Things to do in Ballarat

Not Just Any Hotel – Only the Best Things to do in Ballarat, Selected for You!

Aug 31, 2025 - Sep 01, 2025
2 adults, 1 room
Find
Good (151)

Arch of Victory

Open 24 hours
Museum
Sturt Street Learmonth Street
View map
The Arch of Victory in Ballarat is a prominent triumphal arch located on the Avenue of Honour, commemorating WWI soldiers and honoring their service.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free.

Good (7)

Spot on Pots and Nursery

9:00 AM–5:30 PM
Garden
13-15 Wallis St
View map
Spot on Pots and Nursery in Ballarat is the largest independent garden center, offering a wide range of garden products, water features, and expert horticultural advice.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry. Some custom garden art may require payment.

Good (134)

Black Hill Reserve

Open all day
Park
746 Chisholm St
View map
Black Hill Reserve in Ballarat, Australia, features a 495m hill with panoramic views, hiking trails, and mountain biking paths for outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. No admission fee required for accessing the park.

Good (2)

Ebenezer St Johns Presbyterian Church

10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
Ballarat Victoria 212 Armstrong St S
View map
Ebenezer St Johns Presbyterian Church in Ballarat, Australia, has been a cornerstone of the community since 1857, actively engaging in local and international ministries.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free.

Good (15)

Lake Esmond Botanical Park

Open 24 hours
Park
233 Larter St
View map
Lake Esmond Botanical Park in Ballarat features picturesque gardens, a serene lake, walking paths, and a variety of native flora, making it a relaxing nature escape.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No entry fees are required.

Her Majesty's Theatre

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Theater
17 Lydiard St. S
View map
Her Majesty's Theatre in Ballarat, Australia, hosts various performing arts events, showcasing the region's cultural heritage and lively arts scene.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Varies by event. Standard adult tickets range from AUD 25 to AUD 100.

Ballarat Golf Club

6:30 AM–7:30 PM
Golf Course
Australia
View map
Ballarat Golf Club, founded in 1897, offers an 18-hole championship course surrounded by scenic landscapes, perfect for golf enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Public play fees apply, check the website for rates; members play at discounted rates.

Good (13)

Ballarat Civic Hall

9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Architectural Building
300-304 Mair St
View map
Ballarat Civic Hall is a historic venue in Ballarat, Australia, built in 1878, known for its vibrant cultural events and striking architecture.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require tickets.

Good (8101)

Sovereign Hill

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
Bradshaw Street
View map
Sovereign Hill, in Ballarat, Australia, is a living museum recreating the 1850s gold mining township, showcasing historical buildings, demonstrations, and gold panning.

Duration: At least 3 hours.

Paid. Adults: $39, Children: $22, Family: $99. Discounts for seniors and students available.

Good (2504)

Ballarat Wildlife Park

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Zoo
Ballarat East VIC 3350
View map
Ballarat Wildlife Park features Australia's native animals and exotic reptiles across 37 acres in Ballarat, Australia, with hands-on encounters available.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Paid entry. Check the website for specific prices and encounter fees.

Good (1220)

Kryal Castle

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Theme Park
121 Forbes Road
View map
Kryal Castle, located in Ballarat, Australia, is a replica medieval castle turned theme park, featuring Gothic rooms and interactive medieval attractions.

Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours.

Admission: $30 for adults, $15 for children (3-14 years), discounts available for families.

Good (2293)

Ballarat Botanical Gardens

10:00 AM–5:30 PM
Botanical Garden
Gillies St N
View map
Ballarat Botanical Gardens in Victoria, Australia, established in 1858, features landscaped gardens, marble statues, and a modern greenhouse along Lake Wendouree.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (1048)

The Gold Museum

Mo-Su 09:30-17:20
Museum
Bradshaw Street
View map
The Gold Museum in Ballarat explores the local 1850s gold rush through multimedia exhibits and exclusive gold items. Free entry with Sovereign Hill ticket.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free with Sovereign Hill ticket; separate entry available.

Good (635)

Eureka Centre

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
102 Stawell Street South Enter next to Eureka Pool and drive down to carpark
View map
Eureka Centre in Ballarat, Australia, showcases the Eureka Flag and focuses on the 1854 Eureka Stockade, highlighting the struggle for miners' rights in Australia's democracy.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (90)

Ballarat Tramway Museum

Sa,Su,PH 11:30-16:00
Museum
100 Gillies Street North - Depot
View map
Ballarat Tramway Museum features a fleet of historic trams and an operational solar-powered tramway along a scenic 1.3km route around Lake Wendouree.

Duration: Approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Paid. Adults: $5, Children (under 15): $2, family tickets available.

Good (299)

Lake Wendouree Adventure playground

Open 24 hours
Amusement Park
The Steve Moneghetti Track
View map
Lake Wendouree Adventure playground in Ballarat, Australia offers various play areas and natural surroundings, ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free to enter.

Good (8)

Mining Exchange

10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Museum
16 Lydiard St N
View map
Mining Exchange is a heritage-listed building in Ballarat, Australia, celebrating the region's gold mining history with architecture that reflects its cultural significance.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a fee.

Good (62)

Midlands Reserve And Water Park

7:00 AM–8:00 PM
Amusement Park
705 Landsborough St
View map
Midlands Reserve and Water Park in Ballarat, Australia, offers recreational spaces, water activities, and family-friendly amenities for a fun day out.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some additional activities or events may require a paid ticket.

Good (58)

Pax Hill Scout Camp

8:00 AM–6:00 PM
Camping
Ballarat VIC 3350
View map
Pax Hill Scout Camp in Ballarat offers a vast outdoor space for camping and activities, fostering youth development in nature's embrace.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Good (70)

Kirks Reservoir Park

Open 24 hours
Garden
255 Daylesford Rd
View map
Kirks Reservoir Park, located in Ballarat's Gong Gong area, features diverse flora, picnic facilities, and scenic walking paths. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 1-2 hours recommended.

Free. Fishing permits may apply for anglers.

Regent Cinemas

10:00 AM–1:00 AM
Cinema
View map
Regent Cinemas in Ballarat offers a rich cinematic experience with a historic venue, showcasing the latest releases and classic films in an elegant setting.

Duration: Around 2-3 hours depending on film length.

Prices vary; adult tickets around AUD 15, child tickets around AUD 10. Discounts may apply for seniors and students.

Courthouse Theatre

10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Theater
Australia
View map
Courthouse Theatre, in Ballarat, Australia, is a historic venue offering diverse cultural performances, with an emphasis on local talent and community engagement.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Ticket prices vary by event; generally range from $10 to $30.

St. Paul's Church Bakery Hill

9:00 AM–3:00 PM
Church
Bakery Jill
View map
St. Paul's Church Bakery Hill in Ballarat, Australia, features striking Gothic architecture and serves as a cultural and historical landmark in the region.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Eureka Street (Main Road)
View map
The Salvation Army Ballarat Community Church serves the Ballarat community with worship, outreach programs, and community services, actively supporting local needs.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for community programs.

York Street Church of Christ

10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Church
410 York Street
View map
York Street Church of Christ in Ballarat, Australia, offers a unique combination of architectural beauty and community engagement since its establishment in 1856.

Duration: 1 hour is suggested for a brief visit.

Free. Donations are welcomed to support church activities.

one2one Church of Christ

9:00 AM–12:00 PM
Church
121 Gillies St
View map
one2one Church of Christ promotes community and faith in Ballarat, Australia. This local church focuses on inclusive worship and support for all.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are accepted for special events and charity initiatives.

Mount Clear Church Of Christ

9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
1185 Geelong Road
View map
Mount Clear Church Of Christ in Ballarat, Australia, is a vibrant community hub dedicated to spiritual growth and community service, offering various programs and services.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are encouraged for community programs.

Good (3)

Delacombe Town Centre

9:00 AM–9:00 PM
Mall
Smythes Creek VIC 3351
View map
Delacombe Town Centre in Ballarat, Australia, offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, catering to families and visitors in a modern setting.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. No general admission charges apply.

Good (5)

Central Square Shopping Centre

9:00 AM–9:00 PM
Mall
18 Armstrong St S
View map
Central Square Shopping Centre in Ballarat, Australia, features a wide range of stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities, catering to diverse shopping needs.

Duration: About 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events or promotions may incur charges.

Showbiz Cinemas Ballarat

10:00 AM–1:00 AM
Cinema
View map
Showbiz Cinemas Ballarat offers a modern movie-going experience with state-of-the-art screens and comfortable seating in Ballarat, Victoria, Australia.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Adults: $15, Children: $10, Seniors: $12. Discounts available on special days.

Mars Stadium

Event dependent
Stadium
820 Howitt St
View map
Mars Stadium in Ballarat hosts Australian Rules Football matches and other events, with a significant place in the city’s sports culture.

Duration: Around 3 hours during events.

Varies by event; check the official site for specifics.

Gold Rush Mini Golf

10:00 AM–8:00 PM
Golf Course
9367-9389 Western Hwy
View map
Gold Rush Mini Golf in Ballarat features two 18-hole mini golf courses themed around gold mining and dinosaurs, offering fun for all ages.

Duration: 2 hours.

Adults: $15, Children: $10. Family discounts available.

Karova Lounge

6:00 PM–1:00 AM
Event hall
Field St. (Camp St.)
View map
Karova Lounge in Ballarat is a premier live music venue for rock and indie acts, offering a grungy atmosphere and a showcase for local talent.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours.

Cover charge varies; some events may require advance booking.

Bakery Hill Shopping Centre

9:00 AM–9:00 PM
Mall
Victoria Street
View map
Bakery Hill Shopping Centre in Ballarat, Australia, features diverse retail options, food outlets, and entertainment facilities, making it a key shopping destination.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No entry fee, but individual store prices may vary.

golf city

7:00 AM–6:00 PM
Golf Course
learmonth st
View map
Golf City in Ballarat, Australia offers a unique golfing experience with varied terrain, rich history, and well-maintained facilities, making it a great destination for enthusiasts.

Duration: 3-4 hours.

Paid. Adult: AUD 30, Child: AUD 15.

Ballarat Begonia Festival

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Garden
Australia
View map
Ballarat Begonia Festival is a vibrant carnival and cultural celebration held annually, showcasing art, music, and over 20,000 begonias.

Duration: Approximately 3-4 hours.

Free. Some workshops and activities may have a nominal fee.

Helen Macpherson Smith Theatre

10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Theater
Australia
View map
Helen Macpherson Smith Theatre in Ballarat, Australia, hosts diverse cultural events and performances, showcasing local and international talent in a historic venue.

Duration: 2 hours.

Varies by event. Many community events are free, while ticketed performances typically range from AUD 20 to AUD 60.