unusual things to do in ballarat
At the start of Australia's longest memorial avenue of honor is the Arch of Victory, one of Ballarat's most recognizable structures. This 19th-century relic showcases the industrial movement of the area. 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. 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. There's no need to endlessly reach for your wallet in Ballarat. See all this and more at Ballarat Wildlife Park, featuring a range of beloved Australian animals like kangaroos and saltwater crocodiles amongst Sumatran tigers, friendly meerkats, giant tortoises and even a Komodo Dragon. 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! 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. Art & culture. 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. You can also visit wineries like Captains Creek Organic Wines, Mount Buninyong Winery, or Eastern Peake Winery to appreciate the art of wine making. As a result, thousands of tourists worldwide come here to relax and relish the beauty. This Australian gem has a lot of spicy places you can hit when you are feeling that hunger. Hence, to make you feel relieved from history, there exists the Ballarat Wildlife Park. You also pass by the Olympic memorial and a children's playground as you make your way around the lake. . . And, if you love indoor waters- then this is your chance to splash into some of the best pool waters in all of Ballarat, and give it a go! Find the best things to do, eat, see and to visit in Ballarat with kids, couples and friends. Yorkdale Estate Central Park Ballarat locals commemorated Victoria's first Arbor Day in May 1890, and several of the park's tree trunks were planted. However, you might get to see everything clearly from here- Yes! Ballarats vineyards are famous for its subtly fragrant pinot noir, chardonnay, and elegant sparkling wines. 4. Kryal Castle is an Adventure Park & Resort in Ballarat, Victoria. Finally,Aurais a recently launched and enjoyable experience for tourists. The Ballarat Wildlife Park strives to give the best interactive experience with some of Australia's most unique animals. There are a lot of running and cycling trails here inside the park. Ballarats art forms are world-renowned, causing tourists to learn how to get the citys stunning craftsmanship. unusual things to do in Ballarat. The prospectors had revolted against the government forces to abolish mining licenses. It is an award-winning interactive wildlife park situated on 37 acres of natural bushland. Located at the top of a hill, get ready to have a unique experience in the countryside of Ballarat. The Midlands Reserve and Water Park attracts people of all ages honestly. 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. It is an open-air museum and historical theme park displaying Ballarat as it was during the famous gold rush years. The Ballarat Tram Museum is run by volunteers dressed in authentic uniforms and runs most afternoons. It is recognized as a representation of Ballarat across Australia, but it has also gained prestige and respect abroad. Table of contents Things to do in Ballarat 1. You can eat breakfast all day at Yellow Espresso. Would have like more gluten free options at the eateries. The best things to do in Ballarat, Victoria, are Sovereign Hill and the Gold Museum. Ballarat Botanical Gardens 813 Gardens By JackieWaWa Lovely way to spend an hour or 2. Worth a visit, especially if you don't know much about the history. It is built of local stone. Ballarat is approximately 90 mins from Melbourne by car or via V/Line trains from Southern Cross Station. What are the best outdoor activities in Ballarat? You can attend talks, or enjoy the line-up of entertainment with delicious food and celebrity guests. You can enjoy the Australian art and culture at the gallery in a very relaxed and peaceful environment. Step inside the the Robert Clark Conservatory inside the Botanical Gardens in Ballarat. The interesting part about the splendid Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground is that everything you see here is made of wood! Free Attractions In this center, you can have both of them! Understand the goal. It is a very popular tourist attraction in the city. Consequently, the lake got transformed into a tourist hub with numerous recreational activities. Head over to the Ballarat Municipal Observatory & Museum to discover some exciting things. Get active. 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. Well, here at Michael Unwin Wines- there are some of the best things that will help you unwind yourself. If you visit the place without planning your trip, you will likely remain in a dilemma. 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. Making sure it's a good place to work with a good culture.". Located on the Serviceton line in Victoria, Ballarat Railway Station is one of Australias most awe-inspiring heritage railway stations. A new immersive theatre experience, Aura, launched last year to add to the experience. But theres a new energy pulsing through the wrought-iron-trimmed streets today: in recent years Victorias third-largest city has been undergoing something of a cultural renaissance, with chefs, artisans and creatives tapping into its rich heritage to invent it anew. This nationally acclaimed tourist attraction was established in 1970. 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. Itineraries. Gary Webb and William Wallace. 1, literally Ballarat's first horse-drawn tram, discovered being used a sleepout in the 1980s and then restored. Image: Visit Victoria. You can enjoy this park by bringing along a picnic or by enjoying tasty food from the cafe while taking in the scenic beauty of plants and animals. 100 Things To Do In Australia Youve Never Heard Of. 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. Lydiard Street also features in ABC television series, The Doctor Blake Mysteries, which is set in Ballarat. Cafe was very good too. Livvi's Place Ballarat - Victoria Park Inclusive Playspace 3. We have done the research for you and present the activities you will love and enjoy. Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground is one of the best playgrounds in all of Ballarat. Wonderful examples of 19th century architecture. However, if you are swaying towards retail then you can check out Bridge Mall, Central Square Ballarat, Mill Market, or Stockland Wendouree. 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. Here, in Bridge Mall, you can get your hands on anything! We highly suggest adding this activity to your list of fun things to do in Ballarat this weekend! Also, if you want to get a full tour of the inside along with their rich history- there are a lot of staff who might be able to help you with that. Experience the area's museums and art scene. Lydiard Street. This busy provincial city is rich in art and culture and is known for its history and well-preserved Victorian-era heritage that you can witness in every corner of this town. Since the entry fee is nil, you can enjoy the lavish 19th-century halls and rooms with contemporary architectural works. 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. The gallery houses Australian art, with works of artists from colonial to the contemporary periods. See Tripadvisor's 43,677 traveller reviews and photos of kid friendly Ballarat attractions. FIM - Functional Independent Measure Workshop BHS staff IRP, GEM & BHS@HOME. The museum also has a tram that takes you on the tour of the mines. Fortunately, Ballarat has a flourishing wine region specializing in chardonnay, riesling, pinot noir, and other wines. Top 10 Best Things to Do in Ballarat, Australia. Couples, in particular, enjoy the area; they gave it a 9.3 rating for a trip with two people. Surprisingly, tourists can also find lodging options in the form of Tuki Retreat. Mitchell Harris Wines are surrounded by the world-renowned wine districts of Western and Central Victoria. Meet the animals at Ballarat Wildlife Park, Top 12 places to eat and drink in Ballarat, Six reasons why you should spend a weekend in Ballarat now. Ballarat city is famed for its history and beautifully preserved Victorian-era legacy, which can be seen in every part of this city. For shopping, the Art Gallery of Ballarat offers a gift shop with products ranging from art books and local crafters. From wildlife parks to museums, this city has it all. There's also more to Whidbey Island than meets, A delightful discovery awaits visitors to Pontiac, Illinois. See all in Ballarat on GetYourGuide. If you desire to cruise on the water, ensure that you board theGolden City Paddle Steamer. 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. The water splash park is the main attraction of this place along with the other tit-bits. It features a moat and drawbridge, a maze, castle towers, stocks, and an armory. Don't think we forgot about nature! From markets to festivals, live music to exhibitions, here's your guide to the best of what's on in Ballarat. Being Australias oldest regional gallery, visiting it is one of the best things to do here. There are so many things to do in Ballarat, and it's only just over an hour's journey from Melbourne. This four-season destination may puzzle you to decide when to visit Ballarat. Even the fours moons and four rings of Jupiter. Due to this, many tourists have come to taste the delicious wines and even buy some! 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? Some of them might have a significant historic past., while others have a mining past. Moreover, visitors can snap selfies with majestic knights mounted on horses, take sword fighting and archery lessons, or participate in arts and crafts classes. Also, the mall hosts a lot of festivals around the year. 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. Ballarat Botanical Gardens - Renew your body, mind and soul by spending a bit of time in nature. Harnessing a rich heritage from the famous Gold Rush history, Ballarat is one of Australias most historically significant cities. The heritage-listed Gallery building also hosts a diverse range of temporary exhibitions and puts together shows inspired by the works in the gallery. The gift shop is great, too, selling art books and products by local artisans. 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. Next from the founders of Moon and Mountain came another gem in Ballarat- Winner Winner. Likewise, theParker Knivesare famous because of their knifemaking masterclasses with Adam Parker. Ballarat Tramway Museum 192 Speciality Museums By MrDavetheSarks Good value, and good information as well. But in no way is it any less fascinating. From 1897 to 1905, Ballarat was the place to be in the Panamints. 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 centre is surrounded by the lovely Eureka Stockade Memorial Gardens. Top Things to Do in Ballarat, Australia: See Tripadvisor's 43,633 traveller reviews and photos of Ballarat tourist attractions. Best things to do in Ballarat and day trip. Reservations open on the first day of each month and get snapped up quickly. Understand the Gold Rush History & Heritage of Ballarat, 3. Spending time here during sunsets with your date is one of the most romantic things to do in Ballarat. Did you know they give out swimming lessons too? We check in to find out. 7. All rights reserved. Ballarat has some of the best scenes for you as you have seen by now. The station is pleasant and functional within the grand old building. Regent Cinemas Ballarat 108 Cinemas Open now By 619jeffry The seats are comfortable, but it pays to splash out for Gold Class treatment if you can afford it. An easy walking track around the lake; you could easily spend an hour or two making your way around. Prices are like normal cafe prices. Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground 8. Furthermore, it is also where the key event of the Eureka Stockade occurred. GET AN OVERVIEW SEARCH EVERYTHING. 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. Lots of details about the Eureka stockade events, many of which are glossed over in simple histories. Sovereign Hill 2. If you are someone who is still a child at heart, then go-karts and laser tags have a different kind of effect! The more compatible you are, the more likely it will be that a great friendship will emerge. Welcome to the Post Office Gallery in Ballarat. When it comes to food, this place has endless options for you to choose from and it is not going to disappoint you. 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. Sadly, some 4,000 POWs lie in unmarked graves. Australian Traveller Media 2023. Interesting history of Ballarat gold rush. Eureka Centre 404 Port Fairy. Sovereign Hills has everything you need for a perfect itinerary. The landscapes are amazing with granite rock formations. While you're in the area, find time to visit its spas. The quickest way to meet compatible people in Ballarat for free is to use an app like We3. Classics include the Mining Exchange, Art Gallery, Old Colonial Hall, Reid's Coffee Palace and the Provincial Hotel. You can walk around the well-maintained lawns of the beautiful Botanical Garden and learn about history at the same time! Art Gallery of Ballarat 6. Ballarat Botanical Gardens is just one . 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. You can definitely plan a few hours of a side trip here while traveling to Melbourne or Geelong. Located on the historic Lydiard Street, Craigs Royal Hotel was built during the Victorian gold rush. This historical town recreation has been transporting visitors back to 1850s Ballarat for more than 40 years. is $5/adult or $2/child and took like 30min including lots of information about Ballarat's tram history. You can also dress-up and take photographs with your friends in the old-timey photography studio. True to its name- this restaurant won the hearts of tourists and locals equally in a very short span of time. 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. 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! We have a prime location for you to check out. 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. These things contain all the historic and necessary details about the places you are about to visit. They can hand feed the beautiful kangaroos at Ballarat Wildlife Park, experience a land of knights and princesses at the very medieval Kryal Castle, or for the very BRAVE there are fun tours like the Ghost Tour, which introduces you to the towns other residents! - lots to see, especially if you like swans. 8. If cuddling koalas have been your lifelong dream, !you can fulfill it in Ballarat Wildlife Park. You can come here to walk around and relax in the gardens tranquil environment while enjoying delicious food from the eateries from here. Large expanses of natural grassland are present in the park, where wildflowers, including purple chocolate lilies, white milkmaids, sweet hound's tongue, various orchids, and scaly buttons bloom. 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. Amble around the area's lakeside or experience its museums. Ballarat is a perfect mix of contemporary and old-fashioned. Visit J Ward Lunatic Asylum: Night Ghost Tour in Ararat. Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Ballarat? Alternatively, if you cannot visit the vineyard, Ballarat has various wine bars. 16 Best Things To Do in Ballarat with Kids in 2022 1. . Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If you want to experience something entirely different and unique in Ballarat- then you must venture to the Gold Museum. 'Stockade' style children's playground on site. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in June. Discover for yourself why Ballarat is renowned for its award-winning attractions and unique visitor experiences. The Art Gallery of Ballarat is the oldest and largest regional Australian gallery. Stroll along the lakeside or experience the area's art scene. It is near the shores of Lake Wendouree, which is an activity centre for Ballarat. Trip Original. The Art Gallery of Ballarat is Australia's oldest and largest regional gallery. Hence, if you desire to learn new things, visiting Sovereign Hill is one of the best things to do in Ballarat this weekend. The gallery features the works of Fred Williams, Sidney Nolan, Clarice Beckett, Arthur Boyd, and many many other artists. The ponds of Tuki Trout Farm fill themselves with loads of rainbow trout, ensuring you will get a catch. Go for a walk to appreciate Ballarat. Rum Jungle | Back Home Tour | Ballarat. Unfortunately visited on a rainy day in Ballarat. 3-Day Great Ocean Road and Grampians Small-Group Tour. This light and sound show unfolds through hundreds of projections that follow the story of gold from its very beginnings, incorporating the Wadawurrung creation story, right up until the current day. Take a stroll around the lake. The castle has a lot of activities for you to do. Hence, once you catch one, you can have it cooked in the restaurant and feast on it. 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. Fabulous, friendly and informative. Spotted a mistake, have some feedback, or just want to chat with our editorial team? Costumed characters, theatres, horses, goldfields, factories, underground mines, shops, and whatnot! 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. Thankfully, the rebellions won the battle, and Ballarat is still a famous gold mining place, attracting thousands annually. Want to get your spirits up at one of the best wineries in all of Ballarat? LABOUR DAY WEEKEND Feat. More than 25 years of expertise are brought to the table by Chef Dona, his partner, and events manager Irene, as well as the Carboni's Team. Sovereign Hill is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Ballarat, people come from all over the world to visit it. Other Ballarat attractions include the Art Gallery, Botanical Gardens and Wildlife Park. Kids love this part of Sovereign Hill. The monument, Arch of Victory, was erected shortly after World War I close to Prince of Wales Park's southwest corner. What are the best day trips from Ballarat? Ballarat. Hence, becoming a hot spot for tourists. As mentioned, Ballarat is world-renowned for its unusual things to do and historic buildings.