Built in 1837, the 747-seat Theatre Royal, 29 Campbell St. (tel. 03/6233 2299; www.theatreroyal.com.au), is the oldest live theater in the country. It's known for its excellent acoustics and its classical Victorian decor. It is Hobart's major stage venue. Ticket prices vary depending on the performance.
Opened in 1829 as a tavern and a brothel frequented by whalers, Knopwood's Retreat, 39 Salamanca Place (tel. 03/6223 5808), is still a raucous place to be on Friday and Saturday evenings, when crowds cram the historic interior and spill out onto the streets. Light lunches are popular throughout the week, and occasionally you'll find jazz or blues on the menu.
A popular drinking hole in Hobart is Irish Murphy's, 21 Salamanca Place (tel. 03/6223 1119), an atmospheric pub with stone walls and lots of dark wood. Local bands play Friday and Saturday evenings.
If you want to tempt Lady Luck, head to the Wrest Point Casino, in the Wrest Point Hotel, 410 Sandy Bay Rd. (tel. 03/6225 0112), Australia's first legal gambling club. Smart, casual attire is required (collared shirts for men).
