13 Fun-Filled Things to Do in Ballarat: A Travel Guide

Sovereign Hill is a must-see in Ballarat for anyone who loves history, culture and entertainment! This fascinating open-air museum immerses visitors in the sights and sounds of Victoria's Gold Rush era, giving them a glimpse of what life was like in the 1800s. Stroll down Main Street and browse the historic stores, watch traditional crafts being made, and even try your hand at panning for gold!

Are you ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature? Then a visit to the Ballarat Botanical Gardens in Ballarat, Australia should be at the top of your list! These gardens are a true oasis with more than 40 hectares of land, with breathtaking floral displays, water features, and winding paths. The Robert Clark Conservatory, with its unique collection of plants from around the world, is a must-see. You'll also find the stunning Prime Ministers Avenue, a tranquil lake, and a fern garden popular with locals. After a walk through the gardens, you can end your trip with a coffee at the cafe. And guess what? Another popular attraction, the famous Sovereign Hill, is just a stone's throw away!

Are you looking for an up-close encounter with iconic Australian animals? Then you must visit the Ballarat Wildlife Park. This park is just a short drive from the city center and is home to over 100 species of native animals, including kangaroos, koalas, wombats, wallabies and crocodiles. You can even feed kangaroos from your hand and pet koalas!

Get ready for an extraordinary experience at Kryal Castle! As Australia's only medieval adventure park, this place is a must-see for anyone visiting Ballarat. With a maze, jousting, a dragon maze, and even a castle with a drawbridge, Kryal Castle guarantees a fun adventure for all ages. Want to fully immerse yourself in medieval life? That's no problem! You can dress up in authentic costumes and enjoy a feast in the castle's dining room.

The Art Gallery of Ballarat is a must-see for any art lover in the region! Founded in 1884, the gallery is the oldest regional gallery in the country and houses an extensive collection of Australian art. Throughout the year, the gallery hosts a wide range of exhibitions, from classical to contemporary art, showcasing both local and national talent. As you tour the gallery, take a moment to admire the stunning architecture of the building and the beautiful outdoor rose garden. At the gift store, you can pick up a unique souvenir of your visit. While you're in the area, you should also visit the Sovereign Hill open-air museum from the gold rush era.

Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground in Ballarat is the ultimate destination for thrill seekers. With playground equipment that offers something for everyone, this playground is the perfect place for families visiting the area. Tackle the thrilling Ninja Warrior-style obstacle course, scale the heights of a spectacular climbing tower, and rappel down several flying foxes. But that's not all, because the playground is located right on the beautiful Wendouree Lake, so you can enjoy a breathtaking view while your kids have a great time. Don't forget to pack a picnic and make a whole day of it!

Hop aboard a historic streetcar and take a trip back in time at the Ballarat Tramway Museum. Learn about the history of Ballarat's streetcar network and discover beautifully preserved streetcars from the early 20th century. The museum houses the largest collection of streetcars and related items in Australia, making it a must-see for any transport enthusiast.

The Eureka Centre Ballarat is an absolute must-see on your trip to Ballarat - and here's why! First of all, it's a fascinating and interactive museum that showcases the history and significance of the Eureka Stockade. This iconic event is a defining moment in Australian history, and a visit to this museum will give you incredible insight into the people, politics, and events surrounding it. And if you're interested in interactive experiences, you'll love the interactive exhibits!

Located in the heart of the historic city of Ballarat, the Sturt Street Gardens are an exquisite attraction that is sure to amaze you. The gardens are filled with a variety of trees and blooming flowers and are perfect for a peaceful stroll or to simply relax and enjoy the sun. The fountain in the center of the gardens is breathtaking. Did you know. Sturt Street Gardens is just a short walk from the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Australia's oldest and largest regional gallery. So if you're visiting Ballarat, be sure to add Sturt Street Gardens to your must-see list!

Are you looking for a picturesque destination for your stay in Ballarat? Then Black Hill Reserve is just the place for you! This nature reserve offers an abundance of breathtaking hiking trails, scenic views, and a variety of native plants and animals. It is a popular spot for hikers, bird watchers, and nature lovers. Be sure to bring your camera and snap a few photos from the observation tower with its panoramic views of Ballarat - it's a sight not to be missed!

Ballarat Bird World is an absolute delight for birders and nature lovers alike. This sanctuary is home to over 600 species of exotic birds from all over the world. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the birds as they fly around you singing their songs. You can even feed the cuddly lorikeets from your hand. The knowledgeable staff will provide insightful commentary on the various birds you encounter. Don't miss out on this amazing experience that will guarantee you an exciting and memorable time. After visiting Ballarat Bird World, you can take a refreshing stroll through the nearby Ballarat Botanical Gardens.

The Arch of Victory Memorial is a must-see for history and architecture buffs in Ballarat. This impressive memorial is a tribute to the brave soldiers who fought and served in the First World War. It features intricate carvings, impressive reliefs and imposing statues depicting various aspects of the Australian armed forces. At 190 feet tall, the arch also offers spectacular views of the city.

Nestled in the tranquil beauty of Ballarat is St. Patrick's Point - a natural wonder you can't afford to miss. This picturesque spot offers sweeping panoramic views of the stunning surroundings and is perfect for taking some enviable photos to share with friends and family back home. But that's not all - a short hike up the hill will take you to the historic machine gun nest, which continues to run merrily even after all these years. Don't forget to bring your camera and experience the magic of St. Patrick's Point. And if you have a little more time, visit Eureka Stockade - another attraction worth seeing not far away.