Attractions

Hobart's many historic buildings, cultural events, and proximity to other regional attractions make it a good starting point to explore the state. Oft-visited locations are scattered throughout the Hobart suburbs, for instance, the Shot Tower at Taroona and Arthurs Circus at Battery Point.

Mt. Wellington, Hobart's famous backdrop, is a short drive from the city centre, and gives a spectacular view of the entire area. Within range for day tours are the historic town of Richmond, Hastings Caves, and the Mt. Field National Park.

[Also see the regional attraction overview]

Economy

As the state capital, the head offices of many government departments are located in Hobart, making the state government a large employer. The Hobart area also has a manufacturing base, with large revenues being generated by shipbuilding and a zinc refinery.

The well-populated greater Hobart area aside, rural land is plentiful in southern Tasmania. Fruit farms in the Huon Valley still demonstrate why Tasmania was nicknamed the `Apple Isle', and there are sheep and hop farms in the Derwent Valley. Other towns south of Hobart, such as Geeveston, host sizeable forestry-related businesses.

Transportation

Good roads make Hobart all parts of Hobart and the south easily accessible by car, and public transport serves all areas of greater Hobart from early morning until late at night.

Hobart International Airport is east of the city en route to Richmond, and has direct service to mainland Australian cities. One of Tasmania's coach companies operates a shuttle service between the city and the airport. For those without cars, coaches are also the means to get to other areas of Tasmania.

The re-supply ship Aurora Australis travels between the port of Hobart and Australia's Antarctic bases, but generally does not take paying passengers!