As a hub for the northwest and the official port for The Spirit of Tasmania, many travelers rest their heads here, so there are plenty of accommodation options. B&Bs, hotels, motels, cottages, self-contained apartments, caravan parks, and camping grounds are all available to those passing through.
If you prefer to stay outside the city itself, consider nearby Latrobe, where you can also visit The House of Anvers Chocolate Factory or savour some delicious cherries at The Cherry Shed. Latrobe is a quick drive away and should take you less than 15 minutes to arrive there.
The city is a wonderful place for both physical activities and intellectual pursuits. For the athletically inclined, there are numerous walking and cycling tracks in the city. By biking along the coastal trail to The Bluff one can encounter Aboriginal rock carvings. Water sports such as sailing, kayaking, rowing and fishing are also popular pursuits. Alternatively, relax on the beaches or install yourself in a charming park and enjoy the natural surroundings.
A ride on the Don River Railway steam train to Coles Beach (30-min return) is a nice way to entertain the entire family and see the sights along the eastern banks of the Don River.
For those interested in learning more about the history and culture of the region, there are several museums and galleries to explore.
On the waterfront, visit the The Bass Strait Maritime Center to learn more about the intriguing maritime history of the city. Located in the former Harbour Master's House, there is an extensive collection of objects, models and photographs that tell the stories of Bass Strait and Devonport. There are also exhibits which retell the exciting adventures of early explorers and shipwrecks.
Immerse yourself in Tasmanian art at the Devonport Regional Gallery. There is an annual program of exhibitions, events, and workshops, along with a collection of fine and decorative art and craft, with a predominant interest in 20th-century glass, ceramics and woodcraft.
Learn about the traditional lifestyle of Tasmanian Aboriginal people at the Tiagarra Aboriginal Culture Centre and Museum, which displays petroglyphs and designs in rock. Along the waterfront you’ll also find more galleries and craft shops.
In the suburb of Don a railway museum called the Don River Railway is also worth a visit for train enthusiasts. Image thanks to: Roaring 40's Kayaks and Tourism Tasmania & Melinda Ta.
If you are not planning to arrive via the ferry or airport, you can reach Devonport by car from Launceston (98 km), Burnie (47 km), Cradle Mountain (85km), or Hobart (277 km). Rail and coach options also exist. Image thanks to: MONA-Ferry.
