The Queen Victoria Museum is comprised of the science, anthropology and natural history exhibits within the larger Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG) complex. The contemporary museum threads history through the present day with dynamic galleries set within a heritage railway depot. Discover the state’s industrial heritage as you explore the perfectly preserved workshops, learn about Tasmania’s social history and be whirled through space at the museum’s state-of-the-art planetarium.
Enter the museum via its main entryway and admire the architecture’s synthesis of old and new. Check out the plane suspended overhead as you walk through to the main galleries. The museum has an exciting programme of temporary exhibitions, so be sure to pick up a brochure or enquire at the main desk to find out what’s showing during your stay. Wander through Tasmanian Connections, a permanent exhibition dedicated to the state’s history and notable people. See artefacts from one of Australia’s oldest shipwrecks and measure your height against the enormous skeleton of a dinosaur.
Bring the kids to the Phenomena Factory, an exciting hands-on science centre. This interactive gallery is full of science demonstrations and interactive educational games. Find out what’s showing in the Planetarium’s exciting programme and learn about the stars above the southern skies.
Be transported to days gone by at the railway and blacksmiths’ workshops. These fascinating exhibits appear as though the workers put their tools down moments ago. The workshops are part of the Heritage Trail, an interesting walking trail that leads through the museum’s historic sites. Take a break at the museum’s on-site café or browse the souvenirs at the museum store.
The Queen Victoria Museum is located at Inveresk, just outside of central Launceston. The complex is situated amid the heritage railway site on the northern banks of the North Esk River. QVMAG’s other site is located in a heritage building outside of Royal Park, to the west of central Launceston. Admission to the museum is free, however, some touring exhibitions may have a fee. The museum is open daily, except for Good Friday and Christmas Day.
