Ballarat

Ballarat is a vibrant city located in the state of Victoria, Australia. It is known for its rich gold rush history, with stunning heritage buildings and museums to explore. The city also boasts beautiful parks and gardens, making it a picturesque destination for nature lovers.

With a thriving arts and cultural scene, Ballarat offers a mix of activities for visitors to enjoy.

Places to visit

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Exploring Ballarat History and Culture

morning:Start your day with a visit to the Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum showcasing Ballarat's gold rush era. Don't miss the underground mine tour while you're there. For breakfast, head to Europa Cafe, offering delicious pastries and coffee.

afternoon:Afterward, explore the Art Gallery of Ballarat, which houses an impressive collection of Australian art. For lunch, try the local favorite, L'espresso. Then, take a relaxing stroll around Lake Wendouree.

evening:In the evening, dine at Forge Pizzeria for gourmet pizzas. End your day with a visit to the Mallow Hotel, known for its vibrant atmosphere and live music performances.

day 2

Nature and Wildlife Adventure

morning:Begin your day with a trip to the Ballarat Wildlife Park, where you can get up close with native Australian animals. Indulge in a hearty breakfast at the Feedbox Diner located nearby.

afternoon:Next, journey to the Ballarat Botanical Gardens and take a leisurely walk through the lush surroundings. For lunch, try Eclectic Tastes, a charming cafe nestled in the gardens.

evening:In the evening, head to The Pub with Two Names for a pub-style dinner among the locals. Wrap up your day at Kirks Reservoir Park, offering stunning sunset views.

day 3

Heritage and Architecture Walk

morning:Start your day with a self-guided walking tour of Ballarat's historic architecture, including the iconic Ballarat Town Hall. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Eclectic Tastes, known for its homemade dishes and cozy ambiance.

afternoon:Continue your exploration with a visit to the Gold Museum, where you can learn about the region's gold mining history. For lunch, try the locally sourced menu at The Healthy Hub Cafe.

evening:In the evening, savor a gourmet dinner at Catfish Thai, known for its authentic Thai cuisine. Conclude your day with a walking tour of the illuminated Arch of Victory.

day 4

Art and Culture Experience

morning:Commence your day with a visit to the MADE Museum, showcasing Ballarat's design and art excellence. Start your day with a breakfast at the award-winning Yellow Espresso café.

afternoon:Next, explore the historic Ballarat Railway Station and its unique exhibits. For lunch, visit Creative Native for a healthy and creative indigenous Australian meal experience.

evening:In the evening, delve into a vibrant dinner at Mitchell Harris Wines, combining wine and locally sourced fare. Wrap up your day with live music and fantastic vibes at The Eastern.

Ballarat Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Battered Sav

A popular Australian snack consisting of a deep-fried battered sausage. Try it at local fish and chip shops like Snax On Trax or Red Dot.

Must-Try!

Pie Floater

A classic Aussie dish featuring a meat pie served in a bowl of thick pea soup. Head to The Forge Pizzeria for their delicious rendition.

Lamington

A beloved Australian dessert made of sponge cake coated in chocolate and shredded coconut. Indulge in this treat at L'espresso.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

The Market on Webster

This vibrant market is a foodie's paradise, offering a wide array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and delectable street food from various cultures.

Ballarat Food Truck Park

Delight in a diverse range of street food delights from gourmet burgers to wood-fired pizzas at this popular food truck hub.

Pet sitters in Ballarat

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

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