Ballarat is situated on the Yarrowee River, about 110 kilometers (65 miles) northwest of Melbourne in the Goldfields region of Victoria, Australia, or about 1.5 hours by car. It is the 4th biggest city in Victoria State. Ballarat is most noted as a former mining town and is made of gold. The single biggest attraction here is the fabulous recreated mining town of Sovereign Hill. The locals are known as Ballaratians. Ballarat is arguably the most significant boomtown during the gold rush era. It has transformed from a sleepy town into a modern developed city. Now it is a thriving hub of contemporary arts, events, wine and food with a fascinating heritage backdrop. If you’re planning to visit, check out our recommendations for the best things to do in Ballarat, Australia.
1. Visit Kryal Castle Adventure Park (from USD 23.0)
Step into a realm of enchantment and adventure at Kryal Castle Adventure Park, which offers three to four hours of medieval magic. This extraordinary theme park stands as Australia’s first and only medieval wonderland. Guests can immerse themselves in a fantastical world populated by knights, wizards, kings, queens, and even dragons.
Enjoy access to a medieval village where you’ll find knights engaged in authentic jousting tournaments, explore the enigmatic Dragons Labyrinth, try your hand at archery, participate in squire training, and witness epic sword battles. This is a place of whimsical wonderment suitable for the entire family, both young and old.
Kryal Castle Adventure Park Admission Ticket
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
2. Unleash the thrills at Ballarat Indoor Go-Karts & Laserforce Entertainment Centre
Experience the ultimate thrill at Ballarat Indoor Go-Karts & Laserforce Entertainment Centre, where heart-pounding excitement with the region’s finest go-karts awaits. Hop into a Junior Kart, perfect for young racers, or unleash your inner speed demon in the Adult Karts. But that’s not all – they also offer Laserforce, complete with futuristic Gen7 suits, in a sprawling arena.
And the fun doesn’t stop there; explore their latest addition, the Arcade Entertainment Zone, featuring cutting-edge arcade games such as twin basketball, virtual driving, claw games, and more.
Ballarat Indoor Go-Karts & Laserforce Entertainment Centre
Address: 502 Howitt Street, Ballarat North, Victoria 3350, Australia
Website: Ballarat Indoor Go-Karts & Laserforce Entertainment Centre
3. Ride a bygone-era tram at Ballarat Tramway Museum
One thing to do in Ballarat for free is to visit the Ballarat Tramway Museum. Situated in the lovely Ballarat Botanical Gardens, Ballarat Tramway Museum features a splendid fleet of vintage trams that will thrill any avid train fan. This museum is dedicated to preserving the memory of tramway transportation via old photographs, interesting historic films, and intriguing tramway memorabilia. There is also a fabulous tramcar collection that includes Australia’s first solar-powered tramway. Visitors are welcome to board a 100-year-old tram and take a ride through the beautiful Ballarat Botanical Gardens.
Ballarat Tramway Museum
Address: South Gardens Reserve, Wendouree Parade, Lake Wendouree VIC 3350, Australia
Website: Ballarat Tramway Museum
Opening hours: Tue: 11am - 3:30pm; Sat - Sun: 11am - 3:30pm (closed on Mon & Wed - Fri)
Price: Free entry (tram ride 5 USD)
You might be interested in these Airbnbs!
4. Admire compelling architecture at Saint Patrick's Cathedral
A place to visit in Ballarat is Saint Patrick’s Cathedral. Constructed in the 1800s, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral is a significant Roman Catholic church in the city. Boasting an early Gothic-inspired style, the architectural beauty of Saint Patrick’s Cathedral is immense. This church features a handsome bluestone exterior and eye-catching stained glass windows. The interior is jaw-dropping: awash in ornate wood accents, towering ceilings, and a very spacious nave. The materials for the Stations of the Cross and High Altar were purchased in Rome and the High Altar consists of a crisp flawless Carrara marble decorated with treasured stones.
Saint Patrick's Cathedral
Address: 3 Lyons St S, Ballarat Central VIC 3350, Australia
Website: Saint Patrick’s Cathedral
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
5. Savor eclectic food at Red Peppa on Sturt
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Red Peppa on Sturt on Friday, August 7, 2020
If you are wondering what to do in Ballarat, you can visit Red Peppa on Sturt. This restaurant serves contemporary Australian cuisine in a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. Replete with a bold red-and-black color scheme, this fine-dining establishment offers an eclectic menu prepared with the freshest ingredients. Patrons can savor everything from honey rosemary lamb rump to salt and pepper silken tofu. For an after-dinner treat, try the pineapple fritter comprised of toasted coconut and maple crumble, luscious coconut ice-cream, and pine-lime caramel.
Red Peppa on Sturt
Address: 34 Sturt St, Ballarat Central VIC 3350, Australia
Website: Red Peppa on Sturt
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 2:30pm, 5:30pm - 8:30pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
6. Explore Ballarat's mining past at The Gold Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM Want to get up close with a REAL gold nugget? Our famous Australia nugget will be on show these...
Posted by Gold Museum - Sovereign Hill on Thursday, December 26, 2019
The Gold Museum is part of the open-air museum of Sovereign Hill and it is situated on an old mine! This fantastic museum delves into the Ballarat region’s rich and compelling gold history. The prized precious metal was discovered in the area in 1851, and this venue showcases a huge collection of brilliant gold artifacts that include fascinating nuggets, ancient jewelry, captivating coins, and worn mining tools. Admission to The Gold Museum is included in the entry price for Sovereign Hill.
The Gold Museum
Address: Bradshaw St, Golden Point VIC 3350, Australia
Website: The Gold Museum
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
7. A bird-lover's paradise awaits at Ballarat Bird World
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Ballarat Bird World on Saturday, February 3, 2018
Visit with the country’s most vibrant winged species from gang-gangs to Major Mitchells at Ballarat Bird World. This popular tourist attraction features an exhilarating free-flight aviary. Compact habitats house 40 kinds of birds - primarily squawking Australian cockatoos and parrots. Ballarat Bird World also features a lovely garden, a sparkling man-made waterfall, a serene lily pond, and terrific dinosaur models: a fun animatronic triceratops. A cafe on the premises provides food and drink and a toasty wood-burning fireplace to warm yourself on a chilly day.
Ballarat Bird World
Address: 408 Eddy Ave, Mount Helen VIC 3350, Australia
Website: Ballarat Bird World
Opening hours: Fri - Mon: 10am - 5pm (closed from Tue - Thu)
Price: 12 USD
8. Learn about the stars at Ballarat Municipal Observatory & Museum
Ballarat Municipal Observatory & Museum is an enticing attraction for any diehard stargazer. One of the earliest observatories in the country, this one was erected in the 1800s and offers a glimpse into a historic observation site. The splendid museum features dazzling 3D films and a great tour of the observatory. A collection of telescopes are available but be aware that the viewing at the telescopes is on a weather-permitting basis. A science-themed gift shop and cozy cafe are onsite.
Ballarat Municipal Observatory & Museum
Address: 439 Cobden St, Mount Pleasant VIC 3350, Australia
Website: Ballarat Municipal Observatory & Museum
Opening hours: Tue, Thu & Sat: 5pm - 7pm, 8:45pm - 10:30pm (closed on Sun, Mon, Wed & Fri)
Price: 10 - 24 USD
9. Have a drink at Irish Murphys
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Happy hour is back!!! 5pm-7pm Monday to Friday Great discounts on tap beer, basic spirits and house wine. See you at the bar this arvo!!! #guinness #happyhour #ballarat
Posted by Irish Murphys on Wednesday, December 9, 2020
There’s no better place to end your day than at Irish Murphys. A traditional and lively Australian pub, this venue offers a menu packed with hearty classic eats and of course full-bodied Guinness brew. The setting is cozy with an Irish-inspired ambiance that provides raucous live music and comfortable booth seating. Nosh on tasty nachos, golden fish & chips, or a plate of satisfying Beef & Guinness Pie. A wide variety of cold beers and robust wines are available to lift your spirits.
Irish Murphys
Address: 36 Sturt St, Ballarat Central VIC 3350, Australia
Website: Irish Murphys
Opening hours: Mon - Tue: 5pm - 12am; Wed - Sun: 11:30am - 12am
10. Explore the stunning Ballarat Botanical Gardens
This botanical garden is located on the western shore of Lake Wendouree and is one of Australia‘s most significant climate gardens. It covers an area of 40 acres (16 hectares) and is divided into 3 zones, namely the open parkland buffers known as the North and South Gardens, as well as central Botanical Gardens. Hop on a tram to enjoy the beautiful scenery around the garden and there is a museum nearby too. Just sit back and relax while taking pictures of black swans swimming and nesting on the lake. The gardens are indeed an invaluable heritage and recreational resource. If you are looking for some inspiration, visit Ballarat Botanical Garden during the Begonia Festival in March every year. One will be truly amazed with the awe inspiring display begonias. Nearby on Prime Ministers Avenue, you can see a collection of bronze busts; all Australian Prime Ministers. You can complete your day with some coffee and cake over the road at Pipers, to make it even more memorable for yourself.
Ballarat Botanical Gardens
Address: Gillies St N, N Ballarat, VIC 3355, Australia
Price: Depends on which guided tours you choose
Opening hours: Monday to Sunday (9am-4.30pm)
Access: By car
Contact: + 61 353205155
Near by Food: Pipers by the Lake
Website: Ballarat Botanical Gardens
11. Step back in time at Sovereign Hill
Posted by Sovereign Hill on Sunday, 26 March 2017
Ever wondered if you could travel back to a time, just like in a movie scene? Head over to Sovereign Hill and enjoy the Wild Wild West experience. Although it is a museum, its surroundings look real, as seen in any of the Cowboy movies. Sovereign Hill depicts Ballarat’s first 10 years after the discovery of gold in 1851 and is located in Golden Point, a suburb of Ballarat. A replica of a gold mining town with costumed actors, a mine tour, coach rides, and other attractions, this place will really get you excited. While at the museum, watch the street theatre and get into the spirit by panning gold yourself. If you are the adventurous type, venture deep underground on a guided mine tour. You can also explore the shops and wander the main streets to visit the goldsmith and craftsman at work or even catch a ride in a traditional horse-drawn carriage.
By night, Sovereign Hill presents a spectacular multi-million-dollar sound and light show. This entertainment show was awarded Australia’s Best Historic and Cultural Experience in 2009 by Travelling in Australia Magazine. Head over now and immerse yourself in the history of Victoria’s gold rush era. Sovereign Hill is where Australia’s history comes to life!
Sovereign Hill
Address: Bradshaw St, Golden Point VIC 3350, Australia
Website: Sovereign Hill
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
12. Visit the animals at Ballarat Wildlife Park
What a beautiful sunny day in Ballarat. Hope you are all happy xxxxx
Posted by Patrick the Wombat on Wednesday, 12 October 2016
The Ballarat Wildlife Park strives to give the best interactive experience with some of Australia’s most unique animals. Visitors will get to experience a close up encounter and also mingle with kangaroos, emus, koalas and the Tasmanian devil in their natural habitats. You will also get a chance to see about 100 kangaroos roaming freely in the park. Other animals include large displays of exotic reptiles such as Komodo dragons and alligators, plus both venomous and non-venomous snakes. Of course, the highlight in Ballarat Wildlife Park will be the chance to meet the famous Patrick, the world’s oldest and largest wombat known in captivity, having outlived the average wombat in the wild. Patrick was listed by CNN Travel as a great city mascot. You will also get the chance to meet Crunch, the super croc during one of the live animal shows. Have a photo taken of you and some of the animals to bring home as a memorable souvenir.
Ballarat Wildlife Park
Address: Cnr. Fussel & York Streets, Ballarat, Victoria 3352, Australia
Price: About 33 AUD/ 25 USD (Adults), 18.50 AUD/14 USD (Children, 5-15 years), 27 AUD/20.46 USD (Concession)
Opening hours: Monday-Sunday (9am-5pm). Closed on Christmas Day
Duration: Half day - full day
Access: By train, bus or car
Contact: + 61 353335933
Near by Food: Cafe Brolga
Website: Ballarat Wildlife Park
13. Shop for fresh produce at Bridge Mall Farmers Market
It's Market Day tomorrow! 9am to 1pm. Over 50 stalls of fresh produce & hand made products, live entertainment, petting...
Posted by Bridge Mall Ballarat on Friday, 31 March 2017
The Bridge Mall Farmers Market is a unique, vibrant and exciting market unlike any other farmers markets. This market brings together food, music, entertainment, art, and shopping. The market opens on the first Saturday of every month from 9am to 1pm. It is located at the bottom of Sturt Street, Ballarat. There are 50 stalls selling a wide range of produce, among them organic fruits, vegetables, cheese, wine, cakes, jams, olive oil, bread, fresh coffee, sauces, gourmet biscuits, eggs and soap. Everything available here is guaranteed amazing and the produce is reared, grown or processed by farmers and producers here in Australia. There are local artists playing live music and a children’s playground, face painting, jumping castle and animal farm, for added fun. Not only does this market bring local farm produce to your table, it creates a vibrant social hub.
Bridge Mall Farmers Market
Address: 86 Shop 1, 86 Bridge Mall, Ballarat, Victoria 3350, Australia
Price: Free access
Opening hours: 1st Saturday of every month (9am-1pm). Closed on other days
Duration: Between 1-2 hours
Access: By bus, car, bike or by foot
Contact: + 61 410215247
Near by Food: Various food and drinks sold here
Website: Bridge Mall Farmers Market
14. Go birdwatching at Lake Wendouree
Lake Wendouree , Baĺlarat
Posted by David Hurburgh on Tuesday, 6 September 2016
Lake Wendouree is an artificially created lake situated in the center of Ballarat. It offers a wide range of recreational activities ranging from fishing, bird-watching to cycling. It is a really beautiful and magnificent lake which forms an iconic part of Ballarat. The scenery is spectacular – the birds, the greenery, the beautiful sunset or sunrise. It was once the venue for rowing events for the Melbourne Olympic Games. There are running tracks, cycling trails, walkways, an indigenous playground and BBQ facilities for visitors. Lake Wendouree Fairyland provides an ideal space for gatherings. If you are thirsty or hungry, fret not as there are restaurants and cafes nearby. Whilst relaxing, you can sit back and take some pictures of black swans on the lake. Visitors can walk around or even take a vintage tram ride to enjoy the scenic views.
Lake Wendouree
Address: Ballarat Botanical Gardens, Ballarat, Victoria 3353, Australia
Price: Free access
Opening hours: You can go at anytime
Duration: 1 day
Access: Near to Ballarat Botanical Gardens and Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial
Contact: + 61 353207444
Near by Food: Picnic and BBQ facilities available
Website: Lake Wendouree
15. Admire the masterpieces at the Art Gallery of Ballarat
Posted by Art Gallery of Ballarat on Monday, 3 April 2017
Ballarat is fast becoming a melting pot of art and culture. It is home to a wealth of galleries showcasing historic and contemporary art from near and far. This art gallery is located on Lydiard Street north, and is the oldest and largest gallery in the region. It houses one of the country’s most significant collections of Australian art. The gallery offers a stunning collection, both in breadth and depth, of art pieces from famous Australian artists. Among them are Streeton, McCubbin, Dorrel and Lindsay. There is a fabulous gift shop where you can buy works of local artists and craftsman such as souvenirs, toys and art books. It also caters to special exhibitions, events and workshops. For all art lovers, it provides insight to Australian art history.
Art Gallery of Ballarat
Address: 40 Lydiard St N, Ballarat, Victoria 3350, Australia
Price: Free entry
Opening hours: Monday-Sunday (10am-5pm). Closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day
Duration: About 1 hour
Access: By bus or train. Within walking distance from Ballarat train station
Contact: + 61 353205858
Near by Food: Kittelty’s at the Gallery
Website: Art Gallery of Ballarat
16. Pay your respects at the Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial
The Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial is a memorial park situated at 1A Carlton Street, Lake Wendouree. It features a granite wall, honoring the names of 35,000 courageous soldiers who were prisoners of war during the Boer War, World War 1 and 2 and the Korean War. The memorial is simple and beautiful in grandeur. It was dedicated on the 6th February, 2004. This beautiful structure serves as a moving tribute to the unsung heroes and is a must-see place in Ballarat.
Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial
Address: 1A Carlton St, Ballarat, VIC 3350, Australia
Price: Free entry
Opening hours: You can go at anytime
Duration: About 1 hour and 30 minutes
Access: Within walking distance from Ballarat Botanical Gardens
17. Go biking along the marvelous Ballarat - Skipton Rail Trail (from USD 79.0)
Biking enthusiasts can’t resist a trek on Ballarat - Skipton Rail Trail. A point-to-point trail comprised of 33 miles (53 kilometers), this lightly trafficked and scenic trail offers a moderate challenge for cyclists and it is also a popular spot for walking, hiking, and bird watching. The terrain is picturesque and it features sights of age-old bridges, fragrant eucalypt forests, and vast grasslands. You can even view a collection of charming 19th-century villages that dot the landscape along the way.
Ballarat - Skipton Rail Trail - Full day adventure
Duration: 8 to 10 hours
Experience all Ballarat has to offer
Ballarat is an oozing character, everything from the streetscapes to the trees, cafes, as well as attractions, is full of beauty, wonder and charm. That’s why visitors are flocking to Ballarat when they get the opportunity. Whether you are traveling as a family, a couple or by yourself, the living museum of Sovereign Hill is a place you should not miss. Ballarat has so much to offer, ranging from art and culture, gardens, museums, and galleries to history, dining and fresh produce. There are always things for you to see or do here!
If you are looking for accommodations during your trip to Ballarat, you have two options to consider. You can check out these Airbnb vacation rentals. Alternatively, if you are going on a vacation with your furry best friend, you can explore these pet-friendly accommodations.
Frequently asked questions about best things to do in Ballarat, Australia
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