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. From Melbourne: Sovereign Hill Gold Mining Town Day Trip. Also, you can get a view of the native kangaroos. Also known as Earths richest goldfield, Ballarat played a substantial role in Victorias Gold Rush of 1851. 3. After Lydiard Street, go to nearby Camp Street, it is Ballarat's next most architecturally impressive street. Ballarat is home to its own boutique wine region. Ballarats art forms are world-renowned, causing tourists to learn how to get the citys stunning craftsmanship. The monument, Arch of Victory, was erected shortly after World War I close to Prince of Wales Park's southwest corner. Fun Things to Do in Ballarat with Kids: Family-friendly activities and fun things to do. Ballarat International Foto Biennale presents a showcase of photographic exhibitions, talks, workshops and events every two years in spring. Get active. on display and they have demonstrations regularly. Located on Lake Wendouree, Botanic Gardens is the perfect blend of well-manicured trees and marble statues. Victoria Park has meandering walkways, shelters, barbecues, and picnic tables in addition to a well-liked "inclusive play zone" that is designed to be utilized by kids of all abilities. Located at the top of a hill, get ready to have a unique experience in the countryside of Ballarat. Step Back in Time at Sovereign Hill 2. Ballarat is a very popular tourist destination. This is one of those flashy modern places, but the take is that they create some of the most delicious foods with a twit. 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. Formerly known as the Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka, the Eureka Centre is a museum dedicated to democracy. Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground 8. Ballarat is an amazing destination for all the foodies out there. Lovely way to spend an hour or 2. Prices are like normal cafe prices. Would have been lovely to have a picnic in the grounds if the weather allowed. 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. The Ballarat Tram Museum is run by volunteers dressed in authentic uniforms and runs most afternoons. Will be back. 2.) Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend! Read on! It is a living museum with running displays through costumed characters and 40 horses. This city is only a 90 minutes drive away from Melbourne and is great for you to just relax and rejuvenate. All of these items reek of history. This nationally acclaimed tourist attraction was established in 1970. Ballarat is perhaps the most appealing of Australia's gold rush towns. Visiting in the warmer weather meant we observed lots of families and pets taking a dip in the water, fishing, paddle boarding and boating. Due to this, many tourists have come to taste the delicious wines and even buy some! Our $8.00 concession entry fee included a tram ride. 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. Or head 15 minutes south out of the city centre to the country town of Buninyong, where master green woodsmith Paul Ryle is keeping traditional woodcrafts alive. Ten of the best things to do in Ballarat: Eureka flag. Fabulous, friendly and informative. There are restaurants and bars nearby where guests may drop by. 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. 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. Some of the famous art and cultural activities are Gordon cottage, Annexe wall, Prisoners of the war memorial, Artspace Ballarat, Aura sound and light show, Aviation museum, General cemeteries, Campsite mural, Heritage tours, Framing Gallery, Eureka guided tours, Accent framing, Golden city paddle streamer, and Greenhalgh tannery. In the land of swimmers- swimming is inevitable. Table of contents Things to do in Ballarat 1. 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. Since the entry fee is nil, you can enjoy the lavish 19th-century halls and rooms with contemporary architectural works. Hence, becoming a hot spot for tourists. It is Ballarats oldest and most luxurious hotel. Tap into Ballarats rich history of craftsmanship by signing up for a workshop or masterclass with one of its local artisans. Nice to look around other trams too. The property also has its own on-site accommodation, Tuki Retreat, which offers cosy stone or weatherboard cottages with open fires. From 30 June to 29 July, tours will depart at 9.30am from the Gold Monument, Cnr Sturt and Albert Street, Ballarat. Sovereign Hill 2. The best way to learn the art form is through attending a workshop with local crafters. Ballarat in particular has some of Australia's finest architecture and cityscape. It is built of local stone. Reservations open on the first day of each month and get snapped up quickly. Are you looking for a quaint exotic spot to have your picnic and observe some good scenes too? The Ballarat Wildlife Park is a privately owned business run by The Parker family. Also, there are a lot of unknown wildlife species along with some of the exotic migratory birds nesting right here. Watch out for . There are a lot of fun activities to do, such as witnessing the amazing gold pour where $160,000 worth of gold is melted and turned into a three-kilogram bullion or see the outdoor show Aura, an immersive after-dark theatrical experience. Tours. It is an award-winning interactive wildlife park situated on 37 acres of natural bushland. You can also visit wineries like Captains Creek Organic Wines, Mount Buninyong Winery, or Eastern Peake Winery to appreciate the art of wine making. Whats the point of visiting an Australian city and not tasting its delectable wine? The park is open to the public and has even been established by the people of the town for others to enjoy. Lydiard Street & Ballarat's Gold Rush History. Ballarat has some of the best scenes for you as you have seen by now. 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. Good range of vegetarian options if you need. Our favorite thing to do here is to relax at theYacht Clubwhile admiring the exquisite views of Lake Wendouree. . The top attractions to visit in Ballarat are: The best outdoor activities in Ballarat according to Tripadvisor travelers are: The best day trips from Ballarat according to Tripadvisor travelers are: Enjoyable to wander round and look at the. PC and console gaming as well Magic the Gathering, Pokemon, Games Workshop, boardgames and . See Tripadvisor's 43,677 traveller reviews and photos of kid friendly Ballarat attractions. 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 Today its collection is presented alongside touring and temporary exhibitions across its elegant 19th-century rooms and contemporary architectural additions. Many of the early Another 4.00pm. Harnessing a rich heritage from the famous Gold Rush history, Ballarat is one of Australias most historically significant cities. A 50-minute drive from Ballarat, Cave Hill Creek is one of Australia's best school holiday camps. It is an open-air museum and historical theme park displaying Ballarat as it was during the famous gold rush years. There are sculptures of each and even person who has ever been the Prime Minister of Australia entirely made up of bronze. Did you know they give out swimming lessons too? Also known as Earth's richest goldfield, Ballarat played a substantial role in Victoria's Gold Rush of 1851. Things to do in Ballarat . If you love understanding a place's culture and history, Ballarat is definitely worth your time. Combined with a trip to the Botanic Gardens and Lake Wendourie, it's easy to spend half a day in this appealing area. But in no way is it any less fascinating. The landscapes are amazing with granite rock formations. You can eat breakfast all day at Yellow Espresso. About 28 bronze portraits of the Australian Prime Ministers are there to commemorate their work for the nation. Wonderful examples of 19th century architecture. Finally,Sovereign Hillis where your heritage tour should end. Rum Jungle | Back Home Tour | Ballarat. Beyond Ballarat. Top Things to Do in Ballarat, Australia: See Tripadvisor's 42,845 traveller reviews and photos of Ballarat tourist attractions. If you were wondering what to do in this historically rich town, the following is a 'to-do' list consisting of the top attractions in Ballarat. One can make their list using our list of top 10 fun things to do in Ballarat this weekend. A look at some of The Art Gallery of Ballarats collection. There are so many things to do in Ballarat, and it's only just over an hour's journey from Melbourne. 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. Sovereign Hill is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Ballarat, people come from all over the world to visit it. You'll love the conservatory display showcasing seasonal displays, prime minister avenue displaying bronze portraits, and the statuary pavilion. Things to Do in Ballarat, Australia: See Tripadvisor's 43,635 traveller reviews and photos of Ballarat tourist attractions. 1. Ballarat Job Fair - Ballarat Career Fair. This Botanical Garden features a few fascinating areas worthy of exploring. Book these experiences for a close-up look at Ballarat. This nationally acclaimed tourist attraction was established in 1970. If theres anything more romantic in Ballarat than Lal Lal Falls, it has to be Lake Wendouree. Looks like the creators know what we- the foodies want!Forge Pizzeria comes to mind if you are craving something as simple as a good pizza. Lydiard Streetis the best way to kick-start your heritage tour of Ballarat. You can come here to walk around and relax in the gardens tranquil environment while enjoying delicious food from the eateries from here. Well worth the hour or so to go through. Have a history lesson at the Eureka Centre, 12. The big conservatory, the heritage statuary pavilion, the Prime Minister's Avenue, the lovely floral clock and more. Along with heritage, the town is also flourishing with contemporary art, food, drinks, and artists. Itineraries. It is organized by the city of Ballarat over the mothers day weekend (7-8 May). Hand feed the kangaroos and then head to see CRUNCH the show at 3pm is awesome, learn about how he got to the park and see him leap out of water to get his yummy chicken! The gift shop is great, too, selling art books and products by local artisans. As aforementioned, the best way to end your heritage tour of Ballarat is through Sovereign Hill. It is located approximately 120km (74m) from Melbourne. Next, you should walk Sturt Street, it is one of the widest streets, lavishly spreading across six lanes and replete with statue-studded gardens. The station is pleasant and functional within the grand old building. However, both times were as a day trip from Melbourne.This is a shame as Ballarat has more to offer than Sovereign Hill and it is a great place for a short, easy trip. Things do in popular destinations worldwide, Australia - New Zealand and the South Pacific, Alices Journeys Guided Walking Tours of Daylesford, Creswick Woollen Mills with Alpaca Exhibit & Store Credit, Kryal Castle Adventure Park Admission Ticket, Kiteboarding Lessons in St Kilda - Passport to Ride Course, Kiteboarding Lesson in St Kilda (2 Hours), Hotels near St John of God Hospital Ballarat, Hotels near Federation University Australia, Vacation rentals in United States of America, Vacation packages in United States of America, Cancel your hotel or vacation rental booking. Find out why Ballarat is the culinary capital of regional Victoria. A small, castle-like structure, it features slides, several different kinds of swings, monkey bars, forts, climbing structures, tunnels, and more. After exploring the town, you can satisfy your hunger with traditional and delicious Aussie cuisine, Ballarat has some great cafes and restaurants that use local produce to make wholesome food. After a long day of roaming, you can quench your thirst by local wines. This 45-minute cruise takes in scenic views and the history of the lake, operating on Sundays from November to May each year. Book well in advance to dine at Ballarats fine-dining restaurant, Underbar. We pay our respects to their Elders past, prese nt and emerging and extend this to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People. So, dont miss out on the Midlands Reserve and Water Park when you are here in Ballarat. - lots to see, especially if you like swans. Visiting Botanic Gardens is one of the best free things to do in Ballarat, especially during winter because of theBegonia Festival. 3-Day Great Ocean Road and Grampians Small-Group Tour. Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Lake Wendouree during your travels in Ballarat. From wildlife parks to museums, this city has it all. Top 10 Best Things to Do in Ballarat, Australia. This was a lovely relaxing yet cold walk. Large windows and sturdy double bricks were used in the construction of all 20 rooms. Being located on the actual site of the stockade made it even more special. 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. There are plenty of tales to know from this museum! Stay on site at the Sovereign Hill Hotel for the whole package. Pan for gold at the iconic Sovereign Hill, indulge in some retail therapy, explore the great outdoors, or wander through Australia's oldest regional gallery. Sovereign Hill is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Ballarat, people come from all over the world to visit it. If you want to experience something entirely different and unique in Ballarat- then you must venture to the Gold Museum. Ballarat was built on the wealth derived from the gold found there, as the preserved heritage streetscape reflects. There's also more to Whidbey Island than meets, A delightful discovery awaits visitors to Pontiac, Illinois. You can also dress-up and take photographs with your friends in the old-timey photography studio. Lsake Wendouree Adventure Playground is a great facility for older children, with suitable play equipment that will keep youngsters occupied for an hour or so. Instead, focus on finding the right people. 8. Review of: Raintree Art. Just a 7 minutes drive away from Sovereign Hill, Ballarat Bird World showcases the colorful Australian birdlife. Located in central Ballarat next to the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, the lake offers many recreational activities. Wait no more for we might have an ideal location just for you. Fish for rainbow trout at Tuki Trout Farm. 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. Pets are also allowed here. Located on the historic Lydiard Street, Craigs Royal Hotel was built during the Victorian gold rush. Hence, if you desire to learn new things, visiting Sovereign Hill is one of the best things to do in Ballarat this weekend. It is a very popular tourist attraction in the city. Visit this place with your friends and family to discover other fun things to do in Ballarat. Finally, even a 1-day trip is enough if you desire to get a taste of the city by visiting the heritage centers. For more family fun, check out Kryal Castle: an adventure park and accommodation based in a replica medieval castle a little further east out of town from Ballarat Wildlife Park. Some of them might have a significant historic past., while others have a mining past. Tourists visit the city for its modern art, cuisine, beverages, and artists, in addition to its historical attractions. This show showcases the Australian history of gold from its origins and takes you on a historical journey to the current day. 2. Unsurprisingly, most work in the gallery is from Australian artists, with some International work here and there. . Also, the interior is charmingly decorated. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Book these experiences for a close-up look at Ballarat. These things contain all the historic and necessary details about the places you are about to visit. Top 10 Things to Do in Daylesford Spa retreats, scenic walks and much more. With its renowned wineries and exciting restaurant scene, Ballarat is an established foodie destination. March - Harmony Fest (Ballarat) A jam-packed 10 days of fun, flavour, music, film and special events celebrating Ballarat . We highly suggest adding this activity to your list of fun things to do in Ballarat this weekend! This tourist attraction has a heritage and celebrates the essence of Ballarat. Filters 1. Reasonably priced. 3. Even the fours moons and four rings of Jupiter. White Night Ballarat takes place in spring and sees the citys iconic buildings, cultural institutions and streets brought to life with projections, installations, performances and music. Get the latest travel news, reviews, offers and more, direct to your inbox. 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 16 Best Things To Do in Ballarat with Kids in 2022 1. Food & Drink. There are some fine old buildings in this historic street. There are boutiques, local brads, and even a lot of branded stores.Bridge mall can officially be a heaven for shopaholics. Most likely would return. Having some of the best collections of aircraft engines, different aircraft models, and various kinds of memorabilia regarding aircraft- this museum is one of the most exclusive ones in Australia. You also pass by the Olympic memorial and a children's playground as you make your way around the lake. Well, here at Ballarat Indoor Go-Karts & Laserforce Entertainment Centre, there are a lot of activities to enjoy. The vibrant colors will calm your heart as you complete your list of things to do in Ballarat. 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. Hellfire Pass in northern Thailkand is notorious for the exploitation and suffering of Australian Prisoners of War at the hands of Japan. Eureka Gardens playground 9. Discover why Ballarat is renowned for its award-winning attractions and unique visitor experiences. Regardless of your interests or age, there are countless experiences and attractions to dive into. Expedia and the Airplane Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Expedia, Inc. CST# 2029030-50. Sovereign Hills has everything you need for a perfect itinerary. Take a trip back in time at Sovereign Hill, 4. Attractions. 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. lessons - I painted a picture which Jane is going to stretch for me. Fabulous, informative, with friendly staff. Themed around the begonia flower, Ballarat Begonia Festival is an annual carnival and community cultural festival held at Ballarat. For starters- the Prime Ministers Walk is located in the premium location of the Botanical Gardens of Ballarat. If you are someone who does not know how to use a telescope properly- the staff here is quite friendly and helpful! Livvi's Place Ballarat - Victoria Park Inclusive Playspace 3. Exciting art, cultural and dining experiences are just some of the reasons you should head to Ballarat for your next weekend away. Trip Original. The best part about this spot is its intense history and its location. Come here to experience the traditional tramway experience that once existed on the streets of Ballarat. Birds here include the Gang-gang, Major Mitchell and red, white and yellow-tailed black cockatoos. Couples, in particular, enjoy the area; they gave it a 9.3 rating for a trip with two people. Culinary promises. 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. Being Australias oldest regional gallery, visiting it is one of the best things to do here. Sovereign Hills Winter Wonderlights brings similar illumination to the depth of winter. In addition, Ballarat houses an impressive number of art galleries and museums that will keep you engaged in wanting to learn more. Their winemaker collaborates closely with producers to create wines that exhibit unusual varietal expression and represent unique vineyard, vintage, and regional characters. Except for the exotic wildlife of Australia, you can also spot Sumatran tigers, meerkats, and other beautiful species of the world. Stand on the Birthplace of Australian Democracy at the Eureka Centre 3. You should definitely visit this lovely building from a grander time, you will surely be amazed by this historical gem. You can buy clothes, antiques, souvenirs all over the city. Here in the heart of Ballarat lies the infamous Ballarat Aircraft Museum.This museum is a slice of paradise for all of those who are interested in the air! Other things to do in Ballarat Botanic Gardens include seeing the floral clock, admiring the scenic views of Lake Wendouree, relaxing in the sensory garden, and many more. The museum has a large research collection, an archive of information, and more than 3,500 items about the Ballarat tramways. Meet a host of native animals (plus more exotic species, like Sumatran Tigers) in this sprawling 37 hectare wildlife park - including free-roaming kangaroos, which you can feed from the palm of your hand. Sovereign Hill is an open-air museum in Golden Point, Ballarat. If youre chasing a little fun in the sun, try these outdoor adventures: If youre traveling on a strict budget, add the following cheap and cheerful tours and activities to your schedule: Youll barely have time to grab your wallet out of your bag with so many fantastic free things to do: Known for Friendly people, Bowling, Walking, Known for Natural parks, Spas, Friendly people, Known for Friendly people, Business, Shopping. You will be surprised by some of the unique things to do and places you can explore at this hidden destination. We check in to find out. The more compatible you are, the more likely it will be that a great friendship will emerge. Would have been lovely to have a picnic in the grounds if the weather allowed. 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. The Midlands Reserve and Water Park is one of the best places to take your children to and have a fun day with them. The Midlands Reserve and Water Park attracts people of all ages honestly. Located in an unassuming space with no sign at the door, Underbar is a 16-seat fine-dining restaurant that opens on Friday and Saturday evenings to serve a seasonal tasting menu shaped by the surrounds courtesy of chef Derek Boath. Ballarat Town Hall - Take a stroll around this historic place and uncover a few secrets from yesteryear. The railway station showcases the architectural and historical magnificence of Ballarat. Making sure it's a good place to work with a good culture.". Look no further. 156 Shares. Lots of details about the Eureka stockade events, many of which are glossed over in simple histories. You can eat gourmet pizzas straight out of the wood-fired oven at Forge Pizzeria. Spotted a mistake, have some feedback, or just want to chat with our editorial team? 6. Welcome to the Post Office Gallery in Ballarat. The number of historical attractions of Ballarat may overwhelm you. Especially Ballarat, it has some of Australia's finest architecture and streetscapes. The centre is surrounded by the lovely Eureka Stockade Memorial Gardens. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in June. While you're in the area, find time to visit its spas. Discover parties, concerts, meets, shows, sports, club, reunion, Performance happening in April 2023 in Ballarat. Most Viewed. Contents [ hide] 1. You might often face quite a hot day here in Ballarat, and during those days- Eureka Aquatic Center is the best place to head over to and have a quick water therapy! Here, in Bridge Mall, you can get your hands on anything! Things to Do in Ballarat with Kids. You can interact with many beautiful birds closely at this place. If you're wanting insider knowledge on where to eat, drink, stay, play, shop and explore in Ballarat, you've come to the right place. There are a lot of running and cycling trails here inside the park. Hire a paddleboard and explore the charming fishing village's protected inlets and watercourses. You should definitely walk Lydiard Street, it is one of the best preserved Victorian streetscapes outside of England. At the start of Australia's longest memorial avenue of honor is the Arch of Victory, one of Ballarat's most recognizable structures. Pontiac is famous for its museums and historical homes located within a one-mile loop within the city center. It's free as well! Want to get your spirits up at one of the best wineries in all of Ballarat? 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. Built on gold wealth, Ballarat was the wealthiest city in the world at one point during the 1850s and its wonderfully preserved heritage streetscape reflects this. This city was even named one of the most liveable cities in Australia in 2020. To spend a day here is a fun day with your family or friends. Likewise, theParker Knivesare famous because of their knifemaking masterclasses with Adam Parker. LABOUR DAY WEEKEND Feat. It has kangaroos and emus that roam freely around the park and can be hand fed. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. 2) Family Fun But, often you do not get to have a pizza that matches your standards. We have free cancellation and no added fees, so you can rest easy and put your energy into planning an unforgettable vacation. . Discover for yourself why Ballarat is renowned for its award-winning attractions and unique visitor experiences.