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Ballarat, Australia

Destination Guide

Ballarat

Australia

Best things to do in Ballarat

11 curated attractions in Ballarat, Australia. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

March - May, September - November

Average temp

12°C/54°F

Budget

Mid-range

Safety

Very safe

About Ballarat

Ballarat emerged during the gold rush of the 1850s, and much of its character is built on that wealth. The result is a city packed with Victorian architecture, from the grand public buildings to the ornate shops lining Lydiard Street. Sovereign Hill is the star attraction, where you can pan for gold and watch history come to life with actors in period costume. This history gives way to a more contemporary vibe, with a growing arts scene represented in galleries and festivals that draw students and art enthusiasts alike. While most visitors come for the gold rush heritage, many also stay for the art, the gardens, and the atmosphere that mixes the past with a lively present.

Who it's for

History buffs and art lovers will find plenty to occupy their time. A poor choice if you dislike crowds, as weekends can fill with tourists at Sovereign Hill and local events. If you're after a city buzz without the historical elements, you might want to look elsewhere.

Getting around

Public transport: Good

  • The city centre is compact and walkable in under twenty minutes
  • Public transport is reliable, with bus services connecting key areas
  • Sovereign Hill is about a ten-minute ride or a brisk walk from downtown
  • The train from Melbourne takes about an hour and drops you at the station near the centre
Art Gallery of Ballarat

Art Gallery of Ballarat

Cultural
Sovereign Hill, Ballarat

Sovereign Hill, Ballarat

Traditional villages
Robert Clark Conservatory

Robert Clark Conservatory

Nature
Ballarat Wildlife Park

Ballarat Wildlife Park

Wildlife Experiences
Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Nature
Eastern Peake Winery

Eastern Peake Winery

Food and Drink Destinations
Ross Creek Gallery

Ross Creek Gallery

Arts and Entertainment Venues
Lake Wendouree

Lake Wendouree

Natural Wonders
Umbrella Installation

Umbrella Installation

Cultural
Sunnyside Art Experience

Sunnyside Art Experience

Art museums & galleries
Red Hill Photographic Rooms

Red Hill Photographic Rooms

Cultural

Where to eat in Ballarat

The places worth planning a meal around.

Ballarat Vintage & Collectables

Ballarat Vintage & Collectables

Modern Australian · $10–$20

★ 4.6 · 494 reviews

Johnny Alloo

Johnny Alloo

Pakistani · $10–$30

★ 4.7 · 431 reviews

Ballarat Farmers Market

Ballarat Farmers Market

Farmers Market, Local Produce · $5–$30

★ 4.6 · 268 reviews

Shep Street Sandos

Shep Street Sandos

Modern Australian · $10–$20

★ 4.6 · 261 reviews

Mr Jones Dining

Mr Jones Dining

Modern Australian · $$

★ 4.6 · 193 reviews

Itinerant Spirits

Itinerant Spirits

Modern Australian · $30–$60

★ 4.6 · 192 reviews

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