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Buninyong Botanic Gardens

Parks and Gardens

Buninyong Botanic Gardens

The Buninyong Botanical Gardens are a popular venue for social gatherings and activities in the heart of Buninyong, less than 20 minutes' drive from the centre of Ballarat. Facilities include playground equipment, electric barbecues and public toilets, while the upper garden area is home to many fish and waterbirds in the Gong. Established in the 1860s and designed by the Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne Baron Ferdinand von Mueller, the Gardens are among the oldest in Victoria. Features: Heritage listed Botanic Gardens established in the 1860s, public toilets, barbecues, playground, water feature: the Gong.

Buninyong VIC

0.5 km away

Ballarat Bird World

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Ballarat Bird World

Take a stroll along the raised walkway past the landscaped waterfall and gardens to view the birds on display. Some of the varieties on display include Major Mitchell and Red Tailed Black cockatoos. An added attraction is the full-sized adult animatronic Triceratops dinosaur and baby Triceratops and T-Rex dinosaurs. Children will enjoy the fossil dig table and the timber maze. Find the three stamps in the maze to win a small prize. There is also an outdoor picnic area next to the maze. The nine hole outdoor mini golf course is now open and provides lots of fun for all ages. The café serves all-day cake and coffee. Ice creams, hot chips and nuggets, wedges, pies and sausage rolls and cold drinks are also available. The outdoor deck provides an opportunity to get up close to the native birds in the area and listen to the waterfall in the background. The gift shop stocks a variety of bird souvenirs to choose from.

Mount Helen VIC

1.7 km away

Mount Buninyong

Natural Attractions

Mount Buninyong

Mount Buninyong is an extinct volcanic mountain 745 metres above sea level. It's a great landmark of the Buninyong district and only a 20-minute drive from Ballarat. Mount Buninyong was long the spiritual home of the Keyeet Balug clan of the Wadawurrung people who occupied this area for thousands of years before new waves of settlers arrived in the early 19th century. An aboriginal burial site was located in the 1860s and stone tools have been found there but no archaeological survey has yet been carried out. Walks through the crater and up to the lookout tower are popular among visitors and if snow falls in the district it will always be best on the Mount.

Buninyong VIC

3.6 km away

Wide range of desert art — Image credit: raintree art

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Raintree Art

Raintree Art is an Aboriginal Art Gallery just outside Ballarat. They sell ethically sourced giftware and original paintings. Known internationally for their video of Aboriginal Artist Louise Numina Napananka painting her bush medicine leaves which worldwide has received over 100 million views. Raintree Art is a member of the Aboriginal Art Association of Australia. They purchase directly from many of their artists and also purchase from Aboriginal Art Centres and fair trade organisations. You can rest assured that all of Raintree Art's paintings and giftware features real art by real artists who receive royalties for their work. Their paintings range in size from small, through to extra-large, which is large enough to create a feature wall in your home or office. Raintree Art also have a large range of ethically sourced giftware for sale, including apparel, bags, wallets, books, cards and gift wrapping, cushion covers, decorations, drink coolers, kitchen items, Christmas items, house numbers and much more. If their opening hours don't suit you, please get in touch and Raintree Art can arrange another time.

Cambrian Hill VIC

5.9 km away

Mountain Biking Woorookarung — Image credit: Tourism Mid West

National Parks and Reserves

Woowookarung Regional Park

Woowookarung - ‘place of plenty’ is part of the traditional lands of the Wadawurrung Aboriginal people. Woowookarung Regional Park is a 641-hectare park in Ballarat by the people, for the people. Established in 2016, the park is perfect for bushwalking, trail running and cycling among the Messmate Stringybark, Grass Trees, and native heath. Take your dog for a walk (on lead) to scenic lookouts, or ride your horse through the former state forest and plantation, while keeping an eye out for kangaroos, echidnas, bird species, and colourful wildflowers. Keen mountain bikers can discover two existing trails located behind Mount Clear College. Please note, there are currently no toilets in the park, but the Woowookarung Regional Park Strategic Directions Plan (PDF) outlines the proposed visitor facilities planned for the future. In 2021, Australia’s first Dementia-friendly Forest and Sensory Trail was created in the park. The gentle 1km trail features sensory aspects and quiet places for reflection. These features have been chosen to quietly evoke positive memories, feelings and sensations. With pathways to allow wheelchairs and carers, assistance dogs, and groups from residential aged care facilities, the trail is an accessible opportunity for people living with dementia to enjoy being in nature. Before your visit, please check the Parks Victoria website for change of conditions and familiarise yourself with important bushfire safety information or visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au

Canadian VIC

6.6 km away

Woowookarung Regional Park trail

National Parks and Reserves

Dementia-friendly Forest and Sensory Trail

In 2021, Australia’s first Dementia-friendly Forest and Sensory Trail was created in Woowookarung Regional Park. Just inside the park boundary, off Elsworth Street East/Katy Ryans Road, the gentle 1km trail features sensory aspects and quiet places for reflection. These features have been chosen to quietly evoke positive memories, feelings and sensations. The trail meanders through the native bushland of Woowookarung Regional Park, with pathways to allow wheelchairs and carers, assistance dogs, and groups from residential aged care facilities, the trail is an accessible opportunity for people living with dementia to enjoy being in nature. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash. Assistance dogs are welcome in Parks Victoria parks and reserves. Before your visit, please check the Parks Victoria website for change of conditions and familiarise yourself with important bushfire safety information or visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au

Canadian VIC

7.1 km away

Ballarat Real Tennis Club — Image credit: Maggie Henderson-Tew

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Ballarat Real Tennis Club

The Ballarat Real Tennis Club proudly celebrates its Goldrush heritage. Real Tennis, Australia's first racquet sport, began in the 1860s on Main Road, predating modern tennis. Today, Real Tennis is a niche sport, with only five venues nationwide, three in Victoria. Walk-in visitors and pre-booked players are welcome daily. Watch a match or book an introduction by contacting the operator via phone or email. Members of the club can book using the website. Non-members pay guest fees, while member subscriptions support full-time club professionals who welcome, coach, find opponents, maintain the court and equipment and make every ball used. Community engagement events include classes for school groups, collaborative events with local tennis and squash clubs, workshops in ball-making and racquet-stringing, and tailored programs for juniors, women and older adults to maximize inclusion. With origins stretching back around 800 years into medieval Europe, Real Tennis is the oldest racquet sport. The sport's complex rules focus on strategy and experience rather than power or speed. Its unique handicapping system lets players of all ages and abilities compete equally, encouraging intergenerational activity. The club welcomes participants regardless of gender, age or skill level.

Golden Point VIC

8.0 km away

Ballarat's Sanctuary Day Spa

Spas and Retreats

Ballarat's Sanctuary Day Spa

At Ballarat’s Sanctuary Day Spa, the ultimate goal is to guide you towards a lasting sense of wellbeing through holistic healing and nurturing treatments. A 75 minute drive from Melbourne is their award winning Day Spa, located within the serene gardens of the Mercure Hotel and Convention Centre. Purpose built in 2018 and having recently undergone a new extension, Ballarat’s Sanctuary Day Spa features eight treatment rooms including two dual suites, one with a private bath, two relaxation lounges with fireplace, a pedicure lounge and The Sanctuary – heated hydrotherapy spa and traditional stone sauna. You are invited to take a few deep breaths as you step inside the grand entrance. Leave life’s stresses at the door and allow the attentive team of skilled therapists to take you on a decadent journey to promote wellbeing, vitality and radiance from within.

Golden Point VIC

8.1 km away

Sovereign Hill

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Sovereign Hill

Sovereign Hill is a living museum presenting the story of Ballarat as a gold rush boomtown. Gold was discovered here in 1851, triggering the greatest alluvial gold rush the world has ever known. But this isn't the history lesson you got at school. Sovereign Hill puts you at the heart of the action. Explore underground on a mine tour, cosplay as a gold rush character inside their 1850s photography studio, pan for gold on the diggings, hop onto a coach ride, see live rare trades demonstrations, try the iconic Raspberry Drops handcrafted only at Sovereign Hill, browse the shops, and meet some colourful costumed characters.

Ballarat VIC

8.6 km away

Australian Centre for Gold Rush Collections

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Centre for Gold Rush Collections

Sovereign Hill's Australian Centre for Gold Rush Collections (Gold Rush Collections Centre for short) isn't your usual museum experience. This is a place for history nerds and culture seekers alike. Hidden within a maze of vaults and storerooms lies a treasure trove of over 150,000 meticulously preserved artefacts. From gold nuggets and jewellery to fashion and photography, this remarkable collection offers a glimpse into the rich history of Ballarat and beyond—all housed in the former Gold Museum building. This is the history lesson you never got at school. The collection sheds light on lesser-known, yet equally significant, perspectives that challenge and reframe the traditional Australian narratives of our past. With behind-the-scenes tours, thought-provoking talks, education programs, and ground-breaking research, the Gold Rush Collections Centre is a space to connect curious minds to an incredible collection that has defined Ballarat and the nation.

Ballarat VIC

8.9 km away

Rare Trades Centre Workshop — Image credit: Rare Trades Centre

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Rare Trades Centre

Through hands-on experiential workshops and classes, the Australian Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades (Rare Trades Centre for short) shines a light on contemporary trade and craft practices that derive from historic, or artisan trades. The Rare Trades Centre invites people to build their skill and create a viable practice in artisan crafts. Working with world-leading practitioners and with partnership as key, the Rare Trades Centre protects, conserves and encourages people to learn more about Australia’s rare trades.

Golden Point VIC

8.9 km away

Koalas — Image credit: Ballarat Wildlife Park

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Ballarat Wildlife Park

Winner of Victoria's Best Attraction at the 2023 Victorian Tourism Awards and silver in Major Attractions 2024. Ballarat Wildlife Park is set amongst the beautiful gum trees on the outskirts of Ballarat, just four kilometres from Sovereign Hill. Founded by Greg Parker in February 1985 through a passion for the conservation of wildlife and the environment. The Parker family have long realised the value of allowing people and animals to come together in a relaxing, friendly and educational environment. Visitors can hand feed the friendly free-roaming kangaroos and see koalas, wombats ‘Crunch’ the five-metre Super Croc, and Kai and Akasha the Sumatran/Siberian tigers in the state-of-the-art tiger sanctuary. Animal and conservation presentations will further immerse you into the animal world, with the incredible keepers. Around the park, you will see Southern cassowaries, giant tortoises, dingoes and emus. Visit the reptile house and find snakes, frogs and lizards. A colony of Little Penguins call the park home, the world’s smallest penguin species. Marvel at the cheeky meerkats as they dig and explore. Spend time one-on-one with an animal with an Animal Encounter. Pat a koala, meet a giant tortoise, feed a tree kangaroo, have a snake wrapped over your shoulders or even feed a tiger. Encounters include a professional photo as a memento of the experience.

Ballarat VIC

9.0 km away

Open Monument

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Open Monument

Open Monument is a contemporary artwork acknowledging the history of Chinese people in Ballarat. The Chinese diaspora was global and many Chinese people came to Ballarat and the Victorian Goldfields. The work details some of the personal Chinese family memories of Ballarat from the gold rush forward. The 33 marble laser-etched panels include found images and texts mounted on a modernist metal architectural feature holding back a grassed hill landscape. Within the side walkway of gravel and composite stone is an etched of local activities relating to the Chinese community achievements that can be added to by the community.

Ballarat Central VIC

9.5 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

9.5 km away

Goldfields Track — Image credit: Visit Victoria

Natural Attractions

Goldfields Track

Goldfields Track is a point-to-point 210 kilometre track for hikers and cyclists that links the 1850s gold rush era towns of Ballarat, Creswick, Daylesford and Castlemaine to Bendigo in the longest shared use track in Victoria. Originally known as the Great Dividing Trail, this is some of the most beautiful mountain biking and hiking in Victoria. A region steeped in history, you'll encounter forests, both natural and man-made, pastoral countryside and single track that in some places flow on grippy loam and in others jump and jag across roots, rock ledges and coarse sandstone. For an experience you will never forget, come and visit the Goldfields Track.

Ballarat East VIC

9.6 km away

The Eureka Flag at the Eureka Centre Ballarat — Image credit: Paul Lambeth

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Eureka Centre Ballarat

Each year the Eureka Centre welcomes people from around the world who seek a meaningful connection to one of Australia’s most significant foundation stories – the Eureka Rebellion. Eureka Centre is located at the National Heritage-listed Eureka Stockade Memorial Park, considered to be the site of the 1854 Eureka Stockade where the rebellion took place. It is home to one of Australia’s most compelling historic artefacts and textile treasures – the Eureka Flag. The Eureka Stockade resonates profoundly in Australia's national story. It was a transformative social movement that informed the development of democracy in Australia. At the Eureka Centre we explore the social history and cultural impact of the Victorian gold rush and honour the stories of the men and women who risked their lives in the ﬁght for miners’ rights. The Eureka Stockade Memorial Park is a place to contemplate the events of Eureka. The many layers of Eureka commemoration are reflected through its significant trees, interpretive plaques and monuments that honour those involved in the Eureka Stockade.

Eureka VIC

9.6 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

9.9 km away

Casual Canvas at The Art Club Hub — Image credit: The Art Club Hub

Amusement and Theme Parks

The Art Club Hub

The Art Club Hub is a venue for creative minds to come together and express themselves through art. Led by qualified artists, they run weekly art classes for all ages -kids, teens and adults. They provide everything you need to explore different mediums and art styles. They offer kids art classes, adult art classes, art workshops, casual painting sessions, school holiday art workshops, kids party venue, corporate functions, Christmas functions and work break-ups. Please visit their website for more information on the Casual Canvas Paint Sessions, which is offered every Saturday, and everyday during school holidays.

Ballarat Central VIC

10 km away

Ribbon cutting for the newly opened precinct

Shopping and Markets

Bridge Mall Shopping Centre

Experience the eclectic charm of Ballarat's Bridge Mall heritage precinct. There's something for everyone, ranging from unique speciality stores and exclusive boutiques to the big brand stores you know and love. The newly redeveloped Bridge Mall features a vibrant entertainment space perfect for gatherings, a dynamic new playground where the kids can run free, and plenty of seating areas to enjoy afternoon tea at one of the many cafés. Don't miss the monthly Bridge Market on the first Saturday of the month, which delights with its vast range of fresh produce, gourmet items, and locally made design ware. Throughout the year, the mall also hosts seasonal events around Christmas, Easter, Mother's Day, Father's Day, and Ballarat Heritage Weekend. Stroll along the tree-lined boulevard and enjoy the smart lighting that highlights Ballarat's architectural history. Located in central Ballarat with plenty of parking, why not experience regional living for yourself?

Ballarat Central VIC

10 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

10 km away

Darrell Lea Ballarat Chocolate Experience Store — Image credit: Darrell Lea Ballarat

Shopping and Markets

Ballarat Chocolate Experience Store

Welcome to the Ballarat Chocolate Experience Store, where every visit promises a sweet adventure. Indulge your senses in a world of decadent chocolates, delightful lollies and irresistible treats that will make your taste buds dance with joy. All day lunch is available, choose from loaded waffles, toasties, pizza subs and much more. Every corner is filled with the magic of confectionery delights. From scrumptious chocolates to mouth-watering sweets and desserts, they've got something to satisfy every craving, including creamy gelato, indulgent cakes and slices, rich coffee, and a variety of gourmet foods. And that's not all – brace yourself for a taste sensation like no other with their monster shakes, towering sundaes and velvety hot chocolates that will warm your soul. But wait, there's more. Discover the Sweet Owl Hampers, a beautifully curated selection of goodies that make the perfect gift for any occasion. Whether you're treating yourself or someone special, these hampers are guaranteed to spread sweetness wherever they go locally and across Australia using local Australian products. So why wait? Join the team at Ballarat Chocolate Experience Store, your ultimate destination for all things delicious. Come hungry, leave happy – and with a heart full of dessert-induced joy for the young and young at heart.

Ballarat Central VIC

10 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

10 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

10 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

10 km away

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