Port ArthurOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt
Historic convict settlement with dark tales
Port Arthur, Tasmania, is much more than just an ancient penal colony with dark tales. It's a place steeped in history, where every stone of the famous Port Arthur Historic Site tells a poignant story. Imagine wandering among the remains of the Penitentiary, the Separate Prison, or the Church, and feeling the echo of past lives. For those seeking an unusual activity, our outdoor escape games invite you to explore these iconic locations in a totally unique way. Whether you're looking for a captivating scavenger hunt through historic alleys or an immersive treasure hunt that reveals the secrets of this UNESCO World Heritage site, Port Arthur offers a unique experience. It's the perfect opportunity to combine cultural discovery with playful adventure, transforming your visit into a memorable and interactive exploration.
Port Arthur — The Twelve Days That Shook a Nation
Uncover the hidden conspiracy behind Australia's darkest 12 days in May 1996. Decipher coded evidence, expose suppressed testimonies, and solve the mystery that transformed a nation.
Port Arthur — Uncover the Massacre's Hidden Truth
Decipher the events of April 28, 1996. Navigate the Port Arthur Historic Site to uncover the timeline, motive, and evidence behind Australia's deadliest massacre.
Unusual things to do in Port Arthur
For an unusual activity in Port Arthur, delve into its fascinating past with a unique perspective. Beyond traditional tours, our scavenger hunts invite you to unlock the mysteries of the former penal colony, turning every corner into a clue. Imagine solving puzzles while strolling through restored gardens or admiring spectacular bay views. It's an original outing that merges historical exploration with the excitement of a real-life investigation, offering a deep immersion into the legends and dramatic landscapes of this World Heritage-listed site.
Things to do in Port Arthur with kids
Visiting Port Arthur as a family is an educational and fun adventure, perfect for children and teens aged 8-10 and up. Our outdoor escape games transform the discovery of the Historic Site into a giant treasure hunt, where young and old collaborate to solve puzzles and uncover mysteries. It's an activity that stimulates curiosity, teamwork, and observation, while learning history in an interactive way. Far from passive visits, this playful approach ensures that every family member, from the youngest to teenagers, fully immerses themselves in Port Arthur's heritage, creating unforgettable memories.
Port Arthur for couples
Port Arthur offers a surprisingly romantic setting for a couple's getaway. Away from the hustle and bustle, you can stroll hand-in-hand through the historic alleys and vast gardens of the Historic Site, enjoying breathtaking views of the bay and coastal landscapes. Share intimate moments exploring the emotionally charged ruins together, or embark on one of our scavenger hunts for a collaborative and memorable experience. It's an opportunity to create precious memories, combining the exploration of a World Heritage site with the surrounding natural beauty, all in an atmosphere rich in history and serenity.
What to do in Port Arthur when it rains
On a rainy day in Port Arthur, don't let the weather spoil your exploration. Although our outdoor escape games are primarily outdoors, the design of our routes through the Port Arthur Historic Site cleverly incorporates covered passages and arcades, allowing approximately 80% of the game to be played under shelter. Furthermore, the many historic buildings such as the Penitentiary or the Separate Prison offer fascinating indoor exhibitions where you can take refuge while continuing your discovery. It's the ideal opportunity to delve into history indoors, combining play and cultural visits.
Where is Port Arthur, and where do the routes start?
Starting points of our routes and the places they pass through.
Route starting points
Places in Port Arthur
- Port Arthur Town Hall — Facade
- Anglican Church — Bell Tower
- War Memorial — Base
- Post Office — Main Office
- Commonwealth Bank — Entrance
- Sports Ground — Stand
- Courthouse — Steps
- Public Park — Central Fountain
- Visitor Centre — Main Parking
- Former café site
- Victims Memorial
- Former café parking
- Seascape Cottage ruins
- Port Arthur Jetty
- Former Prison — Main Yard
- Garden of Remembrance
The history of Port Arthur
From Timber Station to Penal Colony
Port Arthur, named after Lieutenant-Governor George Arthur, began as a timber-getting camp in September 1830. It supplied sawn logs for government projects. Its location on the Tasman Peninsula, connected to the mainland only by the narrow Eaglehawk Neck, made it a site for a penal colony.
By 1833, Port Arthur became a destination for secondary offenders—convicts who had re-offended after being transported to Australia. It was known for strict security measures within the British penal system. The settlement grew, and by the 1840s, over 2,000 convicts, soldiers, and free officers resided there. Convicts were engaged in labor, including timber felling, shipbuilding, shoemaking, metalwork, and brickmaking. The cessation of convict transportation in 1853 led to a shift in Port Arthur's purpose. The site eventually became an institution for elderly and infirm convicts. The penal settlement officially closed in 1877.
The Aftermath and Rebirth
After its closure, the site was renamed Carnarvon in the late 1880s, and land was sold. Many original timber and stone structures, including the church and penitentiary, were damaged by bushfires in 1897. Vandalism followed, and bricks were repurposed for local buildings. Interest in Port Arthur's historical significance began to grow. By 1987, the Port Arthur Historic Site Management Authority took over its care. In 2010, the Port Arthur Historic Site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the Australian Convict Sites. This recognized its global importance in the story of convict transportation and colonial expansion.
What to see in Port Arthur
- Port Arthur Historic Site — This 40-hectare site contains over 30 historic buildings and ruins. You can explore the Penitentiary, the Separate Prison, and the Convict Church.
- The Penitentiary — Originally a flour mill and granary built in 1845, it was converted into the main prison building between 1854 and 1857. It housed hundreds of convicts in dormitories and solitary cells.
- Separate Prison — Built in the 1850s, this prison marked a shift to psychological punishment. Prisoners were isolated in individual cells and subjected to enforced silence and religious instruction.
- Convict Church — Constructed in a Gothic Revival style, this was one of Australia's first non-denominational churches. Attendance was compulsory for the prison population.
- Isle of the Dead — A small island cemetery one kilometre off the coast. It served as the burial ground for over 1,000 convicts, soldiers, and free settlers. Guided tours recount their stories.
- Point Puer Boys' Prison — Across the harbour from the main settlement, this was the British Empire's second boys' prison, established in 1835. Juvenile convicts, some as young as nine, received basic education and trade skills.
- Remarkable Cave — An ocean-carved tunnel at Port Arthur's edge. It is accessible by descending 115 steps to a lookout platform, offering views through the tunnel to the Southern Ocean.
- Coal Mines Historic Site — In the north-west of the Tasman Peninsula, this site offers a self-guided tour around the ruins of a convict-worked coal mine, which operated from 1833.
When to visit Port Arthur
Port Arthur has a temperate climate, with average temperatures from 13 to 22 degrees Celsius. Spring and autumn offer comfortable walking conditions for exploring the outdoor historic site. The quieter months from June through September (winter in the Southern Hemisphere) can offer fewer crowds. During these cooler months, layering clothing is advisable as weather on the Tasman Peninsula can change quickly. The Port Arthur Historic Site is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closing only on Christmas Day. Avoid mid-summer if you prefer fewer crowds and milder temperatures.
Getting around Port Arthur
Port Arthur is approximately 90 to 100 kilometres southeast of Hobart, a drive of about 90 minutes via the Tasman Highway (A3) and Arthur Highway (A9). The road is sealed. Allow extra time for stops at coastal lookouts. Daily bus services operate between Hobart and Port Arthur, with a journey time of around 1 hour 55 minutes.
Free parking, including dedicated spaces for caravans and buses, is available at the Port Arthur Visitor Centre. During peak periods, the car park can fill quickly, so arriving early is recommended. Most service stations on the Tasman Peninsula close before 6:00 PM. Fill your fuel tank before arriving.
Within the Port Arthur Historic Site, most visitors explore on foot. A courtesy vehicle operates on a circuit throughout the day for those with limited mobility. Wheelchairs are available for hire onsite.
Things you probably do not know about Port Arthur
Verified details most visitors walk straight past.
- The Penitentiary
- Before it became the main prison block, what was the original purpose of the imposing Penitentiary building? The Penitentiary building, constructed in 1845, was initially designed and used as a flour mill and granary, powered by a water mill or by convicts on a treadmill when water flow was insufficient.
- Eaglehawk Neck
- How did authorities try to prevent convicts from escaping the Tasman Peninsula by land? At Eaglehawk Neck, the narrow isthmus connecting the Tasman Peninsula to the mainland, soldiers and guard dogs were stationed, with dogs famously chained across the neck to form a 'dog line' to deter escapes.
- Convict Church
- Despite its name, why was the Convict Church never officially consecrated? The Convict Church was deliberately left unconsecrated to allow people of all Christian denominations to attend services, reflecting an attempt at religious inclusivity within the penal settlement.
- Government Gardens
- What hidden purpose did the Government Gardens serve for the settlement's officials? The Government Gardens were designed with principles of symmetry and topiary not only for aesthetic appeal but also to block the views of the prison buildings from visiting dignitaries and resident families, creating a sense of order and peace.
- Separate Prison
- How did the design of the Separate Prison represent a significant shift in penal philosophy? The Separate Prison, built in the 1850s, moved away from physical punishment towards psychological reform, isolating prisoners in individual cells and enforcing silence, a stark contrast to earlier forms of retribution.
- Dockyard
- What surprising industry flourished at Port Arthur, providing convicts with valuable skills? From 1834 to 1848, a dockyard operated at Port Arthur where convicts, including boys from Point Puer, were trained in shipbuilding, constructing numerous vessels including large decked ships and whaleboats.
Questions about visiting Port Arthur
How long should I plan to spend at Port Arthur?
Most visitors find that three to five hours is sufficient to explore the Port Arthur Historic Site, including the guided walking tour and harbour cruise. If you wish to delve deeper into all the buildings and surrounding natural attractions on the Tasman Peninsula, a full day or even two days is recommended.
What are the best ways to get around Port Arthur and the Tasman Peninsula?
The Port Arthur Historic Site is best explored on foot, and a courtesy vehicle is available for those with mobility issues. For exploring the wider Tasman Peninsula, a car is recommended to visit natural attractions like Remarkable Cave and the Coal Mines Historic Site.
Is Port Arthur suitable for families with children?
Yes, Port Arthur is family-friendly, offering stories, activities, and open space for children. The harbour cruise is popular with kids, and some tours, like the 'Escape From Port Arthur' tour, are designed to engage younger visitors. The Tasmanian Devil Unzoo nearby is also a family attraction.
What is the typical budget for a visit to Port Arthur?
Standard site entry tickets for the Port Arthur Historic Site cover two consecutive days and cost approximately $53 for adults and $26 for children. Additional tours, such as the Isle of the Dead or Ghost Tours, incur separate fees. Transportation from Hobart by bus ranges from $16-$20 for a one-way trip.
Are there any local markets in Port Arthur?
The Port Arthur Sunday Market is held on the first and third Sunday of every month, offering local produce, crafts, and souvenirs. For larger markets, you might consider visiting the Salamanca Market in Hobart on Saturdays.
What are the accommodation options like in Port Arthur?
Port Arthur offers a range of accommodation, from holiday cottages and caravan parks to private beach retreats and spa cabins. Many options are available both within the immediate area and across the wider Tasman Peninsula.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an outdoor escape game cost in Port Arthur?
An outdoor escape game in Port Arthur is offered at a single price of €12 per team. This price is fixed, whether you are 2, 3, 4, or even more players, making the activity very affordable and friendly for groups. There are no additional per-person fees, allowing you to share the costs and enjoy an immersive experience without breaking the bank. This rate includes access to the full game, puzzles to solve, and a detailed itinerary to explore the city while having fun. It's an excellent option for an original and economical outing.
Is it suitable for children / families?
Absolutely! Our outdoor escape games in Port Arthur are designed to be accessible and fun for the whole family, including children and teenagers. We generally recommend a minimum age of 8 to 10 years for younger participants to fully engage in solving puzzles, but younger children can accompany and help search for clues. It's a fantastic activity to stimulate collaboration and communication within the family, while discovering Port Arthur's fascinating history in a fun and interactive way. An excellent idea for a memorable family day out!
How long does an escape game in Port Arthur last?
The duration of an outdoor escape game in Port Arthur typically ranges between 1 hour 30 minutes and 2 hours 30 minutes. This, of course, depends on your team's pace, your ability to solve puzzles, and how much time you wish to take to admire the sights and take breaks. We encourage you to take your time, explore the surroundings, and fully enjoy the experience without rushing. The goal is to have fun and discover the city from a new perspective, not to break a speed record. It's a flexible activity that adapts to your desires.
Do I need to book in advance?
No, the beauty of our outdoor escape games is that they require no prior booking! You can start your adventure whenever you want, at any time of day, as soon as you are ready. Simply download the app, purchase the game, and get started. This flexibility is ideal for spontaneous travelers or those who prefer to organize their day as they go. Whether you decide to play in the morning, afternoon, or even in the evening, the game is always available to offer you a unique experience in Port Arthur.
What else can I visit in Port Arthur besides the escape games?
Beyond our captivating escape games, Port Arthur is full of historical and natural treasures to explore. The Port Arthur Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is an absolute must-see. You can visit the Penitentiary, the Separate Prison, the Church, and many other restored buildings, each telling a part of the colony's dark and fascinating history. Don't forget the harbor cruises to admire the site from the water, or coastal walks offering spectacular views. Nighttime Ghost Tours are also a memorable experience for thrill-seekers. A complete immersion in Tasmania's history!
What is the best season to visit Port Arthur?
Port Arthur can be visited year-round, but the best season depends on your preferences. Summer (December to February) offers long, sunny days, ideal for outdoor exploration and enjoying the coastal landscapes, although crowds are larger. Autumn (March to May) and Spring (September to November) are often considered ideal seasons, with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and beautiful scenery. Winter (June to August) is cooler and wetter, but the site takes on a particular, more mysterious atmosphere, and prices may be more advantageous. Each season has its charm!
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Activities to discover nearby
Guided tours, skip-the-line tickets and local experiences to book in advance.
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