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Lake Wendouree

Natural Attractions

Lake Wendouree

Lake Wendouree has been a community destination for more than 150 years. Located in central Ballarat next to the Ballarat Botanical Gardens and near Victoria Park, Lake Wendouree offers a wide range of attractions and recreational activities both on and off the water. Facilities include the six-kilometre Steve Moneghetti running and walking track, cycling trails, playgrounds and excellent picnic and barbeque facilities. The lake offers opportunities for fishing, sailing and rowing. The world-class 2000 metre rowing course hosted rowing events at the 1956 Melbourne Olympic Games and remains a venue for school, club and high-level rowing and sailing competitions. The Rustic Fountain which was built to commemorate the first water supply to Ballarat. The organic, volcanic stone structure is similar to the ones which can be found in the Carlton Gardens in Melbourne. Features include public toilets, barbeques, playgrounds, restaurants, water pursuits including fishing, rowing course, six kilometer and home of rowing in the 1956 Olympics.

Lake Wendouree VIC

0.2 km away

Bow seating view of Paddle Boat

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Golden City Paddle Steamer and Museum Society

The Golden City Paddle Steamer Museum and Paddle Boat are operated by the volunteers of the Golden City Paddler Steamer Museum Society Inc. Enjoy a cruise on the Golden City Paddle Boat (a replica of the original Golden City Paddle Steamer). Enjoy the beautiful views, and bird life and listen to the history of the lake and the original paddle steamer, while relaxing to the beat of the paddles. For charter services of the boat, for corporate or private cruises, contact the society by phone. View the history of paddle boats, the digital photographic images and watch new and old videos of activities held on the lake at the Lake Wendouree Museum. View the photographic display of Ballarat Buildings from their past. The Ballarat Society of Artists are showcasing their art of the lake. The Golden City Paddle Steamer Museum and Paddle Boat is located on the foreshore of Lake Wendouree, opposite the Lake View Hotel.

Lake Wendouree VIC

0.7 km away

Hop Lane

Landmarks and Buildings

Hop Lane

Discover Ballarat's striking Hop Lane. It is hard to miss the magical umbrellas floating from the sky. Located along the vibrant Armstrong Street North, nestled between bars Roy Hammond and Hop Temple you will find Hop Lane. A canopy of colourful umbrellas hang overhead, and are on display all year-long, with their colours changing throughout the year. As you move further down the laneway you will find the Hop Queen herself, an iconic mural created by local illustrator Travis Price. Hop Lane offers memorable moments for everyone to enjoy, so don't forget to bring your camera. Keep an eye out for a special pop-up in Hop Lane for Ballarat's new immersive art experience, Sunnyside.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.0 km away

BPAC Chapel — Image credit: BPAC

Entertainment Venues

Ballarat Performing Arts Centre

Ballarat Performing Arts Centre is a multi-venue performing arts and community hub. Including their stunning Chapel venue with its incredible acoustics and beautiful features, and several other spaces available for hire for performances, rehearsals and community events. Keep an eye on their website for upcoming shows and events, and how to get involved.

Soldiers Hill VIC

1.1 km away

Karts — Image credit: Jake Plumridge

Amusement and Theme Parks

Ballarat Indoor Go Karts, Laserforce and Entertainment Centre

Ballarat Indoor Go Karts and Laserforce delivers high-energy indoor go-karting, laser tag missions and engaging arcade games, offering all-weather fun for families, groups and travellers. As one of Ballarat's top indoor attractions, it provides unforgettable entertainment and an action-packed option for visitors seeking the best things to do in the Ballarat region. Its standout features include top-performing karts designed for comfort and safety, adult and junior-friendly sessions, and the indoor track that lets guests enjoy the thrill of racing in any weather. The Laserforce arena delivers energetic, mission-based gameplay with dynamic lighting and interactive targets that draw players into the action, while the arcade area offers classic favorites and modern skill-based games that keep the fun going between sessions. With a welcoming team, dedicated party spaces and a strong reputation as one of Ballarat's most engaging family entertainment centres, the venue creates excitement and inclusivity for all. Located close to popular attractions such as Sovereign Hill, the Ballarat Wildlife Park and the many experiences of central Ballarat, the venue offers free parking and is an ideal addition to a day of local exploring. As a long-running, family-owned business with a proud local presence, it is known for delivering safe, fun and energetic experiences. Visitors are invited to explore what the venue offers and start planning their next action-packed experience.

Ballarat North VIC

1.1 km away

Civic Hall — Image credit: Ballarat Photography

Entertainment Venues

Civic Hall Ballarat

Ballarat's Civic Hall has re-emerged as one of the City's most popular and adaptable event spaces. We've hosted everything from the Ballarat Marathon to legendary rock icons like grammy-winner Jack White, proving that Civic Hall is where music comes to get live and loud. Following a major renovation in 2019, the Ballarat Civic Hall known for live music concerts, also hosts an annual season of diverse, entertaining and world-class events and performances for local, regional, national and international organisations.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.2 km away

The Goods Shed external & 'Slow Order' sculpture — Image credit: Pellicano

Entertainment Venues

The Goods Shed Ballarat

Located next to Ballarat train station, The Goods Shed offers the city a new social, cultural, and hospitality hub, all housed inside a beautifully refurbished heritage space. The Dining Hall is Ballarat's new and exciting dining and entertainment venue. Inside, you will find Railway Smash Burgers, Grano and distillery Itinerant Spirits. The state-of-the-art Events Hall, managed by Atlantic Group, offers private event spaces unique to The Goods Shed. Available for bookings are the 300-person Lydiard Hall, the 321-seat Terminus Theatre, and the Carriage Rooms, which can accommodate up to 150 guests. Step out of the Events Hall onto the Events Plaza, a beautifully landscaped outdoor area that can be hired independently or in conjunction with other event spaces. The Goods Shed Events Hall was awarded Bronze in the Business Event Venue category at the 2024 Victorian Tourism Awards, further cementing its reputation as a premier venue for high-quality events.

Soldiers Hill VIC

1.3 km away

Woven Baskets — Image credit: Perridak Arts

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Perridak Arts

Perridak Arts is an Aboriginal owned and operated business in the evolving art and tourist scene of Ballarat on the land of the Wadawurrung people of the Kulin Nation. This is unique art gallery was established in 2023 and couples as a therapeutic program, supporting local First Nations artists and craftspeople to present their art while using their talents to connect to their culture. Once you step inside the door, you will be immersed in the relaxing sounds and smells of “Being on Country”, where a variety of art forms encourages visitors to delve into First Nation's culture. The building has many historical features, including a floor-to-ceiling beam and original brickwork which date back to the early 1800s. Set amongst this beautiful heritage architecture, is a modern and peaceful gallery, which will delight anyone who visits. Ballarat and District Aboriginal Cooperative is proud to present Perridak Arts Gallery to the public and is committed to supporting local artists to continually offer their amazing artworks for viewing and purchase.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.3 km away

Ballarat Public Art Walks

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Ballarat Public Art Walks

Explore Ballarat's Public Art Collection, which holds over 120 artworks and is one of the largest, and most significant regional public art collections in Australia. Discover Ballarat's dynamic history and creative legacy through a series of self-guided public art walks. There are four self-guided walking tours that cover statues along Sturt Street, Contemporary artworks, War History and Lake Wendouree. The Contemporary Walk includes First Nations artist Deanne Gilson's Acknowledgement of Country Mural: Mundi-gurrk and Wurring, wurring Family Gathering by the Biyal. Located within the Ballarat Town Hall's Visitor Information Centre's Bath Lane entrance foyer, it consists of 20 paintings by the Wadawurrung artist which have been printed on 220 metres of vinyl. These self-guided walking tours are available for collection from both the Ballarat Visitor Information Centre located in the Ballarat Town Hall, and at the Ballarat Botanical Gardens Visitor information Centre located at the Robert Clark Centre directly opposite the Conservatory. You can also find digital copies available via the website.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.4 km away

Hop Queen Mural

Landmarks and Buildings

Hop Queen Mural

The Hop Queen mural was a self-initiated and financed collaborative project between local artist Travis Price and Mass Motion. Much of Price's focus with work had been outside of Ballarat for some time and he wanted to create something that would resonate with local residents. The byline, The past is History, was a tongue in cheek acknowledgment of Ballarat's well-documented history but also a call to action to move on to create their own identity/future. With over 20 years of experience working as a creative, Travis Price has built a reputation as a leader in the commercial illustration industry. A product of the University of Ballarat, Price has worked for some of the most innovative advertising agencies, bands and clothing brands. Respected internationally for his evolution and experimentation in vector illustration Price has presented at numerous design conferences and universities regarding his work including the National Gallery of Victoria. Price continues to work on a variety of commercial and apparel projects from his home studio in Ballarat surrounded by his growing family. The Hop Queen mural was painted over three days in April 2016 with the help of fellow local artists Merda and Cax One.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.4 km away

The grand facade of the original 1890 purpose-built Gallery building — Image credit: Art Gallery of Ballarat

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Art Gallery of Ballarat Shop

The Art Gallery of Ballarat Shop: open while the main gallery is closed for building works. With a focus on Victoria and Ballarat-based gifts and homewares, it's made for the curious. With an ever-changing range of handmade and one-of-a-kind ceramics, jewellery, clothing and more, the Art Gallery of Ballarat Shop delights locals and visitors alike. While the main building is closed, visitors are still able to enter the front door as usual and see the latest range. Can't decide on a gift for yourself, or someone else? Gift cards are also available.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.5 km away

Art Gallery of Ballarat's Backspace Gallery — Image credit: Art Gallery of Ballarat

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Art Gallery of Ballarat / Backspace Gallery

The Art Gallery of Ballarat is Australia's oldest and most engaging regional gallery. It is currently closed for building upgrades. It's anticipated that the works will be completed in mid-2027. You can still get your art fix at the Art Gallery of Ballarat's Backspace Gallery on Mair Street. This permanent space hosts exhibitions celebrating local and early-career artists. Don't miss the pop-up gallery shop, along with family-focused art activities such as Art Bites and Early Start taking place off-site. To stay up to date with the building works and external program of activities please visit the Art Gallery of Ballarat's website.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.5 km away

Collins Booksellers Ballarat on Lydiard

Shopping and Markets

Collins Booksellers Ballarat on Lydiard

Collins Booksellers Ballarat on Lydiard is a destination bookstore in a beautifully historical and architecturally rich precinct. The bookshop will take you back in time with its pressed tin roof, old-style bookcases, wooden floors, open fireplaces, heritage front counter and the old fashioned signage. The shop features floorboards throughout, unique interiors and detailing, and internal walkways connecting the three parts of the shop, which are dedicated to fiction, non-fiction and children's/YA respectively. The bookstore has warmth and character, and the largest range of books in Ballarat.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.5 km away

Street frontage of Art Space Ballarat — Image credit: City of Ballarat

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Art Space Ballarat

Art Space Ballarat showcases the artworks of creatives and artists from the Ballarat region. The dedicated community art space will change every six and occupied by a new artist, maker or performer. Located in Ballarat's arts precinct and a short walk from the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Art Space Ballarat, is a great location to discover Ballarat's creative community.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.5 km away

Goanna Ground and Camp Site Mural

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Goanna Ground and Camp Site Mural

Goanna Ground and Camp Site Mural are significant public artworks the celebrating the enduring culture, history and presence of Aboriginal Peoples in Ballaarat. Goanna Ground, by Ballaarat-based artist Aunty Diana Nikkelson (Gunditjmara), inspired by the artist's totem, is attributed to the first artists of the region, the Wadawurrung People. Originally installed as an outdoor artwork, the goanna was etched into basalt paving at the back of the Gallery in 2006 as part of the cultural festival of the Commonwealth games As you walk down Police Lane footsteps morph from human footprints to goanna prints. When Federation Olaza was enclosed to create the Gallery's McCain Annexe, part if the original artwork was incorporated into the interior space. The work acknowledges Aboriginal survival and the dynamic regeneration of the Aboriginal art and culture in the region. Campsite is a re-commissioned version of the original Campsite Mural installed in Alfred Deakin Place for the Commonwealth Games in 2006. Campsite mural features Bunjil (wedge-tailed eagle) the creator and spiritual leader for Aboriginal people of this land. The Baarlijan (platypus) is a representation of the local Aboriginal community who have come from different Aboriginal nations and have made Ballaarat their home. The circular motifs represent campsites of different sizes located across Ballaarat, indicating that Ballaarat was and continues to be an important meeting place. Commissioned by the City of Ballarat.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.5 km away

Grand Arch — Image credit: City of Ballarat

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Grand Arch

Grand Arch is a five-metre by five-metre steel sculpture by Inge King placed as the centrepiece of Alfred Deakin Place, part of a redevelopment in conjunction with the State Government, City of Ballarat, University of Ballarat and Art Gallery of Ballarat. Grand Arch is representative of King's sophisticated style of abstraction that reflected animal and plant forms through to planets and the cosmos. King was a German-born Australian sculptor who created many significant public commissions including the well-loved Forward Surge (1974) at the Arts Centre, Melbourne. She was at the forefront of the development of non-figurative sculpture in Australia and held more than 26 solo exhibitions and participated in more than 60 group exhibitions in Australia, New Zealand, London and New York over almost 70 years as a practicing artist.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.5 km away

The Made of: Ballarat Shop

Shopping and Markets

The Made of: Ballarat Shop

Welcome to The Made of: Ballarat Shop, proudly celebrating artisans and producers from the local region. They offer a range of products that showcase the incredible talent of the local artists and producers. From magnets to tote bags, postcards and stickers, candles, prints, jams, and coffee beans, they have it all. Even hand-knitted wombats. There's something here for everyone, big or small. They also offer custom hamper creation, choose your preferred products and they'll create a complimentary hamper just for you. Located inside the Ballarat Visitor Information Centre, a visit to The Made of: Ballarat Shop will ensure you leave with a wonderful and unique souvenir, something to remind you of your travels, or a gift for someone special.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.6 km away

Sara Nash exhibition at night — Image credit: Creative City - City of Ballarat

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Unicorn Lane Outdoor Gallery

Unicorn Lane is an outdoor exhibition space that highlights the talents of local, emerging artists from the Ballarat region. Exhibitions change over every six weeks and can be viewed day or night, with the boxes lit in the evenings. A perfect addition to a stroll through the centre of Ballarat.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.7 km away

The Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute in all it's glory!

Entertainment Venues

Ballaarat Mechanics' Institute

Ballaarat Mechanics’ Institute (BMI), sitting proudly under the watchful eye of Minerva, has welcomed a diverse group of people through its doors, from the founding fathers, to miners and others seeking knowledge through education. Since 1859, the BMI has been used for balls, lectures, markets, cinema, library, concerts and cultural events. Following a magnificent restoration in 2013, the BMI continues its significant role in Ballarat’s rich cultural heritage. All are welcome to visit for tours, cultural events and exhibitions, and to hire our unique function rooms. The BMI is a special venue for holding celebrations, weddings, conferences and performances.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.7 km away

Meditation and Buddhism Classes - Kadampa Meditation Centre

Spas and Retreats

Meditation and Buddhism Classes - Kadampa Meditation Centre

The classes provide practical methods for improving the quality of lives and developing inner peace through meditation and Buddhist teachings. The in-person setting fosters a supportive community and offers real-time interaction with the teacher for personalized guidance. Classes include guided meditations and teachings to help us solve our daily problems and find the lasting happiness we seek. No prior experience needed and you can join anytime. Everyone is welcome. Please see the website for weekly current and upcoming class courses.

Ballarat VIC

1.7 km away

Her Majesty's Theatre lit up at night — Image credit: Her Majesty's Theatre Ballarat

Entertainment Venues

Her Majesty's Theatre Ballarat

Opened in 1875, Her Majesty's Theatre is the beating cultural heart of Ballarat, holding the title of Australia's oldest continuously operating live theatre venue. This historic building features a stunningly renovated double-balconied auditorium, recently restored to blend comfort with elegance, and equipped with state-of-the-art theatre technology. Each year, Her Majesty's hosts an exciting season of touring productions, showcasing performances from world class theatre companies and musicians. But it's not just for the pros. Her Majesty's is a beloved community hub and is host to a huge variety of local productions. Come and see a show at the most glamorous theatre in regional Victoria. Accessible seating requirements can be discussed with the Box Office.

Ballarat VIC

1.7 km away

Relax in the Traditional Sauna

Spas and Retreats

RE.NU Social Wellness

RE.NU Social Wellness is located in the heart of Ballarat. This modern wellness destination offers a unique blend of relaxation, recovery and reconnection. Guests can enjoy traditional dry saunas, magnesium hot pools, and cold plunge therapy across three distinct temperature zones. Signature experiences combine guided breathwork, yoga-inspired movement, and contrast therapy to energise or unwind the body and mind. The beautifully designed space also features a tranquil lounge, infrared saunas, massage therapy and compression boots. With a focus on holistic wellbeing, re.nu invites visitors to slow down, recharge and experience wellness in a new way. Whether you are seeking post-adventure recovery, mental clarity, or deep rest, re.nu delivers a memorable experience unlike any traditional spa or gym.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.7 km away

Great Outdoors

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Time Lane

Incidents in Time consists of a number of small, whimsical artworks tucked in to the small nooks and crannies that are a feature of Time Lane. This laneway was once a narrow watchmakers shopfront that ran the entire length of the lane and was packed with the accoutrements of a busy 19th Century store. The tiny works are miniature landscapes depicting moments in time, from the banal, to the sublime, to the strange. They spill out onto the laneway and are a treasure hunt for the audience of shoppers and passers-by.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.9 km away

The Pottage - Pottery and Ceramics Studio

Entertainment Venues

The Pottage - Pottery and Ceramics Studio

The Pottage is a community pottery and craft studio in Ballarat that offers relaxed, hands-on creative experiences. People can choose ceramic pieces to paint, attend wheel throwing workshops, or book group sessions such as parties and team events. They also offer studio hire for the artist who wants to tinker on a project in their own time. The studio provides all materials, guidance, glazing, and kiln firing, so visitors can focus on enjoying the creative process. It is designed to be welcoming to beginners while still engaging for experienced makers. The space encourages creativity, connection, and slowing down through making something by hand, combining art, leisure, and social experience in a friendly studio environment.

Ballarat Central VIC

1.9 km away

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