Burnie is a beautiful coastal city that is located in Tasmania and is well endowed with some of the most stunning natural landscapes that are found in the world today and has a vibrant cultural background and friendly people. Burnie sits on the northwest coast of Tasmania, and the city is well-endowed with numerous points of interest for various tourist activities. Here is a brief guide to the ten best things to do in Burnie to ensure tourists make the best of their trip to this lively city in Tasmania. Regardless of whether one is an ardent lover of gardens and wildlife, a fanatic of history and museums, or a plain beach lover, then Burnie has something to offer. Add these things to do in Burnie in your itinerary.
Top 10 Things To Do in Burnie, Tasmania
There are a plethora of things to do in Burnie. Here is a well-curated list of things to do in Burnie to make your trip more memorable.
1. Observing Little Penguins at West Beach
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In Burnie, one cannot afford to miss the spectacle of little penguins arriving on the shore at sunset. The best place to do this is at the Little Penguin Observation Centre at West Beach. Some volunteers provide educational lectures regarding the penguins and their environment. To the amazement of the visitors, they can witness these adorable animals making their way from the sea to the caves. The view of the penguins is unhindered by barriers while the area is kept clean to avoid any interference with the penguins. This event happens every night, and there is no charge for entry, making it an excellent event for families. One should get to the location before the sun sets because this will help get a great view.
Location: Parsonage Point, Parklands TAS 7320, Australia
Timings: Evening (around dusk)
Fees: Free
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2. Exploring Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden
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The Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden is a spectacular horticultural creation which hosts over twenty-four thousand Rhododendrons and other exotic plants. This beautiful garden occupies 11 hectares and is designed for those who want to rest from the noisy city, passing through blooming flowers or walking along the picturesque paths. Several sections of the park are themed according to the world’s geographical regions, and each section has its own plant species. The garden also includes areas for picnicking and a lake, making this place perfect for a day trip. Most of its upkeep is managed by volunteers who are more than willing to educate others on the plants in the garden.
Location: 55 Breffny Rd, Romaine TAS 7320, Australia
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM (daily)
Fees: AUD 15 (Adults), AUD 13(Concessions)
3. Touring Hellyers Road Distillery
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Hellyers Road Distillery is Australia’s largest and most popular boutique whisky distillery that aims to provide a tour to visitors. The visitors can also take a distillery tour to see how the whisky is made, from the malting stage to the maturation process. Moreover, tourists can taste Hellyers Road’s single malt whiskies and personalise their whisky bottles. A café for sale within the business premise has mouthwatering meals that provide clients with a scenic view of the Emu Valley. There is also a gift shop with various exciting and exotic products worth purchasing as souvenirs. This is quite an informative and entertaining activity that tourists should not miss when in Burnie.
Location: 153 Old Surrey Rd, Havenview TAS 7320, Australia
Timings: 10 AM – 4:30 PM (daily)
Fees: AUD 25 (Tour and Tasting)
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4. Picnicking at Guide Falls Reserve
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Located only a short drive from Burnie, Guide Falls Reserve guarantees stunning views of the waterfall and is an excellent place for picnicking. A short walking track quickly reaches the falls and there are several vantage points for visitors to observe the waterfall. The reserve is in a very green area to give a feeling of tranquillity, and everyone is welcome to come and relax. This is most suitable for families as they have many picnic tables and barbeque facilities to enjoy their day. It becomes beautiful during the rainy season and is among the favourite destinations for photographers.
Location: 245 W Ridgely Rd, Ridgley TAS 7321, Australia
Timings: 7:30 AM -7:30 PM
Fees: Free
5. Spotting Platypuses at FernGlade Platypus Reserve
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Fern glade reserve is also a more serene area ideal for taking nature walks and observing the platypuses. It has walking tracks adjacent to the Emu River, areas for picnicking, and a great chance to get acquainted with the local wildlife. Tourists are always privileged to see the platypus, especially in the early mornings and evenings. It also supports a variety of bird species and is thus a favourite for birding enthusiasts. The surrounding environment is quiet, coupled with the beauty of the ferns and the River, making it a perfect escape for the visitors.
Location: Fernglade Rd, Stowport TAS 7321, Australia
Timings: 7:30 AM -5:30 PM
Fees: Free
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6. Unfolding History at Burnie Regional Museum
Image Credit:Gary Houston for Wikimedia Commons
Get a historical perspective of Burnie at the Burnie Regional Museum, a prominent museum that documents the history of Burnie and the early inhabitants of the area. Probably the most popular exhibit is the so-called ‘Federation Street’, an architectural reconstruction of the early twentieth-century street with stores and houses interiors of the time. It is an exciting representation of the life of the residents of Burnie during that time, as depicted in the exhibit. Temporary exhibitions and educational programs are also conducted at the museum occasionally. The site is ideal for those interested in history and families who want to expand their knowledge about the area.
Location: Little Alexander St, Burnie TAS 7320, Australia
Timings: 10 AM – 4:30 PM (Monday to Friday), 1:30 PM – 4 PM (Saturday, Sunday)
Fees: AUD 8 (Adults), AUD 5 (Concession)
7. Relaxing at Burnie Park
Image Credit:Gary Houston for Wikimedia Commons
Burnie Park is one of the largest parks in the city; it has a waterfall, BBQ pits, and a performance shell. Bordered by other facilities such as playgrounds and picnic amenities, the park is well-suited for a family outing. People can always walk through the beautiful gardens or sit by the pond, have a barbecue or even have a picnic. Another feature of the park is its ability to organize and accommodate various events and performances during different seasons. It is a popular destination among residents and visitors seeking relaxation.
Location: 27 W Park Grove, Parklands TAS 7320, Australia
Timings: Open 24 hours
Fees: Free
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8. Appreciating Art at Burnie Regional Art Gallery
Culture lovers will find particular interest in the Burnie Regional Art Gallery, which has a rich selection of artworks, showcases of new artists, and exhibitions. The gallery’s collection consists of numerous modern and classical paintings and sculptures that are diverse in style and material. It also brings various workshops, educational programs and events to the public, therefore, is a dynamic cultural centre in the city. The staff possesses professional knowledge, shows enthusiasm for art, and educates the visitors on the exhibition. It is an ideal hub if you are interested in admiring the work of the creative minds of Tasmania.
Location: 77-79 Wilmot St, Burnie TAS 7320, Australia
Timings: 10 AM – 4:30 PM (Tuesday to Friday), 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM (Weekends)
Fees: Free
9. Strolling along Burnie Waterfront, West Beach
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The Burnie Waterfront, West Beach, provides a scenic beach area with walkways, resting areas and a children’s play area. This is an excellent place for walks, offering beautiful coast and city views. Clearly, tourists can walk barefoot on the sand, take lunch by the shore, or even swim in the water. This park is well-kept and suitable for families with children, and facilities include public toilets and barbeque stands. This location attracts both the residents of Burnie and tourists who want to explore the city’s coastal area.
Location: North Terrace, Burnie TAS 7320, Australia
Timings: Open 24 hours
Fees: Free
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10. Enjoying Panoramic views from Wilf Campbell Lookout
Image Credit:Gary Houston for Wikimedia Commons
Wilf Campbell Lookout provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Burnie and places nearby. The lookout offers spectacular coast and city views, making it an ideal place to take photographs. It is a perfect place for tourist activities such as sightseeing since it has medium traffic and well-maintained pathways and benches. The lookout is conveniently located for car access and has space to park near the lookout. The viewpoint is the perfect place to catch the sunset and enjoy the scenery Burnie offers.
Location: Upper Burnie, Australia
Timings: Open 24 hours
Fees: Free
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Interestingly, Burnie provides various recreation and leisure options depending on one’s preference. Some popular attractions include West Beach, where you can discover little penguins and colourful flora at the Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden, experience the history at the Burnie Regional Museum, and admire the natural beauty of Guide Falls Reserve. It is a unique area that offers the excitement of adventure through nature and cultural sights and the tranquillity of recreational beaches. Whether it is a matter of a day or a week’s stay, Burnie ensures that you are in for an exciting time as you explore different attractions and meet the fabulous people of Tasmania. Discover these great attractions and make the most of your trip to Australia!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Burnie
What are some popular areas and attractions in Burnie?
Top tourist destinations when visiting Burnie are the Burnie Regional Museum, the Makers Workshop, and the Burnie Coastal Pathway. All of them are filled with local history, crafts, and magnificent views of the sea.
Is it possible to get close to nature in Burnie?
Indeed, Burnie is one of the best places to visit if you are interested in natural discoveries. You can go to the Burnie Park and take strolls in the park’s beautiful gardens or go for a nature walk along the Burnie Coastal Pathway or around the nearby wetlands.
Is there any market or shopping center nearby?
Burnie also boasts of markets such as the Burnie Farmers Market which offers food products, arts and crafts etc. For shopping, there is central Burnie shopping precinct with various shopping boutiques and specialty shops.
Which are the child friendly attraction sites in Burnie ?
The Burnie Regional Museum offers interactive displays that families can appreciate, while the Burnie Park has many playgrounds and areas for picnicking. It is also possible to interact with local wildlife in Burnie Wildlife Park which is also located in Burnie.
When should I plan to visit Burnie?
It is recommended to visit Burnie during spring and autumn which include September, October, November, March, April, and May. These seasons do not involve extreme weather and therefore it is good for traveling and participating in activities that are characteristic of a given region.
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