Ballarat is an outstanding regional city filled with grand 19th century architecture, a prosperous gold rush history, and an abundance of amazing things to do! After watching the birds, you can head to the cafe to relish delicious food or go to the gift shop to buy yourself a souvenir. Australian Traveller Media 2023. See all Grampians National Park Small-Group Eco Tour from Melbourne 219 Bus Tours from $161.90 per adult Private Ballarat and Sovereign Hill Tour from Melbourne 1 Full-day Tours from $840.21 per adult (price varies by group size) 3-Day Great Ocean Road and Grampians Tour from Melbourne 1 We have done the research for you and present the activities you will love and enjoy. Couples, in particular, enjoy the area; they gave it a 9.3 rating for a trip with two people. Just 10 minutes from the Ballarat Wildlife Park, a visit to this breathtaking Ballarat Garden is another must-add to your list of things to do in Ballarat. Meet the animals at Ballarat Wildlife Park, Top 12 places to eat and drink in Ballarat, Six reasons why you should spend a weekend in Ballarat now. The museum has a large research collection, an archive of information, and more than 3,500 items about the Ballarat tramways. The weather of Ballarat is really good for grapes and that is why the city offers some of the best locally produced wine straight from the vineyards. Tucked away down a hidden laneway (follow the trail of umbrellas to find it), Hop Temple offers a huge range of craft beers and cocktails and an upbeat atmosphere. Stroll along the lakeside or experience the area's art scene. Ballarat is a very popular tourist destination. We have reviews of the best places to see in Ballarat. This show showcases the Australian history of gold from its origins and takes you on a historical journey to the current day. All rights reserved. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in February. Eureka Centre 404 You can interact with many beautiful birds closely at this place. Thankfully, the rebellions won the battle, and Ballarat is still a famous gold mining place, attracting thousands annually. You can eat gourmet pizzas straight out of the wood-fired oven at Forge Pizzeria. (more) For the best travel inspiration delivered straight to your door. Sturt StreetandCamp Streetare also worth exploring due to the iconic stock route and architectural styles. It is located approximately 120km (74m) from Melbourne. Lydiard Streetis the best way to kick-start your heritage tour of Ballarat. Edward, Prince of Wales, officially opened the first building, which was paid for by the female employees of Eleanor Lucas' lingerie factory who were employed during World War I. Arch of Victory is around 17 meters tall and 19 meters wide. Covering 40 hectares, its also home to the Robert Clark Conservatory, a striking modern build harbouring an oasis of seasonal displays thats a hub for the Ballarat Begonia Festival held each March. This busy provincial city is rich in art and culture and is known for its history and well-preserved Victorian-era heritage that you can witness in every corner of this town. Stay on site at the Sovereign Hill Hotel for the whole package. Don't think we forgot about nature! Interesting history of Ballarat gold rush. Shopping & relaxation. You can visit the depot to inspect the fleet and a trove of tram memorabilia before climbing aboard for a 20-minute ride through the Botanical Gardens. Visited on Sunday 28th August. You can eat at the cafes while enjoying the beautiful view of the lake or you can have fun canoeing, kayaking and sailing the lake. A living outdoor museum built on a former gold-mining site, today its a Ballarat icon: costumed characters and horse and carts populate a goldfields town full of shops, hotels, a theatre, schools, factories, a gold diggings and underground mines. It's name was given by George Riggins, a young miner from Australia, who proposed the town be named after the Australian gold mining town. For the lover of unconventional things, there are some very interesting weekend getaways lined up for celebrating the 31st December 2023. If you visit the falls after a heavy downpour, you will encounter majestic views that will melt your heart. Things to Do in Ballarat, Australia: See Tripadvisor's 43,635 traveller reviews and photos of Ballarat tourist attractions. Large expanses of natural grassland are present in the park, where wildflowers, including purple chocolate lilies, white milkmaids, sweet hound's tongue, various orchids, and scaly buttons bloom. In town, the elegant blue-stone and hand-made brick historic buildings jolt you back in time to the gold rush days. This 19th-century relic showcases the industrial movement of the area. Due to this, many tourists have come to taste the delicious wines and even buy some! Food & Drink. Prices are like normal cafe prices. She said they need to be clear on what their employee value proposition is. - lots to see, especially if you like swans. Ballarat's best-known attraction, Sovereign Hill is an epic living museum that has meticulously recreated life on the gold diggings in the 1850s. The more compatible you are, the more likely it will be that a great friendship will emerge. The best part about this spot is its intense history and its location. Ballarat Indoor Go Karts 13 Game & Entertainment Centres Open now By aussietravel1977 Such great fun. Wait no more for we might have an ideal location just for you. March - Bendigo Festival of Cultures (Bendigo) A week-long celebration with performances, markets and more plus an all-age concert held outside the Town Hall. You can find some amazing vintage pieces in the independent boutiques down any lane. Ballarat Tramway Museum 192 Speciality Museums By MrDavetheSarks Good value, and good information as well. If you desire to cruise on the water, ensure that you board theGolden City Paddle Steamer. Pride, Hastings, (2019), 11 Top-Rated Attractions in Ballarat, Bendigo & the Macedon Ranges, PlanetWare 15 Best Things to Do in Ballarat (Australia), The Crazy Tourist Top 11 Things to Do in Ballarat (+ How to Get There), Miss Tourist Our Top Hotel Picks for Ballarat A look at some of The Art Gallery of Ballarats collection. Map. Get active. Also, the mall hosts a lot of festivals around the year. We highly suggest adding this activity to your list of fun things to do in Ballarat this weekend! Things to do, Events, and What's on in Ballarat Popular Articles Trentham Falls Waterfalls and gold rushes, in the middle of Wombat Forrest 79 The Turret Cafe 14 Gordon Hat Shoppe 16 Radio Springs Hotel Journey to The Centre Of The Universe 9 The House of Bespoke Couture Where beautiful princesses and evil stepmothers come to life 18 You should definitely visit this lovely building from a grander time, you will surely be amazed by this historical gem. If you want to learn more about the art and culture of Ballarat, just head over to the Post Office Gallery as it is filled with some of the finest pieces that are hung up on its walls. There are sculptures of each and even person who has ever been the Prime Minister of Australia entirely made up of bronze. 3-Day Great Ocean Road and Grampians Small-Group Tour. This city was even named one of the most liveable cities in Australia in 2020. Wrap up your Ballarat short break with a casual drink and dinner at Hop Temple. Have a history lesson at the Eureka Centre, 12. Sovereign Hill is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Ballarat, people come from all over the world to visit it. One of the most important parks in Ballarat is the sizable recreational space known as Victoria Park. They can hand feed the beautiful kangaroos at Ballarat Wildlife Park, experience a land of knights and princesses at the very medieval Kryal Castle, or for the very BRAVE there are fun tours like the Ghost Tour, which introduces you to the towns other residents! While you go on a run, you shall be surrounded by plenty of wildflowers. Choose from one of the many masterclass and artisan workshops on offer in Ballarat. Good bedding and mattresses, a huge air conditioner, a cool kitchenette, free WiFi, a continental breakfast, and private parking are all available. Since 1970, Sovereign Hill has been telling the tale of life as it was in 1850s Ballarat, during the greatest shallow alluvial gold rush the world has ever seen. Ballarat Botanical Gardens Covering 40 hectares and divided into four distinct zones, these cool climate gardens offer a magical way to while the afternoon away. Visiting Botanic Gardens is one of the best free things to do in Ballarat, especially during winter because of theBegonia Festival. Its vibrant culture and iconic buildings make up the best things to do in Ballarat, attracting people. Learn about the beginnings of Ballarat from the corner of Sturt and Grenville streets and take in buildings ranging from the Ballarat Mechanics Institute, which has been edifying and entertaining locals for more than 150 years, to the long-running Her Majestys Theatre and sites including Ballarats very own Turkish Bath House now a skate ramp. Things to Do in Ballarat with Kids. It is a living museum with running displays through costumed characters and 40 horses. To make things even more convenient, the museum offers accommodations for visitors. Located in central Ballarat next to the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, the lake offers many recreational activities. more, Things to Do in Ballarat, Australia - Ballarat Attractions. Want to get close to nature? Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground is adjacent to the Ballarat Botanic Gardens. Ballarat in particular has some of Australia's finest architecture and cityscape. Ballarat Bird World The Ballarat Tram Museum is run by volunteers dressed in authentic uniforms and runs most afternoons. The City of Ballarat acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land we live and work on, the Wadawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung People, and recognises their continuing connection to the land and waterways. Find the best things to do, eat, see and to visit in Ballarat with kids, couples and friends. Other notable attractions include Craigs Royal Hotel, the Former Mining Exchange, and theArt Gallery of Ballarat. Sebastopol Water Play Park 4. Youll definitely find Owen Lattas wines at Underbar, the pice de rsistance of Ballarats foodie renaissance. Fabulous, informative, with friendly staff. Dishes here include such pond- and paddock-to-plate offerings as fresh-baked rainbow trout served bone-free with crushed green peppercorn dressing, roast potatoes and locally baked bread, and cut-of-the-day lamb. The gardens were so pretty and the glasshouse well stocked. The Regal is in. Hence, once you catch one, you can have it cooked in the restaurant and feast on it. Unfortunately visited on a rainy day in Ballarat. Ballarat is a perfect destination to get away with loads of activities and things for you to explore. Be it something as simple as chicken wings- you can always find a twist in the flavors! These feature fuschias, hydrangeas, cineraria, primula, pelargoniums, and many more. A small, castle-like structure, it features slides, several different kinds of swings, monkey bars, forts, climbing structures, tunnels, and more. It is located on the Yarrowee River in the Central Highlands of Victoria in Australia. Collins Booksellers Ballarat on Lydiard 7. Go for a walk to appreciate Ballarat. Book your hotel and flights, get those bags packed and get ready to explore this vibrant city. Whether youre an avid fisher or not, a trip to Tuki Trout Farm offers a unique experience and rural idyll 40 minutes from Ballarat set at the end of an unsealed road on top of a hill with verdant valley views. Most remarkable is Tram No. Filters 1. Easy to get to, train ran on time, the ticket office was very helpful regarding purchase of the required myki card and fares for travel. Furthermore, it is also where the key event of the Eureka Stockade occurred. On the major Victoria Street in Ballarat East, the Victoriana Motor Inn provides 4-star lodging. The City of Ballarat acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land we live and work on, the Wadawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung People, and recognises their continuing connection to the land and waterways. Ballarat is surely going to win over your hearts with its colonial architecture and historic charm. Other dog-friendly places to eat at with your pooch whilst in town include Racers Caf, 'The Local' caf and produce store, Golden City Hotel and Meigas restaurant. 2. In addition to sampling Ballarats ever-growing wining and dining scene, time your visit to coincide with Ballarats month-long Plate Up Festival in May, which celebrates local produce, venues, craft beers and boutique wines through a series of special events, lunches and workshops across town. If you want to experience something entirely different and unique in Ballarat- then you must venture to the Gold Museum. It is run by passionate and dedicated volunteers and trams operate every weekend. What are the best day trips from Ballarat? Finally,Sovereign Hillis where your heritage tour should end. The park is home to kangaroos, koalas, wombats, Tasmanian devils, eagles, giant tortoises, crocodiles and alligators, as well as lizards and snakes - just to name a few! These are the best things you can do with Ballarat. Unsurprisingly, most work in the gallery is from Australian artists, with some International work here and there. From family sword fights in a medieval castle to 'pond to plate' trout fishing, there's way more to Ballarat than meets the eye. Secondly, theRobert Clark Conservatoryshowcases beautiful & kaleidoscopic flowers. Top 10 Things to Do in Daylesford Spa retreats, scenic walks and much more. From wildlife parks to museums, this city has it all. 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Book these experiences for a close-up look at Ballarat. Hence, becoming a hot spot for tourists. Strike gold at this open-air museum, which tells the story of Ballarats first decade as a gold rush town with recreated buildings, goldmine tours and workshops. The landscapes are amazing with granite rock formations. An Introduction to Mindfulness and Meditation 4-week Course Ballarat. Discover for yourself why Ballarat is renowned for its award-winning attractions and unique visitor experiences. Victoria Park's forested area is just a short stroll from Lake Wendouree's southern side. Next, you should walk Sturt Street, it is one of the widest streets, lavishly spreading across six lanes and replete with statue-studded gardens. You can find out more about the things to do and see in Ballarat on the Visit Ballarat website or call them on 1800 446 633. While Whidbey Island is renowned for its unspoiled natural areas, it also holds substantial historical and cultural value. Find out why Ballarat is the culinary capital of regional Victoria. Have you done a lot of sightseeing and just want to relax for a bit now? Here you can experience the days of old when gold was first discovered in Ballarat and have a go at panning for gold in the creek. These things contain all the historic and necessary details about the places you are about to visit. Are you ready to see some art now? Here, in Bridge Mall, you can get your hands on anything! Pets are also allowed here. Visiting the monument is one of the best things to do in Ballarat today, as it will teach you a lot about Australias history! Also known as Earth's richest goldfield, Ballarat played a substantial role in Victoria's Gold Rush of 1851. 2) Family Fun It also houses one of the most revered cultural artifacts of Australia for you to see, the Eureka flag. More than 25 years of expertise are brought to the table by Chef Dona, his partner, and events manager Irene, as well as the Carboni's Team. Make your way to one of Ballarats first class wineries. Also, the interior is charmingly decorated. The Art Gallery of Ballarat is Australia's oldest and largest regional gallery. Lake Esmond - Close your eyes and draw a deep breath nothing tops being near the water for some rest and restoration. It is the first motel off the M8 motorway in the direction of Melbourne, and it takes 5 minutes to get to Ballarat Town Center. Plenty of parking is available, and there's good amounts of green spaces to have a picnic. This ultimate list presents the best of Ballarat, featuring tranquil waterfalls, incredible museums, guided tours, remarkable architecture and stonework, scenic lookouts, gorgeous historical gardens, fun things to do, and more. Enter dates. Filled with adventures like tunnels, fake forts, big wheels- the Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground is the ultimate fun day for any child. Many of the early Another 4.00pm. Informative and interactive experience. Lets head over to one of the best art galleries in town! Here are the best things for you to do in Ballarat. See all Grampians National Park Small-Group Eco Tour from Melbourne 219 Bus Tours from $99.36 per adult Private Ballarat and Sovereign Hill Tour from Melbourne 1 Full-day Tours from $515.66 per adult (price varies by group size) 3-Day Great Ocean Road and Grampians Tour from Melbourne 1 The Ballarat Botanical Gardens Reserve is a fantastic place for the whole family The Garden is 40 hectares and is divided into multiple zones - the central part with 'gardenesque' style, the area alongside Lake Wendouree as the Lake foreshore precinct, open parklands on either side of the garden called North and South Gardens. Besides its history, Ballarat also has unique natural attractions such as the Lal Lal Falls and Lake Wendouree. Discover for yourself why Ballarat is renowned for its award-winning attractions and unique visitor experiences. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in June. The Ballarat Wildlife Park is a privately owned business run by The Parker family. Are you looking for some awesome shopping scenes in Ballarat? March - Harmony Fest (Ballarat) A jam-packed 10 days of fun, flavour, music, film and special events celebrating Ballarat . Sovereign Hill is an open-air museum in Golden Point, Ballarat. There are also a lot of exhibitions that are always going on in the gallery. Look at the great surface of the moon too! Look no further. Here are some of the best Ballarat attractions and things to do in Ballarat. If cuddling koalas have been your lifelong dream, !you can fulfill it in Ballarat Wildlife Park. History is never far from your fingertips in Ballarat: its there in its grand architecture and immersive experiences that transport you back to the heady days of the gold rush. Wander through the beautiful Ballarat Botanical Gardens on the western side of Lake Wendouree: regional Victorias oldest inland botanic gardens is a medley of mature trees and marble statues set within colourful flowerbeds. The Ballarat Wildlife Park strives to give the best interactive experience with some of Australia's most unique animals. Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground 8. Read on! Gold Rush Mini Golf Another fun thing to do in Ballarat with kids is the Gold Rush Mini Golf, which has two themed 18 hole courses offering fun for the whole family. Ten of the best things to do in Ballarat: Eureka flag. The park houses about 400 species of animals. Walking is one of the best ways to explore any city. Your two guides will teach you to surf for a few hours, guide you through all the beautiful sites and have you listen to fun music before camping overnight in a . document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); From fine-dining to Asian fusion and from boutique wine to craft cider: Ballarats foodie scene is booming. Relax by Lake Wendouree Take a walk around Ballarats picturesque Lake Wendouree, originally a swamp and now one of the nicest ways you can spend a sunny afternoon. Furthermore, it is also where the key event of the Eureka Stockade occurred. True to its name- this restaurant won the hearts of tourists and locals equally in a very short span of time. At the start of Australia's longest memorial avenue of honor is the Arch of Victory, one of Ballarat's most recognizable structures. All rights reserved. Hire a paddleboard and explore the charming fishing village's protected inlets and watercourses. Costume-clad staff, replica stores, theatre and workshops, even an underground gold mine, provide plenty to keep visitors engaged and entertained. It is an open-air museum and historical theme park displaying Ballarat as it was during the famous gold rush years. If you want to enjoy Ballarats history and culture, this event is a must for you. If you have a sweet tooth or are simply craving for some great bakery items- 1816 Bakehouse should be a slice of paradise for you. While you're in the area, find time to visit its spas. Taste the Delectable Wines of Ballarat, 10 Things to Do in Coffs Harbour for a Perfect Coastal Getaway. The city was built on the back of the gold rush of the 1850s and 60s, and today it offers an array of heritage attractions and things to do. Here, kids can abseil, hike, canoe, mountain bike, try archery, go bouldering, cook bush tucker and try crate stacking. Some of them might have a significant historic past., while others have a mining past. With its renowned wineries and exciting restaurant scene, Ballarat is an established foodie destination. Sovereign hills are known an original mining site with shops, theaters, hotels, gold diggings and factories to explore. A look at some of The Art Gallery of Ballarat's collection. Are you looking for a place to relive your childhood after exploring all of Ballarat? Combined with a trip to the Botanic Gardens and Lake Wendourie, it's easy to spend half a day in this appealing area. Ride the Ballarat - Skipton Rail Trail 5. 12 Fun Things to Do in Bendigo (+ Free Activities), 12 Spectacular & Fun Things to Do in Noosa Heads Everything You Need to Know for a Memorable Trip. The park is open to the public and has even been established by the people of the town for others to enjoy. Ballarat was built on the wealth derived from the gold found there, as the preserved heritage streetscape reflects. However, if you are swaying towards retail then you can check out Bridge Mall, Central Square Ballarat, Mill Market, or Stockland Wendouree. Especially Ballarat, it has some of Australia's finest architecture and streetscapes. Food & drink. Experience the area's museums and art scene. Top Things to Do in Ballarat, Australia: See Tripadvisor's 43,633 traveller reviews and photos of Ballarat tourist attractions. And, if you love indoor waters- then this is your chance to splash into some of the best pool waters in all of Ballarat, and give it a go! You can do so by catching a sunset at Lake Wendouree, listening to live music, eating outdoors, and many more. There's live music every Sunday afternoon. The heritage-listed Gallery building also hosts a diverse range of temporary exhibitions and puts together shows inspired by the works in the gallery. Exciting art, cultural and dining experiences are just some of the reasons you should head to Ballarat for your next weekend away.