Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery
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Launceston Planetarium

4.6
·2k reviews·Invermay, Australia

Explore Tasmania's history, science, and natural wonders at this vast, free-entry museum with a captivating planetarium.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery

Launceston Planetarium

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Tasmania's history, science, and natural wonders at this vast, free-entry museum with a captivating planetarium.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A captivating and diverse cultural hub with engaging exhibits for all ages."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Entry Advantage

General admission is free! Only planetarium shows have a fee, making it budget-friendly.

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

You'll be doing a lot of walking across expansive galleries. Wear comfy shoes!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dinosaur Exhibition

Dinosaur Exhibition

Inveresk Campus

Marvel at impressive dinosaur fossils and well-presented exhibits that captivate all ages.

InstagramReddit
Phenomena Factory

Phenomena Factory

Inveresk Campus

Engage with hands-on science displays that make learning fun and interactive for kids and adults alike.

Reddit
Tasmanian History & Wildlife

Tasmanian History & Wildlife

Inveresk Campus

Discover the rich history and unique wildlife of Tasmania through vast and thoughtfully curated collections.

Reddit
Planetarium Shows

Planetarium Shows

Inveresk Campus

Experience immersive journeys through the cosmos with captivating planetarium presentations.

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Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Planetarium Extra

General museum entry is free, a huge plus for families! However, the planetarium shows have a separate fee, so factor that into your budget if you plan to attend. It's a great value for a full day of exploration. Instagram

Plan for a Full Day

With extensive exhibits on Tasmanian history, natural sciences, and interactive displays, you could easily spend hours here. Don't rush; allow ample time to explore everything, especially if you have kids. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, family fun
Crowd
Medium
When
School holidays
Why
Special exhibitions & activities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Final touches on (PLANT) SHOWER 70 my recent work for the “Miniature Worlds” exhibition @qvmag_official Queen Victoria Museum & Gallery in Tasmania, Australia. I’ve had several rooms like this in my sketchbook for a long time and for the exhibition it was time to create this bathroom that no longer serves its original purpose. A summary of the many impressions of the image program on social media....
@astridwilkstudio
4.6K likes • 63.8K views

🎯 Free Entry Advantage

General admission is free! Only planetarium shows have a fee, making it budget-friendly. InstagramReddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

You'll be doing a lot of walking across expansive galleries. Wear comfy shoes! Reddit

Northern Tasmania’s home of art, history and natural sciences—welcome to @qvmag_official 🖼️🔍🪲 Ignite your imagination and sense of wonder by being apart of what's on at your QVMAG in August 📅👀 📍 Art Gallery at Royal Park, 2 Wellington Street ▪️ Sam Jinks || Mortal Reflections | FREE entry, until 8 March 2026 ▪️ Wildlife Photographer of the Year 60 | FREE entry, until 7 September 2025 ▪️ Convers...
visitnortherntasmania
22 likes • 766 views
📍 Queen Victoria Museum, Launceston. . Another fun and family friendly activity to do in Launceston. The Mind Blown Exhibition they have up stairs at the moment is indeed mind-blowing!!!! The kids enjoyed this museum and loved the planetarium show. They also now have a slight obsession with the planets and with finding the Southern Cross so we can find which way South is. Gotta appreciate a fun...
2kidsandthetravelbug
43 likes • 364 views

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Fun

Interactive displays and dinosaur exhibits are a huge hit with children. InstagramReddit

⏰ Allow Plenty of Time

This museum is vast; dedicate at least 3-4 hours to see most exhibits. Reddit

A morning well spent at the museum and an added bonus its FREE entry! The only cost is the planetarium, $22 for a family but we skipped that this time round. There is alot to see and its very interactive for the kids so definitely put this on your to do list if you in Launceston. #musem #dinosaurs #kidslearningwithoutknowing #outings #exploring #visittasmania #launceston #lapofoz
5inavampercan
13 likes • 132 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Entry Advantage

General admission is free! Only planetarium shows have a fee, making it budget-friendly. InstagramReddit

👟 Comfortable Shoes Needed

You'll be doing a lot of walking across expansive galleries. Wear comfy shoes! Reddit

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Kid-Friendly Fun

Interactive displays and dinosaur exhibits are a huge hit with children. InstagramReddit

⏰ Allow Plenty of Time

This museum is vast; dedicate at least 3-4 hours to see most exhibits. Reddit

✨ Check Special Exhibitions

They often host unique temporary exhibitions, like miniature worlds or art. TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Queen Victoria Museum for its free general admission and diverse, engaging exhibits, particularly the dinosaur displays and interactive science center. It's highly recommended as a family-friendly and educational outing in Launceston, offering substantial value and a rich learning experience. Some minor points of feedback relate to the separate cost for planetarium shows.

"My son absolutely loved the Queen Victoria Museum! 🦖✨ There were so many interesting things to see, from dinosaurs to the interactive science displays, and he didn’t want to leave. The staff were friendly, and it’s a great place for kids to learn while having fun. Entry is free, making it a perfect family outing in Launceston. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Tasmania with kids!"

A R

"Spent a fair bit of time there to get to know the Tasmanian history and wildlife species. Free entry with a vast collection of displays. Highly recommend!"

Betty Yeung

"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Queen Victoria Museum at Inveresk is a captivating and diverse cultural hub. Housed in a beautifully restored 19th‑century railway workshop, it offers engaging exhibits on Tasmanian history, natural science, and industrial heritage. Highlights include impressive dinosaur fossils, interactive displays at the Phenomena Factory, and immersive planetarium shows. The museum is well-organized, thoughtfully curated, and free entry makes it accessible for all. Friendly staff enhance the experience, making it a must-visit for families, history buffs, and curious minds."

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What People Like

Free general admission
Interactive science exhibits
Impressive dinosaur fossils

What People Dislike

Planetarium has separate fee

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery (QVMAG) has two main campuses: the Art Gallery at Royal Park and the Museum at Inveresk. The Inveresk campus, which houses the planetarium and most interactive exhibits, is easily accessible by car with parking available. It's also a pleasant walk from the Launceston CBD or accessible via local bus routes. Instagram

Yes, there is parking available at the Inveresk campus of the Queen Victoria Museum. It's generally ample, especially during weekdays, though it can get busier during peak times or special events. Reddit

Absolutely! The Inveresk campus is located within walking distance of the Launceston CBD, making it a convenient option for visitors staying in the city center. It's a scenic walk, especially along the riverfront. Instagram

Local bus services operate in Launceston and can take you to or near the Queen Victoria Museum campuses. Check the local transport schedules for the most up-to-date routes and times. Instagram

The Queen Victoria Museum is generally well-equipped to handle visitors with mobility issues, with ramps and lifts available. It's always a good idea to contact them directly if you have specific accessibility concerns. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General admission to the Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery is free! This applies to most of the exhibits, including the dinosaur displays and the Phenomena Factory. InstagramReddit

Planetarium shows at the Queen Victoria Museum have a separate admission fee. While prices can vary, it's typically around $22 for a family ticket, making it an affordable add-on for an educational experience. Instagram

It's highly recommended to book planetarium tickets in advance, especially during peak times or school holidays, to secure your preferred showtime and ensure availability. Instagram

The Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery is typically open daily, but hours can vary. It's best to check their official website for the most current opening and closing times before your visit. Instagram

While general entry is free, discounts might apply to specific events or workshops. The planetarium shows have family rates, which offer a saving compared to individual tickets. Instagram

🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the impressive dinosaur fossils, the interactive Phenomena Factory for hands-on science fun, and the extensive displays on Tasmanian history and natural sciences. The planetarium shows are also a major draw. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, it's incredibly kid-friendly! The interactive science exhibits, dinosaur displays, and engaging presentations make it a fantastic place for children to learn and have fun. InstagramReddit

To fully appreciate the diverse exhibits, plan for at least 3-4 hours. If you're attending a planetarium show and have young children, you might want to allocate a full day. Reddit

While not always advertised, sometimes the museum offers guided tours or talks, especially for special exhibitions. It's worth checking their schedule or asking staff upon arrival. Reddit

The museum is quite spread out across the Inveresk campus. Grab a map upon entry or use the museum's layout to plan your route, prioritizing exhibits that interest you most. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery typically has a cafe or kiosk on-site offering light refreshments, snacks, and beverages. It's a convenient spot to take a break during your visit. Instagram

While there are designated areas for dining, it's best to check the museum's policy on bringing outside food. Picnics might be permitted in specific outdoor areas or the cafe. Reddit

Yes, the Inveresk campus is close to the Launceston CBD, offering a variety of cafes, restaurants, and pubs within walking distance for more extensive dining choices. Instagram

The cafe usually offers a selection of coffee, tea, pastries, sandwiches, and light meals. It's perfect for a quick bite or a coffee break. Instagram

It's advisable to inquire directly with the cafe staff about options for specific dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography for personal use is allowed in most areas of the Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain galleries to protect exhibits. Reddit

Always check for signage regarding photography restrictions, especially in art galleries or for specific temporary exhibitions. Professional or commercial photography usually requires prior permission. Instagram

The dinosaur exhibits, the historic railway workshop architecture, and the interactive displays in the Phenomena Factory offer great photo opportunities. The planetarium dome interior can also be visually striking. TikTokReddit

Tripods and selfie sticks may be restricted to avoid obstructing other visitors or damaging exhibits. It's best to ask museum staff if you plan to use them. Reddit

Drone usage is typically regulated by aviation authorities and local council bylaws. It's unlikely to be permitted within the museum grounds or close to the building without specific permits. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Queen Victoria Museum is a top-tier destination for families in Launceston. With free general admission, it's an incredibly budget-friendly outing. The Phenomena Factory is a guaranteed hit, offering hours of interactive scientific fun that kids adore. InstagramReddit The dinosaur exhibition is another major draw, captivating young imaginations with impressive fossils. InstagramReddit

Consider booking a planetarium show for an extra dose of wonder, though this incurs a separate fee. Instagram+1 Pack snacks and drinks, or utilize the on-site cafe for a break. Plan for at least half a day, as kids often get deeply engaged and don't want to leave! Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Launceston's Queen Victoria Museum is a budget traveler's dream thanks to its free general admission. InstagramReddit You can explore vast collections of Tasmanian history, natural sciences, and impressive dinosaur fossils without spending a penny. This makes it an excellent value for money, allowing you to allocate your funds to other experiences. Reddit

The only additional cost is for the planetarium shows, which offer a fantastic educational experience at a reasonable family rate. Instagram Even if you skip the planetarium, you can easily spend several hours immersed in the museum's diverse exhibits. It's a perfect way to have a fulfilling and enriching day without breaking the bank. Reddit

🤓 History Buffs & Science Enthusiasts

For those with a keen interest in Tasmanian history and natural sciences, the Queen Victoria Museum is a must-visit. The extensive collections provide deep dives into the island's unique past, from Indigenous culture to colonial times and its distinct biodiversity. Reddit The industrial heritage displays, including the blacksmith shop, offer a fascinating glimpse into Tasmania's working past. Reddit

Science enthusiasts will be enthralled by the Phenomena Factory, with its engaging, hands-on experiments, and the planetarium offers a stellar journey through the universe. InstagramReddit The sheer breadth and depth of the exhibits ensure that even the most dedicated enthusiast will find plenty to explore and learn. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Phenomena Factory

The Phenomena Factory is the Queen Victoria Museum's dedicated science center, designed to spark curiosity and make learning an adventure. It's packed with hands-on exhibits that demonstrate scientific principles in engaging ways. Visitors can experiment with forces, light, sound, and more, making it a highlight for families and anyone with a curious mind. InstagramReddit

This interactive space is crucial for understanding complex scientific concepts through direct experience. It's not just for kids; adults often find themselves captivated by the simple yet profound demonstrations of physics and engineering. The museum's commitment to making science accessible and fun is evident here, offering a refreshing break from traditional displays. Reddit

Many visitors rave about how much time their children spend engrossed in the Phenomena Factory. It's a testament to the thoughtful design and the sheer variety of activities available, ensuring that learning feels more like play. InstagramReddit

The Planetarium Experience

The Launceston Planetarium at the Queen Victoria Museum offers an immersive journey through the cosmos. Housed within the museum, it provides a unique opportunity to explore the night sky, learn about planets, stars, and galaxies. Shows are often tailored to different age groups, making it an educational and entertaining experience for everyone. Instagram+1

Attending a planetarium show is a popular choice for families visiting the museum. The visual spectacle and informative narration create a memorable experience, often sparking a newfound interest in astronomy. It's a chance to see the universe in a way that's impossible from Earth, with stunning projections on the dome ceiling. Instagram

While general museum entry is free, the planetarium shows come with a separate fee, which is often considered a worthwhile investment for the quality of the presentation. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods, to avoid disappointment. Instagram+1

A Glimpse into Tasmanian Heritage

The Queen Victoria Museum is a treasure trove of Tasmanian history, offering deep insights into the island's unique past. From early Indigenous heritage to colonial settlement and industrial development, the exhibits cover a broad spectrum of the region's story. The museum's location in a former railway workshop at Inveresk adds to the historical ambiance. Reddit

Visitors can explore displays on Tasmanian wildlife, showcasing the island's distinctive fauna, and learn about its natural sciences. The museum also features significant collections related to industrial heritage, including blacksmith shops and railway artifacts, providing a tangible connection to Tasmania's working past. Reddit

Many reviewers highlight the extensive and well-curated nature of these historical and natural science exhibits, noting that they provide a comprehensive understanding of Tasmania's identity. It's a chance to connect with the land and its people on a deeper level. Reddit

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