Places worth discovering

Things to Do

Find attractions, experiences and places to visit. Events remain the best way to see what is happening on a particular date.

Looking for a dated event? Explore Events

144 places

Explore local places

Kooyoora State Park

National Parks and Reserves

Kooyoora State Park

With magnificent views and a rich variety of plants and animals, Kooryoora State Park is an ideal place for picnics, sightseeing, rock climbing, orienteering and nature study. Visit the Melville Caves, huge granite boulders thought to have been once used as a hideout for the bushranger 'Captain Melville'. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Brenanah VIC

5.1 km away

Welcome Stranger Monument — Image credit: Central Goldfields Shire Council

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Welcome Stranger Monument

The Welcome Stranger Monument marks the site of one of the most extraordinary discoveries in global gold rush history, the finding of the largest alluvial gold nugget ever recorded. In February 1869, prospectors John Deason and Richard Oates uncovered the legendary Welcome Stranger at Moliagul, beneath the roots of a tree. Weighing more than 70 kilograms before processing, the nugget was so large it had to be broken apart before it could be weighed. The discovery captured international attention and cemented Moliagul's place in goldfields history. Erected in 1897, the granite obelisk stands near the original discovery site and serves as a lasting tribute to this remarkable moment. Surrounded by the quiet bushland of the Central Goldfields, the monument invites visitors to reflect on the scale of the find and the determination of those who searched for gold in Victoria's rugged landscapes. Interpretive signage helps bring the story to life, making the monument an engaging stop for history enthusiasts, families and travellers exploring the region's gold rush heritage. The site forms part of the broader Moliagul Historic Reserve and can be visited alongside walking tracks, picnic areas and nearby prospecting locations. A visit to the Welcome Stranger Monument offers a powerful connection to Victoria's gold rush legacy, where chance, perseverance and history combined to create a story known around the world.

Moliagul VIC

13 km away

The Emporium offers a varied range of rustic and vintage furniture furniture. — Image credit: Denise Gartside

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Inglewood Emporium

Inglewood Emporium has a wide variety of collectables, furniture, and vintage clothes set in the middle of historic Inglewood. The business is open five days a week and run by experienced secondhand dealers, registered for over 25 years. Inglewood Emporium houses an amazing assortment of quality antiques and collectables within a historic 1861 goldfields grocery store. This unmissable shop is located within the grand and gorgeous gold rush town of Inglewood. The extensive collection of vintage treasures within Inglewood Emporium includes: records, books, ephemera, advertising, garagenalia, toys, vintage clothes, furniture, vintage motorcycles, rustic farm relics, and much more. Owners Denise and Stephen Gartside have been registered secondhand dealers for 25 years, and travel near and far sourcing quality old wares. Inglewood Emporium's shopfront is attractively adorned with vines and an original old Bushells window sign. The treasures within are beautifully displayed and sure to impress. Whether you are a browser or a buyer, Inglewood Emporium is a fantastic place to visit.

Inglewood VIC

17 km away

Horse statue and "eucy' leaves rake. — Image credit: Nicole Upton

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Eucalyptus Distillery Museum Inglewood

Located in Inglewood, home of the Blue Mallee Eucalyptus, the Eucalyptus Distillery Museum Inglewood offers visitors a glimpse into an industry that dates back to the mid-1800s. Located on the site of a heritage listed Blue Mallee Eucalyptus Oil Distillery on the Calder Highway known as Jones' Distillery, the museum has a range of displays including audio visual stories about the men and women distilling the natural oil from the local blue mallee leaves, and include a demonstration of the process. The retail shop has a wide range of natural and unique eucalyptus based products as well as displays of local artworks. School and large groups are catered for with special group pricing. As a Loddon Valley Welcome Shop, tourism information is available. The museum is just on the northern edge of the Inglewood township.

Inglewood VIC

17 km away

Wedderburn Coach House Gallery and Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Wedderburn Coach House Gallery and Museum

Visit the Wedderburn Coach House Gallery and Museum and take a step back in time. Once a bustling general store, it closed its doors in the late 1960s but everything inside has been beautifully preserved, down to the original products still on the shelves. The General Store Museum dating back to the 1850s contains an early record of Wedderburn and the local district. The General Store closed in the late 60s and has been preserved, it contains products from that era. There are cellars underneath and a coach house which has a Blacksmith forge, many carriages and equipment that were established for the museum. The museum is now linked to the Wedderburn Historical Society with access to archival records of Korong Shire (now Loddon) including original settlers and businesses and general information of the area.

Wedderburn VIC

27 km away

St Arnaud Silo Art

Landmarks and Buildings

St Arnaud Silo Art and Murals

The silos at St Arnaud were transformed under the skilled hands of Kyle Torney. Entitled ‘Hope’, Kyle’s masterpiece narrates the tale of three pioneer residents of St Arnaud. The mural is so large it spans two silos and illustrates St Arnaud's gold mining history. The design was chosen in collaboration with residents of the town. Kyle consulted with residents to select one of four design ideas to engage the local community. Demonstrating his meticulous approach to his craft, Kyle completed between 30 and 40 trips up and down the silo each day to ensure that the piece was proportionate and visually striking from a distance. The best way to see St Arnaud and experience its magic for yourself is to enjoy the trail of wall murals as well as the silo art that forms part of the Wimmera Mallee Silo Art Trail; Australia’s largest outdoor gallery. There are 20 locations of public art around town, all created by Kyle Torney, a talented local ‘narrative portraiture’ artist. His pieces feature images of people to amplify powerful, untold stories about those who have made St Arnaud what it is today.

Saint Arnaud VIC

40 km away

Australian Sapphire Ring — Image credit: Karen Russ

Shopping and Markets

Russ Studio Jewellers

Find an extensive retail offering in Napier St, St Arnaud, and Bespoke Jewellery and wares at Moco Gallery Halls Gap, with ranges made by Russ Studios (Jeweller Karen Russ) and fellow artisans. Russ Studios features creations inspired by the local landscape, flora and fauna and the use of Australian diamonds, gems and pearls. Appointments available for custom design and repair and restoration work.

Saint Arnaud VIC

40 km away

St. Arnaud Art Gallery - Raillery Hub

Galleries, Museums and Collections

St. Arnaud Art Gallery - Raillery Hub

Raillery Hub Incorporated (RHI) is home to a Community Art Gallery and creative shop for the sale of quality, regionally produced and handmade local products, art and crafts. It also offers a multi-purpose centre and facilities that encourage participation and engage the community in a variety of educational, social and creative activities and events.

St Arnaud VIC

40 km away

St Arnaud Range National Park

National Parks and Reserves

St Arnaud Range National Park

St Arnaud Range National Park features mainly steep, forested terrain and is an ideal place to experience what the forests of Central Victoria were like before the gold rushes. The rocky ridge tops in the park offer fine views for bushwalkers and four-wheel-drive tourers, and there are ample opportunities for hiking in the steep and rugged terrain. The Upper Teddington Reservoir is a peaceful place for picnics and camping. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Stuart Mill VIC

41 km away

The Great Stupa Events — Image credit: The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion

Galleries, Museums and Collections

The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion

Immerse yourself in Tibetan culture, architecture, art and interfaith harmony with a tour inside the most sacred building in Buddhism. The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion rises from the distinctive bushland of Bendigo, just two hours from Melbourne, at an impressive height of almost 50 metres. It is based on the Great Stupa of Gyantse in Tibet and is being built to last 1000 years. The Great Stupa is run as a not-for-profit organisation that offers a place of peace and harmony for all beings.

Myers Flat VIC

44 km away

Art gallery facade and bell tower — Image credit: Central Goldfields Art Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Central Goldfields Art Gallery

Central Goldfields Art Gallery is a cultural facility of Central Goldfields Shire Council. The art gallery is situated in the picturesque and historic fire station built in 1862, an easy 15-minute walk from Maryborough railway station and a few blocks Maryborough's High street. The gallery presents a varied exhibition program that showcases local and regional artists and includes touring exhibitions. A selection from the permanent collection is on display in the Cambrian Room. This growing collection includes works by artists of regional and national significance, such as Arthur Boyd, Pro Hart, Dean Bowen and Ray Crooke. Textile art from the biennial Golden Textures acquisitive exhibition compliments the work from the existing collection. Community engagement is supported with an annual community art exhibition and local schools' VCE art and design. If you would like to receive an invitation to the gallery's exhibitions, via email, please subscribe to their e-news. For further information on current exhibitions or to download a copy of the Gallery's program of exhibitions, visit the Gallery website. Tour groups welcome by arrangement outside of the listed opening hours.

Maryborough VIC

44 km away

Princes Park — Image credit: Central Goldfields Shire Council

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Princes Park

Princes Park is one of Victoria's finest regional parks and a signature attraction in Maryborough, offering a blend of grand landscaping, recreational facilities and goldfields history. Developed during the late 19th century at the height of Maryborough's prosperity, Princes Park reflects the civic pride of a flourishing gold rush town. Carefully designed avenues, mature trees and expansive lawns create a sense of scale rarely seen in regional parks, making it a standout destination within the Central Goldfields. At the heart of the park is Lake Victoria, a picturesque ornamental lake that adds to the park's beauty and provides a peaceful setting for walking, relaxation and photography. A network of paths winds through the park, connecting open lawns, shaded picnic areas and key heritage features. Princes Park is also home to notable historic structures including the Princes Park Grandstand, Memorial Gates and band rotunda. Sporting facilities, playgrounds and open spaces cater to both organised events and casual recreation, making the park popular with locals and visitors alike. Regularly hosting community celebrations, sporting fixtures and seasonal events, Princes Park continues its long tradition as Maryborough's premier gathering place. Located close to the historic town centre, it complements nearby heritage attractions and gardens, encouraging visitors to linger and explore everything Maryborough has to offer.

Maryborough VIC

44 km away

Cairn Curran Reservoir — Image credit: Central Goldfields Shire Council

Natural Attractions

Cairn Curran Reservoir

Cairn Curran Reservoir is one of northern Victoria's most popular inland water destinations, offering expansive views, outdoor recreation and a relaxed country atmosphere near Maryborough. Created in the mid‑20th century to support irrigation and water supply for the region, the reservoir is now valued just as highly for recreation and tourism. Set against wide open farmland and big skies, its vast shoreline creates a sense of space and tranquillity that invites visitors to slow down and unwind. The reservoir is a well‑known spot for boating, fishing and kayaking, with species such as yellowbelly, redfin and trout attracting anglers year‑round. Scenic picnic areas and informal camping spots around the shoreline make it an ideal place to spend a day, or longer, enjoying the outdoors. At sunrise and sunset, the landscape comes alive with colour, birdlife and sweeping reflections across the water. The Cairn Curran Reservoir complements nearby goldfields towns and heritage attractions, adding a nature‑based experience to the region's rich history. Whether stopping in for a peaceful picnic, casting a line, launching a boat or camping under the stars, Cairn Curran Reservoir offers visitors a refreshing lakeside escape and a compelling reason to extend their stay in the Central Goldfields.

Baringhup VIC

45 km away

Bristol Hill Lookout

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Bristol Hill Tower Lookout

For stunning 360-degree views of the region, there's no better place than Bristol Hill Lookout. With a panoramic outlook reaching over the Pyrenees Ranges and across to Castlemaine and Mount Tarrengower, the lookout is also an important piece of local history. Like many small towns, the Great Depression especially impacted Maryborough. The Unemployment Relief Committee secured funds to build the tower and provide jobs for many out of work locals. Works commenced in 1929 to commemorate the pioneers and the miners who were responsible for building the region. The site, once a scarred quartz hill known as Bristol Reef or Quartz Hill that operated during the gold rush, now houses the Tower. The bluestone steps were sourced from the old Maryborough Jail. Three plaques at the base have verses from Australian poet, Henry Lawson, referring to Australia's pioneers. Opening day was April 16 1933, and thousands of residents from Maryborough and beyond walked from the Civic Centre to the tower. The tower was restored in 2024 by a community group called Friends of the Tower, together with the local Rotary Club. Today, it's well worth a visit to enjoy the beautiful view and memories of the pioneers.

Maryborough VIC

45 km away

Phillips Botanical Gardens — Image credit: Central Goldfields Shire Council

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Phillips Botanical Gardens

Phillips Botanical Gardens is a treasured heritage garden in the heart of Maryborough, Victoria, offering a peaceful retreat enriched by the town's goldfields history. The gardens originated in 1860 when a mining dam on Maryborough's main lead was purchased by the Borough Council to supply water for firemen and horses. A reserve was added in 1861, and by 1872 the site had been designated a botanical reserve. Thoughtfully planned in 1875 and gazetted in 1879, the gardens reflect the civic ambition and prosperity of Maryborough during the gold rush era. The name honours Henry Neville Phillips, who served as Town Clerk from 1888 to 1935 and contributed significantly to the town's development. Today, Phillips Botanical Gardens features an ornamental lake encircled by a walking track, shaded picnic areas and expansive lawn spaces ideal for relaxation, photography and family visits. A highlight is the greenhouse, home to a lush collection of tropical rainforest plants that can be admired year‑round. Located within easy walking distance of Maryborough's historic town centre, the gardens form an important part of the town's heritage and nature trails, inviting visitors to slow down and enjoy the living legacy of the Central Goldfields region.

Maryborough VIC

45 km away

Tilly Aston Memorial Park — Image credit: Central Goldfields Shire Council

Landmarks and Buildings

Tilly Aston Memorial Park

Tilly Aston Memorial Park is a quiet community park in Carisbrook, Victoria, dedicated to one of Australia's most inspiring advocates for people with vision impairment. The park honours Matilda "Tilly" Aston, who was born near Carisbrook in 1873 and lost her sight at an early age. Despite this, she became a pioneering educator, writer and activist, playing a foundational role in the introduction of braille literacy and services for people who are blind across Australia. Her work had nationwide impact and continues to influence disability advocacy and inclusive education today. Set within a peaceful, leafy setting, the memorial park provides a reflective place to pause and learn about Tilly Aston's remarkable life and achievements. Open lawn areas, shade trees and seating create a welcoming space for quiet rest, while interpretive elements acknowledge her strong connection to Carisbrook and the Central Goldfields region. Located close to Carisbrook's historic township and within easy reach of nearby heritage attractions, Tilly Aston Memorial Park adds depth to the region's story — highlighting not only goldfields history, but also the individuals whose legacy extends far beyond their local community. For visitors interested in social history, education and stories of determination, the park offers a meaningful and enriching stop when exploring the Central Goldfields.

Carisbrook VIC

46 km away

Paddys Ranges State Park

National Parks and Reserves

Paddys Ranges State Park

Well-known for its wildflowers in springtime, Paddys Ranges State Park is home to 30 types of orchids and more than 140 native bird species like the rare Painted Honeyeaters and Swift Parrots. Located northwest of Melbourne, this beautiful bushland is a stronghold of Box-Ironbark and is an important conservation refuge for endangered plants and animals. Wander the park as it bursts into colour with spring wildflowers or discover relics and reminders of its gold mining past. The parks mining history dates back to the 1800s and since 1951 the Maryborough Field Naturalists Club began pushing for the protection of the park's unique Box-Ironbark Forest. In 1989, Paddys Ranges State Park was reserved. The now 1,954ha park is a haven for plants and animals with more than 230 species of wildflowers and a 140 species of birds have been recorded in the park. There are a number of walking trails, a free camping area at Karri Track and Settling Ponds Track Picnic Area has tables, a toilet and wood barbeques. Visitors must bring their own firewood. Before you go check Parks Victoria's website for local changes and park conditions. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors and stay up to date using the Vic Emergency website.

Adelaide Lead VIC

49 km away

Star Cinema in the historic Eaglehawk Town Hall — Image credit: Star Cinema

Entertainment Venues

Star Cinema

Star Cinema offers a unique cinema experience and is Bendigo's only boutique cinema. Star is open seven days a week, screening new releases. They also showcase classic classic films on a Tuesday night. While you gaze at the big screen from your couch, your cinema experience is enhanced with the flavour of Central Victoria in the form of local wine, beer and snacks. Many cinemas offer a homogenised, formulaic film experience. The Star Cinema experience is truly unique. Their patrons will tell you that, once you discover Star Cinema, you will keep coming back. Make Star Cinema one of your must-do experiences while in Central Victoria.

Eaglehawk VIC

49 km away

Greater Bendigo State Park — Image credit: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Greater Bendigo National Park

This park protects some of the highest quality Box-Ironbark forest in north-central Victoria, along with mallee and grassy woodlands. This is an ideal spot for nature study, birdwatching, bushwalking, picnics, horse riding and camping. The best time to visit is between August and October when colourful wildflowers are abundant. The 60 kilometre Bendigo Bushland Trail goes through part of the park, and the Great Dividing Trail begins here, linking Bendigo, Castlemaine and Ballarat. Things to do - Recreational fossicking is allowed in some areas. Fossickers must hold a current Miners Right. - The park offers a range of opportunities for walking and mountain biking. - Scenic driving, cycling and walking - Most roads in the park are unsealed and suitable for car touring and cycling. Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Eaglehawk North VIC

50 km away

Pippa looking at Dean Bowen's prints and paintings — Image credit: Cascade Art Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Cascade Art Gallery

Cascade Art Gallery is an inviting, light-filled space in Maldon showcasing thought-provoking exhibitions and diverse contemporary works. Here, you'll find a carefully curated selection of paintings, sculpture and works on paper from both emerging and established Australian artists. Whether you're an avid collector or simply curious, Cascade Art offers inspiration, conversation, and a deeper connection to the creative spirit of the region. Home of the Maldon Portrait and Landscape Prize.

Maldon VIC

50 km away

Maldon Historic Reserve — Image credit: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Maldon Historic Reserve

Located in and around the township of Maldon, the Maldon Historic Reserve protects many relics from the gold mining era - abandoned shafts and tunnels, mullock heaps, quartz roasting kilns, stone walls, chimneys and machinery - as well as the box and ironbark forests. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website. Be bushfire ready in the great outdoors. Refer to the Bushfire Safety section on the Parks Victoria website for tips on how to stay safe.

Maldon VIC

51 km away

Gallery 127

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Gallery 127

As part of the Avoca Community Arts and Gardens Hub located at the newly transformed heritage listed Avoca Railway Station, Gallery 127 presents exhibitions of local and regional artists as well as solo exhibitions by single artists, including photographic and sculptural works. Local history displays, workshops and artist studio spaces are also available together with a permanently operated community plant nursery situated on the station's platform.

Avoca VIC

52 km away

Barking Owl

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Avoca Silo Art

The Avoca silo artwork depicts the Australian Barking Owl, a bird native to the local Pyrenees Ranges. The Avoca silo displays the first glow-in-the-dark artwork in the Australian Silo Art Trail. The silo has two separate glow-in-the-dark features that can be experienced after dark. First, set behind the owl is a Glow in the dark starburst sky. The starburst sky and the owls eyes both glow in the dark when charged by the silos installed floodlights. Nightly projection with audio and visual from 8pm allow 45 minutes for this full experience. (This projection is located to the left face of the silo from the Owl mural). There is also an interactive glow wall set on the Pyrenees Ranges below the owl where you can draw your own artwork using nothing more than light from a torch or phone torch.

Avoca VIC

52 km away

Mine Experience Tour — Image credit: Bendigo Heritage

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Central Deborah Gold Mine

At Central Deborah Gold Mine you have the unique opportunity to explore an authentic gold mine that successfully operated during the gold rush boom, extracting 929 kilograms of gold. Don a hard hat to descend 61 metres underground on a guided Mine Experience Tour. Explore the honeycomb of underground tunnels, discover what conditions as a miner were really like, witness traditional mining equipment in action and see gold in its natural state. This 75 minute tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for children aged three years and over. Dominated by a huge 22 metre high poppet head, the surface of the mine is a highlight in itself. Step inside heritage-listed buildings which were essential to the mine’s operation, including the old Blacksmith's Shop, the First Aid Room, Carbide Lamp Room and the impressive Engine Room.

Bendigo VIC

52 km away

What is happening now?

Search dated events, markets, live music, sport and community activities.

Planning by place?

Use Things to Do for attractions and experiences that are not tied to one event date.