West Melbourne and Beyond

Top 5 Things to Do in Ballarat

1. Sovereign Hill:

Overview: Sovereign Hill is a living museum that offers a deep dive into Australia's gold rush history. Review: Step back in time with a visit to Sovereign Hill, where the 1850s gold rush era is brought to life with meticulous detail. From gold panning to horse-drawn carriage rides, the interactive experiences here are unparalleled. The staff, dressed in period costumes, enhance the authenticity, making it a memorable experience for both adults and children.

Ballarat is best well known for its alluvial gold mining history and Sovereign Hill proudly celebrates this history. Pan for a bit of gold while you are there and keep the kids happy! Sovereign Hill has special events throughout the year including a highlight in winter called the Winter Wonderlights. If you've been to Ballarat before it might be good to time your next visit for Winter Wonderlights to experience something that bit different.

2. Ballarat Wildlife Park:

Overview: This park is home to a wide range of native Australian animals, including the iconic kangaroo and koala. Review: A true gem for animal lovers, Ballarat Wildlife Park offers close encounters with some of Australia's most beloved creatures. The well-maintained habitats and knowledgeable staff ensure that visitors not only enjoy their visit but also leave more educated about Australia's unique wildlife. This is great for the kids as you get to feed the kangaroos and the Ballarat Wildlife Park is centrally located if travelling by car.

Image: Platon — *Ballarat Wildlife Park. Image: West Melbourne and Beyond*

3. Lake Wendouree & the Ballarat Botanical Gardens:

Overview: A picturesque lake surrounded by beautiful gardens and play areas. Review: Perfect for a leisurely day out, Lake Wendouree offers serene boat rides and a reasonably long walk 5.9km if you want to tackle the complete perimeter walk.

The adjacent Ballarat Botanical Gardens are a treat for botany enthusiasts with its lush landscapes and the striking Prime Ministers Avenue. The combination of the lake and gardens provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

4. Art Gallery of Ballarat:

Overview: Australia's oldest regional gallery, housing a rich collection of Australian art. Review: The Art Gallery of Ballarat is a testament to the city's appreciation of art and culture. The collection, ranging from historic to contemporary pieces, is thoughtfully curated. Regular exhibitions ensure there's always something new to explore, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Free and paid exhibitions with the International Foto Biennale a two yearly highlight.

5. Ballarat Tramway Museum:

Overview: This museum celebrates the city's tramway history with a collection of vintage trams and memorabilia. Review: Transporting visitors to a bygone era, the Ballarat Tramway Museum is both informative and nostalgic. The highlight is undoubtedly the tram rides, allowing visitors to experience the charm of vintage trams firsthand. The dedicated volunteers enhance the experience with their insights and anecdotes. The Ballarat Tramway Museum celebrated its 50th year in 2021.

In Conclusion:

Ballarat offers a blend of history, nature, art, and culture. Its attractions cater to a diverse range of interests, ensuring that every visitor leaves with cherished memories. Whether it's delving into the gold rush era or relaxing by Lake Wendouree, Ballarat promises a rich and rewarding experience.

Remember, while these are among the top attractions, the city has much more to offer. It's always good to explore and discover personal favorites!

More Top Attractions in Ballarat

6. Aunty Jacks:

Aunty Jacks is our favourite dining establishment in Ballarat. Cosy fireplace, multiple levels, cool vibes, great design, very hipster, laid back yet cool warehouse-ish feel, we love coming to this place. Definitely recommend coming here if you are on a day or weekend trip to Ballarat.

7. Hop Temple:

Hop Temple is another cool dining establishmant and beer hall. Not as unique as Aunty Jacks but still great nevertheless. Warehouse industrial feel with modern pub fare. A great place to chew the fat and have a cool beer or two!

8. Kryal Castle:

Kryal Castle is a medieval-themed adventure park and resort located near Ballarat. It offers a unique and immersive experience for visitors, transporting them back to the days of knights, wizards, and mythical creatures. Great for the kids the park is divided into different sections, each representing a different aspect of medieval life, such as the royal courts, the village, and the dungeons.

Kryal Castle offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. Kids will love trying their hand at archery, channeling their inner archer just like in medieval times. There is also a live jousting tournament, falconry displays, and other performances to provide entertainment and showcase a glimpse of historical medieval sports.

9. Mt Buninyong Walk and Tower:

Mt Buninyong is 22 minutes drive from Ballarat or just over 17km. If you've been to Ballarat before and are looking for something new to do then a visit to Mt Buninyong might be in order. You can choose to do a longer walk up the mountain from the base carpark (215 Blackberry Lane) to the lookout tower that can be great entertainment and give the kids something to do. If you are feeling lazy you can drive directly to the top of the mountain and just climb the tower.

The tower offers great panoramic views.

10. Lal Lal Falls:

Lal Lal Falls is worth a visit if you are looking for some new things to do in Ballarat. If coming from Melbourne it's best to either visit here on the drive to Ballarat or on your way home. Of course, timing it for when there has been a bit of rain will definitely make it more worth while. Lal Lal Falls are approximately 28km from Ballarat.

11. Ballarat Vintage & Collectables Market:

Ballarat Vintage & Collectables Market is definitely worth a visit if you love your vintage or second hand shopping. A huge array of vintage, retro collectables with over 80 stalls offering something for everyone. Antiques, furniture, vinyl, toys, clothes and more!

12. Anderson's Mill (Smeaton):

Anderson's Mill in Smeaton is 35 minutes drive from Ballarat and worth a visit if you are a history buff or like pretending to be a tourist in your own country. Time your visit for the Anderson's Mill Heritage Weekend and enjoy all the festivities as well. Lovely iconic heritage building with its own sense of grandeur.