From captivating gateways to historic times to groundbreaking modernity, the top attractions in Ballarat shine brightly.

History is always within reach in Ballarat, where impressive architecture effortlessly takes you back to the exciting era of the gold rush. However, today, a vibrant energy pulses through the iron-clad streets as Victoria’s third-largest city experiences a cultural revival. Immerse yourself in its bustling culinary landscape, participate in a maker’s workshop, or delve into unexpected tributes to history — the most rewarding activities in Ballarat are detailed below.

1. Embark on a heritage walking tour

Explore heritage structures along Sturt St. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Built from gold fortune, Ballarat was once the richest city in the world during the 1850s, and its beautifully preserved heritage streetscape is a testament to that history. Familiarize yourself with this gold-rush town by signing up for a 90-minute walking tour with Ballarat Heritage Tours or opt for a self-guided Heritage tour via Ballarat Revealed.

Discover the origins of Ballarat from the intersection of Sturt and Grenville streets, taking in buildings from the Ballarat Mechanics’ Institute—which has been educating and entertaining residents for over 150 years—to sites like Ballarat’s unique Turkish Bath House, now used as a skate ramp.

2. Enjoy a show at Her Majesty’s Theatre Ballarat

World-class performances are sure to captivate audiences at Her Majesty’s Theatre Ballarat. (Image: Michael Pham)

Whether you’re moved by the theatre, mesmerized by renowned mentalists, or searching for a vibrant night filled with live music, Her Majesty’s Theatre Ballarat is the ultimate venue. As Australia’s oldest continuously operating live theatre (established in 1875), its stunning architecture hosts an array of world-class performances. In 2025, artists like Sarah Blasko and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s James Ehnes, along with a production of Kinky Boots, will enchant audiences. Regardless of your visit timeframe, the quality of performances is consistently impressive, so check the schedule to align your visit with a must-see show.

3. Treat Yourself at Ballarat’s Sanctuary Day Spa

Step into the gardens of the Mercure Hotel to discover Ballarat’s Sanctuary Day Spa, a self-care haven that’s hard to leave. Nestled amidst lush gardens, the spa features six treatment rooms, a floating pedicure lounge, a relaxation area with a cozy fireplace (perfect for a romantic winter outing), a heated hydrotherapy pool, and a sauna. Even without a scheduled appointment, the surroundings invite you to stay, but be sure to indulge in the extensive selection of massages, body therapies, wraps, facials, and beauty treatments.

4. Explore the Art Gallery of Ballarat

The Art Gallery of Ballarat is Australia’s oldest and largest regional gallery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Another highlight of Ballarat’s grand heritage architecture, the Art Gallery of Ballarat is the country’s oldest and largest regional gallery. Established in 1884, it hosts a remarkable collection of Australian art spanning from the early colonial period to contemporary works. While the gallery will be closed for renovations starting March 3, 2025, for at least 18 months, its permanent collection will be displayed alongside touring and temporary exhibitions. Experience art within elegant 19th-century spaces and modern additions (with new developments on the way), making this a must-visit destination. Don’t forget to check out the gift shop for art books and unique creations from local artisans.

5. Experience history at Sovereign Hill

Step back in time to the gold rush era. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Since 1970, Sovereign Hill has been narrating the story of life during the 1850s gold rush in Ballarat, the largest shallow alluvial gold rush in history. This living outdoor museum, built on a former gold-mining site, is now a Ballarat icon, featuring costumed characters and horse-drawn carts within a goldfields town filled with shops, hotels, schools, factories, and mines.

The immersive theatre experience, Aura, is a highlight, showcasing a stunning light and sound display that chronicles the history of gold, integrating the Wadawurrung creation narrative through to modern times. Consider staying at the Sovereign Hill Hotel for a more comprehensive visit.

6. Learn at Eureka Centre Ballarat

Discover the gold rush history through cultural artefacts. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Head over to the Eureka Centre Ballarat to explore a pivotal chapter in Australian history: the site of the 1854 Eureka Stockade Rebellion and the home of the Eureka Flag—one of the nation’s most significant cultural symbols. Through interactive art exhibits and digital technology, you’ll uncover the stories of those who fought for miners’ rights that shaped modern democratic Australia, along with insights into the cultural effects of the gold rush.

7. Immerse Yourself in a Ballarat Festival

Join the vibrant Ballarat Begonia Festival. (Image: Supplied)

Ballarat features a variety of arts and cultural festivals, so plan your visit accordingly. The 2025 Ballarat Begonia Festival, set for March 8 to 10, showcases thousands of delicate blooms across more than 500 varieties in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens. Enjoy interactive workshops, roaming entertainers (including a presentation from SBS’ Costa Georgiadis), and food trucks. Additionally, The Wizard’s Annual Book and Record Fair, scheduled for March 22 to 23, 2025, will feature thousands of records, cassettes, and CDs for sale in the Messenger Hall in Soldiers Hill. The Ballarat International Foto Biennale is also noteworthy, boasting photographic exhibitions, talks, workshops, and events every two years in spring.

8. Participate in an Artisan Masterclass

Craft your own gin with expert distillers at Kilderkin Distillery. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Embrace Ballarat’s rich tradition of craftsmanship by enrolling in a workshop or masterclass with local artisans. Adam Parker of Parker Knives Australia frequently hosts popular knifemaking workshops, while the Kilderkin Distillery provides DIY gin classes led by knowledgeable distillers approximately once a month. Don’t miss CraftAlive, Australia’s largest craft event series, offering regular workshops with notable local artists.

9. Discover the Centre for Rare Arts & Forgotten Trades

Enroll in the SAORI Weaving Workshop with Prue Simmons. (Image: Supplied)

If you’re keen on hands-on experiences, be sure to visit the Centre for Rare Arts & Forgotten Trades. This inspiring hub of creativity and cultural appreciation hosts masterclasses and workshops that let visitors engage with the region’s artistic spirit. In 2025, look forward to 150 unique workshops led by 60 celebrated artists—be it silversmithing, dry stone walling, watercolour painting, woodturning, or other crafts; there’s something for everyone.

10. Taste the Flavors of Ballarat’s Wine Region

Eastern Peake is renowned for boutique wines. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Beyond its vibrant dining scene, Ballarat boasts a boutique wine region known for cold-climate varieties like pinot noir, chardonnay, and sparkling wines, as well as riesling and shiraz.

Be sure to taste at Latta Vino, located 20 minutes north in Coghills Creek, where winemaker Owen Latta crafts exceptional natural wines. Nearby, Eastern Peake is another destination to savor, as Owen refined his skills at the winery still operated by his father.

Don’t miss Wayward Winery, about a 20-minute drive from the town center, offering well-crafted pinot noir, pinot gris, chardonnay, and shiraz—covering all the essentials.

11. Unearth Unique Dining Experiences in Ballarat

Head chef Derek Boath previously worked at New York’s three-Michelin-starred “Per Se.”

Selecting from the best restaurants in Ballarat may seem overwhelming, but the quest is enjoyable. Underbar is an exclusive 16-seat fine-dining venue tucked away without signage, offering a seasonal tasting menu inspired by local ingredients, crafted by chef Derek Boath. Reservations fill up quickly on the first of each month.

In early 2025, Babae is set to take the spotlight, showcasing exceptional regional produce and ingredients. Located in the picturesque Hotel Vera on Sturt St, which often ranks among Ballarat’s top accommodation options.

12. Relax at Lake Wendouree

Enjoy the historic Lake Wendouree boat sheds. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Take a stroll around Ballarat’s picturesque Lake Wendouree, which transformed from a swamp into an idyllic spot for leisurely afternoons. Following the development of a botanic garden on its western shore in the 1850s, the lake evolved into a recreational site featuring two rowing clubs and various pleasure craft by the 1870s.

Savor a casual meal at The Yacht Club, admire the charming historic boat sheds, and then hop aboard the replica Golden City Paddle Steamer for a dose of history on a 45-minute cruise through scenic views.

13. Discover the Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Stroll through the vibrant flowerbeds at Ballarat Botanical Gardens. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Wander through the stunning Ballarat Botanical Gardens located on the western side of Lake Wendouree. As the oldest inland botanical gardens in regional Victoria, it features a blend of mature trees and marble statues enveloped in colorful flowerbeds. Spanning 40 hectares, it also hosts the Robert Clark Conservatory, a striking modern structure home to seasonal displays and a hub for the Ballarat Begonia Festival mentioned earlier.

The gardens also host the Ballarat Tramway Museum, one of the top attractions in Ballarat for families, offering rides in vintage trams that served Ballarat’s public transport until 1971. Enjoy a delightful 20-minute journey through both the gardens and the scenic surroundings of Lake Wendouree.

14. Savor Farm-to-Fork Delicacies at Tuki Restaurant

Enjoy paddock-to-plate offerings at Tuki Restaurant.

For a distinctive outing, visit Tuki located just 40 minutes from Ballarat on a serene hilltop with breathtaking views.

The ponds here are filled with rainbow trout, guaranteeing a catch for visitors, but the fine dining experience should not be overlooked. Enjoy a selection of dishes crafted from fresh ingredients, especially the renowned trout paired with fennel, orange, and native spices. We recommend indulging in a five-course tasting menu that highlights the culinary expertise.

15. Meet Local Wildlife at Ballarat Wildlife Park

Come face-to-face with a meerkat. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Family-operated Ballarat Wildlife Park houses an extensive variety of native Australian wildlife, including free-roaming kangaroos, wombats, and a group of little penguins. Visitors can meet the park’s resident Sumatran tigers, Kai and Akasha, and choose from various animal encounters featuring meerkats, koalas, and even an 80-year-old tortoise!

Explore the top activities in Ballarat