From swimming and giant slides to quirky art and bush adventures, Hobart has something for every kid these holidays. Dive into fun at DKHAC, explore new trails, and discover creative surprises around the city. Let the winter adventures begin!
1. DKHAC Intensive Learn to Swim and Splash! Program.
Keep the kids active and learning with the Doone Kennedy Hobart Aquatic Centre Winter Intensive Holiday Swim Program, running July 7–11 and 14–18. Designed to boost swimming skills in just one week, the program offers 30-minute morning lessons for $119 per week. It’s perfect for busy families wanting to fast-track water confidence and safety. Spots are limited, so book early at the front desk or email dkhac@hobartcity.com.au. Plus, the ever-popular Splash! program returns with the giant inflatable, purple slide, play zones, and diving boards. https://www.hobartaquaticcentre.com.au/Home
2. Inside Out Program
Step into a world of imagination these school holidays with Rostrum castoris aviforme—the “bird-like beaver-snout”! This quirky creature, part of the City of Hobart’s InsideOUT project, is a playful artistic twist on the platypus’s curious history. Inspired by early scientific confusion over the platypus’s odd features, this fictional skeleton flips the script: a beaver’s head on a bird’s body! On display outside Hobart Town Hall, it’s a fun and fascinating stop for kids and adults alike. Come explore the mystery, marvel at the creativity, and discover how art and science collide in the most unexpected ways. Keep an eye out for more information here: https://www.hobartcity.com.au/Community/Creative-Hobart/Creative-Hobart-programs/InsideOUT
3. Caldew Park (the West Hobart Train Park)
School holidays just got a whole lot smoother—literally! Caldew Park has had a mini makeover, with fresh paving perfect for scooters and bikes, re-mulched garden beds, new plants, and freshly levelled grass for comfy picnics. Even the iconic train tracks have been repainted! It’s a one-stop shop for family fun, with public toilets, shaded BBQ areas, and a fantastic range of play equipment—all within a safe, fenced space. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon or a weekend outing, Caldew Park is ready to welcome kids and parents alike for a day of adventure, relaxation, and play. Find out more here: https://www.hobartcity.com.au/Community/Parks-sportsgrounds-and-reserves/Find-a-park-or-reserve/Caldew-Park-The-Train-Park
4. Creative Sparks and City Adventures at YouthARC
Looking for something epic these school holidays? YouthARC has you covered! Budding musicians can join Songwriting 101 with Tom to craft their next hit, while future filmmakers dive into stop-motion magic with award-winning animators. Science meets art at Glow in the YARC, where glowing cupcakes and UV masterpieces light up the fun. Prefer fresh air? The Inner City Hike offers a scenic stroll to Cascade Gardens. And for changemakers, Intro to Social Justice Theatre explores performance as a tool for empowerment. With events for ages 12–25, YouthARC is the ultimate creative and community hub this holiday season. Find more information here Home - Youth Arts & Recreation Centre and book tickets here: https://events.humanitix.com/host/6130639459a21f0e4baea254
5. Bush Adventures
Hobart is home to an incredible network of bushland reserves. From towering trees to tranquil rivulets, our reserves offer endless opportunities for adventure, discovery, and quality time in nature. The City of Hobart’s Bush Adventures Program invites families to dive into a world where discovery and learning happens through laughter, exploration, and shared adventures. Our Winter Bush Adventures program is out now, packed with exciting activities for kids and families eager to make the most of the season. Whether you’re keen to join a night walk, become a platypus protector, hunt for fungi, or get creative with clay inspired by native wildlife, there’s something for every age and interest. Visit https://www.trybooking.com/eventlist/bushadventures
6. Parliament Street Reserve slide
Just in time for the school holidays, Hobart’s longest slide is back in action at Parliament Street Reserve. The new 15-metre slide replaces the much-loved original, which was retired for safety reasons. The upgrade meets Australian safety standards with an enclosed top, gentle turns, and soft fall zones. The City of Hobart also enhanced the area with five Morrisby’s gum trees and over 1,000 native plants. Learn more at www.hobartcity.com.au/parliament-reserve-slide.
7. Knocksofty Track
Adventure awaits behind Knocklofty Reserve with over four kilometres of brand-new tracks now open! The Knocksofty Track offers a scenic, shared-use trail winding through dry forest and lush gullies, with stunning views of kunanyi / Mt Wellington. Perfect for walkers, runners, and mountain bikers, it connects Knocklofty to Wellington Park’s foothills. For thrill-seekers, the Swing Set Track is a downhill-only mountain bike trail packed with jumps, rock gardens, and drops. Whether you're after a peaceful bushwalk or an adrenaline rush, these new trails are a must-visit this school holidays. Find out more here: https://www.hobartcity.com.au/Projects/Recently-completed-projects/Connecting-Knocklofty-Reserve-to-the-mountain
8. Staycation fun at the Theatre Royal
From 7–11 July, Theatre Royal’s Staycation program brings the fun! Catch110% Ready by The Listies (10–11 July)—a comedy show celebrating everything that makes you late. On 10 July, join The Drift Kings for a Mario Kart 8 Deluxe showdown. At home, get creative with a drawing competition (entries close 8 July) and win a family pass to the show! Plus, build your own Toilet Paper Cannon with The Listies’ DIY video—just add a responsible adult and a childish sense of humour. Warning: may cause LOLs and epic messes! Find out more here: July Staycation activities | Theatre Royal