Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities. 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. Visiting in the warmer weather meant we observed lots of families and pets taking a dip in the water, fishing, paddle boarding and boating. Our $8.00 concession entry fee included a tram ride. It is an open-air museum and historical theme park displaying Ballarat as it was during the famous gold rush years. ULTIMATE GUIDE - 11 Things to Do in Ballarat (+ Prices!) Ultimate Ballarat guide: things to see and do in Ballarat Especially Ballarat, it has some of Australia's finest architecture and streetscapes. See Tripadvisor's 43,677 traveller reviews and photos of kid friendly Ballarat attractions. 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. 5. Wandering through the gorgeous ambiance of the Botanic Gardens is one of our favorite things to do in Ballarat. Lake Wendouree is a man-made and maintained shallow urban lake that has been a community destination for over 150 years. 7. 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. Learn more about life in the goldfields at award-winning Sovereign Hill. Visit this place with your friends and family to discover other fun things to do in Ballarat. 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. The gallery has one of the best regional collections in the country. Ballarat Tramway Museum Travel back in time through the beautiful Ballarat Botanical Gardens alongside Lake Wendouree. Ballarat Heritage Weekend is an annual community cultural festival that is celebrated in Ballarat to showcase the wonderful history and culture of the city. Being located on the actual site of the stockade made it even more special. Interesting history of Ballarat gold rush. Mitchell Harris Wines are surrounded by the world-renowned wine districts of Western and Central Victoria. A look at some of The Art Gallery of Ballarats collection. Eureka Centre 404 Today its collection is presented alongside touring and temporary exhibitions across its elegant 19th-century rooms and contemporary architectural additions. Lake Wendouree is one of the best places in Ballarat to spend a sunny afternoon. However, if you ask us, autumn is the prime time to visit this gorgeous place due to how kaleidoscopic it becomes. An Introduction to Mindfulness and Meditation 4-week Course Ballarat. Go for a walk to appreciate Ballarat. The castle has a lot of activities for you to do. Ballarat Wildlife Park is a family-owned, interactive wildlife park that specialises in native Australian animals and exotic reptiles. Stroll along the lakeside or experience the area's art scene. Ballarat is a popular destination thanks to being an easy 100 kilometres from Melbourne and home to the fantastic Sovereign Hill. In addition to a flourishing dining scene, Ballarat is home to its own boutique wine region, which specialises in cold-climate wines like pinot noir, chardonnay and delicate sparklings, as well as riesling and shiraz. The park is open to the public and has even been established by the people of the town for others to enjoy. The interesting part about the splendid Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground is that everything you see here is made of wood! Other great city break destinations within 2 hours of Melbourne are Bendigo, Geelong and Warrnambool. Step inside the the Robert Clark Conservatory inside the Botanical Gardens in Ballarat. The following won't cost a thing. Well, those scenes are the best in Bridge Mall. One of the most important parks in Ballarat is the sizable recreational space known as Victoria Park. Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend! All rights reserved. You will be surprised by some of the unique things to do and places you can explore at this hidden destination. If you visit the place without planning your trip, you will likely remain in a dilemma. One cannot ignore the gorgeous Lal Lal Falls, which is also one of the best places to click in Ballarat. How to spend 48 hours in Ballarat | NeedaBreak Things to do. Well, here at Michael Unwin Wines- there are some of the best things that will help you unwind yourself. 2. This show showcases the Australian history of gold from its origins and takes you on a historical journey to the current day. Harnessing a rich heritage from the famous Gold Rush history, Ballarat is one of Australias most historically significant cities. Tours. Shopping & relaxation. Furthermore, the Eureka Center enlightens visitors about the iconic Eureka Stockade. So, go and have a fun day for you and your kids as well. 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. on display and they have demonstrations regularly. Are you into aircrafts and airplanes? It's free as well! Expedia and the Airplane Logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Expedia, Inc. CST# 2029030-50. Ride the Ballarat - Skipton Rail Trail 5. 30 Best Things to Do in Ballarat, Australia - Travel Lens 15 incredible things to do in Victoria this autumn It features a moat and drawbridge, a maze, castle towers, stocks, and an armory. Ballarat is perhaps the most appealing of Australia's gold rush towns. New Year's Eve 2023 In Ballarat We have free cancellation and no added fees, so you can rest easy and put your energy into planning an unforgettable vacation. facebook; twitter; instagram; pinterest; youtube; Next, you should walk Sturt Street, it is one of the widest streets, lavishly spreading across six lanes and replete with statue-studded gardens. Reservations open on the first day of each month and get snapped up quickly. . A plethora of expertise displays their love for the profession, including the understanding of the food industry, customers, and personal service. Through art installations and digital technology at this modern museum, youll hear the stories of the men and women who fought for miners rights and helped inform the development of modern democratic Australia, as well as learning about the cultural impact of the gold rush. unusual things to do in Ballarat Archives - Out of Town Blog It attracts people of all ages. Spending time here during sunsets with your date is one of the most romantic things to do in Ballarat. Thankfully, the walking trails connect the extremes of Lal Lal Falls, making it easily accessible. If you are someone who is still a child at heart, then go-karts and laser tags have a different kind of effect! Tours - Visit Ballarat Watch out for . Tourists visit the city for its modern art, cuisine, beverages, and artists, in addition to its historical attractions. Enjoy your day filled with fun activities at Kryal Castle. You can extend this period to 4 days if you mostly rely on public transport. Ballarat is home to its own boutique wine region. Ballarat is an amazing destination for all the foodies out there. Ballarat Town Hall - Take a stroll around this historic place and uncover a few secrets from yesteryear. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Ballarat with Kids (Updated 2023) 5 Best Things To Do In Ballarat - Snazzy Trips Travel Blog Most likely would return. The Ballarat Tram Museum is run by volunteers dressed in authentic uniforms and runs most afternoons. Things to do, Events, and What's on in Ballarat - WeekendNotes Art & culture. Experience the area's museums and art scene. Also known as Earths richest goldfield, Ballarat played a substantial role in Victorias Gold Rush of 1851. Do try to catch one of those if you want to experience art better. 8. Book these experiences for a close-up look at Ballarat. We have done the research for you and present the activities you will love and enjoy. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in March. 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. 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. The Midlands Reserve and Water Park is one of the best places to take your children to and have a fun day with them. Free as well!! Here,Paul Ryletakes the masterclasses, teaching visitors woodcraft skills. Birds here include the Gang-gang, Major Mitchell and red, white and yellow-tailed black cockatoos. If you desire to cruise on the water, ensure that you board theGolden City Paddle Steamer. Your email address will not be published. The park provides shelter to mostly native Australian animals and includes the worlds smallest penguin species, wombats, quokkas, echidnas, koalas, and crocodiles. Furthermore, it is also where the key event of the Eureka Stockade occurred. The park is themed around the fantasy of medieval time with knights, kings, and everything else medieval. St Patrick's Cathedral is the principal Catholic church for Ballarat. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. The ponds here are stocked with rainbow trouts and visitors are guaranteed a catch; you can then have it cooked in the restaurant. Many of the early Another 4.00pm. Do you want to see all the moons and stars of Jupiter? Opened more than a century ago, the Ballarat Municipal Observatory and Museum is one of the oldest observatories in Australia. The best part about this spot is its intense history and its location. 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. If you are looking to spend your money, Ballarat is not going to let you down. 3. Sadly, some 4,000 POWs lie in unmarked graves. Pontiac is famous for its museums and historical homes located within a one-mile loop within the city center. The Provincial Hotel's beautiful dining room Lola is a standout for seasonal, locally sourced dishes and a great wine list . You can stay at the castle and enjoy your childhood dream as the castle offers 4-star accommodation. 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. 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 . The museum has a large research collection, an archive of information, and more than 3,500 items about the Ballarat tramways. 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. There are boutiques, local brads, and even a lot of branded stores.Bridge mall can officially be a heaven for shopaholics. Unsurprisingly, most work in the gallery is from Australian artists, with some International work here and there. Amplify your 7107 International Music Festival Experience with Smart and SPINNR . The quickest way to meet compatible people in Ballarat for free is to use an app like We3. What are the best day trips from Ballarat? During an exciting winter weekend trip this year, Ballarat really did prove to be a worthwhile travel destination in Victoria. Ballarat Events | Upcoming Events & Things To Do In Ballarat, Australia Ballarat's best-known attraction, Sovereign Hill is an epic living museum that has meticulously recreated life on the gold diggings in the 1850s. Deliciously, one can dine in these fabulous places to feast on delectable artisan foods. The Ballarat Observatory is one of the oldest observatories in regional Australia, with one of the best collections of 18th to 21st century telescopes. THE 10 BEST Fun Activities & Games in Ballarat The landscapes are amazing with granite rock formations. Sovereign hill is the citys only live museum, telling tales about the life of Ballarat in the 1850s. 80 Things to Do in Ballarat: Points of Interest + Activities - Inspirock Wander around the gardens or experience the area's art scene. Walking is one of the best ways to explore any city. But, there is one more thing quite popular to the tourists who come to cherish the unexplained beauty of Ballarat- the Black Hill Reserve.An empty space of almost 260 acres- Ballarat is one of the best places you could go to if you want to be close to nature. There's no need to endlessly reach for your wallet in Ballarat. Ballarat Town Hall is just one of the places to see in Ballarat, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? A small, castle-like structure, it features slides, several different kinds of swings, monkey bars, forts, climbing structures, tunnels, and more. Also, you can get a view of the native kangaroos. Discover why Ballarat is renowned for its award-winning attractions and unique visitor experiences. This city is only a 90 minutes drive away from Melbourne and is great for you to just relax and rejuvenate. This Botanical Garden features a few fascinating areas worthy of exploring. Things To Do In Ballarat - The Gold Trove Of Victoria Highlands Likewise, theParker Knivesare famous because of their knifemaking masterclasses with Adam Parker. Cuddle a koala at Ballarat Wildlife Park. It is a living museum with running displays through costumed characters and 40 horses. Also known as Earth's richest goldfield, Ballarat played a substantial role in Victoria's Gold Rush of 1851. Also, the interior is charmingly decorated. 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. Fun Things to do in Ballarat - Family Travel Blog - Travel with Kids Ballarat, Destinations, Goldfields, Victoria, Australia You can also dress-up and take photographs with your friends in the old-timey photography studio. Here are the best things for you to do in Ballarat. City Center of Ballarat. The list of the best things to do in Ballarat above demonstrates how this city is the ideal blend of modern and traditional. Does Ballarats newest boutique hotel measure up to the citys buzzing arts and dining scene? There are plenty of tales to know from this museum! It is located at the historic site of the Eureka Stockade Rebellion, on the grounds of the Eureka Stockade Memorial Gardens in Ballarat. 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. 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. When it comes to food, this place has endless options for you to choose from and it is not going to disappoint you. Most remarkable is Tram No. Discover for yourself why Ballarat is renowned for its award-winning attractions and unique visitor experiences. It is a very popular tourist attraction in the city. 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. With some of the best pub culture along with an equally historic story- Pub with Two Names attracts a lot of tourists. Amble around the area's lakeside or experience its museums. From Melbourne: Sovereign Hill Gold Mining Town Day Trip. 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. Except for the exotic wildlife of Australia, you can also spot Sumatran tigers, meerkats, and other beautiful species of the world. From 30 June to 29 July, tours will depart at 9.30am from the Gold Monument, Cnr Sturt and Albert Street, Ballarat. Taste the Delectable Wines of Ballarat, 10 Things to Do in Coffs Harbour for a Perfect Coastal Getaway. Ballarat has some of the best scenes for you as you have seen by now. Established in 1884, the gallery boasts an iconic collection of art that represents the countrys heritage in its purest form. You can interact with many beautiful birds closely at this place. Things to Do in Ballarat - tripadvisor.ca We have a prime location for you to check out. It also houses one of the most revered cultural artifacts of Australia for you to see, the Eureka flag. 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. 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. This city was even named one of the most liveable cities in Australia in 2020. Find out why Ballarat is the culinary capital of . The Midlands Reserve and Water Park attracts people of all ages honestly. Would have been lovely to have a picnic in the grounds if the weather allowed. Located on the Serviceton line in Victoria, Ballarat Railway Station is one of Australias most awe-inspiring heritage railway stations. Have a history lesson at the Eureka Centre, 12. There's also more to Whidbey Island than meets, A delightful discovery awaits visitors to Pontiac, Illinois. Top 12 Things To Do In Ballarat | Australian Traveller From Kangaroos and penguins to the Tasmanian devils, one can find their favorite animals here. Sovereign Hill 2. You can visit RJMs Wine bar or Mitchell Harris Wine Bar to dive in some amazing wine. Finally,Sovereign Hillis where your heritage tour should end. 8. Our first choice will be theMakers Studio,offering workshops to make jewelry. Want to get close to nature? Are you looking for a quaint exotic spot to have your picnic and observe some good scenes too? Take a stroll around the lake. Port Fairy. Hence, the perfect solution for this problem is to create a list of fun things to do in Ballarat to avoid similar situations. This nationally acclaimed tourist attraction was established in 1970. Costumed characters, theatres, horses, goldfields, factories, underground mines, shops, and whatnot! 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. Be it something as simple as chicken wings- you can always find a twist in the flavors! 6pm: Head to Hop Temple for dinner. Look out for his wines served at the best spots in town, including Mitchell Harris Wine Bar, which as well as producing its own wines acts as a cellar door for the region and hosts tastings and other events. I came here twice as a kid even though I grew up in Tasmania and only left the state four times. Come here to experience the traditional tramway experience that once existed on the streets of Ballarat. Youll definitely find Owen Lattas wines at Underbar, the pice de rsistance of Ballarats foodie renaissance. Experience Bologna's tasteful pasta dishes, hip-hop music, traditional sweets, contemporary dcor, and friendly service! Spotted a mistake, have some feedback, or just want to chat with our editorial team? A 10 minute drive from the centre. This month, 17th March, 06:30 pm, Guf Ballarat Outsiders Prerelease in Ballarat. In town, the elegant blue-stone and hand-made brick historic buildings jolt you back in time to the gold rush days. You should definitely visit this lovely building from a grander time, you will surely be amazed by this historical gem. 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. The heritage-listed Gallery building also hosts a diverse range of temporary exhibitions and puts together shows inspired by the works in the gallery. Ballarat Botanical Gardens is just one . 1. Some of them are from the old days, and some are of the latest technology. Best things to do in Ballarat and day trip. Discover parties, concerts, meets, shows, sports, club, reunion, Performance happening in April 2023 in Ballarat. 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. Sturt StreetandCamp Streetare also worth exploring due to the iconic stock route and architectural styles. The most popular vineyard in Ballarat is theEastern Peake Vineyard. Your email address will not be published. The downtown portion of this upscale neighborhood has been revitalized, notably Main Street. You can also visit wineries like Captains Creek Organic Wines, Mount Buninyong Winery, or Eastern Peake Winery to appreciate the art of wine making. To begin with, this outdoor museum got built on the actual gold-mining site used during that time. With its renowned wineries and exciting restaurant scene, Ballarat is an established foodie destination. Worth a visit, especially if you don't know much about the history. that gave their lives or did not return look up some one that h in 1954 and 1987 to commemorate those who served in. A dilemma of choosing what to do and what not! 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. Find events and things to do in April 2023 in Ballarat. Sovereign Hill is an open-air museum in Golden Point, Ballarat. Book well in advance to dine at Ballarats fine-dining restaurant, Underbar. 16 Best Things To Do in Ballarat with Kids in 2022 1. Read on! Written 22 . A new immersive theatre experience, Aura, launched last year to add to the experience. Ballarat locals commemorated Victoria's first Arbor Day in May 1890, and several of the park's tree trunks were planted. 34 Best Things to Do in Ballarat with Kids TOT: HOT OR NOT Attractions. We check in to find out. True to its name- this restaurant won the hearts of tourists and locals equally in a very short span of time. It is recognized as a representation of Ballarat across Australia, but it has also gained prestige and respect abroad. Prices are like normal cafe prices. GET AN OVERVIEW SEARCH EVERYTHING. The station is pleasant and functional within the grand old building. There are a lot of running and cycling trails here inside the park. While Whidbey Island is renowned for its unspoiled natural areas, it also holds substantial historical and cultural value. The railway station showcases the architectural and historical magnificence of Ballarat. There are some fine old buildings in this historic street. Looking for calm waters to test your SUP skills? Ballarat Bird World is an enjoyable and economical way for bird lovers to spend their day. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Along with heritage, the town is also flourishing with contemporary art, food, drinks, and artists. 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. Understand the goal. 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. Also, there are a lot of tours available. Kids love this part of Sovereign Hill. In addition, Ballarat houses an impressive number of art galleries and museums that will keep you engaged in wanting to learn more. Secondly, theRobert Clark Conservatoryshowcases beautiful & kaleidoscopic flowers. Fortunately, Ballarat has a flourishing wine region specializing in chardonnay, riesling, pinot noir, and other wines. Best things to do in Ballarat - Anna Sherchand more, Things to Do in Ballarat, Australia - Ballarat Attractions. However, you might get to see everything clearly from here- Yes! Admire the Beautiful Art Gallery of Ballarat, 5. Ballarat Tramway Museum was founded to preserve the traditional tramway experience. The Best Things To Do With Kids In Ballarat - Australian Traveller Yes, that's towering wobbly crates (best not to ask! Take a trip back in time at Sovereign Hill 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 best things to do in Ballarat, Victoria, are Sovereign Hill and the Gold Museum. If you love understanding a place's culture and history, Ballarat is definitely worth your time. A 20-minute ride, it journeys through the gardens and alongside Lake Wendouree. . Flesh and Blood Learn to Play Event, Guf Ballarat, March 4 2023 Things to do in Ballarat and Bendigo with kids - Family Travel Downtown Hackensack features a variety of restaurants and stores for both. Costume-clad staff, replica stores, theatre and workshops, even an underground gold mine, provide plenty to keep visitors engaged and entertained. Lots of bird life hanging around as well. Top 10 Things to Do in Ballarat, VIC, 2023 - Top Oz Tours Things to do in Ballarat | Tourist Attractions in Ballarat : TripHobo Things to do in Ballarat with Kids near me - Family Days Out 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.