Things to do in Ballarat

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Goldfields

Sovereign Hill

Sovereign Hill is an open-air museum located on the Ballarat goldfields, recreating the original appearance of a gold rush town during the first decade after gold was discovered in 1851. Walking into the park, the gravel-paved main street is lined with bakeries, candy stores, blacksmith shops, candle workshops, and old-fashioned photo studios, where staff in period costumes move about, and horse-drawn carriages occasionally pass by, transporting visitors back to the gold rush era of the 1850s. The signature experience here is gold panning: carefully sifting through creek water with a pan, and with luck, you might take home tiny gold flakes. The underground tunnels of Red Hill Mine recount the story of miners discovering the "Welcome Nugget," a gold nugget weighing nearly 70 kg. In the gold melting workshop, staff pour molten gold into bars on the spot—a truly impressive sight. The red-coated soldiers' musket-firing demonstrations along the main street and the handmade raspberry hard candy process in the candy workshop are year-round highlights. After dark, visitors can enjoy the AURA sound and light show, which tells the legend of gold. The park is spacious with many activities, so it's recommended to set aside most of a day for a leisurely visit. The main street has gravel paths, so wearing comfortable shoes is advisable. Gold panning, vintage photos, and carriage rides are particularly popular, so it's best to prioritize these upon arrival. △ It feels like traveling back to the gold rush era of the 1850s △ Observe the candy-making process up close △ Listen to the stories of the red-coated guards on Main Street

No. 16 of Family-friendly Attractions in Victoria

Ballarat Wildlife Park

Founded in 1985, Ballarat Wildlife Park is owned and operated by the Greg Parker family, based on a passion for wildlife and natural environment conservation, the Parker family understands people and animals in a relaxed, friendly and educational environment the value of harmonious coexistence. The zoo is only 5 minutes away from Sovereign Hill and covers an area of 32 acres. Therefore, the species and number of animals are very impressive and rare. There are about 400 species, most of which are native to Australia, including kangaroos, koalas, eagles , black swans, crocodiles, koalas, etc. Children can get up close and personal with koalas, wombats, kangaroos, and even crocodiles, with guided tours offered daily at 11am, and weekend keeper feeding shows from 1.30pm on Saturdays and Sundays, allowing visitors to interact with the animals in person.

NRMA Ballarat Holiday Park

Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Ballarat Botanic Gardens has several conservatories that are warm all year round. A variety of plants are grown here, and there are many varieties that are worth watching.

Kryal Castle

A medieval-themed adventure park. There're horseback medieval demonstrations with an opporunity to meet the steeds, and activities such as archery and axe throwing.

Art Gallery of Ballarat

Lake Wendouree Apex Adventure playground

Victoria Park

Victoria Park is a vibrant park known for its diverse culture, convenient living, and laid-back atmosphere. Situated near the Perth city center with convenient transportation, it is a popular living and leisure area for local residents, students, and visitors. The park not only features a wide range of recreational facilities but also retains a distinct community feel, providing a quiet and comfortable environment for visitors. The park also offers many natural spaces and leisure areas, with lawns, slides, lakes, and walking trails. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, and family gatherings, and can also enjoy beautiful sunsets here. The park frequently hosts various events, such as markets, concerts, festivals, and cultural exchange activities, offering visitors a platform for cultural exchange.

Eureka Centre Ballarat

The Eureka Centre is a history museum in Ballarat, Victoria, Australia, and a memorial to the Eureka Rebellion. The museum features many exhibits, including historical artifacts, photographs, documents, and artworks, allowing visitors to learn about the rebellion's background, course, and impact.

Ballarat Golf Club