We have reviews of the best places to see in Ballarat. Their wines provide you a clear picture of what characterizes the central and western wine-growing areas of Victorian so unique. 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. 16 Best Things To Do in Ballarat with Kids in 2022 1. Stroll along the lakeside or experience the area's art scene. Today its collection is presented alongside touring and temporary exhibitions across its elegant 19th-century rooms and contemporary architectural additions. Are there cheap things to do in Ballarat? There's no need to endlessly reach for your wallet in Ballarat. They are classic examples of late 19th century sensibilities in architecture. Also, there is plenty of greenery around where you can lie down and just enjoy the view. Formerly known as the Museum of Australian Democracy at Eureka, the Eureka Centre is a museum dedicated to democracy. The Art Gallery of Ballarat is Australia's oldest and largest regional gallery. You can enjoy architectural and history walking tours or theatrical performances, along with a great range of local food and wine. Ballarat Municipal Observatory. Ballarat Botanical Gardens is just one . Ballarat is approximately 90 mins from Melbourne by car or via V/Line trains from Southern Cross Station. Likewise, theParker Knivesare famous because of their knifemaking masterclasses with Adam Parker. These feature fuschias, hydrangeas, cineraria, primula, pelargoniums, and many more. Ballarat Wildlife Park is for Animal Lovers, 7. Written 22 . Ballarat is just over an hour by train from Melbourne, The heart of the city is within walking distance from the train station. Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend! Book these experiences for a close-up look at Ballarat. Their winemaker collaborates closely with producers to create wines that exhibit unusual varietal expression and represent unique vineyard, vintage, and regional characters. Enjoy your day filled with fun activities at Kryal Castle. The Art Gallery of Ballarat is Australias oldest and largest regional gallery. For the ones, who do not fancy partying can celebrate the new beginning by gazing at the New Year Fireworks In Ballarat at some of the best destinations and rooftop restaurants in the city. 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! Learn more about life in the goldfields at award-winning Sovereign Hill. Art & culture. Image: Visit Victoria. Ballarats Lost Ones Gallery, housed in an old masonic hall, hosts a Makers Studio with leatherwork and jewellery-making workshops, while Adam Parker of Parker Knives hosts much in-demand knifemaking workshops throughout the year. You can definitely plan a few hours of a side trip here while traveling to Melbourne or Geelong. This former gold mining town has some amazing Australian colonial architecture for you to gaze at. Get yourself familiarised with Ballarat by taking a walk down Lydiard St. As previously mentioned, Ballarat was once one of the richest alluvial goldfields and this wealth can be easily be seen in the city's ornate buildings, and stately hotels and homes. Informative and interactive experience. You can attend talks, or enjoy the line-up of entertainment with delicious food and celebrity guests. 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. You should definitely walk Lydiard Street, it is one of the best preserved Victorian streetscapes outside of England. Did you know they give out swimming lessons too? Opened in 1884, it boasts an impressive collection of Australian art history from the early colonial period to the present day. 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. Visit this place with your friends and family to discover other fun things to do in Ballarat. 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. Themed around the begonia flower, Ballarat Begonia Festival is an annual carnival and community cultural festival held at Ballarat. Located at the top of a hill, get ready to have a unique experience in the countryside of Ballarat. Costumed characters populate a gold rush town at Sovereign Hill, a living outdoor museum. Known as the county seat of the Livingston County, this thriving mid-western city has much to offer. Couples, in particular, enjoy the area; they gave it a 9.3 rating for a trip with two people. It is located on the Yarrowee River in the Central Highlands of Victoria in Australia. From 1897 to 1905, Ballarat was the place to be in the Panamints. Ballarat is the perfect blend of modern and old. About 28 bronze portraits of the Australian Prime Ministers are there to commemorate their work for the nation. Discover the sights of Ballarat with some popular tours & day trips, or get through our list of {4 fun activities in Ballarat fun activities in Ballarat}. A look at some of The Art Gallery of Ballarats collection. An Introduction to Mindfulness and Meditation 4-week Course Ballarat. Ballarat Tramway Museum Travel back in time through the beautiful Ballarat Botanical Gardens alongside Lake Wendouree. Hence, once you catch one, you can have it cooked in the restaurant and feast on it. (more) For the best travel inspiration delivered straight to your door. To make things even more convenient, the museum offers accommodations for visitors. I came here twice as a kid even though I grew up in Tasmania and only left the state four times. Gary Webb and William Wallace. Other notable attractions include Craigs Royal Hotel, the Former Mining Exchange, and theArt Gallery of Ballarat. You can only appreciate Ballarat's culture properly while walking on its well-maintained footpaths. In this center, you can have both of them! Since Ballarat has gorgeous nightlife, experiencing it is one of the best things to do in Ballarat. 8 Unmissable things to do in Airlie Beach How to make your holiday great? Explore the great outdoors at Mount Buninyong Scenic Reserve, a lovely green space in Ballarat. Well, those scenes are the best in Bridge Mall. Find out more about Travel Lens and read our editorial guidelines, Whidbey Island is between the Olympic Peninsula and the mainland, just north of Seattle. Book well in advance to dine at Ballarats fine-dining restaurant, Underbar. Lydiard Street. One cannot ignore the gorgeous Lal Lal Falls, which is also one of the best places to click in Ballarat. You can visit RJMs Wine bar or Mitchell Harris Wine Bar to dive in some amazing wine. With its renowned wineries and exciting restaurant scene, Ballarat is an established foodie destination. This place is well organised and presents well. The Ballarat Wildlife Park is a privately owned business run by The Parker family. Exciting art, cultural and dining experiences are just some of the reasons you should head to Ballarat for your next weekend away. 2) Family Fun It is held over the Labour Day long weekend in March. The gardens are also home to the Ballarat Tramway Museum, which provides the chance to ride in one of the 100-year-old trams that provided Ballarats public transport until 1971. This 19th-century relic showcases the industrial movement of the area. Surprisingly, tourists can also find lodging options in the form of Tuki Retreat. The ponds of Tuki Trout Farm fill themselves with loads of rainbow trout, ensuring you will get a catch. The ponds here are stocked with rainbow trouts and visitors are guaranteed a catch; you can then have it cooked in the restaurant. Lydiard Streetis the best way to kick-start your heritage tour of Ballarat. Sovereign Hill is an open-air museum in Golden Point, Ballarat. Due to this, many tourists have come to taste the delicious wines and even buy some! Book these experiences for a close-up look at Ballarat. Lovely way to spend an hour or 2. The Regal is in. Family-run Ballarat Wildlife Park is home to a large variety of native Australian animals and other exotic creatures, including free-roaming kangaroos, eight resident wombats and a colony of little penguins. Ballarat is home to its own boutique wine region. There are restaurants and bars nearby where guests may drop by. Right now, Sovereign Hill has become an iconic place due to the variety of things to do in Ballarat it offers. Wander Lydiard St to take in the architecture. Let us head over to some of the newer attractions now. These are the best things you can do with Ballarat. 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. Thousands of peasants and laborers traveled miles to Ballarat to make a living. You can find out about the history of Ballarat with a trip to St Patrick's Cathedral. This month, 17th March, 06:30 pm, Guf Ballarat Outsiders Prerelease in Ballarat. facebook; twitter; instagram; pinterest; youtube; 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. 2. Want to get your spirits up at one of the best wineries in all of Ballarat? Lots of bird life hanging around as well. However, if you want to learn more about the history of the place and its various ups and downs in politics- do pay a visit to the Prime Ministers Walk. Kids love this part of Sovereign Hill. Book your hotel and flights, get those bags packed and get ready to explore this vibrant city. This Australian gem has a lot of spicy places you can hit when you are feeling that hunger. Do you want to see all the moons and stars of Jupiter? This is your starting point for everything you need to know before you hit the road. Since it offers picturesque scenery, spending time in the lake is one of the best things to do in Ballarat during sunsets, especially with your loved one. Other Ballarat attractions include the Art Gallery, Botanical Gardens and Wildlife Park. Ballarat is a popular destination thanks to being an easy 100 kilometres from Melbourne and home to the fantastic Sovereign Hill. Ballarat Tramway Museum was founded to preserve the traditional tramway experience. Best things to do in Ballarat and day trip. Well worth the hour or so to go through. 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. The Midlands Reserve and Water Park is one of the best places to take your children to and have a fun day with them. 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. 1. You should definitely visit this lovely building from a grander time, you will surely be amazed by this historical gem. 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! Since 2008, Mitchell Harris has produced a wine with an emphasis on elegance and a reflection of the cool-climate characteristics of Ballarat's surrounding regions. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. They have many animal encounters, I didnt have time to do but next time I will be! You also pass by the Olympic memorial and a children's playground as you make your way around the lake. For the lover of unconventional things, there are some very interesting weekend getaways lined up for celebrating the 31st December 2023. The Ballarat Visitor information Centre is in the Town Hall, which is in Sturtt St, the main street. 5. From markets to festivals, live music to exhibitions, here's your guide to the best of what's on in Ballarat. But in no way is it any less fascinating. Ballarat Bird World is an enjoyable and economical way for bird lovers to spend their day. The Prime Ministers Walk is one of the most interesting things to check out in Ballarat. As mentioned, Ballarat is world-renowned for its unusual things to do and historic buildings. There are some fine old buildings in this historic street. 6. 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 Especially Ballarat, it has some of Australia's finest architecture and streetscapes. ). It attracts people of all ages. 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. Cuddle a koala at Ballarat Wildlife Park. Don't miss these. If cuddling koalas have been your lifelong dream, !you can fulfill it in Ballarat Wildlife Park. Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities. $8.00 concession entry fee, loads of interesting displays, and a room dedicated to the, A stroll up and down the street starts with the stunning Ballarat Train Station, passes the. Here are the best things for you to do in Ballarat. Costumed characters, theatres, horses, goldfields, factories, underground mines, shops, and whatnot! The railway station showcases the architectural and historical magnificence of Ballarat. Ballarat's best-known attraction, Sovereign Hill is an epic living museum that has meticulously recreated life on the gold diggings in the 1850s. As a result, thousands of tourists worldwide come here to relax and relish the beauty. Nice to look around other trams too. Table of contents Things to do in Ballarat 1. Ballarat Job Fair - Ballarat Career Fair. Certainly should include a visit if you're going there. Sovereign hill is the citys only live museum, telling tales about the life of Ballarat in the 1850s. Due to the establishment of the Botanic Gardens, Lake Wendouree has seen a significant spike in tourists. Wonderful examples of 19th century architecture. Look at the great surface of the moon too! Follow the history of Australian art from colonial to contemporary when you peruse the collection of Australias biggest and oldest regional art gallery. Have a casual bite at the Yacht Club, admire the quaint and historic Lake Wendouree boat sheds and then take to the water for a trip back in time onboard the replica Golden City Paddle Steamer. Get to know the history of this gold-rush town through its architecture by signing up for a 90-minute walking tour with Ballarat Heritage Tours or take a Heritage self-guided one via Ballarat Revealed. Stand on the Birthplace of Australian Democracy at the Eureka Centre 3. 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. 1, literally Ballarat's first horse-drawn tram, discovered being used a sleepout in the 1980s and then restored. If you are someone who is still a child at heart, then go-karts and laser tags have a different kind of effect! Sovereign hills are known an original mining site with shops, theaters, hotels, gold diggings and factories to explore. You can extend this period to 4 days if you mostly rely on public transport. You can find some amazing vintage pieces in the independent boutiques down any lane. St Patrick's Cathedral is the principal Catholic church for Ballarat. Fun Things to Do in Ballarat with Kids: Family-friendly activities and fun things to do. Located on Lake Wendouree, Botanic Gardens is the perfect blend of well-manicured trees and marble statues. Collected over a vast span of time- these objects each have a different story to tell. Also, you can get a view of the native kangaroos. Ballarat hosts a roster of arts and cultural festivals, so time your visit accordingly. This historical town recreation has been transporting visitors back to 1850s Ballarat for more than 40 years. Trust us! The historic houses are open for viewing, Hackensack is a large city and seat of Bergen County, New Jersey. Finally, without wasting more time, lets look at the fun things to do in Ballarat! After a long day of roaming, you can quench your thirst by local wines. Required fields are marked *. Your email address will not be published. 2023 Expedia, Inc., an Expedia Group company. 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. We highly suggest adding this activity to your list of fun things to do in Ballarat this weekend! This city was even named one of the most liveable cities in Australia in 2020. Ballarat Tramway Museum 192 Speciality Museums By MrDavetheSarks Good value, and good information as well. Lets head over to one of the best art galleries in town! This four-season destination may puzzle you to decide when to visit Ballarat. It's also a beautiful small city, just a quick trip from New York City. Sebastopol Water Play Park 4. LABOUR DAY WEEKEND Feat. With some of the great Lake Wendouree, the park is even more impressive. Spotted a mistake, have some feedback, or just want to chat with our editorial team? It is an award-winning interactive wildlife park situated on 37 acres of natural bushland. For shopping, the Art Gallery of Ballarat offers a gift shop with products ranging from art books and local crafters. To spend a day here is a fun day with your family or friends. Lydiard Street & Ballarat's Gold Rush History. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Besides manufacturing, Ms Hawker said the health, aged care, hospitality, and trade sectors are finding employment particularly difficult in regional areas, and employers should be head-hunting. After a botanic garden was laid out on its western shore in the 1850s, the lake itself saw a transformation and by the 1870s it had two rowing clubs and pleasure craft to recommend it as the recreational hub it remains to this day. Filters 1. The Eureka Centre portrays the stories of the people who risked their lives for miners rights and shows the cultural impact of the gold rush. Take a trip back in time at Sovereign Hill, 4. There's also more to Whidbey Island than meets, A delightful discovery awaits visitors to Pontiac, Illinois. Understand the goal. It is a living museum with running displays through costumed characters and 40 horses. Sovereign Hill is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Ballarat, people come from all over the world to visit it. 4. The best tours in Ballarat are: Ballarat: Kryal Castle Theme Park Entry Ticket. Spend a Day with Australia's Cutest Animals at Ballarat Wildlife Park 4. It is built of local stone. What are the best day trips from Ballarat? 'Stockade' style children's playground on site. A small, castle-like structure, it features slides, several different kinds of swings, monkey bars, forts, climbing structures, tunnels, and more. Birds here include the Gang-gang, Major Mitchell and red, white and yellow-tailed black cockatoos. Located on the historic Lydiard Street, Craigs Royal Hotel was built during the Victorian gold rush. . Australian Traveller Media acknowledges the traditional custodians of the Country on which we live and work, and pays respect to Elders's past, present and emerging. The entry fee is only $12. However, before starting your heritage walk, grab a brochure and map from the visitor center. 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. 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. Understand the Gold Rush History & Heritage of Ballarat, 3. And keep an eye on colourful ceramicist Ruby Pilvens website for upcoming workshops. Recharge and refuel after a day's walking at one of the town's popular eateries, breweries or cafes. It is located approximately 120km (74m) from Melbourne. Along with heritage, the town is also flourishing with contemporary art, food, drinks, and artists. 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. Located in central Ballarat next to the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, the lake offers many recreational activities. Lake Esmond - Close your eyes and draw a deep breath nothing tops being near the water for some rest and restoration. Buildings found in the city center are the best ways to reminisce about the Gold Rush days of Victoria. Also, the interior is charmingly decorated. Located on the banks of lovely Lake Wendouree, and just across the road from the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, lies the Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground. Many of the early Another 4.00pm. Take the kids along and try these top family friendly experiences together: Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Ballarat? Top 15 Best Places to Visit in Iceland. the gardens are exceptional and we were lucky enough to catch the. Furthermore, it is also where the key event of the Eureka Stockade occurred. Get active. Yorkdale Estate Central Park You may enjoy genuinely Italian cuisine at Carboni's Italian Kitchen, including the flavor of fresh fish from Sicily and the aroma of wood fire ovens in Naples. Australian Traveller Media 2023. Ballarat Town Hall. Let us give you some options to explore what you are craving for!The first restaurant that comes to our mind when we talk about the best eateries in Ballarat is the Moon and Mountain. You can buy clothes, antiques, souvenirs all over the city. Ballarat has a population of over 100,000 people. From wildlife parks to museums, this city has it all. Its vibrant culture and iconic buildings make up the best things to do in Ballarat, attracting people. Enter dates. 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. The station is pleasant and functional within the grand old building. Are you looking for a place to relive your childhood after exploring all of Ballarat? Take a Self Guided City Walking Tour with Ballarat Revealed 6. Ballarat which includes a sunset and street scenes, Ballarat Fine Art Gallery which includes interior views, Sovereign Hill as well as a large group of people, Ballarat featuring street scenes and a sunset, Ballarat which includes a statue or sculpture, Ballarat which includes heritage architecture, Ballarat Fine Art Gallery which includes interior views as well as a small group of people, Ballarat Central which includes heritage elements and interior views, Ballarat Fine Art Gallery showing interior views, Gold Museum which includes interior views. What are the best outdoor activities in Ballarat? This elegant hotel offers comfort of luxury with the charm of history. 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.