Sullivan's Cove
The basics
Start your walking tour of Sullivan’s Cove at Parliament House and Gardens, from where it’s a short walk north to Brooke Street Pier. Sightseeing boat cruises set out from here along the Derwent River and ferries cruise north to the MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) museum. Pass by Franklin Square, where the central fountain features a statue of John Franklin, former Governor of Tasmania; stop to browse the exhibitions at the Maritime Museum of Tasmania; and peek into the Mawson's Huts Replica Museum, which tells the tale of Douglas Mawson’s 1911 Antarctica expedition.
Things to know before you go
- Sullivan’s Cove is a popular spot for art lovers and foodies—there are some excellent bars and seafood restaurants dotted along the waterfront, and art exhibitions and night markets are often held at Brooke Street Pier.
- Public restrooms are available on Franklin Square.
- The piers and waterfront promenades offer easy access for wheelchairs and strollers; most boat tours and ferries are also accessible.
How to get there
The easiest way to explore Sullivan’s Cove is on foot. It’s just a 2-minute stroll east of downtown Hobart. Buses from north and south Hobart stop on Franklin Square at the heart of the district.
Trip ideas
When to get there
Head down to Sullivan’s Cove in the morning to watch the fishing boats and ferries cruising the waterfront; or come at sunset for dinner looking out over the illuminated waters.
A Walking Tour of Hobart’s Neighborhoods
Hobart’s central neighborhoods are easy to explore on a walking tour. Start in the picturesque riverside district of Battery Point, where the narrow lanes are lined with old fishermen’s cottages, weatherboard houses, and cozy cafés. Pass the landmark Kelly’s Steps into neighboring Salamanca, famous for its lively Saturday markets. Continue north through Sullivan’s Cove, stopping to pick up fish and chips from Elizabeth Street Pier before heading towards the shopping streets of downtown. Further north, Queens Domain is home to the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens.
- Things to do in Tasmania
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- Things to do in South Island
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- Things to do in Northern Territory
- Maritime Museum of Tasmania
- Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery
- Mawson's Hut Replica Museum
- Lark Distillery
- St. David's Cathedral
- Parliament House
- Hobart Salamanca Market
- Constitution Dock
- Hobart Convict Penitentiary
- Macquarie Wharf Cruise Ship Terminal (Hobart Cruise Port)
- Battery Point
- St. George's Anglican Church
- South Hobart
- Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens
- Queens Domain