Valentine’s Day is coming – but don’t panic, we don’t want you to feel pressured to quickly track down some big Hollywood romance, but it can be a good excuse to get out and about for a date with your significant other, or even your family or friends.
Much like the rest of Australian culture, our collective attitude to sex and dating is pretty relaxed. If sex isn’t something that you feel comfortable discussing within your own circles, don’t be afraid to set these boundaries for yourself.
If you’re living in Hobart, you’ve likely already begun to experience many of the amazing things that the city and its surroundings have to offer. From a day with friends at the beach to a romantic movie night in the city, there is a huge variety of romantic things to do in Hobart!
Keep reading to hear some of the best date ideas in Hobart!
Botanical Gardens
The Royal Hobart Botanical Gardens is as picturesque as it sounds and makes for the perfect activity for couples in Hobart. Situated just a short stroll from the city centre, it’s free to visit and would make the perfect place for a romantic Valentine’s Day picnic. If you’re more of an inside-date kind of couple then be sure to check out Succulent, the on-site restaurant with stunning views over the gardens and Derwent River.
Woody’s Skate Centre
Nothing says fun and casual dates like revisiting a childhood favourite. A trip to the Woody’s Skate Centre is sure to make for a memorable Valentine’s, and slipping and sliding around on wheels is the perfect excuse for a little hand-holding (if you both consent, of course). Woody’s is also a great place to go with friends and family – it really does appeal to people of any age!
Catch a flick
The only pre-1970 picture theatre to have survived in Hobart, the State Cinema is the place to go if you’re looking for a movie a little more left of field. While they do still show many of the big Hollywood movies, they’re also a hub for indie and foreign films. There are several small theatres in the building, boasting comfortable seating and an intimate atmosphere. Book a table at the cafe before your movie and grab a glass of your favourite wine – you have the perfect date night, all in one place.
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If a subtitled film at the State is a bit too formal for you, why not head to the Rewind Cinema and catch an old favourite instead? Specialising in 80s and 90s classics, there is always something worth seeing.
Bonus: They have super comfy lounges to sprawl out on and, unlike the more formal option above, they do have popcorn!
Karaoke
Who doesn’t love belting out show tunes or your favourite 2000s ballads? While this would still be a fun date as a couple, we think it would be even better with a group of mates. Mango Bar and Karaoke in the Elizabeth Street Mall (right in the centre of the CBD) is the place to be – they offer private rooms to accommodate groups of different sizes and encourage you to book in advance!
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Paint and sip
A paint-and-sip evening is a great option for a Valentine’s Day date, but it works even better for Galentine’s! There are several businesses that host these fun workshops around Hobart (Paint & Picasso is actually hosting a ‘paint your partner’ event on Valentine’s Day itself), but if you can’t find a session you want to attend, why not look at setting one up in your own home. All you need to do is pick up a few canvases, brushes and fun colours, a bottle or two of your favourite drink and get painting with your loved ones!
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Take a scenic hike
This one is a little less specific, but that’s only because there are way too many fantastic bush-walking opportunities around Hobart for us to narrow it down to one. If you and your love are into the outdoors, why not take the opportunity to make a packed lunch, pull on your favourite activewear and chase down some endorphins? There are hundreds of hikes all around Tasmania, but in the immediate Hobart area, you’ll find the Wellington Falls walk. This romantic Hobart attraction offers stunning mountainside views, lush forests and, as the name suggests, the reward of an incredible waterfall!
