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Discover for yourself why Ballarat is renowned for its award-winning attractions and unique visitor experiences. Pan for gold at the iconic Sovereign Hill, indulge in some retail therapy, explore the great outdoors, or wander through Australia's oldest regional gallery.

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Across Victoria’s Midwest, we acknowledge that we travel across the ancient landscapes of many First Peoples communities.

These lands have been nurtured and cared for over tens of thousands of years and we respect the work of Traditional Custodians for their ongoing care and protection.

We recognise the past injustices against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in this country. As our knowledge grows, we hope that we can learn from their resilience and creativity that has guided them for over 60,000 years.

As we invite people to visit and explore Victoria’s Midwest, we ask that alongside us, you also grow to respect the stories, living culture and connection to Country of the Ancestors and Elders of our First Peoples.

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Ballarat

Things to do in ballarat, explore popular experiences, tours in and around ballarat.

• Grampians National Park Small-Group Eco Tour from Melbourne

Sovereign Hill, Botanical Gardens and Melbourne Skydeck Bus Tour

• Custom Private Day Tour Melbourne to all surrounding areas for up to 11 people

• Private Ballarat and Sovereign Hill Tour from Melbourne

Daylesford Wine Tours: wine, cider, gin, vodka, port, food & sights tours!

Alices Journeys Walking Tours of Daylesford 1.45pm FRI 9.45am SAT

Daylesford Private Wine Tours

The Great Ocean Balloon Flight - Geelong and Bellarine

Around the Bay Sightseeing and Bay Cruise

Greater Geelong & The Bellarine Self-Guided Bike Tour Wine Region

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Ballarat

Other Top Attractions around Ballarat

Private & Custom Tours

What travellers are saying.

• Sovereign Hill
• Lake Wendouree
• Ballarat Wildlife Park
• Ballarat Botanical Gardens
• Art Gallery of Ballarat
• Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground
• Sturt Street Gardens
• Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial
• Ballarat Tramway Museum

14 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Ballarat

Written by Karen Hastings Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Known as one of the richest goldfields on earth , Ballarat and the surrounding region still harbor treasures. With a vibrant arts culture, historic buildings on wide leafy streets, and award-winning country restaurants, Ballarat is a hot spot for tourists, especially history buffs and foodies.

When the gold rush started in 1851 in Victoria, thousands of prospectors came here to make their fortune. Ballarat was also the location of the famous Eureka Stockade, a key event in Australian history. Today, gold is still mined, and the region attracts thousands of visitors every year.

Ballarat makes a great base to explore the region . From mine experiences and fantastic art galleries and museums to historic architecture and natural attractions like Lal Lal Falls, you'll find plenty of things to do. Foodies can feast their way around the region's fabulous restaurants and artisan foods. And when you've exhausted all the Ballarat experiences, you can take day trips to culture-rich Bendigo, the beautiful Macedon Ranges, and some of the quaint country towns in the region.

Although this is a four-seasons destination, autumn is considered prime time, when the region is ablaze with vibrant reds, yellows, and oranges. For ideas on the best places to visit, see our list of the top attractions and things to do in Ballarat.

See also: Where to Stay in Ballarat, Bendigo, and the Macedon Ranges

1. Lydiard Street & Ballarat's Gold Rush History

2. sovereign hill, ballarat, 3. ballarat wildlife park, 4. ballarat botanical gardens, 5. art gallery of ballarat, 6. wander around lake wendouree, 7. eureka centre ballarat, 8. take a day trip to bendigo, 9. take a scenic drive to mount macedon & hanging rock reserve, 10. maldon day trip, 11. linger at lal lal falls, 12. castlemaine day trip, 13. daylesford day trip, 14. stop by kyneton, where to stay in ballarat for sightseeing.

As Victoria's largest inland city, Ballarat is a major commercial center, but it's also rich in culture and history. In town, the elegant blue-stone and hand-made brick historic buildings jolt you back in time to the gold rush days.

Lydiard Street is one of the oldest parts of town and a great place to kick off a tour. Head to the visitor center and pick up a brochure and map for the self-guided Historic Streetscapes Walking Tour , which explains the history of each building and focuses on three important streets: Lydiard Street, Sturt Street, and Camp Street. It's one of the best free things to do in Ballarat.

Architectural highlights on the Lydiard Street Walking Trail include the magnificent Her Majesty's Theatre , one of Australia's oldest surviving theaters; historic churches; Craig's Royal Hotel ; and the Former Mining Exchange. Also, don't miss the Art Gallery of Ballarat, focusing on Australian art, from the colonial era to the present day.

Sturt Street was the original stock route, and Camp Street displays an interesting mingling of architectural styles.

But perhaps the most popular way to soak up this fascinating period of history is with a visit to Sovereign Hill , one of the country's most evocative historical attractions. Also don't miss the Eureka Centre, which tells the story of this important event in Australian history.

As a multi award-winning attraction, Sovereign Hill is considered one of the best authentic historical experiences in Australia. Set on an original mine site, it is more than a living museum, it transports you right back to 1851. Here, you can experience the gold rush days through daily demonstrations, workshops, museums, mine adventures, and multi-media displays. It's one of the best things to do in Ballarat for families.

During the day, wander the quaint shops of Main Street , mingling with actors dressed in period costume, explore the underground mine, ride the horse-drawn coach tour through the township, or strike it rich panning for gold in the river.

In the evening, a spectacular sound and light show tells the story of the 1854 Eureka Uprising, an important part of Australian history. Seeing this show, is one of the most popular things to do in Ballarat at night.

Insider's tips: To get the most out of your time here, check the program and map on the website, so you don't miss out on any demonstrations and events. Also, the carriage, mine tours, and gold pour tours book up quickly – try to reserve these early. Need more time to explore all the attractions? Purchase a two-day pass for a little extra, and you can take your time soaking up all the fun.

Address: Bradshaw Street, Ballarat, Victoria

Official site: http://www.sovereignhill.com.au

Need a break from all the historical attractions? Ballarat Wildlife Park is the perfect place to visit for the whole family – especially if you love animals. Kangaroos, koalas, echidnas, emus, wombats, little penguins, Tasmanian devils, and dingoes are just some of the critters you can meet here. The emus roam freely around the property, as do the kangaroos, and you can hand-feed these friendly marsupials with special food purchased on-site.

Aussie animals are not the only residents at Ballarat Wildlife Park. You can also see magnificent Sumatran tigers, giant tortoises, meerkats, and other species from around the world, and if you love snakes and crocs, head to the reptile house to meet "Crunch," a mammoth five-meter-long "super croc."

Conservation programs help save the species you connect with here. Join the mission by sponsoring an animal. Interactive animal encounters add to all the fun. And yes, you can even cuddle a koala!

Address: Corner of York & Fussell Streets, Ballarat East, Victoria

Official site: https://wildlifepark.com.au/

On the western shore of Lake Wendouree, the beautiful 40-acre Ballarat Botanical Gardens are among the best cold climate gardens in Australia . Organized into four different zones, this well-manicured botanical collection has been a top tourist attraction in Ballarat for more than 150 years, attracting garden lovers from around the world.

A highlight is the Robert Clark Conservatory. It brims with a collection of colorful seasonal blooms, from hydrangeas, fuchsias, and pelargoniums in the summer to cyclamen, cineraria, and primula in the winter. Visit in the fall, and you can see an impressive display of begonias here, which coincide with the popular Ballarat Begonia Festival .

Other things to see here include the floral clock, the sensory garden, and lovely views of Lake Wendouree (keep an eye out for the black swans). You'll also see some impressive tree specimens, from conifers and native trees to deciduous trees; around 52 specimens are listed on the National Trust Significant Trees Register.

Ready for a walk through Australian political history? At the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, you can stroll down Prime Ministers Avenue. Gracing the Horse Chestnut Avenue of the Gardens, these bronze portraits of Australia's 28 prime ministers are mounted on polished granite pedestals. It's an elegant addition to these impressive gardens, and one of the more unusual things to do in Ballarat. Another highlight are the unique marble sculptures, known as the Stoddard Collection, which punctuate the garden.

Ballarat Botanical Gardens are also a lovely place to visit for a picnic. Lay out your rug on the rolling lawns, inhale the fragrance of mature pines and freshly-mowed grass, and soak up all the botanical beauty.

Address: The Phoenix, 25 Armstrong Street South, Ballarat, Victoria

Established in 1884 , Art Gallery of Ballarat is Australia's oldest and largest regional art gallery – and one of its best. It's located in the heart of Ballarat's central heritage precinct, and its elegant heritage-listed building with striking contemporary additions reflects the diversity of work within, from colonial-era pieces to cutting-edge contemporary works.

Australian artists are the focus here. But you can also admire works spanning a range of origins, genres, and mediums, including painting, works on paper, sculptures, and ceramics. Upstairs, the galleries are displayed in specific themes, including: country, place, home, and disruption, which provide a unique perspective on the works.

To get the most out of your visit here, you can join a free guided tour of the collection with one of the friendly volunteers. They are offered most days at 11am, but check before you visit to make sure they are running.

A bonus: Entry to the Art Gallery of Ballarat is free and includes most of the temporary exhibitions. With all this exceptional art packed into evocative gallery spaces, this is another one of the best things to do in Ballarat for free.

Address: 40 Lydiard Street, Nth, Ballarat, Victoria

Official site: https://artgalleryofballarat.com.au/visit/

Craving some fresh air and sunshine? Lake Wendouree offers a peaceful slice of nature in the heart of Ballarat. Right near the Ballarat Botanical Gardens , this tranquil tree-lined lake and its surrounding parkland is a popular place to stretch your legs on a sunny day.

The six-kilometer Steve Moneghetti running and walking track rings the lake, and you can also bike around this picturesque green space on the cycling trails. Other things to do at Lake Wendouree include fishing and sailing on the lake; bird-watching (black swans and ducks are the favorites); or tackling the 2000-meter rowing course, which hosted events at the 1956 Melbourne Olympic Games. Kids can clamber all over the playground equipment.

Lake Wendouree is also a popular place for a picnic. Lay out your blanket, fire up one of the barbecues, and take a break from sightseeing as you stretch out on the lush lawns.

The excellent Eureka Centre sits on the site of the historic 1854 Eureka Stockade rebellion. Learn all about this transformative event in the history of Australian democracy through the thought-provoking exhibits and interactive digital displays at this popular museum.

In 1854, disgruntled gold miners rebelled against corrupt government officials. Together, they swore allegiance to the Southern Cross flag at Bakery Hill and built a stockade at the Eureka mines nearby. Early on Dec 3, 1854, government forces attacked the thinly guarded stockade, a clash that killed at least 22 gold miners and six soldiers. This fight for the rights of miners fueled egalitarian sentiment and democratic values in Australia, which continue to this day.

The Eureka Centre explores this important event, and other historical and cultural impacts of Victorian gold mining. You can also learn about the poignant stories of miners involved in the rebellion. Among the museum's highlights is the restored Eureka flag – one of the country's top cultural treasures.

The Eureka Centre sits in the grounds of the Eureka Stockade Memorial Park . Save time to stroll around the pond under the shady trees, and read the interpretive plaques and monuments honoring those involved in the Eureka Stockade. Kids can also burn off steam in the playground.

Address: 102 Stawell Street South, Eureka (Ballarat), Victoria

Official site: https://www.eurekacentreballarat.com.au/

One of Victoria's largest regional towns, Bendigo buzzes with cultural attractions and lively cafés and restaurants. It's about a 90-minute drive from Ballarat. Grand European-style architecture with a distinctly Australian feel, wide tree-lined boulevards, and an abundance of art galleries and churches make for a surprise at every turn.

For a taste of Bendigo's gold mining history, sign up for a subterranean adventure at the Central Deborah Gold Mine . Bendigo also has a rich Chinese history. The heritage-listed Bendigo Chinese Joss House is a reminder of the important role Chinese immigrants played in the gold rush, and the excellent Golden Dragon Museum also explores this history with fascinating exhibits of Chinese art and cultural artifacts.

Art and architecture lovers will also find plenty of things to do in Bendigo. One of Australia's largest and oldest regional art galleries, the Bendigo Art Gallery often hosts world-class exhibitions in addition to its superb collection of European and Australian paintings, including contemporary Australian works. Bendigo Pottery is Australia's oldest working pottery and a great place to pick up a unique gift, and the magnificent Sacred Heart Cathedral is the most recognized landmark in Bendigo and one of the largest churches in Australia.

Family-friendly Bendigo attractions include the Discovery Science & Technology Centre, with more than 100 kid-friendly interactive exhibits, and peaceful Rosalind Park, a prime spot for a picnic or a relaxing walk in the heart of the city. You can also enjoy a stroll around bird-rich Lake Weeroona .

A great way to explore many of these attractions is on a Bendigo Tramways tour, a narrated hop-on, hop-off journey through the city.

Are you looking for scenic drives around Ballarat? About a 70-minute drive away, the town of Mount Macedon and the surrounding region offer spectacular scenery. It's especially beautiful in the fall, when the trees are ablaze with fiery hues. Along the way, you can stop at some of Victoria's quaint country villages, like Maldon and Clunes.

Mount Macedon nestles at the base of its namesake mountain and was a popular escape from the summer heat for Melbourne's well-to-do after the gold rush. Today, nature lovers and green thumbs will find plenty of things to see and do in the area.

A favorite activity is hiking the trails at Hanging Rock Reserve . About a 15-minute drive from town, this beautiful slice of nature with volcanic rock columns was the setting for the classic Aussie film, Picnic at Hanging Rock, based on the book by Joan Lindsay. And yes, you can enjoy a picnic here, too.

Mount Macedon's gorgeous gardens and parks are another highlight. Forest Glade Gardens features English, Japanese, woodland, and fern gardens.

For spectacular views across the Dandenong Ranges and beyond to Melbourne's distant skyscrapers, head to Macedon Regional Park and hike up to the lookout on the slopes of 1,000-meter-high Mount Macedon (known as Geburrh by the local Wurundjeri people). The Mount Macedon War Memorial Cross here commemorates those who fought in all the wars.

Nearby Camels Hump is the mountain's highest point, and you can hike to it in less than 20 minutes from the parking lot. Other fun things to do in the park include scenic drives, bushwalking trails, and wildlife spotting.

About an hour's drive from Ballarat, quaint Maldon offers a small-town taste of the gold rush era. Surrounded by hills and a forested landscape, its Main Street is lined with perfectly preserved 19th-century buildings housing an eclectic assortment of antique shops, cafés, restaurants, and galleries.

Protected by the National Trust, Maldon was named Australia's first "notable town," and you can take a walking tour to appreciate its rich history. Highlights among the town's historic buildings include the Grand Hotel (1888), the post office (1870), and the Maldon Railway Station (1884). Foodies can follow the Maldon Taste of Gold trail to sample some of the town's artisan delights.

For the best views of the area, head to the top of Anzac Hill, or drive up to the lookout of Mt. Tarrangower , and if you're a music lover and have a chance to visit in the spring, the Maldon Folk Festival is a popular event featuring folk music, theater, and dance.

A fun way to travel here is aboard a restored steam train, courtesy of Victorian Goldfields Railway. The train chugs along the beautiful 18-kilometer journey between Maldon and Castlemaine Wednesdays and most weekends.

About a 30-minute drive from Ballarat, Lal Lal Falls, meaning "dashing of waters," is a spiritually significant site in Aboriginal history. Best visited after strong rains, the falls sit majestically among a series of gorges with an easily accessible viewing platform. Walking trails link throughout the reserve.

Another highlight is the unique preserved blast furnace, a relic of 19th-century industrialism that centered on the manufacturing of bricks, pottery, china, and paper in the area. This is a popular stop on road trips from Ballarat.

In the heart of the goldfields, Castlemaine is another beautifully restored village worth visiting on a day trip from Ballarat. With wide streets and narrow laneways, the small town is popular with art, garden, and food lovers. Several excellent, organic food cafés serve seasonal local cuisine, and you'll also find antiquarian bookshops sprinkled around town.

Over the past few years, a niche market in original one-off clothing shops has sprung up along Mostyn Street , and the Restorer's Barn is a goldmine for anyone interested in antiques and building materials.

Nature lovers and families enjoy strolling around the picturesque walking paths at the Castlemaine Botanical Gardens, and kids will love the playground. After a visit here, stop by the Mill Castlemaine , opposite the gardens, where you can purchase a treat from the Viennese cafe, enjoy a fresh-brewed coffee, and shop for antiques and vintage treasures all under one roof.

Other popular things to do in Castlemaine include browsing the Castlemaine Art Museum , which spotlights Australian artists, and touring the Buda Historic Home and Garden , filled with art and antiques and surrounded by lovely heritage gardens.

The nearby tiny village of Clunes is the place where gold was first discovered in Victoria in 1851, and its heritage streetscape is worth a look if you have time.

To arrive in Castlemaine in a style befitting the town's history, hop aboard a Victorian Goldfields Railway heritage steam train from Maldon .

Nestled on the edge of the Wombat State Forest, about a 40-minute drive from Ballarat, Daylesford is a gold town with a difference.

Swiss and Italian immigrants settled here during the gold rush not only for the gold, but also the water. Together with twin town Hepburn Springs , Daylesford is the spa capital of Australia and one of the most popular weekend getaways from Melbourne . Mineral springs complete with hand pumps are dotted throughout the area, and you'll also find many wellness retreats specializing in spa treatments.

Walking "peace mile," the designated trail around Lake Daylesford , is a daily ritual for many locals, and the town's award-winning restaurants serve creatively prepared local produce. On the water's edge, the elegant Lake House is Victoria's most celebrated country house.

If you have time, stop by Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm , about a 15-minute drive north of Daylesford . This working lavender farm is a lovely place to grab a bite to eat and pick up some lavender-infused products. During summer, you can see the lavender being harvested by hand using traditional sickles. You can also capture beautiful photos when the fields are in full bloom.

Just over an hour's drive from Ballarat, Kyneton offers tourists a taste of history, health-giving mineral springs, gourmet food, arts, and nature. It's worth a stop if you're heading to the Macedon Ranges, about 20 minutes away.

Historic Piper Street is lined with authentic, beautifully preserved buildings housing a collection of galleries, restaurants, and original shops. Don't miss the lively farmers market if you happen to visit on the second Saturday morning of each month.

Day spas, gourmet restaurants, and organic cafés are other popular places to visit, and nature lovers will enjoy the Campaspe River Walk, which threads through the Botanical Gardens and several historic country properties. The bushwalking trails in Blackhill Reserve offer another popular escape to nature, and the cascades of Turpins Falls are also worth a visit after good rains.

Like the nearby towns of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, Kyneton is also home to natural underground springs, and you can fill up your bottle with the mineral-rich water for free at the hand pump in Kyneton Mineral Springs Reserve .

We recommend these highly rated hotels with easy access to the top historic and natural attractions in Ballarat.

• Craig's Royal Hotel , in the center of Ballarat, offers grand gold rush-era luxury, ornate furnishings, high tea, and a continental breakfast.
• Sovereign Park Motor Inn is a 4-star property, a short stroll from Sovereign Hill. Families in particular enjoy the indoor pool with a Jacuzzi and sauna, the games room, and restaurant.
• Seymours on Lydiard is an affordable mid-range choice in Ballarat. Suites and apartments here come with kitchens, and the hotel offers free parking.
• Victoriana Motor Inn : Budget rates, clean rooms, and a quiet setting are the highlights at this Ballarat motel-style property.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Multicultural Melbourne: If you're craving a culture fix, don't miss Victoria's capital city, Melbourne. Museums, galleries, world-class restaurants, and gardens are just some of the top attractions in Melbourne , and you can bask on beautiful beaches and mingle with the wildlife on rewarding day trips from Melbourne .

More on Australia

Top 12 things to do in Ballarat

Imogen Eveson

30 October 2023

From timeless experiences to the cutting-edge, here are the top things to do in Ballarat: a city built on gold that’s in the midst of a creative regeneration.

History is never far from your fingertips in Ballarat: it’s there in its grand architecture and immersive experiences that transport you back to the heady days of the gold rush. But there’s a new energy pulsing through the wrought-iron-trimmed streets today: in recent years Victoria’s 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.

Experience this through its thriving dining scene, by sipping some local wine or by joining a workshop with a local maker. Here, our pick of Ballarat’s timeless and contemporary charms.

1. Take a heritage walking tour

Built on gold wealth, Ballarat was the wealthiest city in the world at one point during the 1850s and its wonderfully preserved heritage streetscape reflects this. 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 .

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 Majesty’s Theatre and sites including Ballarat’s very own Turkish Bath House – now a skate ramp.

Ballarat was built on the wealth derived from the gold found there, as the preserved heritage streetscape reflects.

2. Visit the Art Gallery of Ballarat

Another of Ballarat’s truly grand heritage buildings, the Art Gallery of Ballarat is, in fact, Australia’s oldest and largest regional gallery. Opened in 1884, it boasts an impressive collection of Australian art history from the early colonial period to the present day. Today its collection is presented alongside touring and temporary exhibitions across its elegant 19 th -century rooms and contemporary architectural additions. The gift shop is great, too, selling art books and products by local artisans.

The Art Gallery of Ballarat is Australia’s oldest and largest regional gallery.

A look at some of The Art Gallery of Ballarat’s collection.

3. 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. A living outdoor museum built on a former gold-mining site, today it’s 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.

A new immersive theatre experience, Aura, launched last year to add to the experience. 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. Stay on site at the Sovereign Hill Hotel for the whole package.

Costumed characters populate a gold rush town at Sovereign Hill, a living outdoor museum.

4. Have a history lesson at the Eureka Centre

Visit the Eureka Centre to experience another important part of Australian history: the site of the 1854 Eureka Stockade Rebellion and the home of the Eureka Flag – one of the nation’s most important cultural artefacts. Through art installations and digital technology at this modern museum, you’ll 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.

5. Experience a festival

Ballarat hosts a roster of arts and cultural festivals, so time your visit accordingly. White Night Ballarat takes place in spring and sees the city’s iconic buildings, cultural institutions and streets brought to life with projections, installations, performances and music. Sovereign Hill’s Winter Wonderlights brings similar illumination to the depth of winter.

Ballarat International Foto Biennale presents a showcase of photographic exhibitions, talks, workshops and events every two years in spring.

6. Take an artisan masterclass

Tap into Ballarat’s rich history of craftsmanship by signing up for a workshop or masterclass with one of its local artisans. Ballarat’s 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. And keep an eye on colourful ceramicist Ruby Pilven ’s website for upcoming workshops.

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. Join an outdoor spoon-carving workshop for an introduction to green woodworking (which uses freshly cut, unseasoned woods as well as energy-efficient, unpowered hand tools) and take the fruits of your labour home.

Choose from one of the many masterclass and artisan workshops on offer in Ballarat.

7. Sample Ballarat’s wine region

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.

Don’t miss a tasting at Eastern Peake Vineyard , 20 minutes north of town at Coghills Creek, where second-generation winemaker Owen Latta, Gourmet Traveller ’s Australian Young Winemaker 2018, has been making waves with the family-run property’s eponymous label and his own natural LATTA Vino label.

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.

Make your way to one of Ballarat’s first class wineries.

Ballarat is home to its own boutique wine region.

8. Have an unforgettable dining experience

You’ll definitely find Owen Latta’s wines at Underbar , the pièce de résistance of Ballarat’s foodie renaissance . 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. Reservations open on the first day of each month and get snapped up quickly.

Committed foodie? In addition to sampling Ballarat’s ever-growing wining and dining scene, time your visit to coincide with Ballarat’s Melbourne Food and Wine Festival Regional Edition in November. Expect to find the region’s best chefs curating a unique dining series served within some of the city’s most historic buildings.

Book well in advance to dine at Ballarat’s fine-dining restaurant, Underbar.

9. Spend an afternoon at Lake Wendouree

Take a walk around Ballarat’s picturesque Lake Wendouree, originally a swamp and now one of the nicest ways you can spend a sunny afternoon. 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.

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 . This 45-minute cruise takes in scenic views and the history of the lake, operating on Sundays from November to May each year.

Lake Wendouree is one of the best places in Ballarat to spend a sunny afternoon.

10. Explore Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Wander through the beautiful Ballarat Botanical Gardens on the western side of Lake Wendouree: regional Victoria’s oldest inland botanic gardens is a medley of mature trees and marble statues set within colourful flowerbeds. Covering 40 hectares, it’s also home to the Robert Clark Conservatory, a striking modern build harbouring an oasis of seasonal displays that’s a hub for the Ballarat Begonia Festival held each 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 Ballarat’s public transport until 1971. A 20-minute ride, it journeys through the gardens and alongside Lake Wendouree.

Step inside the the Robert Clark Conservatory inside the Botanical Gardens in Ballarat.

11. Drive out to Tuki Trout Farm

Whether you’re an avid fisher or not, a trip to Tuki Trout Farm offers a unique experience and rural idyll 40 minutes from Ballarat – set at the end of an unsealed road on top of a hill with verdant valley views.

The ponds here are stocked with rainbow trouts and visitors are guaranteed a catch; you can then have it cooked in the restaurant. 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.

The property also has its own on-site accommodation, Tuki Retreat, which offers cosy stone or weatherboard cottages with open fires.

Fish for rainbow trout at Tuki Trout Farm.

12. Meet the animals at Ballarat Wildlife Park

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. Meet Maneki and Satu, the park’s resident Sumatran tigers, and choose from a number of animal encounters with meerkats, koalas and even a giant tortoise who’s over 80 years old.

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.

Keep planning your holiday with our travel guide to Ballarat.

Imogen Eveson is the editor of Australian Traveller and International Traveller’s print titles. Whether exploring a regional Aussie town or a Barcelona barrio, she loves getting under the skin of the places she visits and reflecting that feeling back to readers in her writing.

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40 amazing things to do in Ballarat

Spend a day at Sovereign Hill

Explore Ballarat's beautiful bluestone laneways

Try your luck searching for gold

Meet some gorgeous animals at the Ballarat Wildlife Park

Go for a swim

Browse Ballarat's beautiful art galleries

HEAD UP TO A LOOKOUT

Discover the region's beautiful waterfalls

Take a self guided tour 

Spend a day at Kryal Castle

Visit the Ballarat Municipal Observatory and Museum

Take a walk in the park

Have a picnic in the Botanical Gardens

Explore Ballarat Bird World

Head out on a ghost tour

Explore an abandoned gold mine

Appreciate the architecture along Sturt Street Gardens

Head to a water park for a splash!

Go to the beautiful historic Regent Cinema

Take a guided tour of the region's wineries

Go on a camping trip

Visit Ballarat's beautiful historical railway station

Learn about Australia's Democracy and the Eureka Rebellion 

Spend a day at Lake Burrumbeet

Take a stroll through the Old Ballarat Cemetery

Get back to nature in the Woowookarung Regional Park

Take a look at the Ballarat Tramway Museum

Enjoy the Ballarat Begonia Festival

Go shopping!

Visit beautiful Buninyong

Immerse yourself in the Ballarat Heritage Festival

Enjoy the local food

Wander down the Prime Ministers Avenue

Head out to the Ballarat Aviation Museum

Explore the beautiful Black Hill Reserve

Relive your childhood with Go-Karts and Laserforce

Take the kids to the Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground

Enjoy a scenic stroll around the lake

Play a game of Gold Rush or lost worlds themed mini golf

DISCOVER THE GOLD DISCOVERIES!

Poverty Point

The Welcome Nugget

The Blacksmiths Hole

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Top Things to Do in Ballarat, Australia

Places to visit in ballarat.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
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• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Sovereign Hill

2. Ballarat Wildlife Park

3. Lake Wendouree

4. Ballarat Botanical Gardens

5. Art Gallery of Ballarat

6. Ballarat Tramway Museum

7. Lydiard Street

8. Arch of Victory

9. Eureka Centre

10. Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial

11. St Patrick's Cathedral

12. Ballarat Railway Station

13. Red Duck Brewery & Distillery

14. Her Majesty's Theatre

15. Ballarat Visitor Information Centre

16. Ballarat Bird World

17. Bridge Mall Farmers Market

18. Eureka Stockade Memorial

19. Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground

20. Ballarat Farmers Market

21. Ballarat Old General Cemetery

22. Kilderkin Distillery

23. Sturt Street Gardens

24. Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute

25. Victoria Park

26. Ballarat Municipal Observatory and Museum

27. Prime Ministers Avenue

28. Black Hill Lookout

29. Lake Esmond Botanical Park

30. Peter Lalor Statue

What travellers are saying.

Top Things to Do in Ballarat

Things to do in ballarat, explore popular experiences, tours in and around ballarat.

• Grampians National Park Small-Group Eco Tour from Melbourne

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• Custom Private Day Tour Melbourne to all surrounding areas for up to 11 people

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Daylesford Wine Tours: wine, cider, gin, vodka, port, food & sights tours!

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Daylesford Private Wine Tours

The Great Ocean Balloon Flight - Geelong and Bellarine

Around the Bay Sightseeing and Bay Cruise

Greater Geelong & The Bellarine Self-Guided Bike Tour Wine Region

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Ballarat

Other Top Attractions around Ballarat

Private & Custom Tours

What travelers are saying.

• Sovereign Hill
• Lake Wendouree
• Ballarat Wildlife Park
• Ballarat Botanical Gardens
• Art Gallery of Ballarat
• Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground
• Sturt Street Gardens
• Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial
• Ballarat Tramway Museum

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Alright. Are you ready? Because we’re about to unravel 10 of the best things to do in Ballarat, as well as where to eat and stay in this charming country city northwest of Melbourne.

I’ve lived in Melbourne for 15 years and it’s  slightly embarrassing to say that the last time I visited Ballarat was in 9th grade when we went to Sovereign Hill as part of a class excursion.. And, I legit thought that was the extent of Ballarat.

It gets even more embarrassing. I mean, I didn’t even know that Sovereign Hill was a Ballarat attraction for tourists – I harboured the belief that it was an Amish village because I clearly watched too many American Hollywood movies as a kid. I’m not even kidding. I flunked that class in high school.

Fast forward 15 years and I was back in Ballarat to redeem myself. A little wiser, definitely not any maturer. At least, I know that there’s more to Ballarat than Sovereign Hill now.  So much more. In fact, I’m going to blow your mind with the number of fun things to do in Ballarat (with or without kids).

Read more on Ballarat and Melbourne below:

• 10 Top-Rated Kid-Friendly Airbnbs & Hotels in Ballarat
• Top 10 Beautiful Day Trips in Victoria, Australia
• The Ultimate Melbourne City Guide: Where To Stay, What To Do, Where To Eat

Why Visit Ballarat, Australia?

Why, to be a gold digger of course. The only place in the world where it’s socially acceptable to call yourself that. Put that in your email signature.

Ballarat gained worldwide fame for being one of the biggest gold-producing cities during the time of the great gold rush, contributing largely to the 80 million ounces of gold that was mined in Victoria over the last 150 years.

At today’s gold price sitting at roughly $1,150 per ounce, it would amount to $80 billion. Like,  whoa . With that kind of cash, you’d never hear me complain about the exorbitant price for avo on toast in Melbourne again.

Gold played a huge part in moulding the city into what it is today, but there is so much more to Ballarat than all that glitters. Enveloped by stunning landscape and rolling green hills, it’s also home to a myriad of attractions tailored to all ages, as well as delightful eateries that will blow your tastebuds away.

Need I say more?

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina ft. 2 boys & 1 man child (@hangrybynature) on Sep 3, 2018 at 5:29am PDT

Before You Go: Ballarat Must-Knows

Ballarat gets cold. Not just ‘throw-on-a-jacket-and-you’ll-be-right’ kind of cold, but a bone chilling freeze ‘that-will-turn-you-into-a-White-Walker’ kind of cold. Sorry for the Game of Thrones analogy but I need you to comprehend the level of cold. So, if you’re headed to Ballarat in winter, best to pack your thermals, Ugg boots, and down jacket. Throw in some mittens, too.

Of course, it also gets pleasantly warm in summer averaging around 25 degrees Celsius between January and February.

The  best time to visit Ballarat is from December to April.

Shops in Ballarat Central are closed on Sundays.  We got confused for a minute when we strolled through the pedestrian walking street and there wasn’t another soul in sight. Were we in the midst of a zombie apocalypse? Was there an evacuation we weren’t aware of? Nope, it was just a quiet Sunday. Much like in Europe, people catch up with friends and family or just chill out before the work week begins again.

Supermarkets and shopping centres open every day . The Sunday rule doesn’t apply to these places, so safe to say, you can stock up on snacks, drinks and other necessities every day of the week.

RELATED:  A List of 10 Family-Friendly Places to Stay in Ballarat

Best Travel Guides for Victoria & Australia:

10 things to do in ballarat.

Make a cuppa and grab some Tim Tams – we’ve got a long and exciting list of activities to get through because there’s so much more to Ballarat than meets the eye. Trust me, you’re going to be booking the next trip to Ballarat by the end of this.  Leggo.

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1. Explore Ballarat Central

What’s the first thing you do after you check into your hotel or Airbnb? Scope out the area. Get onto some R&D. See wussgood.

Wander around the city centre, look up in awe at the century-old architecture and picture what the hustle and bustle would’ve been like during the gold rush era.

2. Get Cultured at the Art Gallery of Ballarat

Once your bellies are full and the caffeine has kicked in, make sure you pay Australia’s oldest regional art gallery a visit. The gallery features a variety of classical and contemporary exhibitions housed inside a gorgeous heritage-listed building.

Oh, and guess what? Entry to the permanent exhibitions is  free.  I don’t know about you, but whenever I hear the word ‘free’ I’m all over it like white on rice. Don’t forget to try the selection of cakes served at the on-site café – get your munchies on while admiring masterpieces by Australian artists.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours: 10am – 5pm daily

Entry Price: Free admission to permanent collection & most temporary exhibitions

For more info, visit the Art Gallery of Ballarat website .

READ MORE: 10 Breathtaking Weekend Trips you must take in Victoria

3. Go Medieval at Kryal Castle

Knights, Camera, Action!

You know what stunned me about this place? No tacky costumes and pretend sword play. The fighting is pretty darn legit. Watch groups of knights battle it out at the Tournament Arena and witness a Royal Joust unfold before your eyes as stunning warhorses charge and strike their opponents with lances.

Suitable for all ages – this is a must-visit attraction for anyone who’s fascinated by knights, wizards and castles – an experience that is completely unique to Ballarat.

For more information on activities and classes, take a look at this in-depth Kryal Castle guide .

Opening Hours: 10am – 4pm every Saturday & Sunday

Entry Price: $35 (adults), $22 (kids aged 4-16)

For more info, visit the  Kryal Castle website .

READ MORE: Discover 10 Fun Things To Do In Melbourne For Kids

4. Meet Cuddly Aussie Animals at Ballarat Wildlife Park

A sure hit for curious little ones who love animals, this incredible Wildlife Park is a family-run business that is home to over 100 free-roaming kangaroos, wombats, koalas, scaly reptiles, and even adorable penguins.

Opening Hours: 9am – 5pm daily

Entry Price: $35 (adults), $19.50 (kids aged 5-15)

More info, visit the Ballarat Wildlife Park website .

5. Admire the View at Mount Buninyong

Ballarat  even has an extinct volcano – bet ya didn’t know that, did ya? Grab the car and drive 20 minutes south and you’ll stumble upon Mount Buninyong, rising 745 metres above sea level. Seriously, how cool is that?

Make sure you climb up the tower for stunning views over Ballarat. It’s also the first place to make contact with snow in the winter, so if you’re headed there in the chillier months – take the kiddos up for a snow fight.

6. Become a Gold Digger at Sovereign Hill

The number one Ballarat attraction – a visit isn’t complete until you can tell friends and family that you’ve tried (and probably failed) panning for gold. I mean, let’s be real – there can’t possibly be many specks of gold left after so many decades and thousands of visitors panning down the same water stream – can there?

And, who knows? You might even get lucky and dig up a golden nugget (although the McDonald’s variety is probably more likely).

Entry Price (AUD): $57 (adults), $25.60 (kids 5-15 years)

For more info, visit the Sovereign Hill website .

Book your Sovereign Hill experience below:

7. pop into the gold museum.

Think you’re done with gold after vigorously panning and clambering your way through mines at Sovereign Hill? Nope. Na-uh. There’s more. Plus, it’s included in your Sovereign Hill so you’ve nothing to lose.

A must-visit if you want to see a historic collection of photos from the great gold mining era, and if you want to grasp the idea of just how big some of the most famous gold nuggets were. Plus, get up close and personal to pieces of history – dresses and corsets, mining attire, and jewellery – don’t miss out on this educational museum located right across the road.

Opening Hours: 9:30am – 5:30pm

Entry Price (AUD): $13.60 (adults), $7.20 (kids aged 5-15 years)

For more info, visit the Gold Museum website .

8. Roam through the Tramway Museum

For more free things to do in Ballarat, pop into the Tramway Museum on your visit to Lake Wendouree and the Botanical Gardens. Hop in and out of classical trams that once glided through the streets of Ballarat and learn about their history.

Although there is no entry fee, the museum is run by volunteers and they deeply appreciate any small donations visitors can spare.

For an extra $5, you can jump on and get taken for a ride up Wendouree Parade to admire the sights and lake from the comfort of a tram.

Opening Hours: 11:30am – 4pm weekends & public holidays

Entry Price: Free entry (donations appreciated)

For more info, visit the Ballarat Tramway website .

Planning a trip to the Great Ocean Road? Uncover 7 Hidden Gems (Other Than The 12 Apostles) .

9. Kick Back & Unwind at Lake Wendouree

With a heap of green grass to lie down on, soothing natural scenery, curious bird life, and playgrounds to entertain little ones – this is a top natural Ballarat attraction for locals and visitors alike. There’s a wide range of sights scattered around the lake – this is where you can truly slow down down your pace, smell the flowers and stroll along the 5.5km track to soak in all that the lake and its surroundings has to offer.

It’s the perfect location for a summer BBQ or picnic where you can watch the sun set over the glistening lake and observe as the stars come dotting out of the night sky.. BUT, winter visitors, beware – you can also freeze your cheeks off as soon as the sun nods off for the day. Bring blankets.

10. Stroll through the Botanical Garden

When you’re done with Lake Wendouree, cross over to the Ballarat Botanical Garden where you can idle away an hour or so to admire colorful flowers, and dawdle along the Prime Ministers Avenue to get schooled on our short political history.

Don’t miss out on the Conservatory tucked at the back of the gardens for seasonal displays of unique and exotic plants grown inside the nursery.

Opening Hours: Daily 7:30am – 9pm (October to April), 7:30am – 6pm (May to September)

Entry Price: Free

For more info, visit the Ballarat Botanical Gardens website .

Much to my dismay, we weren’t in town during a festival or special events but we still managed to fill our itinerary with a whole heap of fun and exciting activities. Despite being a small city with a population of under 102,000, the events calendar is packed with activities each month. Pop into Ballarat Events to see what’s coming up.

If you want to experience some of Ballarat’s most popular local events, try and plan your visit around these dates:

Summer Sundays (January) –  kick back to live music brought to you by local, regional and metropolitan acts while basking in the summer sun.

Australia Day (January) –  celebrate this special event by the banks of Lake Wendouree and witness the city put on a spectacular fireworks display.

Ballarat Backyard Tasters (February) –  enjoy groovy music, scrumptious food, and all-round good vibes at this annual summer festival held at Alfred Deakin Place every summer.

ANZAC Day (April) –  visit on this long weekend to pay your respects to veterans, servicemen and women at services held around the municipality.

Children’s Week (October) –  a week-long celebration packed with a mix of fun activities for children and families.

Christmas in Ballarat (December) –  experience Ballarat come to life with Christmas decorations breathing life into the streets, with the highlight being Sturt Street’s floral reindeer attractions that draws visitors from near and far.

Places to Eat in Ballarat

If you’re a breakfast or brunch nut like most humans, then you can’t miss out on the seasonal menu at L’Espresso in the centre of Ballarat. We enjoyed it so much that we actually went there twice – even my parents loved it and they are the harshest food critics you’ll ever meet (save for Gordon Ramsay). Try the Pancakes, Lamb Fry or Eggs Benedict if you’re there for brekky or Confit Duck Leg and Prawn Pasta for lunch.

For more food recommendations, take a look at this list of 8 delicious eateries in Ballarat .

Getting from Melbourne to Ballarat

Ballarat is conveniently located in northwest of Melbourne CBD, nestled between Bendigo and Geelong. It’s an easy 110km journey from the city by car or train.

Driving to Ballarat from Melbourne: Hop on the Western Freeway and drive up for 90 minutes until you hit Ballarat. Literally can’t miss it.

Coming to Ballarat by Train:  Jump on the V/Line train for a direct connection from Southern Cross Station. Kick back, relax and enjoy the scenery.

Looking to rent a car in Melbourne? Find the best rates below.

Where to Stay in Ballarat

Super friendly hosts? Check. Fully equipped kitchen? Check. Endless space for kids to run around? Check. Netflix? Check.

Lascelles Ballarat provided the perfect space for our wee little family – it’s basically what Victorian townhouse dreams are made of. We stayed inside the luxury 6-bedroom townhouse which we shared with my parents. Even then, we didn’t manage to occupy all of the space that was available. This spacious home could easily accommodate 3 families.

Check prices & read reviews: Booking.com | Airbnb

This post was created in partnership with Lascelles Ballarat . However, all content, experiences and opinions are, always, our own.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tina ft. 2 boys & 1 man child (@hangrybynature) on Aug 24, 2018 at 3:50am PDT

Psst.. New to Airbnb? Get $40 travel credit when you book your first stay!

Watch: Top 5 Kids’ Attractions in Ballarat

Did this guide help you plan your Ballarat trip, or at the very least give you a chuckle? Sign up for more humour & Melbourne guides.

25 Beautiful Places To Visit In Victoria, Australia

Top Rated Family Accommodation in Ballarat for all Budgets

More reasons to visit Australia ! A very european looking place -and amazing pictures capturing the true essence of the place. Loved the details. Saving for later!

I loved this!! I really wish I had read this before I visited Melbourne, would have made my trip so much more fun. Lovely blog.

Love your post about Ballarat! Looks like plenty to see in addition to Sovereign Hill. Haven’t been to Ballaret in many years but your post has inspired me to revisit soon (and your accomm suggestion looks amazing)!

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Things to do in Ballarat: A Ballarat Travel Guide

Posted on Last updated: February 10, 2020

During an exciting winter weekend trip this year, Ballarat really did prove to be a worthwhile travel destination in Victoria. There are so many things to do in Ballarat, and it’s only just over an hour’s journey from Melbourne. This Ballarat travel guide will outline some amazing places I got to experience, with even more possibility in the surrounding areas as well.

When I heard about the Ballarat Winter Festival, I knew that I had to plan a weekend trip from Melbourne. I may have hung up my clothes from attending tons of amazing Aussie music festivals over the summer, but the colder winter months meant planning some more cozy getaways – learning some history, exploring more nature, and discovering gems in regional Victoria.

To be completely honest, I wasn’t sure what to expect when planning my visit to Ballarat. I usually tend to be more of a beaches + nature person (but let’s be honest, I’ll explore just about anything). But when I learned about all the rich history out here and fun things to do in Ballarat in any season, I knew I had to check it out.

Visit Ballarat was able to help me with the absolute perfect weekend itinerary. It included LOTS of delicious and trendy eateries (more than I knew existed out here!), some awesome wintertime activities as part of the Ballarat Winter Festival, wildlife, gorgeous views, and more places to visit in Ballarat.

As soon as we checked into our luxurious apartment looking out over Lake Wendouree, I knew I was going to be sold on this city… and with our first delicious meal, it was sealed!

Hey! This guide to all the best things to do in Ballarat is pretty long. Why not pin it to your Pinterest boards to save for later?

Things to Do in Ballarat

Sovereign hill.

Sovereign Hill is perhaps the most notable of the things to do in Ballarat – it’s a must-do for all ages! This replica gold rush town has actually been constructed from real drawings/paintings of artists who lived in Ballarat during the gold rush that began in the 1850’s. They have done a fantastic job recreating it!

Sovereign Hill has some great accommodation options that look over the old town, and the buildings have recreated the same ones that would have been there in the 1800’s. There are eateries, post offices, gift shops, craft markets, plumbers, general stores, and more! You can even  explore an old mine!

If that’s not looking back into history, I don’t know what is. Walking around Sovereign Hill really makes it feel like you’ve stepped back in time, whether you’re a small child or a full-on adult (adults can have fun, too!).

Ballarat Gold Mine Tour

Once inside Sovereign Hill, you can also tour a real Ballarat Gold Mine. Venture underneath the ground to explore the passageways of an old gold mine, similarly reimagined to look as it would have while it was in use. You can take a self-guided tour or also a few different tours that trace the experiences of real people in the mines long ago.

The Red Hill mine at Sovereign Hill may be open to visitors, but believe it or not, there’s actually a REAL mine not too far away. The Ballarat Gold Mine can be found a few kilometers away, within a protected industrial area.

There are actually over 5km of underground mine tunnels underneath the city, but you’ll have to be very special to find your way in there. I would just stick with the Ballarat gold mine tour at Sovereign Hill if I were you!

View from outside the Gold Museum

Gold Museum

Before you visit Sovereign Hill in Ballarat, you’ll definitely want to check out the Gold Museum. I say ‘before’ because the Gold Museum gives you a lot of the background facts and information that will help you understand different parts of the replica town.

The Gold Museum is actually situated atop a hilltop point that was actually once one of the most prolific areas to mine gold in the area (and there’s not a bad view, either!). Inside you’ll learn all about different sizes of gold nuggets found in the area, what gold was/is used for, history about the gold rush and massive immigration to the area, and even see the pictures that Sovereign Hill was created from.

Coming from someone who is sometimes iffy about museums, this one was really fascinating. You really get to learn all about the event that made Melbourne/Victoria boom to an international and multicultural city, and there are tons of fun facts!

Feeding a mumma with a baby in her pouch!

A KOALA CUDDLE!! If that’s not the cutest thing in the world, I don’t know what is.

Ballarat Wildlife Park

Next, the Ballarat Wildlife Park is another of the must-do places to visit in Ballarat. This park isn’t the same as your other, run-of-the-mill wildlife parks where you can gaze at kangaroos behind a fence. I mean, some of the animals are behind fences (and reasonably, too… no thanks, crocodile ), but here dozens of kangaroos, wallabies, and emus run completely free.

You can wander through lots of different types of animals – reptiles, mammals, and even some birds (including penguins of course!) – but the real allure of this park is getting to pat and feed animals in the field.

For a small fee you can bring kangaroo feed with you, and let kangaroo mums and baby joeys eat straight from your hand! The animals are very tame here and enjoy being fed and patted, which, to someone like me from a different country, was VERY exciting! I made loads of new marsupial friends and even imitated a few emu before they ran away from me trying to peck a hole in the fence. Oh well.

This was a highlight of my day for sure, and getting to see animals so different than what I am used to will never get old during my time in Australia!

One of many rowing clubs along Lake Wendouree

Lake Wendouree

Lake Wendouree is a fairly large lake just outside the Ballarat CBD. This lake is amazing for going on walks/runs (it’s about 6k round trip) and also plays host to the city’s many rowing clubs.

On any morning lots of rowing boats cut their way across the water, dozens of people run and walk the perimeter, and even more look on from waterside restaurants. The lake is bordered with leafy green trees and plenty of places to relax in the sun. This Lake provides a lovely little escape from an otherwise landlocked town, and is a mustt to at least check out when deciding on the best things to do in Ballarat.

Ballarat Botanical Gardens

On the opposite side of Lake Wendouree from the city, you’ll find the beautiful Ballarat Botanic Gardens. These gardens hold tons of different kinds of events, and are one of Australia’s most amazing cool climate gardens.

Wander through all the gorgeous trees, flowers, marble statues, and even greenhouses on a nice sunny day. Why not add it into your adventure around Lake Wendouree?

Ballarat CBD

Well you can’t leave our the city center when naming things to do in Ballarat now, can you? Of course, Ballarat’s city center deserves an exploration of its own. There are quite a few historic buildings you can tour, namely the Town Hall (1860’s), the Regent Threatre (1930’s) and more along  the main street, Sturt.

Sturt is a massive central street, separated by a leafy green area of grass and trees. It’s lined with mostly historic buildings, but sprinkled with a bit of more modern ones as well. This area is also home to tons of the city’s best eateries, museums, bars, and more.

Art Gallery of Ballarat

The Art Gallery of Ballarat is just off Sturt Street. It is best known for hosting regional art, and better yet, being the biggest and oldest art museum in Australia to do so! How’s that for a claim to fame?

You can find exhibitions from throughout the history of Australian art within this heritage-listed museum, from contemporary, to photography, to sculpture, to Victorian. Want to know the best part? It’s free!

Eureka Center

The Eureka Center is another historic center located on the site of one of Australia’s most defining rebellions – the Eureka stockade. I don’t want to bore you so I’ll keep this short – but they say the Eureka Stockade was the foundation of moderns Australian democracy.

Why? Because gold miners started a rebellion in 1854 to fight to be given rights to vote, own land, and pay less crippling mining fees. They flew a special flag rather than the Victorian flag, which they named called the Eureka Flag.

Although this rebellion was a huge failure (the military flattened it – killed more than 20 people in the first 30 mins), they were given the rights they wanted in the end when the news of a big rebellion got back to the UK.

Kept that nice and short and sweet now, didn’t I?! That’s quite impressive for a tour guide, if you ask me! Anyway – this center is on the site of that rebellion. It has tons of info about it and the area, and houses the original Eureka Flag, which you will see absolutely everywhere in Ballarat. No, like EVERYWHERE. Honestly, keep your eyes out – you’ll see what I mean.

Can you see the rainstorm approaching in the distance?!

Mount Buninyong

Mount Buninyong is another towering mountain (okay, let’s me honest – it’s more of a medium-sized hill) that is visible from around Ballarat. If you take the winding road up to the top, you’ll find a massive tower with stairs all the way to a platform up at the top. It’s the perfect amount taller than the hilltop trees, giving you panoramic views around the gorgeous countryside.

You can nearly see to the city, but what will be most impressive here is the view of surrounding farmland- green fields, paddocks, and bushland. Just don’t get caught in a rainstorm like we did! Either way, I love a good viewpoint, so this adventure was a highlight of all the things to do in Ballarat.

Kryal Castle

Ohhh, Kryal Castle. Although fairly dated, it will always be a staple of Ballarat. Located at the base of the big hill you can see from the city center (aka, like a 10 minute drive), Kryal Castle is a replicated medieval castle. Like, and actual castle, with big grey stone walls, towers, a moat, and all.

It’s complete with knights, dragons, rides, archery, pony rides, jester performances, and even medieval jousting shows! A highlight is watching horses gallop against each other through the sandy arena, surrounded by cheering fans. Of course this place is best suited for children, but it you can let that inner child free everyone will have fun.

Enjoying my Winter Wonderlights ginerbread man lollipop during my bush walk in the Woowookarung regional park!

Woowookarung Regional Park Viewpoint

This little park is a bit hard to come by, but once you get to the right part, the view is amazing! Woowookarung Regional park is on an elevated bit of bush just outside the city. The best scenic lookout ( visible here on Google Maps for clarity ) has a fantastic view of the city and also some great bushwalking trails.

You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see a few picnic tables just off the road, and can pick out some buildings from the city in the distance!

Things to Do in Ballarat in Winter – Ballarat Winter Festival

Okay, so here we go with the specific things to do in Ballarat in Winter. They throw an absolutely MAGICAL ‘Christmas in July,’ which to my delight is actually a huge thing down here in Australia.

Clearly, the coldest month of July warrants the celebration of a more ‘stereotypical’ Christmas (northern hemisphere-style) full of snow, mulled wine, and Christmas sweaters. I mean, it makes sense when a classic Aussie Christmas includes barbecuing, cricket, and beach time in the sun!

Winter Wonderlights Festival at Sovereign Hill

So, I’ve already told you about how incredible Sovereign Hill is as a replica Gold Rush Town. Now, picture this: make the temperature nice and cold, and add in heaps of traditionally dressed villagers, bands, and processions. Picture amazing color-changing bright lights and scenes projected onto each and every building to music, and add in TONS of fake snow (it was really bubbles, but shhh). Picture EVERYTHING lit up, with workshops like arts and crafts and gold panning going on throughout the tiny town overlooking the city.

Sound magical? Yep, thats because IT WAS. I felt more Christmas spirit here than I have in quite a few years of warm Christmases…. and IT WAS JULY.

I’m great at ice skating, I swear! 😛

Ice Skating

Christmastime isn’t complete without ice skating, is it? I most certainly don’t think so, and if you agree with me you can visit the ice skating rink as part of the Ballarat Winter Festival. It’s conveniently located smack-dab in the city center, between the mall and the Town Hall.

It’s perfectly mixed in with a delicious brekky in the city and a few other CBD activities. There are even little penguin sleds for the little ones who may not be the most adept at ice skating quite yet 😉

Design Exchange Winter Market

The Design Exchange is yet another special event on at the Ballarat Winter Festival. This market is held in yet another open historic building, and will showcase the best of the artisan crafts that Ballarat is so well-known for. You can find artists of all kinds showcasing their handmade items and innovative design. In true Ballarat fashion, you can also expect certain showcases and workshops lead by the artists themselves.

Getting Around Ballarat

Getting around Ballarat is fairly easy, whether you have your own car or not. There are actually plenty of ubers around town if you’d like a quick car hire, or driving your own car around is fairly simple with plenty of parking around. If not, the city center is quite quaint and small and very possible to walk around on foot, too!

Where to Drink/Eat in Ballarat

Moon & Mountain

We tried Moon & Mountain as soon as we arrived in Ballarat after driving from Melbourne, and oh what a warm welcome it was! This quaint little restaurant would best be labeled as ‘asian fusion,’ with asian-inspired dishes with a well-presented and Aussie twist.

I was first blown away by a few asian-inspired cocktails on the list, and we were quickly drawn to the ‘full moon’ tasting platter menu for two. This included seven or so different small courses from various facets of the menu, including chilli oysters, DIY pork belly spring rolls, salmon sashimi, chicken curry, and more. I mean… how could we not?!

Webster’s Market & Cafe

On the first morning of our weekend trip to Ballarat, we were welcomed warmly by Webster’s Market & Cafe down a quaint residential street near Lake Wendouree. Our lives were immediately completed by a breakfast tasting board (chia parfait, smashed avo + smoked salmon and eggs, home made jam on toast) and a chorizo egg + toast dish.

I reckon all good couples should order two dishes and split them both, so that’s exactly what we did (and always do)! It’s the way to try more things, if you ask me. We downed our delicious coffee and these scrumptios breakfast dishes by a green and leafy plant wall inside the warm restaurant. Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day (or, should I say brunch because I rarely wake up in time…), and this was a great wake-up.

Can I finish all of this?!

Forge Pizzeria

Although we were basically still full from brekky, when lunch time rolled around we knew we had to make room to try a new place because we only had so much time to do   eat all the things to do  eat in Ballarat. It was quickly becoming obvious that we would hardly scratch the surface! But we were going to have a damn good try.

At lunchtime we popped into the Forge Pizzeria – a large, brick, warehouse-style pizzeria right on the main cross street. It had a cozy and rustic vibe to match an old newspaper-style menu with just as much fun stories and info as there were items on the menu.

We started with a – you guessed it – tasting platter of a charcuterie board. Can you sense a common theme here?! 😛 Our jaws hit the floor when it came out, too – it was piled high with herbed flatbread and, like, a million different styles of meat. Well maybe realistically about 7 or 8, but who’s counting here?! We didn’t have time for that when sifting through prosciutto, chorizo, salami, and a few other delicious and spicy things I forgot the name of.

Although already stuffed, we ordered a pumpkin and feta pizza with two Aperol spritz’s to wash it down (obviously). We nearly had to roll each other out of the restaurant after this one, but luckily we were headed for a packed night at the Winter Wonderlights festival afterwards.

The Pub with Two Names

This one came after our fun night at Sovereign Hill, so somehow we were actually hungry again! We made our way back into town to check out The Pub with Two Names, better known as The PWTN (which is how you’ll find it on maps and social media).

This was yet another lively yet cozy venue, with a bit of a twist on classic pub food. We tried croquettes and a risotto, and had a bit of a splash out on their steak when we heard it was delicious. The rumors were true – and we had officially eater FAR too much in one day but were oh-so-happily full! Make sure to try their desserts at the end too – I’m not usually a dessert person but their home-baked treats were to die for! 

Yellow Espresso

Ah, our last morning meal for out Ballarat weekend trip. It had to be Yellow Espresso – recommended to be both by Visit Ballarat and a few local friends! This one is right on Sturt street, with a trendy and leafy restaurant and tables out on the street for warmer days.

Yellow espresso was another delish and classic Aussie breakfast meal. After much deliberation we settles on the Eggs Benedict and Truffle egg toast, with a tumeric latte and a flat white. It was amazing, of course. I feel like there would have been no way to go wrong on this menu, though – a perfect start to the day!

Where to Drink in Ballarat

The lost ones basement bar.

This is an awesome 1920’s style bar just off of Sturt Street. Come in here for an array of classic cocktails in what I can best describe as a speakeasy vibe. It’s definitely one of the trendier bars in town! If you come in the day, there’s also an art gallery upstairs that you can check out, drink in hand.

Hope temple is also right in the Ballarat CBD. As its name suggests, it truly is the temple of hops – aka TONS of fantastic beer! They have a lot on offer, both of local and national beers. My best recommendation is to get there early on a weekend to make sure there will be a space for you to sit, and to try ordering the beer flights so you can try a few different ones.

Where to Stay in Ballarat

Lake wendouree luxury apartments.

For the perfect balance between proximity to the city and some gorgeous nature, we stayed in Lake Wendouree Luxury Apartments. From our top corner room we woke up to a sunrise over the lake, which despite the cold was still inviting enough to coax us out for a morning walk.

These two-bedroom apartments are decked out with all the trimmings – fluffy blankets, comfy couches, books and interesting trinkets, TV’s in each room, full kitchen with all your coffee and tea needs, and pristine stocked bathrooms. We truly didn’t want to leave this warm haven of an apartment – can we stay forever next time, please?!

Places to Visit Outside Ballarat

Making a weekend trip to Ballarat from Melbourne, or anywhere else for that matter? Make sure to check out the amazing things to do around Ballarat, too. There are some awesome areas of nature, mountains, and countryside outside the city that warrant a visit just as much. Here are a few ideas!

Pyrenees Wine Region + Mountains

While it may be a bit different than the European mountain range of the same name, the Victorian Pyrenees are worthy of a visit just the same – both for the outdoor adventurers AND the wine lovers!

The Pyrenees mountains are a southern section of the Great Dividing Range, and their climate lends them well to be a fantastic wine region of Victoria. Dozens of family-owned wineries sprawl out through the scenic rolling hills of the region, making it a fantastic destination for views and delicious wine. There are over 20 wineries that will often host events and tastings for the ones who venture out into rural Victoria in search of hidden gems.

For the hikers, check out some amazing hiking trails in the area. If you’re a bit more advanced, there’s actually a full-day 24km Pyrenees Endurance Walk that touches on lots of gorgeous areas. For people in search of a quicker hike, check out the Ebling Track Walks or the Sugarloaf Track walk, too.

Tuki Trout Farm

While it miiiight not sound the most appealing, this place is much more than a trout farm, and more of a rustic and luxurious location where you can literally catch your own food and eat it moments later.

The Tuki Trout Farm outside Ballarat is home to luxurious, self-contained accommodation, a fantastic restaurant, and quite a lot of trout who are sadly awaiting their last fate as someone’s lunch. The views from the property are bar-none, and you can watch the soft golden sunset  over fields of distant sheep, from your balcony overlooking the pond. Next getaway? I think: yes.

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The Best Things to Do and See in Ballarat, Victoria

If you have ever wanted to immerse yourself in medieval history, pan for gold or discover Australian democracy, then Culture Trip recommends a weekend trip to Ballarat. This historic town has much to offer including a few surprises such as the picturesque Botanical Gardens, Lake Wendouree and the Ballarat Wildlife Park. If you’re looking to get away this weekend, head northwest to a place of historical sovereignty.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Sovereign Hill

One of Victoria’s most popular tourist attractions, Sovereign Hill depicts Ballarat’s gold-rush era in the 1850s. The open-air museum, which opened in 1970, features 60 historically modelled buildings and costumed staff who never drop character. Pan for gold in the diggings creek, be amazed by the craftsmanship at the Gold Smelting Works, take a self-guided underground tour of Red Hill Mine and see the multi-million dollar sound-and-light show ‘Blood on the Southern Cross’, which depicts the 1854 Eureka Uprising. Sovereign Hill has six dining options, and there’s even a four-star, on-site accommodation.

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Kryal Castle

Kryal Castle is a replica medieval adventure park, which has been entertaining visitors since 1974. After many reincarnations, the castle’s drawbridge was officially re-lowered in 2013, and guests can once again travel back in time to a place of myth where dragons, queens, kings, knights and wizards roam. Start your day at The Dragon’s Labyrinth, see the Torture Dungeon and Museum, watch as brave knights joust for supremacy in the main arena, wander through the maze, watch as the wizard mixes potions and test your strength with the Sword in the Stone. Guests can sleep at the castle, and there are dinner and show packages available too.

Lake Wendouree

Originally a stream and then a swamp, this urban lake was first used recreationally in 1864. Since then, Lake Wendouree has hosted rowing and canoeing events in the 1956 Olympic Games and the 2014 World Masters Rowing event. Today, the lake offers a variety of activities including the 6km (3.7 mile) Steve Moneghetti walking and cycling track, bird watching, a playground and barbecue facilities. The Ballarat Botanical Gardens are also situated at the lake.

Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Botanical Garden, Memorial

Located 4km (2.5 miles) from the centre of Ballarat, on the western shores of Lake Wendouree, the Ballarat Botanical Gardens covers 40 hectares (99 acres) and is one of Australia’s most remarkable cool climate gardens. Opened in 1857, the gardens are more than 150 years old and feature mature trees, a modern conservatory, a heritage statuary pavilion and the Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial. Divided into three zones, the gardens include a Victorian pleasure garden and the Prime Ministers Avenue, which features bronze busts of every PM since the Federation. There is also a collection of 12 marble statues from Italy donated by Thomas Stoddart in 1884.

Eureka Centre

Through digital technology, art installations and historical artefacts, the Eureka Centre immerses visitors in the Australian story of democracy through the tales of the men and women who fought for their freedoms. Located on the site of the 1854 Eureka Stockade, the Eureka Centre’s permanent exhibition features the Eureka Flag flown in December 1854. The museum seeks to ask ‘What is democracy and why do we care?’ and ‘Why has it been fought for, yesterday and today?’

Ballarat Wildlife Park

A host of native Australian creatures including koalas, wombats, crocodiles, dingoes, Tasmanian devils and reptiles call Ballarat Wildlife Park home. Founded in 1985, the park is run by Greg Parker and his family who aim to educate people through interactive wildlife experiences. In addition to the daily guided tours, the park runs animal presentations and meet-the-keeper experiences. There is also an undercover café with a selection of hot and cold snacks and a souvenir shop. You can also take part in the animal adoption program.

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The best motels and places to stay you can book in ballarat, victoria.

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The Ultimate 1-Day Itinerary in Ballarat

Ballarat is the third-largest city in Victoria (ranked after Melbourne and Geelong ). It is well-known for its grand Victorian-era architecture and a glorious gold mining history from the 1800s.

Although gold mining is no longer the main industry in Ballarat, it is still a huge drawing card for Ballarat’s tourism industry. Each year, around half of Ballarat’s visitors are here to visit its Sovereign Hill and explore Ballarat’s gold mining history. However, there is a lot more to explore in Ballarat than just Sovereign Hill and the gold mines.

Although you can spend many days exploring in and around Ballarat, 1-day is an ideal length of stay if you only wish to get a taste of Ballarat .

To help plan your visit to Ballarat, I have put together this ‘1-day itinerary to Ballarat’ based on my recent visit. Hope you can find it useful.

Information on how to get to Ballarat, where to stay in Ballarat, and the cost of visiting Ballarat is also provided for your convenience.

One Day Itinerary in Ballarat

Arch of victory.

The Arch of Victory was built in 1920 to commemorate the allied victory in WW1. It also functions as the gateway to the beautiful Avenue of Honour.

As Australia’s largest commemorative arch , the Arch of Victory is located at the western end of Sturt Street and captures the attention of every passerby. There is also a Memorial Wall on the left-hand side of the arch (when driving to the arch from Sturt Street), which is worth checking out.

Avenue of Honour is a tree-lined street extending 22km northwest of the Arch of Victory. The trees along the Avenue of Honour each have a plaque with the name of an enlisted WW1 service personnel from Ballarat.

Ballarat Botanic Gardens

Ballarat Botanic Gardens is a picturesque linear-shaped botanic garden, along the western shore of Lake Wendouree . It offers a range of cool-climate plantations, a modern greenhouse , a stunning collection of statues, the famous Prime Ministers Avenue , and an enormous Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial .

Ballarat Tramway Museum is also located within the Ballarat Botanic Gardens. It can be a great place to visit for tram lovers and families with kids. In addition to appreciating a range of historic trams from the early 1900s, you can also jump on one of these well-preserved trams for a ride around the Ballarat Botanic Gardens and Lake Wendouree.

Lake Wendouree

After visiting Ballarat Botanic Gardens, make sure you also take a stroll around Lake Wendouree to enjoy some solitude along this tranquil lake.

Lake Wendouree is a man-made recreational lake right next to Ballarat’s city centre. Although close to a city centre, the area around Lake Wendouree is relatively quiet and peaceful. You can also find many black swans and other feathered animals around the lake.

There are well-maintained walking tracks around Lake Wendouree as well. The loop walk along Lake Wendouree takes about 2 hours to complete in a leisurely manner. However, you do not need to attempt the entire loop walk to admire the beauty of Lake Wendouree.

During my visit, I only walked along the western shore of Lake Wendouree to appreciate this tranquil lake. Although I do wish to spend more time along Lake Wendouree, there were more things to check out on this day trip & the lake view does get a bit repetitive after a while.

Sovereign Hill

Sovereign Hill is a large open-air museum recreating Ballarat’s gold rush era from the 1850s . Since opening its door in 1970, Sovereign Hill has become Ballarat’s most famous attraction and brought in hundreds of thousands of visitors per year.

At Sovereign Hill, you can find staff members dressed in the 1850s costumes , re-enacting roles as butchers, candle makers, blacksmiths, soldiers, teachers, and many more. There are many interactive demonstrations and experiences available throughout the day. You can also participate in activities such as gold panning , which can be great fun for all ages.

Shops , decorated in an 1850s fashion, are available throughout Sovereign Hill. From these shops, you can watch how certain goods were produced back in the day & purchase from these hand-made goods.

A cafe (New York Bakery) and a bakery (Hope Bakery) are also available along Main Street in Sovereign Hill. You can not only purchase deliciously baked items for lunch but also experience what a cafe/bakery was like back in the day.

The village Sovereign Hill is based in is on a former gold mine, which spans across 15-hectare of land. If you are only taking a brief walk-through of Sovereign Hill, it should take you only a couple of hours . However, if you wish to explore each building and join most of the interactive activities, you may need to prepare at least half a day here.

Since Sovereign Hill is a very popular tourist destination in Ballarat, you can expect a fair bit of visitors here, especially during the weekends and school holidays. With that being said, I visited Sovereign Hill just after 10 am on a weekday (non-school holiday), expecting to have a lot fewer visitors. However, there was a school trip happening on that day & it was very crowded when the school kids were around.

Ballarat City

As a result of the immense wealth generated from Ballarat’s gold rush, Ballarat was once a thriving town & comparable to its capital city, Melbourne. With a walk around Ballarat, you can easily spot many grand Victorian architectures. These architectures were all built from the wealth of Ballarat’s gold rush.

Make sure you take a stroll along Sturt Street and Lydiard Street to check out many of the finest Victorian-era buildings in Victoria. They will make you feel like being transported back in time to Ballarat’s glorious old days.

There are also many impressive statues in Sturt Street Gardens , which are worth checking out too.

Art Gallery of Ballarat

Art Gallery of Ballarat is the largest and oldest regional art gallery in Australia . I found the Art Gallery of Ballarat to be the best regional art gallery I have visited. In fact, its collections were actually more interesting than the collections from the Art Gallery of South Australia (personal opinion & everyone’s different).

Entry to the Art Gallery of Ballarat is free . In addition to its permanent collections upstairs, you can also find many temporary exhibitions on its ground floor throughout the year.

The building Art Gallery of Ballarat is based in is also worth checking out. As a heritage-listed building , this purposefully built 19th-century building will greet you with a stunning staircase and spacious high-ceiling display rooms, which is an art itself.

Ballarat Umbrella Laneway

Ballarat Umbrella Laneway is a quiet laneway off Armstrong Street in Ballarat’s city centre . The laneway is covered by colourful umbrellas overhead & a great place for that perfect Instagram photo.

Along this laneway, you can also find many interesting mural arts . There is a cool restaurant/bar towards the end of this laneway, which is well worth checking out.

Black Hill Lookout

Black Hill Lookout is the best place to finish your day trip to Ballarat .

Sitting on a hill, the Black Hill Lookout offers an unparalleled panoramic view of Ballarat and its surrounding areas. At sunset, the entire Ballarat city is also covered with a stunning golden hue, which is simply surreal and magnificent.

Access to the Black Hill Lookout is wheelchair friendly & there is only a short, flat walk between the carpark and the lookout. It is perfect for everyone to visit and admire the beautiful Ballarat.

Walking tracks and bike tracks are also available around Black Hill Lookout for people to explore the Black Hill Reserve, which you may wish to check out if time allows.

How to Get to Ballarat

Visiting ballarat by car.

Visiting Ballarat by car is the easiest and most convenient way of visiting Ballarat .

Ballarat is only a 1.5-hour drive from Melbourne CBD; just over a 1-hour drive from Geelong ; a 1.5-hour drive from Bendigo ; under a 2-hour drive from Halls Gap .

Visiting Ballarat by Public Transport

With a direct railway service between Melbourne and Ballarat , visiting Ballarat from Melbourne by public transport is very convenient. A train ride between the Southern Cross station and Ballarat Station takes less than 1.5 hours each way.

Once you have arrived at Ballarat Station, you will be only minutes away from Ballarat city centre. From the city centre, you can access all the attractions on this itinerary either by bus or by taxi . A range of rideshare services is also available in Ballarat.

If you are travelling from Geelong, Bendigo, or Halls Gap by public transport, train services are available. However, there are no direct train services between these places and Ballarat. When visiting Ballarat by train, it will take you about 2 hours from Geelong, 3.5 hours from Bendigo , and 2.5 hours from Halls Gap .

Where to Stay in Ballarat

Kryal Castle is a replica medieval castle. It functions as a hotel and an adventure park , which can be a great place to stay for families with kids . Tickets to the adventure park are also included in the room rate on certain days of the week , so a stay in Kryal Castle may work out cheaper and better for those interested in visiting its adventure park.

Costs of Visiting Ballarat

Apart from Sovereign Hill, all the other attractions on this one-day Ballarat itinerary are free. Hence, the main cost of this visit will be your 1-night accommodation in Ballarat & the AUD 39 entrance fee to Sovereign Hill (July 2022).

Other costs of visiting Ballarat also include petrol or public transport expenses , which are highly dependent on your mode of transport and the distance you are travelling.

Food in Ballarat is about the average food cost of any major Australian city. You can lower this cost by choosing more affordable food options and reducing the frequency of dining out.

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19 best things to do in Ballarat, Victoria

As Victoria’s third biggest city, Ballarat is steeped in history, with a thriving arts and food scene. Discover the best things to do in Ballarat on a day or weekend trip from Melbourne .

Once one of the richest goldfields in the country, Ballarat has become a popular destination for travellers, especially as it’s only 90 minutes from Melbourne.

Victoria’s largest inland city is home to a thriving arts and events scene, fantastic restaurants and a whole lot of history – both from its gold rush-era and a rich Indigenous history, which stretches back tens of thousands of years. Ballarat lies on the lands of the Wadawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung People.

Ballarat is more than just an escape from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne life. It’s a place that is pulsating with culture and history – good food and great wine and some of the most gorgeous architecture you could ever hope to see in your life.

I’m prone to hyperbole, but by jove, this town is gorgeous .

If you’re strapped for time, you can experience most of what the city has to offer over a weekend. I do highly recommend making Ballarat your base and exploring some nearby towns and regions, such as the Pyrenees, Daylesford and the Macedon Ranges and Bendigo .

Here are some of the top local attractions and things to do in Ballarat, no matter where your interest lies.

Best things to do in Ballarat

This Ballarat travel guide contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may make small commission, at no extra cost to you.

Need a set of wheels for your weekend getaway to Ballarat?

Where to stay in Ballarat

Best day hikes near Melbourne

Ultimate guide to Victoria’s silo art trail

Fun things to do in Melbourne in summer

What is Ballarat famous for?

Ballarat lies within the Goldfields region of Victoria. The gold rush, which began in 1851, saw thousands of prospectors from across the world flock to Australia, hoping to strike it rich.

You might have heard of the Eureka Rebellion, also known as the Battle of the Eureka Stockade, which marks a three-day battle between rebels and colonial forces. It’s become a key event in Australia’s colonial history.

I highly recommend reading The Forgotten Rebels of Eureka , by Clare Wright before visiting Ballarat, which details the role women of the area played in the uprising.

While gold is still mined in the region, Ballarat is also known for its for its thriving arts and events scene and food culture.

When is the best time to visit Ballarat?

Do you have the luxury of deciding when to visit this regional city ? Very lucky.

Ballarat is lovely during the shoulder seasons. The city is ablaze in gold, orange and red foliage during autumn. In spring, the place comes to life, especially within the local botanical gardens.

I will make the argument that, despite the cold, Ballarat is a delight to visit in winter. The city makes an extra push to deliver some spectacular events.

The natural cosiness of the place makes it a delight to explore during this time of the year, as well. Or to simply wrap up and bunker down in any of its beautiful buildings.

Intrigued? Read on to find out more about the things to do in Ballarat during the coolest season and why winter is a great time for a holiday in Australia .

Things to do in Ballarat

To kick things off, let’s discover some of the top Ballarat attractions.

I’ve also nominated some places to eat for any meal of the day.

1. Explore the Art Gallery of Ballarat

The Art Gallery of Ballarat is the oldest gallery in regional Australia. It’s not far at all from the main train station and is one of the best free things to do in Ballarat.

The gallery is home to roving exhibitions, as well as a permanent collection. To get the lay of the land, jump on a free guided tour at 11am, with a knowledgeable guide.

Many of the city’s best attractions are outdoors, so this is one of the best things to do in Ballarat on a rainy day.

2. Wander Lydiard St to take in the architecture

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.

3. Pan for gold at Sovereign Hill

Sovereign Hill is one of Ballarat’s main attractions. It’s an open-air museum that depicts the town during the Gold Rush era.

Expect a replica of gold mining town, complete with costumed actors. Visitors can even go panning for gold!

4. Time your visit with Winter Wonderlights

Remember how I repped winter as the best season to visit Ballarat?

One of these reasons is Winter Wonderlights, which is held at Sovereign Hill.

For three weeks from around late-June to mid-July, after the sun goes down (from 5pm-7pm), the ‘town’ comes alive with colour and light.

Animated videos are beamed onto the buildings and ‘snow’ falls from the sky. It’s delightful to take in, as you wander around, perhaps tightly clutching a cup of mulled wine.

5. & check out the Winter Festival

Winter Wonderlights is part of the Ballarat Winter Festival , designed to show off the city in one of its nicest seasons.

There’s ice-skating for kids and a series of events for adults, such as laser tag, truffle hunting and ‘Red Series’, a giant wine tasting event.

Best places to visit in Victoria

Where to find glorious autumn leaves in Victoria

Daylesford and Hepburn springs travel guide

6. Things to do in Ballarat: Drop into Kryal Castle

Did you know Ballarat is home to a castle?

Kryal Castle offers an opportunity to step back 1000 years in time, to experience the world through a medieval lens.

There’s jousting, potion-making, theatre and a medieval village. You can become a Knight, try your hand at axe-throwing or pick up some skills from the resident blacksmith.

Or join the fun during a murder mystery night. There’s a three-course meal on offer and the person who correctly guesses the murderer wins a prize.

It’s not the only castle in Victoria. In Melbourne’s north-west, you’ll find Overnewton Castle , a stately home offering up tours and high teas.

7. See a show at the Regent Cinema or Her Majesty’s Theatre

As a film-geeking theatre nut, I will travel to any destination that has a neat cinema or heritage-listed theatre showing something good.

Ballarat happens to have both these things – the Regent Cinema and Her Majesty’s Theatre are both gorgeous old buildings that stopped me in my tracks.

I was lucky enough to once catch the opening performances of The Exotic Lives of Lola Montez at Her Majesty’s. Montez was an Irish performer who was considered quite scandalous for her time, who journeyed out the Goldfields to perform shows across the region.

8. Venture out to the Pyrenees for a wine-tasting session

Ballarat is a hop, skip and a jump away from the Pyrenees wine region . Not to be confused with that other famous region in France!

This region specialises in rich reds, floral whites and fine sparklings.

You’d probably need a couple of dedicated days to properly experience the Pyrenees. If you’re strapped for time, I recommend dropping into Blue Pyrenees Estate and Mount Avoca , which has one of the prettiest cellar doors in the state.

Australian wine is seriously underrated, so long as you stay far, far away from Yellowtail and Jacob’s Creek. Victoria in particular has a hip, hop, happening wine scene – I’ve yet to head to any wine region in the state and return without at least two bottles of red in hand.

9. Tour the Botanic Gardens and get ahead on Prime Minister Avenue

How good are gardens and flowers? Pretty good, but even better in Ballarat, because you can venture out to their gorgeous Botanical Gardens and learn a little bit about Australia’s political history!

And who doesn’t love politics? Especially politics in this country, because they are utterly ridiculous.

The Gardens feature a pathway known as “Prime Minister Avenue”, upon which lies a bronzed bust of every PM this country has ever had – including one who served for a mere six days (Frank Forde, his name was). Notable figures include:

• Sir Edmund Barton

– our first Prime Minister.

• Harold Holt

– who disappeared whilst swimming at a beach in the 1960s.

• Gough Whitlam

– a revolutionary PM, who led the Labor Party to power in 1972 and was dismissed from office three years later (for basically being too forward-thinking).

• Robert Menzies

– our longest serving Prime Minister, of 18 years in total.

– the most popular PM in Australia, who once set a world record for sculling beer (truly a man of the people).

• Julia Gillard

If you’re after a relaxing, nature-filled visit, then this will be one of the top things to do in Ballarat for you.

10. Visit Lake Wendouree

The Botanical Gardens are located right near Lake Wendouree, a man-made lake just outside of the city centre of Ballarat.

There’s a 6-kilometre running and walking track, cycling trails and playgrounds. Pack a picnic to have by the lake or take some food for a BBQ.

You can also go fishing, sailing and rowing. Look out for the tenacious black swans, who call the lake home.

11. Check out Ballarat Tramway Museum

And to take in this part of Ballarat from a different point of view, head on over to the Ballarat Tramway Museum .

Learn about the history of trams in the city and see some of these trams in question, including Ballarat Horse Drawn Tram No. 1. This was the first tram to operate in Ballarat in 1887.

The museum is run by volunteers and open most weekends and school holidays.

12. Jump onto a ghost tour

Chance a sighting of some spooky spectres on a ghost tour of Ballarat .

You can choose between two tours:

• Ballarat Ghost Tour , which travels through the city’s gothic architecture, to the remains of the old Ballarat Gaol
• Ballarat Old Cemetery Night Tour , where you’ll hear all about the spooky side of Australia’s premier Gold Rush Cemetery.

This is definitely one of the more hair-raising things to do in Ballarat.

13. Take in the splendour of Lal Lal Falls

Lal Lal Falls is a waterfall located about 20 minutes outside of Ballarat.

The water flows through and drops into a large, rocky gorge. There’s a viewing platform looking over the falls.

Go a tad further around the gorge on the Von Guerard View Track for a long distance view across the gorge.

If you want decent photos of the waterfall, I recommend going in the afternoon rather than morning.

These falls are a place of great Indigenous significance too. They’re believed to be the earthly home of Bunjil, the All Father or Creator to most Victorian Aboriginal tribes.

Explore Victoria’s other magnificent waterfalls .

14. Walk the Mount Buninyong Summit Loop

This extinct volcano is south of the city. It’s predominantly home to diverse birdlife and wallabies.

There’s a 2.6 kilometre tail that can be hiked or mountain biked. Considered to be moderately challenging, it takes around 50 minutes to complete.

The views from the top of the mountain are something else. High recommended.

15. Things to do in Ballarat: Hop on a beer-brewing masterclass

Onto more unusual things to do in Ballarat.

Want the lowdown on brewing the perfect ale? Hop on over to Aunty Jack’s , a brewery in the city centre.

The brewery runs a bunch of events, from one-day beer-making courses, to ‘Tales & Ales’, where participants can explore, discuss and taste five different beer styles.

16. Bee-have at a beekeeping workshop

Okay, I will acknowledge that that was a terrible pun. I’m not sorry, however.

Backyard Bees Ballarat offer a range of beekeeping courses. Get an introduction to beekeeping, peer into an open hive, or sip on wine and snack on nibbles as you create four beeswax candles.

17. Tour the city during the Ballarat International Foto Biennale

This is one of Ballarat’s most popular events , for a good reason.

During this foto festival, the entire city is immersed in art. It’s considered to be Australia’s leading photography festival and is not to be missed by art enthusiasts.

18. Frolic among the flowers at the Ballarat Begonia Festival

This blooming beautiful festival celebrates all thing begonias.

Held in March, it showcases the city’s unique and rare collection of Begonias.

19. Visit the Ballarat Municipal Observatory & Museum

This observatory is located at Mount Pleasant in Ballarat.

Visitors can observe at the telescope, take a guided tour of the observatory and view 3D movies in the AstroTour theatre.

It also has a collection of some beautiful stained glass windows – all astronomically themed, of course.

Guide to Melbourne’s coolest neighbourhoods

Tips for visiting Australia for the first time

Fabulous things to do on the Great Ocean Road

Things to do in Ballarat: Where to eat & drink in Ballarat

As you can see, there’s certainly many things to do in Ballarat. You’ll need to fuel up around your explorings, for sure. So, where should you go?

Breakfast in Ballarat

Clothesline Cafe is located in an old weatherboard home. The family-run business offers up a menu, lush with local produce. Artisan sourdough bakery 1816 produce house-made pastries, handmade pies and sandwiches.

Lunch in Ballarat

Mitchell Harris Wine serve up delectable platters within their cellar door. The Hydrant Food Hall can be found down a Ballarat heritage laneway. Choose between an all-day brekky and all-day lunch menu.

Dinner in Ballarat

Settle in for cocktails and Asian-inspired cuisine at Moon & Mountain or Roy Hammond . Or dig into perfect plates of pasta at Ragazzone . Round off the evening with a tipple at RJM’s Wine Bar .

How do I spend a day in Ballarat?

Here are my recommendations for what to prioritise during a day trip to Ballarat.

• Stop in at Lal Lal Falls
• Have breakfast at the Clothesline Cafe
• Drop into Sovereign Hill
• Order lunch platters at Mitchell Harris Wines
• Walk off lunch with a stroll along Lydiard St
• Drop into the Botanical Gardens
• Grab a meal at Roy Hammond or Ragazzone before you hit the road.

How do I spend a weekend in Ballarat?

Looking for things to do in Ballarat during a weekend trip? Follow the above itinerary for day one. After dinner, pop into either Bar Clara or RJM’s Wine Bar for libations (or jump on a ghost tour!). Sleep sweet dreams, close to the action at The Provincial Hotel .

The next morning, grab brekky at the hotel or pick up a pastry from 1816 . Take a wander through the Art Gallery of Ballarat . Then either drop into Aunty Jack’s Brewery for lunch and a flight (if you’re not driving, of course).

Or, you can sniff, swirl and sip some cold-climate wine at nearby Michael Unwin Wines , Eastern Peake Vineyard and Captains Creek Organic Wines , before heading back to Melbourne.

Is Ballarat worth visiting?

It’s more than worth making a trip to Ballarat. With its unique blend of art, history, foodie scene and varied attractions and events, Victoria’s third largest city has something for everyone.

Ballarat is also extremely accessible from Melbourne by train .

So, what do you reckon? Would you be keen to spend a few days discovering Ballarat? Let me know in the comments.

Pin this post for future reference! 📌

* This image was taken in partnership with Visit Victoria.

Please note, these experiences take place on the country of the Wadawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung People. We acknowledge them as the Traditional Owners of these lands and pay our respects to their Elders, past, present and emerging.

This guide to Bendigo contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may make small commission, at no extra cost to you. This goes towards the cost of running this blog. I only recommend goods and services I think are helpful and use myself. Thank you – I absolutely appreciate the support!

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I lived in Ballarat as a University Student and it looks like it is much more exciting than it was 20 years ago

I think it would have definitely improved! I feel the same way about my university town… it’s so much cooler now than it was a decade ago.

“* This image was taken in partnership with Visit Victoria.” what does this mean? Are you using their photos because you haven’t been to Ballarat?

Thanks for your query, Pru. I have been to Ballarat many times and was hired by Visit Victoria to take these photos, which also feature on their website. Hope that clears up any confusion.

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AFL round two: GWS downs West Coast, Port Adelaide beats Richmond, Bulldogs defeat the Suns

Sport AFL round two: GWS downs West Coast, Port Adelaide beats Richmond, Bulldogs defeat the Suns

GWS wrapped up round two with a solid win over West Coast in Perth, with Essendon's Peter Wright set to face the tribunal on Tuesday night for the hit that left Sydney's Harry Cunningham concussed.

Earlier, the Western Bulldogs beat Gold Coast in Ballarat and Port Adelaide celebrated Travis Boak's 350th with a win over Richmond.

See the match reports:

• Bulldogs too strong for Suns in Ballarat
• Power beat the Tigers as milestone man Boak plays his 350th
• Giants beat the Eagles at Perth bogey ground

See how all the action unfolded in our blog .

• 10:30 AM 10:30 AM Sun 24 Mar 2024 at 10:30am Full-time: GWS beats West Coast by 65 points
• 9:53 AM 9:53 AM Sun 24 Mar 2024 at 9:53am Three quarter-time: GWS leads West Coast by 58 points
• 9:24 AM 9:24 AM Sun 24 Mar 2024 at 9:24am Nic Naitanui honoured at Perth Stadium

To leave a comment on the blog, please log in or sign up for an ABC account.

Live updates

Live scores.

By Dean Bilton

That's where we'll leave it

By Andrew McGarry

So that's round two of the AFL season in the books.

While the wins for Port Adelaide and GWS were expected, the Bulldogs definitely turned things around against the Suns in Ballarat.

We will have an interesting week ahead, with Essendon's Peter Wright headed to the tribunal for his rough conduct charge against Sydney's Harry Cunningham — and don't forget that it's less than 96 hours until 0-3 Collingwood face an 0-2 Brisbane Lions at the Gabba in a showdown that could blow up the season for whoever loses.

We will be there to blog every bit of the action and all of round three — we hope you will too.

In the meantime, stay on the website tomorrow for wrap-ups of the round, reaction and the big news in footy.

For now, on behalf of myself Andrew McGarry, and Dean Bilton, thanks for joining us. We'll catch you soon.

FT: GWS 16.12 (108) def West Coast 5.13 (43)

The Orange Tsunami is already in full steam for 2024, with GWS continuing their perfect start with a 65-point win over West Coast at their bogey ground Perth Stadium.

The Giants kicked eight unanswered goals from late in the first quarter to the 12-minute mark of the third term on the way to sealing the 16.12 (108) to 5.13 (43) win on Sunday.

It marked a sense of redemption for the Giants, who suffered a shock 19-point loss to West Coast in Perth last year, and were 1-8 at Perth Stadium before Sunday's win.

GWS will head into the team's bye with a perfect 3-0 record following wins over Collingwood, North Melbourne and now West Coast.

The inside-50m count read 67-44 in the Giants' favour on Sunday, with the Eagles' horrendous skill errors costing them dearly.

West Coast went goalless from the 14-minute mark of the first quarter until the second-minute mark of the fourth.

Giants big man Kieran Biggs dominated the ruck contest, tallying 34 hit-outs to go with 21 disposals and 12 clearances.

Sam Taylor was a rock in defence with six contested marks, while Lachie Whitfield (36 disposals), Tom Green (34 disposals, eight clearances) and Josh Kelly (27 disposals, two goals) racked up big numbers.

Eagles veterans Jeremy McGovern (26 disposals) and Elliot Yeo (27 disposals, nine clearances) battled hard, but it was to no avail in a losing effort.

Number one draft pick Harley Reid made a bright start and finished with 16 disposals and five clearances.

The Giants kicked five goals to two in the opening quarter, but it was the Reid show that generated the most buzz.

Reid had seven disposals for the term, and his first meaningful piece of play resulted in him selling the dummy to one Giants player before fending off another on the wing.

Harley Reid consistent after two games for Eagles

There is no doubting the talent of Harley Reid for the Eagles, already in two games he has shown so much.

The issue for fans and others will be not expecting too much of him - he is only one player and this West Coast side has a long road ahead to build towards a successful outfit.

On one score, however, Reid has already ticked a box - consistency.

Round one against Port Adelaide: 16 disposals, five clearances, four inside 50s, four score involvements.

Round two against GWS: 16 disposals, five clearances, four inside 50s, four score involvements.

Another big day for the Giants

Full-time: gws beats west coast by 65 points.

The day ends with a Giants goal. They go down the corridor for the umpteenth time today, and the ball goes unchallenged to Toby Bedford inside the arc, he almost stuffs it up, but kicks it just inside the post for a goal.

And then GWS sends one last message, ekeing out one more major with one final kick down the middle to Aaron Cadman, who marks and kicks after the siren.

The finals margin is 65, a little disappointing for the home side who had it back under 50 at one point in the final quarter.

It has to be said, however, that given where things were in the middle of the third term, on another day the Giants might have finished off with a three-figure margin.

So there are some positives to take from it for West Coast, particularly the likes of Harley Reid, Reuben Ginbey and others.  

Jesse Hogan kicks a goal for GWS

This game is winding down, but that goal was a little easy there.

Jesse Hogan just ran forward inside 50, he got metres clear of Callum Jamieson and the kick was perfect to find him for a mark.

He kicked his second, and the Giants' 14th.

The lead is back out past 50 points again.  

Elliott Yeo kicks a BIG goal for West Coast

Well, good to see the Eagles are not stopping after that disappointing pair of goals for the Giants.

They keep going forward, and this time it's the veteran Elliott Yeo who goes for broke from well outside the 50.

He kicks the leather off it, and it soars past the Giants defenders for a team and crowd-lifting goal.

Huge cheers at Perth Stadium and the lead is back to 51.

Giants hit back with back-to-back goals

When it's not your day ...

GWS went inside 50 again - for the 61st time today, and they looked like they would raffle it for a goal.

The ball went to Callum Brown, who claimed the mark even though the kick went (charitably) 10m, but when he was tackled there was no free for holding the ball, he got it out to Josh Kelly, who kicked truly for GWS.

Like London buses, you wait a while and two goals come together - James Peatling added another quick one for GWS.

Eagles have another through Jamie Cripps!

Today's game has been all about the turnovers.

The Giants had scored 53 points off turnovers to three quarter-time, now the Eagles have back-to-back scores after forcing the ball free from GWS hands.

It looked like the move was going to break down, but Reuben Ginbey got the ball back to Jamie Cripps, and his snaps from the left forward pocket lifted the crowd again.

Eagles get one back through Jayden Hunt

West Coast have their third!

That prompted a huge cheer at Perth Stadium, coach Adam Simpson stood on the sidelines with arms raised.

It was defender Jayden Hunt who got the goal, after Jeremy McGovern chopped off a GWS kick and sent the Eagles forward.

The ball fell for Hunt inside 50, and he steered it home expertly for the first goal for the home side in two and a half quarters.

Three quarter-time: GWS leads West Coast by 58 points

The Eagles will be thankful for Tom Barrass at the back.

The key defender has been the vital last line of defence a number of times today, and he chopped off a snap by Tom Green near the goalline to keep the margin to 58 at the final change.

The discrepancy in forward 50 entries (55 to GWS compared to 29 for West Coast) shows just one reason why this one is one-sided on the scoreboard.

A quick reminder

The last time the Eagles kicked a goal was Jake Waterman's score at the 14 minute mark of the first quarter.

It is a tough day for West Coast, no doubt, but you get the sense that better sides than the Eagles will hit a wall against the Giants this season.  

Giants on track for big boost

The Giants are well in command here, as expected.

The question is how hard they want to put the foot to the floor here in the second half.

As things stand right now, they are getting a big percentage boost, putting themselves top of the ladder. If they keep going here, it will set them up for a big run at or near the top.

Giants' goal flood continues with major to Josh Kelly

That looked like a decent move from West Coast, but they had to push the passes or handballs.

Reuben Ginbey and Campbell Chesser moved West Coast down the wing, but an errant handball was intercepted and Stephen Coniglio made them pay.

The ball was switched to Josh Kelly, and the on-baller thumped it home from distance.

It's 57 points the margin, and we have a quarter and a half to go.  

Stats troubles for West Coast

The trend is not the Eagles' friend here.

The stats are getting more lopsided. The Orange Tsunami is gathering pace, the inside 50s are 44-18 to GWS.

The clearances are 26-19 to the Giants, and the centre clearances are 10-3. West Coast are not going to enjoy the rest of this match if they can't stop GWS breaking through the corridor.

Giants goal puts lead past 50 points

It's a tough time for West Coast and their defence.

The Giants are streaming forward and Liam Duggan was left one on two there. He was caught with the ball deep inside 50, and the Giants got the free.

Finn Callaghan converted, and it's a 51-point lead to the visitors.

Giants get things started with goal to Brent Daniels

Here we go again ... and the Giants have started the second half as they ended the first.

Brent Daniels kicks his second 90 seconds in, and that's six in a row to GWS.

Nic Naitanui honoured at Perth Stadium

At a time when the Eagles are very early in their journey with this side, it's nice that they've taken the time to honour one of the club's greats.

Nic Naitanui has done a lap of honour at Perth Stadium giving fans the chance to give some love to the previous number nine before Harley Reid.

Fifteen seasons, three-times All-Australian, two-time West Coast best and fairest, and mark of the year winner in 2015 ... and the deliverer of countless moments of joy for Eagles fans.

Half-time: GWS leads West Coast by 39 points

Things have suddenly caught up with the home side in a hurry.

The Eagles were struggling to make inroads in attack, but the margin was holding at three-ish goals — however GWS maintained their level in time-on while the home side fell off a bit.

It's 3.4 to 0.2 for the quarter, but Adam Simpson will need to get an urgent message to his troops in the sheds.

They will need to lift early in the third quarter if this one is not to turn into an ugly scoreline.

Top Things to Do in Ballarat

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Top Things to Do in Ballarat

Things to do in ballarat, explore popular experiences, tours in and around ballarat.

• Grampians National Park Small-Group Eco Tour from Melbourne

Sovereign Hill, Botanical Gardens and Melbourne Skydeck Bus Tour

• Custom Private Day Tour Melbourne to all surrounding areas for up to 11 people

• Private Ballarat and Sovereign Hill Tour from Melbourne

Daylesford Wine Tours: wine, cider, gin, vodka, port, food & sights tours!

Alices Journeys Walking Tours of Daylesford 1.45pm FRI 9.45am SAT

Daylesford Private Wine Tours

The Great Ocean Balloon Flight - Geelong and Bellarine

Around the Bay Sightseeing and Bay Cruise

Greater Geelong & The Bellarine Self-Guided Bike Tour Wine Region

Tours & sightseeing.

Top Attractions in Ballarat

Other Top Attractions around Ballarat

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What travellers are saying.

• Sovereign Hill
• Lake Wendouree
• Ballarat Wildlife Park
• Ballarat Botanical Gardens
• Art Gallery of Ballarat
• Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground
• Sturt Street Gardens
• Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial
• Ballarat Tramway Museum