Why you should explore Hobart at night
Firstly, the beautiful Hobart waterfront presents a peaceful yet captivating scene at night. It’s an ideal spot for an evening stroll or to enjoy the city lights reflecting off the water. Beyond its scenic views, there are a variety of unique Hobart night activities to explore. From exclusive and unique nighttime tours to intimate dining experiences with panoramic views, the city has a lot to offer after the sun goes down.
In short, exploring the best things to do in Hobart, both during the day and at night, allows you to fully experience what the city has to offer. Spend your days exploring the natural beauty of Tasmania in your campervan and your evenings enjoying the cultural and foodie delights of Tasmania – it's the perfect way to capture the essence of this southern city. Looking for some travel itinerary inspiration for your campervan day-time adventures? Check out these two iconic Tasmania road trip itineraries:
Image: Instagram - @flynngraham_
Where to stay in Hobart
A Mighty campervan offers the freedom to explore Hobart's attractions according to your own schedule, providing both transportation and a comfy bed. All that’s missing is a beautiful and convenient place to park at night. Here are a few top picks of where to stay in Hobart for easy access to the best things to do at night in Hobart.
Hobart Showground Motorhome Park
The Hobart Showground Motorhome Park, conveniently a 10-minute drive to the city centre, is an excellent choice for exploring Hobart's nightlife. The park offers both powered and unpowered sites, as well as a host of essential facilities for a comfortable stay, including amenity blocks, laundry, and a dump point. Best of all, it is a short drive from many of Hobart's night attractions and is in a prime position for convenient public transport access to some of the best Hobart night activities and attractions.
Hobart Caravan and Holiday Park
For those seeking a balance between suburban peace and an easy 15-minute drive to the city, the Hobart Caravan and Holiday Park is an ideal place to stay while exploring the best things to do at night in Hobart. This park is well-located for those looking to venture into Hobart’s night activities. Plus, with convenient amenities like BBQ facilities, WiFi and a kid's playground, you will have everything you need (and more) at your fingertips.
The best things to do in Hobart at night
As the sun sets, Hobart transforms. In this section, we'll highlight some of the best ways to spend your evenings in this vibrant city. From catching a film at the iconic State Cinema Hobart to indulging in the eclectic street food at Franko, Hobart's night scene is brimming with opportunities.
Catch a movie at the State Cinema
A night out in Hobart isn’t complete without experiencing the State Cinema. The State Cinema in Hobart is a cherished institution renowned for its eclectic mix of films and classic theatre vibes (red seats and all.) This cinema, nestled in the North Hobart district, offers everything from mainstream movies to independent flicks and is a perfect location for a night at the movies.
For those on a campervan adventure, finding parking near the State Cinema in Hobart can be challenging due to the cinema's central location. However, there are several parking options, including nearby street parking. If you drive, just leave plenty of time to park before the movie begins.
Try the street food at Franko
Street Eats @ Franko, a bustling street food market in Hobart, is a must-visit for anyone looking to taste the local flavours of Hobart. Operating every Friday from December through April, Franko offers a variety of stalls featuring everything from savoury treats to sweet desserts and local Tasmanian fare. The lively atmosphere, combined with the aroma of fresh food, makes it a perfect spot for an enjoyable evening out – a must-do for foodies looking for things to do at night in Hobart. For motorhome or campervan travellers, consider parking a little further from the buzz of the markets at Dunn Place and enjoy the short 7-minute walk to the Franko night market.
Have a classy night at the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra
For a touch of elegance and cultural sophistication, spending an evening at the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra is a must when it comes to the best things to do at night in Hobart. Located in the Federation Concert Hall, the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra offers a range of performances, from classical masterpieces to contemporary works. Whether this is your first time seeing live orchestral music or your hundredth, this is bound to be an unforgettable experience and a perfect addition to your list of Hobart night activities.
Arriving in a campervan? Convenient parking can be found just a three-minute walk at Dunn Place Car Park. This location offers ample space and is well-suited for larger vehicles, making it an ideal spot for those travelling in a motorhome or campervan.
Wander the Hobart Twilight Markets
The Hobart Twilight Markets are a classic Hobart celebration of local culture, food, and crafts. These markets typically run on select Fridays from October to April, offering an array of stalls that showcase local artisans, crafters, and gourmet food producers. These markets, set in beautiful locations like Long Beach and Sandy Bay, with their vibrant atmosphere and stunning views, make it a perfect evening outing and an essential Hobart night attraction.
For those visiting this iconic Hobart night activity in a campervan, parking is conveniently available at the Hobart City Church parking area, within a 15-minute walk to the market venue. These parking spots offer easy access and are suitable for larger vehicles, allowing you to explore the markets with peace of mind.
Gaze at the Aurora Australis
Witnessing the Aurora Australis, or the Southern Lights, is a bucket list Australian experience that makes a night in Hobart truly magical. The phenomenon occurs when solar winds interact with the earth's magnetic field, creating spectacular light shows in the sky. This natural light display in the southern hemisphere is best viewed on clear, dark nights (new moons are perfect), typically during winter and spring.
To view the Aurora Australis by campervan, we recommend heading to locations like Mount Nelson, Mount Wellington or South Arm Peninsula, which offer clear views of the southern horizon. Parking at these sites is camper-friendly, providing ample space for a comfortable viewing experience. Remember, the aurora can be elusive, so check aurora forecasts and be prepared for late-night viewing. The best part? your campervan provides a cozy, secure spot to witness this unique light display. Not only does it offer the flexibility to move to clearer skies if needed, but it also ensures you have all the essentials – from warm blankets to snacks – right at hand. Plus, this self-sufficient mode of travel maximises your chances of seeing the Aurora Australis – making this a perfect addition for things to do at night in Hobart in a campervan.
Enjoy dinner with a waterfront view in Hobart
Last but not least, dining by the waterfront in Hobart is an experience that can not be missed on a campervan adventure to Tasmania. This experience combines exquisite cuisine with stunning views, making it one of the best things to do at night in Hobart. Two standout restaurants that epitomise this experience are The Glasshouse and The Black Footed Pig, each offering unique culinary delights along with breathtaking views of the harbour:
Image: Tourism Tasmania
The Glasshouse
Situated directly on Hobart's waterfront, The Glasshouse is a beacon of modern dining. It specialises in shared plates with a Tasmanian twist– encouraging a communal dining experience. With a menu that highlights local Tasmanian produce, it offers a taste of the region's best in a sophisticated setting. Plus, the panoramic views of the harbour do add the icing to this already memorable Hobart night activity.
The Black-Footed Pig
The Black-Footed Pig restaurant is a gem for those who love tapas and wine. Located close to the waterfront, it provides an intimate setting perfect for savouring a variety of Spanish-inspired dishes. The Black Footed Pig's warm atmosphere, combined with its diverse share-style menu, makes it a perfect spot to soak up the views and flavours of this southern city.
Explore Hobart at night with maui
Hobart's night activities, enriched with attractions like the Aurora Australis and bustling Twilight Night Markets, offer endless opportunities for adventure well after the sun sets. Ready to explore the best of Hobart at night with a maui motorhome as your companion? Book your motorhome easily online today and simply pick up the keys from any maui branch. With maui, every night in Hobart becomes an adventure, offering comfort and mobility as you discover the city after dark.