Taking the troops to the Apple Isle? You won't be disappointed. From family-friendly eateries to a near-endless list of easy (and distracting) activities, there's something for everyone in this state capital. Here are our top picks.

Best restaurants for kids

Harlequin

For a dose of Southern-style barbecue and a kid-friendly vibe, head to Harlequin in Lenah Valley, about 15 minutes from the CBD. The little ones will love the castle-style building, complete with turrets and a moat, and once you’re inside there’s a lawn area with games including Jenga, croquet and a horseshoe toss. Order the ribs (servings are generous), mac and cheese and fries.

Salamanca Market

Salamanca Market

It started in 1972 with about 12 stalls; now Salamanca Market welcomes up to 25,000 visitors every Saturday. Local fruit and veg abounds – the stonefruit is in another league to what you’ll find on the mainland. Street- food favourites include German sausages from Silver Hill Bratwurst, Cantina Latina’s cheesy empanadas and Tasmanian ice cream from Viking Cones. There are also local gintastingsaswellashoney, preserves and cheese to take home.

The Salty Dog

Travel 20 minutes from the CBD to beachside Kingston and enjoy lunch or dinner in The Salty Dog’s beer garden after a scamper along the rocks. Pub favourites are on offer (the chicken parmi is a must), the sandpit is popular, dogs are welcome and a pair of ducks even waddle in for an afternoon bevvy.

Things to do

Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens

Need the kids to burn off some energy? With its 14 hectares of gardens, this destination should do the trick. These are Australia’s second-oldest botanical gardens and house 6000 species of plants, including a sub- Antarctic collection that mimics the cold and misty climate of Macquarie Island. The Tasmanian Community Food Garden has been growing vegies since 1806 and is a wonderful place for kids to learn how food gets to our plates.

Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery

Grab a discovery backpack (for free!) filled with objects, props and activities for kids aged seven to 12, or a toolkit for the four- to-seven set, and explore various areas of the museum – including history and art as well as Antarctica – in an engaging and hands-on way.

Best accommodation for kids

Salamanca Wharf Hotel

Salamanca Wharf Hotel

Find a room

This apartment hotel has easy access to bustling Salamanca PlaceandPrincesParkisright next door – take the kids for a play on the pirate ship. Shops and restaurants are steps away, including Hobart’s best pizza joint, Ti Ama. But with cooking facilities in each of the rooms and suites, it’s easy to stay in if someone needs a nap and a snack. 

SEE ALSO: Hobart’s Best Kid-Friendly Feeds

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