Theme Parks in Tasmania

Tasmania has a single entry in this category, and it is in Launceston. Penny Royal Adventures sits beside Cataract Gorge and, according to Discover Tasmania, is themed to recreate 19th-century Van Diemen's Land, with the stories drawn from local convict history and the bushranger Matthew Brady, as Experience Oz puts it. It rates 4.4 from 1785 Google reviews and is pitched at children aged five and up.

The decision, then, is less which park and more which activities. Experience Oz lists cliff climbing, a rock climbing school, ziplining, gold and gemstone fossicking, a Brig Tamar cruise and a dark ride; Discover Tasmania adds a cliff jump and a cliff walk to that mix. In our view the rock climbing and zip lining are genuinely demanding and build real confidence in hesitant kids, while gold panning gives a slower option for a sibling who needs a break. Reviewers keep returning to the safety of the adventure activities and the encouragement from staff, and several note the briefings are thorough, so allow extra time before the first climb.

For parents, Experience Oz notes that many end up at the cellar door and wine bar with its tapas menu while the kids do the activities, and there are restaurants on site if you want to stay the afternoon. Discover Tasmania says entry to the site is free for all ages with activities booked separately, which suits families who want one or two paid activities plus time wandering the village. The compact layout means revisiting a favourite does not involve a long walk, and the site is wheelchair accessible. Experience Oz places it at number ten on its list of Tasmania kids' attractions.