a mix of nature, history, adventure, and top-notch food. As the gateway to Tasmania, this laid-back town packs a punch with stunning landscapes, fascinating maritime heritage, and plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Whether you’re here for a quick stopover or a longer escape, check out these ripper things to do in Devonport in 2025.
Best Things to Do in Devonport (2025)
1. Visit the Bass Strait Maritime Centre
Love a good sea yarn? The Bass Strait Maritime Centre is the perfect place to dive into Devonport’s rich maritime history. From shipwreck tales to interactive exhibits, this museum has something for everyone. The highlight? A hands-on ship simulator where you can test your skills at steering a vessel through rough seas. The museum’s got plenty of old maritime artifacts, plus some eerie stories of ships that never made it across the Bass Strait.
2. Explore the Don River Railway
There’s something nostalgic about riding an old-school steam train, and that’s exactly what you get at Don River Railway. This heritage railway takes you on a short but scenic journey along the Don River, with lush greenery all around. Train buffs will love the collection of restored locomotives and carriages in the museum. Make sure to chat with the friendly volunteers – they’re full of interesting stories about Tasmania’s rail history.
3. Relax at Coles Beach
If you’re chasing a lazy arvo by the water, Coles Beach is the go. With its soft golden sand and crystal-clear water, it’s a prime spot for swimming, sunbaking, or just unwinding with a book. The waves are usually gentle, making it a great place for families and casual swimmers. If you’re up for a bit of a walk, the coastal trails nearby offer some stunning ocean views.
4. Walk Along the Bluff
The Mersey Bluff is one of Devonport’s most iconic spots, and for good reason. A short walk takes you up to the Mersey Bluff Lighthouse, a striking red-and-white striped beacon that’s been standing tall since the 1800s. The views from up here? Absolutely next level. Keep an eye out for local Aboriginal rock carvings along the way – they’re a fascinating glimpse into the area’s Indigenous history.
5. Visit the Tasmanian Arboretum
If you’re a nature lover, Tasmanian Arboretum is a top pick. This 66-hectare botanical wonderland is home to thousands of trees from around the world, but the real star of the show is the platypus. Yep, this is one of the best spots in Tassie to see these elusive little creatures in the wild. Bring a picnic, take a peaceful stroll, and enjoy the tranquil vibes.
6. Discover Home Hill
Take a step back in time at Home Hill, the former residence of Joseph Lyons, Tasmania’s only Prime Minister. This beautifully preserved heritage home is full of old-school charm, original furnishings, and intriguing stories about the Lyons family. Guided tours bring the place to life with fascinating anecdotes about early 20th-century life in Tassie.
7. Stroll Through the Devonport Regional Gallery
Art lovers, this one’s for you. The Devonport Regional Gallery showcases a mix of contemporary and traditional artworks, with rotating exhibitions that highlight Tasmanian artists. It’s a great spot to soak in some local culture, plus they often run workshops and events that are worth checking out.
8. Indulge in Local Food and Wine
You can’t visit Devonport without treating yourself to some top-notch Tassie food and wine. Start with a visit to Southern Wild Distillery, home to the award-winning Dasher + Fisher gin range, crafted using locally sourced botanicals. If wine is more your thing, head to Ghost Rock Wines, where you can sip on some of the best cool-climate wines while soaking up stunning vineyard views. And don’t forget the seafood – grab some fresh fish and chips and enjoy them by the waterfront.
9. Explore the Devonport Foreshore Walk
One of the best things to do in Devonport is to hit the Devonport Foreshore Walk. This well-maintained coastal path stretches along the Mersey River, passing parks, beaches, and lookout points. Whether you’re walking, jogging, or cycling, it’s a great way to take in Devonport’s natural beauty. Stop for a coffee at a local café along the way – the brekkies here are top-notch.
10. Take a Day Trip to Cradle Mountain
If you’ve got the time, a trip to Cradle Mountain is an absolute must. Just a short drive from Devonport, this world-famous national park is home to breathtaking alpine scenery, epic hiking trails, and plenty of Aussie wildlife. Whether you tackle the iconic Dove Lake Circuit or just soak up the fresh mountain air, it’s a trip you won’t forget.
11. Visit the Tiagarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre
For a deeper understanding of Tasmania’s Indigenous culture, visit the Tiagarra Aboriginal Cultural Centre. The centre showcases Aboriginal artifacts, artwork, and storytelling, giving visitors a chance to learn about the history and traditions of Tasmania’s First Nations people. The surrounding area also features some incredible rock carvings that date back thousands of years.
12. Check Out the Paranaple Arts Centre
The Paranaple Arts Centre is a hub for all things creative in Devonport. From live theatre performances to art exhibitions and community events, there’s always something happening here. It’s also home to the Devonport Library, making it a great spot to chill out with a good book or catch up on some local history.
13. Enjoy a Sunset at Mersey Bluff Lookout
There’s no better way to wrap up a day in Devonport than by catching a sunset at Mersey Bluff Lookout. The sky lights up with stunning hues of orange, pink, and purple, creating the perfect backdrop for some amazing photos. Grab some takeaway fish and chips, find a comfy spot, and enjoy the peaceful vibes.
Final Thoughts
Devonport might be small, but it’s absolutely packed with things to do. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, soaking up the coastal scenery, indulging in Tassie’s incredible food and drink, or heading off on an outdoor adventure, this town has something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to experience the best of Devonport in 2025!
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