Things to do in Ballarat
From exhibitions and festivals to live music and sports, there is always something on in Ballarat
For an up-to-the-minute summary of what’s upcoming in Ballarat, check out Visit Ballarat’s ‘What’s On’ page
Events
Ballarat is a cultural melting pot, boasting a bustling contemporary arts scene, fine food and wine, and acclaimed festivals and attractions.
- An unmissable annual event for craft beer fans, the Ballarat Beer Festival celebrates brewers from around the country with live music, food trucks and, of course, a few cold ones.
- First held in 2006, the annual Ballarat Heritage Festival is a celebration of the city’s rich heritage, iconic landmarks and vibrant community.
- The Ballarat International Foto Biennale is one of Australia’s pre-eminent photographic festivals held every two years.
- A staple of the local live music calendar since 2016, Ballarat’s annual Spilt Milk summer music festival should not be missed!
Attractions
Attracting 2.2 million people visit Ballarat every year to experience some of these famous tourist attractions.
- An internationally acclaimed tourist attraction, Sovereign Hill brings to life the excitement of Australia’s great 1850s gold rush. In the colder months, don’t miss out on the Sovereign Hill’s Winter Wonderlights spectacular.
- Immerse your family in a world full of make-believe at Kryal Castle, a replica medieval castle with a moat and drawbridge, maze, stocks and armoury. There are also shows involving real-life jousting between knights in full armour, live theatre and fire eating.
- Ballarat Wildlife Park offers the chance to get up close and personal to some of Australia’s most famous native animals, including koalas, wombats and over 100 free-roaming kangaroos which visitors can feed by hand.
- The Lavandula Swiss Italian Farm sits in the picturesque farmlands of Shepherds Flat. Take a tour of the historic homestead, explore the European-styled gardens and historic stone buildings, or relax in the Mediterranean-inspired eatery – a delightful day out!
- Choose your own bouquet of sunflowers at the stunningly beautiful Sunflower Farm.
- The kids will just love picking their own blueberries at Buninyong Blueberry Farm, one of Victoria’s oldest blueberry farms.
Arts & Culture
Ballarat has a rich cultural heritage is reflected and enhanced by the city’s rich collection of museums, galleries and theatres.
- The Eureka Centre explores the social history and cultural impact of the Victorian gold rush through art installations and digital technology.
- Presenting a wide range of exhibitions from cutting edge contemporary art to themed shows, the Art Gallery of Ballarat is the oldest, largest and, dare we say, best regional art gallery in Australia.
- The Ballarat Tramway Museum features a collection of historic trams from Ballarat, Geelong and Melbourne dating back to 1887.
- See the stars up close at the Ballarat Municipal Observatory & Museum. In addition to one of the most comprehensive collections of astronomical instruments in regional Australia, the Observatory has a 3D movie theatre, science shop and regular events.
- Located at Ballarat Airport, the Ballarat Aviation Museum has an impressive collection of aircraft, engines, radios, cameras and aviation memorabilia dating back to the Second World War.
- Her Majesty’s has been a central part of the cultural life of Ballarat since it first opened its doors in 1875, functioning as the city’s premier performing arts centre.
Staying Active
Despite being a city, Ballarat is surrounded by an abundance of natural charm. Whether it’s an adventure or a gentle stroll you’re feeling, there is plenty to choose from.
- In the heart of Ballarat are a series of three heritage walking trails that take you on an absorbing journey through the city and its mining past. The trails centre around Sturt Street, Lydiard Street and Camp Street in Ballarat’s heritage precinct and explore many of the city’s grand buildings.
- Need a breath of floral air? The Ballarat Botanical Gardens covers an area of 40 hectares which is divided into three distinct zones. The Gardens have been part of Ballarat for more than 150 years and are located in the heart of the city.
- Whether it’s training, rehabilitation or leisurely play, the Ballarat Aquatic & Lifestyle Centre has pool facilities that will suit all needs, including small group and personal training options, a variety of group fitness classes and gym equipment
Whether you want to relax, explore or enjoy the scenery, Ballarat has activities to suit everyone’s style
Ballarat Veterinary Practice
The Ballarat Veterinary Practice comprises three small animal clinics and a large equine hospital. We are committed to providing the best possible care for our patients and their families.
Eureka Veterinary Hospital
For over 30 years, our clinic as been recognised by the Ballarat community for providing high quality, compassionate and personalised veterinary care. Our reputation has allowed us to attract, retain and developed quality vets and nurses.