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Ballarat Tram No 26 — Image credit: No

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Ballarat Tramway Museum

Travel back in time through the beautiful Ballarat Botanical Gardens alongside Lake Wendouree. By riding one of the 100 year old trams which provided Ballarat's public transport until 1971. The recently opened Display Hall, is where you can learn the story of the Ballarat trams and its people is told through photographs, historic films and tramway memorabilia. Representatives of the Ballarat tramcar fleet are on display alongside a wonderfully restored former Geelong tram. On loan is a restored tram which until 1959 the Victorian Railways ran from St Kilda Station to Brighton. Included in the display is Ballarat Horse Drawn Tram No. 1. This was the first tram to operate in Ballarat in 1887. Under restoration is one of the first electric trams to be operated in 1905 by the original Electric Supply Company of Victoria fleet. The running fleet includes nine tramcars which initially ran in Melbourne and arrived in Ballarat between 1930 and 1951, and four acquired directly from Melbourne by the Museum. Run by volunteers, the Museum is open every Saturday, Sunday and Tuesday. We are open on most Victorian public holidays. During Victoria school holidays we open on Thursdays. Guided tours and group visits can be arranged. Souvenir items may be purchased from the shop.

Lake Wendouree VIC

0.0 km away

Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre

The Ballarat Aquatic and Lifestyle Centre, or BALC, is here for you. Located in the heart of Ballarat, the centre provides a welcoming environment for members and visitors of all ages and stages with plenty of options to keep you moving. The centre's aquatic facilities include a heated 50 metres pool, heated 25 metres pool, heated rehabilitation and multipurpose pool, spa, steam room, and Learn to Swim pool with frog slide. Their Health Club is equipped with the latest machines and weight training equipment, and their fully qualified trainers are always on hand to guide you through your fitness journey Over 80 weekly group fitness classes are held in our modern studios, including their cycle studio with 30 of the latest Technogym bikes to give you the best indoor cycling experience in town. Creche services, café and retail shop are also available onsite. The team can't wait to welcome you.

Lake Gardens VIC

0.1 km away

Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial

With a few words from the poem, For the Fallen, by the English poet and writer Laurence Binyon, you are welcomed to the Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial. This unique memorial was opened on 6 February, 2004, to recognise and remember those Australians who became Prisoners of War during the wars of the twentieth century. The Memorial symbolises that all Australian prisoners embarked to serve away from their homeland and acknowledges the hardship, deprivation, brutality, starvation and disease endured by prisoners of war during their capture and the scars many continued to endure upon their repatriation to Australia. In these magnificent botanical gardens, the Memorial is a place of quiet reflection and a place to remember loved ones and to mourn those 8,600 prisoners of war that died in captivity and remain buried on foreign shores.

Lake Wendouree VIC

0.3 km away

The Robert Clark Conservatory — Image credit: City of Ballarat

Landmarks and Buildings

The Robert Clark Conservatory

Take a wander inside amongst the seasonal floral displays at the Ballarat Botanical Gardens. The Robert Clark Conservatory opened in 1995 and was built as part of the two million dollar bequest of Bob Clark in honour of his grandfather Robert Clark co-founder of The Ballarat Courier newspaper. The third conservatory on the site, this is the first to allow visitors to stroll amongst the year-round floral displays, including the Begonia collection on show each year from the second weekend in March (for approximately four weeks). The other displays featured: May - Chrysanthemums, Winter - Cyclamen, Cineraria and Primula, Spring - Schizanthus, Summer - Fuchsias, Hydrangeas and Pelargoniums.

Lake Wendouree VIC

0.5 km away

Adam Lindsay Gordon Craft Cottage in the Ballarat Botanical Gardens — Image credit: Crafts Council Ballarat

Shopping and Markets

Adam Lindsay Gordon Craft Cottage

Adam Lindsay Gordon Craft Cottage is a heritage wooden cottage nestled within the Ballarat Botanical Gardens on the shores of Lake Wendouree. Associated with the life and times of poet Adam Lindsay Gordon, the cottage is one of Ballarat's most charming historic attractions. Today it operates as a welcoming retail and exhibition space celebrating Australian handmade craft and local art. Visitors can discover an ever-changing collection of ceramics, textiles, woodwork, glass, jewellery and fine art created by skilled makers from Ballarat and surrounding regions. The focus is on quality craftsmanship, sustainability and thoughtfully designed handmade gifts. Operated by Crafts Council Ballarat, the cottage is supported by knowledgeable volunteers who are also practising makers. They share insights into both the cottage's history and the creative processes behind the work on display. The intimate setting offers a relaxed and personal shopping experience within a significant heritage building. Seasonal displays and curated exhibitions ensure there is always something new to see. Whether exploring the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, visiting Lake Wendouree or seeking unique handmade gifts in Ballarat, the Adam Lindsay Gordon Craft Cottage offers a memorable cultural experience that connects history, creativity and community.

Lake Wendouree VIC

0.5 km away

Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Located on the western shore of Lake Wendouree, approximately four kilometres from Ballarat's city centre, the Gardens are a popular and invaluable heritage and recreational location for residents and visitors. Established in 1858 it is one of Victoria's oldest Botanical Gardens. The gardens are home to an extensive array of flowering plants, exotic trees, floral bedding displays and an extensive collection of Italian marble statues throughout. Experience the stunning Robert Clark Conservatory and walk in amongst the changing seasonal displays of the celebrated collections of hydrangeas, fuchsias, and chrysanthemums throughout the year, and their world renown tuberous Begonia Collection mid-March to mid-April. The Ballarat Botanical Gardens welcomes thousands of visitors each year to City of Ballarat's much-loved Summer Sundays picnic and live music events during January. It also attracts more than 60,000 for the three-day annual Ballarat Begonia Festival over the Labour Day weekend in March. Robert Clark Conservatory is open 9.00am to 6.00pm daily, excluding Christmas Day. The Statue Pavilion is open from 9.00am to 4.30pm daily, excluding Christmas Day.

Lake Wendouree VIC

0.5 km away

Murrup Laar — Image credit: City of Ballarat

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Murrup Laarr Ancestral Stones

Murrup Laarr translates as 'Ancestral Stones' in Wadawurrung. This artwork by Deanne Gilson is located in the North Gardens Indigenous Sculpture Park. The park is a significant project for the City of Ballarat and will feature works by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, celebrating the richness and diversity of culture and telling important cultural stories. Dr Deanne Gilson is a Wadawarrung Traditional Custodian and established artist. She installed the first artwork commissioned by the City of Ballarat for the Sculpture Park in early 2019. Murrup Laarr is a contemporary artwork consisting of a traditionally-built stone hut in the middle of a circle of basalt standing stones, marked with ceramic plates reflecting the stories and symbols of dreaming, memory, ceremony.

Lake Wendouree VIC

0.8 km away

The inground trampolines next to a covered picnic table and benches

Parks and Gardens

Inclusive Play-Space

The concept for an Inclusive Play-Space in Ballarat came from the community in 2012 and was driven through the City of Ballarat’s Disability Advisory Committee. The aim of the project was to create an environment where all children and adults, regardless of ability could play. An inclusive playground enables children, parents, grandparents, and carers of all abilities and ages to socialise and play side-by-side on the same equipment, in the same environment. It is not a dedicated playground for people with disabilities but a play space designed for the use and benefit of all community members, ensuring full integration of children and families and improved community connections. In 2016 the Inclusive Play-Space was opened. It is an environment of accessible play, and facilities (including an Adult Changing Place) and the amenities have been created with the additional benefit and reassurance of being enclosed in a fenced space, yet a design outcome that provides the freedom and feeling of not feeling fenced. The Inclusive Play-Space has become a great hub of socializing, playing, and is an example of what can be achieved in a community. The play-space was an LGPRO Award winner in 2017.

Newington VIC

0.8 km away

Arch of Victory and Garden of the Grieving Mother

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Arch of Victory and Garden of the Grieving Mother

The Arch of Victory was built to commemorate the Allied victory in World War I and to provide a sense of comfort and meaning to a community emerging from four years of grief and anxiety. The foundation stone was laid by General Sir William Birdwood on February 7th, 1920.  Thirteen local tradesmen undertook the four-month construction and utilised 70,000 bricks donated by the Selkirk company. Standing 17.5 metres high and 19.7 metres wide, the Arch is crowned with the emblem of the AIF - the Rising Sun. Opened by HRH Prince Edward, the Prince of Wales, on June 2nd, 1920.  His connection to Ballarat endured, and on the Arch's 50th anniversary, now as the Duke of Windsor, the Duke of Windsor responded to an invitation from the President of the Arch of Victory / Avenue of Honour Committee, Keith Price. The Garden of the Grieving Mother provides a place for contemplation and reflection. Inspired by the experiences of those who remained at home during wartime, it honours the grief and anxiety and resilience of mothers, fathers, families and friends waiting for news of loved ones serving overseas. While rooted in the World War I experience the garden pays tribute to the mothers and families of all Australian servicemen and women. At its centre stands a life-sized bronze statue by acclaimed Australian artist Peter Corlett OAM.

Alfredton VIC

1.5 km away

WCPA street view — Image credit: WCPA

Entertainment Venues

Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts Ballarat

The Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts in Ballarat is host to a wide variety of events including intimate live theatre, acoustic concerts, comedy, orchestral concerts, dance recitals, public lectures and seminars, accommodating many dance and theatre school gala performances, along with local school graduation ceremonies. The main auditorium seats 857 and the expansive stage area has the capacity to handle performances ranging from opera, pipe bands, and live theatre to orchestral and ensemble presentations. The Centre is host for a wide variety of community events including intimate live theatre, acoustic concerts, comedy, orchestral concerts, dance recitals, public lectures and seminars, accommodating many dance and theatre school gala performances, along with local school graduation ceremonies. Ballarat Grammar’s Music and Drama students also use the Centre and the associated rehearsal rooms, composition laboratory and tutorial rooms. Sound and vocal studios adjoin the auditorium and service the requirements of the VCE Music Industry Skills course. Dance, Theatre Studies, backstage and technical skills, event management and studio techniques are other areas that are considerably enhanced for Ballarat Grammar students as they enjoy the use of this remarkable facility.

Wendouree VIC

1.5 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

2.0 km away

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

2.4 km away

Jess Wootten and Krystina Menegazzo — Image credit: The Design Files

Shopping and Markets

Wootten

Wootten was founded in Adelaide's iconic Jam Factory arts collective in the mid 1970s surrounded by Australia’s leading craft practitioners. The generational tradition of handcrafting boots and leather goods continues from their repurposed World War 2 munitions workshop in the historic city of Ballarat. Ballarat has a long and proud history of bootmaking. James Oliver established Oliver and Steven’s Boot Factory in 1887. Their boots were engineered to withstand harsh conditions and became popular among miners and farmers. Cycle forward and the now iconic large retailer River’s began as Paddle Bros, making high quality shoes for routine Ballarat shoppers throughout the 20th century. Generations of Ballarat locals have since been employed in the industry. Wootten carries on this tradition. Operating out of the Gun Cotton Warehouse district, the small team of highly skilled and expert leather craftspeople produce handmade boots, shoes, belts, leather aprons and bags by the batch. Visit the Wootten workshop and showroom for a view into a working boot factory, and let the makers assist you with selecting a pair of boots to be worn for generations. In a nod to the site’s former history as a General Store, Wootten have curated a selection high quality crafts and wares. The range focuses on local makers with expertise in apparel, woven textiles, ceramics and decorative arts.

Delacombe VIC

2.4 km away

Main Court — Image credit: Xtreme Bounce

Amusement and Theme Parks

Xtreme Bounce

Get ready to have fun with your family and friends at the regions only trampoline center, Xtreme Bounce Trampoline Park. There is a Slam Dunk, Battle Beam, Performance Wall, Dodgeball, Wipeout, Air Bags and a huge arena of high performance trampolines. You can even grab a coffee, refuel with a snack or cool refreshment from the cafe.

Delacombe VIC

2.9 km away

The Crafty Squirrel — Image credit: Morgan Wills

Shopping and Markets

The Crafty Squirrel

The Crafty Squirrel is a colourful and inspiring destination for craft lovers visiting Ballarat. Located in a charming heritage shopfront, this much-loved creative space is the working shop and studio of designer and maker Morgan Wills. The shop is filled with an ever-changing collection of beautiful and unusual haberdashery, textiles, craft supplies, gifts, homewares and vintage treasures sourced from Australia and around the world, with a particular love of finds from Japan and France. Visitors can discover Japanese fabrics and craft supplies, vintage haberdashery, ribbons and trims, handmade pieces and carefully selected treasures celebrating creativity, craftsmanship and traditional making. More than simply a shop, The Crafty Squirrel reflects Morgan's lifelong passion for making and creative travel. Morgan also hosts small-group craft tours and retreats in Australia and overseas, connecting craft lovers with makers, workshops and creative traditions. For visitors exploring Ballarat's creative side, The Crafty Squirrel is a delightful place to fossick for something special, find inspiration for a new project or discover an unusual treasure to take home.

Ballarat Central VIC

3.0 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

3.2 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

3.2 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

3.3 km away

Hattie and the Wolf caters for all members of the family. — Image credit: Visit Ballarat

Shopping and Markets

Hattie and the Wolf

Hattie and the Wolf is Ballarat's go-to destination for those who love eco-friendly, Australian-made, and locally handmade treasures. Nestled in a gorgeous light-filled 1890s building, their store offers a thoughtfully curated selection of giftware, clothing, and accessories—sourced from both Australia and abroad. Their earth-friendly ethos runs through everything they do. Many of their products are eco-conscious, fair trade, or part of inspiring social enterprises. The makers and businesses they partner with are transparent in their supply chains, pay fair wages, and in many cases, support education and community programs. They are passionate about handmade and proudly support local artists and makers. Nothing brings them more joy than celebrating their creativity and watching their businesses grow. At their heart, they are brave, bold, and fearless—and they invite you to be part of this story too.

Ballarat Central VIC

3.4 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

3.4 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

3.4 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

3.4 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

3.4 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

3.5 km away

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