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

514 places

Explore local places

Swanpool Heritage Murals — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Swanpool Heritage Murals

Add a creative country stop to your next family drive with a visit to the Swanpool Heritage Murals, just 20 minutes from Benalla. Painted in 2012 by artists Michael Larkin and Tim Bowtell, the artworks bring the area's early days to life in a fun, accessible way for visitors of all ages. The murals were created as part of a local streetscape beautification project, supported by the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal and the Swanpool and District Community Development Association. Located near the local store, these colourful murals are an easy and enjoyable way to stretch your legs, take a few photos and discover the stories of the Swanpool district. Perfect for art lovers, history seekers and curious kids, the Swanpool Heritage Murals offer a relaxed, family-friendly detour where creativity, community and country charm come together. Make it part of a weekend wander, enjoy the scenic drive and uncover another little gem in north-east Victoria.

Swanpool VIC

5.0 km away

Stringybark Creek Camping area — Image credit: DELWP

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Stringybark Creek Camping Area

Stringybark Creek Camping Area is a free camping area located in the Toombullup State Forest near Tolmie, northeast of Mansfield. This site links by a walking track to the Stringybark Creek Day Reserve, site of the infamous shooting of three policemen by the Kelly Gang in 1878, and part of the Ned Kelly Touring Route. From here you can take the interpretive walk to rediscover the history of the location. Large expansive sites in a natural bushland setting. Pit toilets, fireplaces and picnic tables available. This bush site operates on a first in first served basis and is not bookable. Continue on the Whitfield Rd to access Powers Lookout, also part of the Ned Kelly Touring Route.

Tatong VIC

8.3 km away

Mt Samaria Summit — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Natural Attractions

Mount Samaria Summit Loop

Escape to the rugged beauty of Mount Samaria State Park and discover one of the region's most rewarding hiking experiences. The Mount Samaria Summit Loop is a challenging 4.2-kilometre circuit that showcases spectacular scenery, native bushland and sweeping views across north-east Victoria. Starting from Mount Samaria Road, the trail climbs steadily to the park's highest point, the 953-metre Mount Samaria Summit. Along the way, hikers are rewarded with stunning panoramic vistas, unique rock formations and a true sense of wilderness that makes this destination a favourite for outdoor adventurers. Rated difficult, the walk features steep sections, formed tracks and natural obstacles, making it best suited to experienced hikers with a reasonable level of fitness. Allow approximately one hour to reach the summit and enjoy the breathtaking views before continuing the loop back to the trailhead. For those wanting to extend their adventure, the summit walk connects to the Spring Creek Sawmill via Lightning Track, a five-kilometre one-way walk that takes approximately two hours and offers further opportunities to explore the park's diverse landscapes. With its peaceful setting, striking scenery and rewarding climbs, the Mount Samaria Summit Loop is an ideal destination for visitors seeking a memorable outdoor experience. Bring your sense of adventure and discover why Mount Samaria State Park is one of the region's hidden natural gems.

Samaria VIC

10 km away

Wild Dog Falls — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Natural Attractions

Wild Dog Falls Walk and lookout - Mount Samaria

Ready to follow your nose into the wild? Wild Dog Falls is a short and rewarding bushwalk in Mount Samaria State Park, perfect for families who like their nature adventures with a little wag in the tail. This 1.5 kilometre walk starts from the carpark on Mount Samaria Road and follows a well-marked track through peaceful native forest. It is a Level 3 walk, so expect a few ups, downs and rocky bits along the way, but the sense of discovery makes every step part of the fun. Listen for birds, keep an eye out for curious forest details, and enjoy the big reveal at the top of the falls, where sweeping views stretch across Lake Nillahcootie and the Strathbogie Ranges. It is a great spot to catch your breath, snap a family photo or unpack a well-earned snack. Want to make a day of it? Wild Dog Creek Campground is nearby, giving adventurous families a peaceful base to picnic, explore and soak up the forest atmosphere. Pack sturdy shoes, water and your best explorer energy, then set off for a waterfall wander with plenty of personality.

Samaria VIC

11 km away

A lone tree in the waters of Lake Nillahcootie — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Natural Attractions

Lake Nillahcootie

Big skies, sparkling water and plenty of room to play — Lake Nillahcootie is made for fresh-air adventures. Just 36 kilometres south of Benalla, this scenic reservoir on the Broken River is a favourite High Country escape for families, day-trippers and anyone who loves time by the water. Pack the picnic basket, bring the fishing rods or launch the boat and make a day of it. The lake is popular for fishing, boating and water skiing, with Murray cod, golden perch and trout waiting to tempt keen anglers. Boat ramps make it easy to get out on the water, while the foreshore offers space to relax, snack and soak up the views. Picnic and boating areas are open daily from 8 am to sunset, giving you plenty of time for lakeside fun from morning adventures to golden-hour photos. Bordering the edge of Mount Samaria State Park, Lake Nillahcootie serves up peaceful bushland, wide-open views and a beautiful backdrop for family exploring. Keep an eye out for the sculptural dead trees rising from the water — they make a wonderfully quirky photo stop. Whether you are chasing fish, skimming across the lake, stretching your legs or simply enjoying a lazy picnic with a view, Lake Nillahcootie is an easy, family-friendly place to slow down, splash out and enjoy the outdoors.

Barjarg VIC

13 km away

Mount Samaria State Park

National Parks and Reserves

Mount Samaria State Park

Just a few hours' drive from Melbourne, Mount Samaria State Park is a serene, semi-remote sanctuary for wildlife, native flora and nature lovers alike. Set in tall, shady eucalypt forest, the park offers a cool and quiet retreat for beautiful walks, camping and picnicking. The Mount Samaria range incorporates a variety of scenery with spectacular vistas over the Victorian Alps, granite outcrops, high waterfalls and historic remains. Explore the park by foot, mountain bike or scenic drive and discover its tranquility and beauty. A range of camping and picnic areas, walking tracks and lookouts provide the visitor with many opportunities to experience this semi-remote park. In spring and early summer, marvel as a dazzling array of native wildflowers burst into multi-coloured bloom, including peas, trigger plants, everlasting daisies, milkmaids and orchids. The tall forest of the plateau is a stronghold for the Greater Glider, a vulnerable species of marsupial which only comes out at night. Before traveling, visit Parks Victoria's website to check for changes in park conditions which may impact your visit. Remember to stay bushfire ready using the Vic Emergency website while in nature.

Bridge Creek VIC

14 km away

Lima Falls — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Natural Attractions

Lima Falls Walk

Tucked away south of Benalla, Lima Falls is a peaceful little escape where forest tracks, fresh air and the sound of White Gum Gully Creek lead you to a pretty waterfall hidden among the trees. Just 42 kilometres from Benalla, the journey takes you along Police Track and through pine plantations, adding to the sense of discovery before you even arrive. Follow the small brown road signs towards the falls, then look for the walking track sign and car park as you get closer. The unsealed road is generally suitable for 2WD vehicles, depending on weather conditions. From the car park, the return walk is 1.2 kilometres and takes about one hour. Expect a formed, signposted track with short steep hills, occasional steps and some natural obstacles along the way. No bushwalking experience is required, making it a rewarding outing for anyone keen to stretch their legs and enjoy a quiet pocket of nature. There are no facilities at Lima Falls, so come prepared with water, sturdy footwear and everything you need to leave no trace. As a natural waterfall, flow depends on recent rainfall, so visiting after wet weather can make the experience even more memorable.

Creek Junction VIC

17 km away

Mt Samaria

Natural Attractions

Blue Range Camping and Picnic Area

Blue Range Camping and Picnic Area offers a small, basic campsite on Blue Range Creek, 20 minutes north of Mansfield via Mansfield - Whitfield Road. Gravel road access. The campsite is on the edge of Mt Samaria State Park, in a quiet location near a small creek and in natural bushland. Toilet facilities are across the road in the picnic area. The campsite is dog friendly, however Mt Samaria State Park does not allow dogs.

Bridge Creek VIC

18 km away

historical reserve — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Stringybark Historical Reserve

Step into one of Australia's most talked-about bushranger stories at Stringybark Historical Reserve, located 50 kilometres south of Benalla. Hidden among peaceful forest, this historic site marks the place where the Kelly Gang and police clashed on 26 October 1878. Today, families and curious explorers can wander through the reserve, follow interpretive signs and discover the dramatic events that unfolded beneath the stringybarks. A police memorial now honours the three officers who lost their lives, adding a powerful moment of reflection to the visit. Make time for the Stringybark Creek Walk, a 1.4 kilometre track that takes around 30 minutes to complete. It is a short but memorable stroll, with plenty for young history hunters to spot along the way. The natural bush setting remains wonderfully unspoilt, making the reserve feel like a true step back in time. Access is via a well-graded dirt road from Mansfield or Benalla, becoming gravel as you enter the State Forest. Please take care, as logging trucks may use these roads. The day visitor area on Stringybark Creek Road offers picnic and wood barbecue facilities, making it easy to turn your visit into a relaxed family adventure. Pack snacks, sturdy shoes and a sense of curiosity, then explore a fascinating slice of Kelly Country history in the heart of the bush.

Archerton VIC

18 km away

Interpertive Signage — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Heller Historic Grave

On the way to Stringybark Creek and add a meaningful stop at the Heller Historic Grave, a quiet place where local history comes to life. Set among the peaceful bushland, the grave is a memorial to Emma Sophia Heller (1848–1889), a 19th century immigrant and early settler whose story offers a moving glimpse into life in the region's early days. Take a moment to read the interpretive signage and discover more about her remarkable life, the challenges she faced and the resilience of those who helped shape this part of north-east Victoria. It is a simple but rewarding detour for history lovers, curious travellers and families looking to add a little extra depth to their country drive.

Archerton VIC

19 km away

The Maze in 15 Mile Creek — Image credit: Brookfield Maze

Amusement and Theme Parks

Brookfield Maze

Brookfield Maze, Licensed Café and Gardens is located in Myrrhee, North East Victoria, in the foothills of the King Valley gourmet food and wine region beside Fifteen Mile Creek. Explore the traditional hedge maze and enjoy the peaceful garden setting. Kids will love the scavenger hunts and hidden koala trail, keeping them busy for hours while mum and dad relax with coffee and scones. Play bocce, giant chess or checkers on the lawn. Follow the brick labyrinth to the rock centre or take a quiet stroll through the gardens and enjoy the changing seasons. The licensed café offers a relaxed menu using local produce. Choose from house-made toasties, waffles, and seasonal lunches. Enjoy a barista coffee, local wine or craft beer in the air-conditioned café or outside with garden views. Brookfield Maze is also available for weddings, corporate planning days and Christmas parties. The gardens provide a relaxed, country atmosphere perfect for special gatherings. Stay longer in the Maze Guest House, boutique-style self-contained accommodation surrounded by the gardens. Brookfield Maze is open weekends, school holidays and public holidays. It's the perfect place to unwind, reconnect and make lasting memories with family and friends in the King Valley.

Myrrhee VIC

22 km away

Reef Hills State Park

National Parks and Reserves

Reef Hills State Park

A haven for wildlife and native vegetation, Reef Hills State Park near Benalla is a great spot for a picnic, scenic drive, bushwalk, bike ride or horse ride. The park will delight visitors year-round, with wildflowers blooming in spring, wattles flowering in winter and large yellow Guinea-flowers on display most of the year. The park was worked for reef and alluvial gold in the early 1900s and today prospectors may be still be lucky enough to find gold. 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.

Benalla VIC

23 km away

Benalla Aviation Musuem — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Benalla Aviation Museum and Men's Shed

Take off into Benalla's aviation history at the Benalla Aviation Museum and Men's Shed, located in a historic Bellman Hangar at Benalla Airport. Set on the site of a former World War II RAAF pilot training school, the museum brings Australia's military air training story to life through aircraft, artefacts and fascinating static displays. A highlight is the impressive collection of military training aircraft, with some fully operational and available for passenger flights. For an extra thrill, visitors can enquire about flights in a Chinese-built Nanchang CJ-6A through Superior Air Adventures. Whether you are an aviation enthusiast, history lover or simply looking for something different to do in Benalla, this hands-on local museum is well worth a stop. Visit on Sundays and Wednesdays or contact the museum to arrange group bookings by appointment. Closed Christmas Day.

Benalla VIC

24 km away

Takeoff to the skies

Sports and Recreation Facilities

The Gliding Club of Victoria

The Gliding Club of Victoria (GCV) is the largest gliding club in Australia and the southern hemisphere, attracting pilots from around the globe to experience the area's world-renowned flying conditions. An extensive, varied fleet comprising four very capable two-seat gliders and six single-seat gliders, two tow planes, skilled instructors, record-breaking pilots, great facilities and a friendly environment all combine to make Benalla an ideal spot to learn not just how to fly, but to enjoy great soaring experiences. Please explore their website to learn more about them and what they can offer, and check out their Facebook page.

Benalla VIC

24 km away

RATT's Feature Wall — Image credit: Room at the Table inc

Entertainment Venues

Room at the Table

Room at the Table (RATT) is an inclusive and diverse not-for-profit community organisation/social enterprise with room at the table for everyone. RATT offers a range of non-sport activities such as board games, trading card games, and tabletop roleplaying games, with the goal of reducing social isolation and building connections with others in a safe space that is open to all, improving social inclusion for everyone, but also with a focus on those experiencing social stigma for whatever reason. Based in Benalla with rooms at the Benalla Gliding Club, RATT is open to everyone in Benalla Rural City, north east Victoria and beyond. They have room at the table for families of all kinds, people with disabilities/health issues, single people, people from different cultures, people of different races, teens, the LGBTQIA+ community, adults of all ages, neurotypicals, the neurodiverse. There is room at the table for everyone.

Benalla VIC

24 km away

Siva Singh — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Discover the Story of Siva Singh

Take a moment to connect with one of Benalla's most inspiring pioneers at the Siva Singh Memorial, located on the picturesque Lake Benalla foreshore near the sundial. Arriving in Victoria in 1896, Siva Singh quickly became a respected member of the Benalla community. After gaining a hawker's licence, he worked tirelessly to build a successful life in the region. By 1915, his determination and entrepreneurial spirit had seen him purchase 320 acres of land in Benalla, an extraordinary achievement that reflects his deep connection to the area. Today, the memorial offers visitors a chance to reflect on a remarkable local story of resilience, ambition and belonging. Set against the tranquil backdrop of Lake Benalla, it's an ideal stop during a lakeside walk, providing both a peaceful place to pause and an opportunity to discover a unique chapter of Benalla's history. Open and freely accessible year-round, the Siva Singh Memorial invites visitors to celebrate the lasting legacy of a man whose contributions helped shape the Benalla community we know today.

Benalla VIC

24 km away

The rocket ship at the Benalla Adventure Playground — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Parks and Gardens

Adventure Playground

Family fun awaits at Benalla Adventure Playground. Looking for a fun outdoor adventure the whole family will love? Benalla Adventure Playground is the perfect place for kids to climb, slide, swing, and explore in a beautiful setting near the Benalla Botanical Gardens. Packed with exciting play equipment, this colourful playground is designed to spark imaginations and keep little adventurers entertained. From climbing frames and slides to interactive play areas, there's something here for toddlers, big kids, and everyone in between. Families will love the leafy surrounds, open space, and welcoming atmosphere. With accessible features and thoughtful design, children of all ages and abilities can join in the fun and enjoy playing together. There are picnic spots and shaded areas nearby, so parents and carers can relax while the kids burn off energy. It's a great spot for a family outing, a casual picnic, or a play break while exploring Benalla. Whether you're visiting Benalla for the day or planning a longer stay, Benalla Adventure Playground is a must-visit for families. Add it to your itinerary for easy, affordable fun and plenty of happy memories.

Benalla VIC

24 km away

Sir Edward 'Weary' Dunlop learning Centre — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Benalla Library

If you're exploring Benalla and need a friendly place to recharge — literally or figuratively — the Sir Edward 'Weary' Dunlop Learning Centre (Benalla Library) is your go‑to spot. This modern, welcoming space champions lifelong learning with a huge range of programs, resources, and digital tools perfect for visitors and locals alike. This is a traveller-friendly space. Staying in town for a few days? The library is the ideal place to catch up on emails, tap into digital resources and enjoy a quiet moment between adventures. With free Wi‑Fi, public computers, free scanning up to A3, and even a mobile device charging station, it's a convenient tech‑friendly stop during your Benalla visit. More Than Just Books with Membership being free, which gives you access to resources from over 300 libraries across Victoria. Borrow books, magazines, DVDs, audiobooks, or dive into a massive digital collection including. For the History buff? The library offers free access to Ancestry Library Edition for genealogical research. Love community vibes? Check out their regular events, posted on Facebook, or grab the monthly What's On guide in‑library or online. Feeling social? Join the locals for weekly Mahjong — a fun way to meet new people. Conveniently located in the CBD.

Benalla VIC

24 km away

Skates, boards and scooter are all welcome at the Benalla Skate Park — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Benalla Skate Park

Bring the family, pack the scooters, skateboards or bikes, and roll into Benalla Skate Park for some fresh-air fun by beautiful Lake Benalla. Set on the foreshore, this popular community space is a great spot for skateboarders, inline skaters and BMX riders of different abilities to practise tricks, build confidence and enjoy time outdoors. Younger visitors can watch the action, take turns on the ramps or simply soak up the lakeside atmosphere. The park also adds a splash of colour to any visit. As a key site during Benalla Street Art Festival, the skate bowl and surrounding walls have been transformed with bold street art by talented artists, making it a fun stop for photos as well as play. For a safe visit, please wear protective gear, ride within your skill level and keep children under 12 actively supervised by an adult. Skating on nearby footpaths or roads is not permitted, and use of the park is at your own risk.

Benalla VIC

24 km away

Benalla Botanical Gardens — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Parks and Gardens

Benalla Botanical Gardens

Right in the heart of Benalla, in North East Victoria, you'll find a timeless escape that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature. The Benalla Botanical Gardens have been a treasured part of the town since the 1880s. More than just gardens, they're a living celebration of community, culture, and history. Spanning eight hectares of lush, landscaped beauty, the gardens are the perfect place for a peaceful stroll, a family picnic under the trees, or a moment of quiet reflection by the lake. Designed by the visionary landscape gardener Alfred Sangwell in 1882, the gardens are steeped in heritage and continue to bloom with life and colour. Wander among grand old trees, vibrant flowerbeds, and wide open lawns that have welcomed generations of locals and visitors. From seasonal festivals and cultural events to quiet afternoons spent watching the world go by, the gardens remain the beating heart of Benalla. Originally set aside in 1859 for cricketing and other purposes of recreation, the gardens have only grown in beauty and significance. Today, it's a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the region, a place where the past is honoured and the future is in full bloom. Come and experience the magic of the Benalla Botanical Gardens. A place where nature, history, and community come together in the most unforgettable way.

Benalla VIC

24 km away

Monash Bridge — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Monash Bridge: Where Innovation Spans Generations

Step onto one of Benalla's most iconic landmarks and discover a remarkable piece of Australian history. Stretching gracefully across Lake Benalla, the Monash Bridge is more than just a way to cross the water. It's a living monument to innovation, engineering excellence, and the vision of one of Australia's greatest minds, Sir John Monash. When the bridge officially opened on 24 May 1910, it was the largest reinforced concrete girder road bridge in Australia. More than a century later, it remains an impressive feat of engineering and a striking feature of Benalla's picturesque lakeside landscape. Designed by John Monash during his time as Chief Engineer of the Reinforced Concrete and Monier Pipe Construction Company, and expertly detailed by engineer Percy Fairway, the bridge showcases groundbreaking construction techniques that helped shape Australia's engineering future. Visitors can walk, cycle or drive across this heritage-listed landmark while taking in stunning views of Lake Benalla. Recognised by Heritage Victoria and listed on the Register of Australian Historic Bridges, the Monash Bridge stands as a proud symbol of ingenuity and craftsmanship. Whether you're fascinated by history, inspired by engineering, or simply looking for the perfect lakeside photo opportunity, the Monash Bridge offers a unique glimpse into Benalla's rich story. Don't just cross the bridge. Experience a piece of Australian innovation that has connected generations for over 100 years.

Benalla VIC

24 km away

Millers Department Store Benalla — Image credit: Millers Benalla

Shopping and Markets

Millers Benalla

Rich with country charm, Millers Benalla is a contemporary department store with a broad range of high quality goods including women's, men's and infant's clothing, hats, handbags and fashion accessories, intimate apparel, bed and bath manchester items, dressmaking requirements, wool and craft supplies, travel goods, workwear and many special interest and hard-to-get items. Located on the corner of Bridge and Carrier streets in Benalla, Millers has been continuously serving the people of Benalla and surrounds since 1891. Housed in a heritage art-deco building designed in the 1930s, Millers Benalla offers historic retail appeal in a modern setting. Family owned, Millers Benalla is focused on making every customers’ shopping experience enjoyable through outstanding customer service and high quality products at competitive prices. We are proud of our reputation for friendly personalised service. You can’t go past Millers Benalla for that unique country-style retail experience.

Benalla VIC

24 km away

Benalla Art Gallery. Photo: Serana Hunt Hughes — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Benalla Art Gallery

Situated in the heart of Victoria's bushranger country, the Benalla Art Gallery occupies a striking modernist building by the lake. The Gallery presents a diverse exhibition program while its permanent collection spans three centuries of Australian art and includes outstanding examples of contemporary and Indigenous art. Benalla's Collection includes wonderful works by Arthur Streeton, Frederick McCubbin, Fred Williams, Sidney Nolan, and many other great Australian artists. While Benalla Art Gallery has now temporarily closed as they prepare for a significant Stage 1 Redevelopment, their temporary pop-up gallery is open for visitors. This centrally located space will ensure their community and visitors can continue to experience high-quality exhibitions and engaging public programs throughout the redevelopment period. The pop-up features a dedicated gallery space, and the Benalla Art Gallery Shop also continues to operate, offering its full program of exhibitions by artists from northeast Victoria and maintaining their valued partnership with Arts Project Australia.

Benalla VIC

24 km away

Benalla Ceramic Mural — Image credit: Benalla Rural City Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Benalla Ceramic Mural

Benalla's Ceramic Mural was created by some of Australia's leading ceramic artists and many people from Benalla. It emerges from the rolling green lawns on the shore of Lake Benalla, next door to the Benalla Museum and opposite the Benalla Art Gallery. Contributors to this open air gallery include nationally significant artists, 1500 regional students and countless volunteers. It commenced as a community art project in 1983. Judy Lorraine was appointed Artist in Residence in 1985, created the model and the architectural drawing and the project took 25 years to complete. In 2005 the Mural was included in the Benalla Art Gallery collection and was officially launched in November 2010. Explore the nooks and crannies of the ceramic mural and be rewarded as this curving, complex structure slowly reveals itself to the delight of children and adults alike.

Benalla VIC

24 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.