Things to do in Ballarat

Food & Drink

G&Tea at Grainery Lane

Sun, 1 Nov, 2:00 pm AEDT

Ballarat Central · From $0

Enjoy free flowing Grainey Lane Gin Teapot Cocktails perfectly paired with a selection of delectable bites. The perfect Sunday catch-up or to celebrate special milestone birthday, baby shower, hens party or a special occasion.

Live Music & Concerts

Guy Sebastian: 100 X Around Australia Tour - Ballarat

Sun, 1 Nov, 7:30 pm AEDT

Ballarat Central · From $121

Following his sold-out 2026 arena tour, Guy is bringing the 100 X Around Australia Tour to Ballarat for one night. Backed by his full band, experience every note, every story and every hit, from Like It Like That and Choir to Battle Scars, in a truly intimate setting that puts you just metres from the stage. This is live music the way it's meant to be experienced: powerful, personal and right in front of you. Plus $1 from every ticket supports The Sebastian Foundation, helping improve youth mental health across Australia.

Food & Drink

Melbourne Cup at Dear Eliza

Tue, 3 Nov, 11:00 am AEDT

Ballarat Central · From $65

An excuse to dress beautifully, gather your favourite people, and spend the afternoon in good company. Eliza approves. Join in this Melbourne Cup for a drink on arrival, something delicious to share, and a little friendly competition. They will have the race-day action streaming live, your entry into the sweep sorted, and a door prize waiting for one lucky guest. As for best dressed? Give them something to talk about. Choose your indulgence, served on arrival from either High Cheese or, High Tea. For those who prefer their afternoons a little savoury. A two-tier tower featuring a cheese platter, croquettes, beetroot and feta quiche, mini cheeseburgers, and cheesecake bites. Designed for groups of two or more to share. For those with a soft spot for the classics. A two-tier tower of scones, profiteroles, a sweet tart and finger sandwiches, accompanied by mini croquettes, bite-sized pies and sausage rolls. Between races, try your hand at shuffleboard, interactive darts, or pool, all available to play throughout the day. A little rivalry among friends is always welcome. Come for the Cup. Stay for the company. Select High Tea or High Cheese when booking your ticket. Seating is unallocated.

Classes & Workshops

Art Gallery of Ballarat Art Play at Federation University

Wed, 4 Nov, 10:00 am AEDT

Ballarat Central · From $8

Art Play is the Art Gallery of Ballarat's early years program, inviting the littlest art lovers and their caregivers to join in the Gallery Studio to experience the joy of playing, making and creating together. For ages zero to two, in this gentle session for babies and toddlers, storytelling starts with the senses. Unusual textures, bold colours and different shapes invite little hands to explore. Crumpled paper might become a tree. A line might become a path. A colour might become a feeling. In these sessions for ages three to five, curious preschoolers ready to explore and imagine will experiment with different tools and materials to make their mark. They will be encouraged to add, move and change elements to build their own visual stories watching ideas shift and grow as they go. It will be messy, hands-on, and full of discovery.

Live Music & Concerts

Anh Do - The Happiest Refugee Live - Ballarat

Thu, 5 Nov, 7:30 pm AEDT

Ballarat Central · Check price with organiser

Anh Do's bestselling book, The Happiest Refugee, has made readers laugh and cry. His stage show takes it a step further, combining stand-up comedy with real life stories, photos and filmed pieces to retell his amazing story.

Festivals & Fairs

Life and Rhymes of Banjo Paterson - Creswick

Fri, 6 Nov, 7:00 pm AEDT

Creswick · From $25

Prepare for a dinkum night of Australian entertainment. For one night only, experience the bush poetry, passion, and wild adventures of Australia's favourite bush poet. The Creswick Theatre Company proudly presents multi-award-winning bush poet Gregory North in his acclaimed one-man show, The Life and Rhymes of Banjo Paterson, live at the historic Creswick Courthouse Theatre. Immerse yourself in a memorable journey through the life of Andrew Barton Banjo Paterson - the solicitor, journalist, war correspondent, and legendary writer who gave a voice to the Australian bush. From the thrilling riding of The Man from Snowy River to the classic cadence of Waltzing Matilda, Gregory North brings Banjo's characters, travels, and frustrations vividly to life with his famous, transformational character acting and unique humour. Gregory North is a triple Australian Bush Poetry Champion. Whether you love classic verse, Australian history, or just a fantastic, humorous night out at the theatre, this show is a must-see for all generations.

Live Music & Concerts

Spiderbait: Ivy and The Big Apples 30th Anniversary Tour

Fri, 6 Nov, 7:30 pm AEDT

Ballarat Central · From $74

Following an epic run across the country on their Ivy and the Big Apples 30th Anniversary Tour, legendary trio Spiderbait have announced they are coming to Civic Hall Ballarat with special guest, Custard and local support from Velora. At the peak of their powers and in the finest form of their celebrated career, Spiderbait's 30th Anniversary Encore Shows will see the band perform their iconic 1996 album Ivy and the Big Apples in full, alongside songs from their extensive catalogue. If you love music, don't miss the greatest rock show of the year when Spiderbait and Custard come to town.

Live Music & Concerts

Women of Wit - Ballarat

Fri, 6 Nov, 7:30 pm AEDT

Soldiers Hill · From $32

Starting in 2018, Women of Wit tours Victoria showcasing the best new, emerging and established women in stand-up comedy. In 2026, they're teaming up for a night filled with laughs and joy at the Ballarat Performing Arts Centre. The Women of Wit show this year in Ballarat will include Tor Snyder, Ciara Murphy, Mel McGlensey and the headliner Claire Hooper, with more comedians on the night. So join in for this unmissable night of Women of Wit.

Festivals & Fairs

Christmas in Ballarat 2026 - Decorations

Sat, 7 Nov, 12:00 am AEDT

Ballarat Central · Free admission

Ballarat comes alive this Christmas as festive decorations take over Sturt Street, Bridge Mall and the Ballarat Information Centre. Wander through the city and discover a trail of enchanting displays, from the glowing Archway of Stars to the shimmering Waterloo Stars. Snap a photo with Rudolph and his reindeer friends, step into Santas boots with fun illuminated cut outs and capture your perfect Christmas snap in the Giant LED Bauble. Don't forget to explore Ballarat's Christmas displays located in the Bridge Mall. This year, the Bridge Mall will feature a five metre illuminated Christmas Tree, an awesome photo opportunity for family and friends on the Bauble Bench and a four metre long Merry Christmas Ballarat Sign. For the full Christmas in Ballarat program and for more ideas of where to eat, drink and shop, please visit the Christmas in Ballarat website.

Markets & Expos

The Bridge Market

Sat, 7 Nov, 12:00 am AEDT

Ballarat Central · Free admission

The Bridge Market is a Ballarat Farmers Market held on the first Saturday of the month at Ballarat Bridge Mall. Ballarat is central to everywhere, Melbourne, Bendigo Daylesford, you name it you’re close by. The Bridge Market sells a wide range of essential foods, gourmet items, hot food and locally made design ware. There’s plenty of parking that’s free for the first two hours in The Coles and Woolworths Carpark, The Big W Carpark and Cheap as Chips Carpark. Dogs are welcome at The Bridge, they are allowed provided they are kept in control on a short leash at all times. Hosted by the Bridge Mall Traders and operated by Rotary Wendouree Breakfast, every dollar raised from the market goes back into supporting this great monthly event. As well as supporting local community groups and independent traders, The Bridge Farmers Market supports and encourages community initiatives. They encourage you to bring along your reusable bags to minimise impact. This is a dog friendly event.

Theatre & Shows

Creswick Garden Lovers Weekend

Sat, 7 Nov, 9:00 am AEDT

Creswick · From $8

The Creswick Garden Lovers Weekend is back. This year they are offering lots of new and exciting and diverse private gardens to visit and enjoy, including large and small town gardens, quirky and eclectic gardens, sustainable gardens, and real country gardens. The event is organised by Creswick Garden Club Inc. and they invite you to visit the scenic, historic Central Goldfields Region of Victoria and see an array of diverse private gardens, iconic commercial gardens and nurseries, and more. This event supports local community projects.

Classes & Workshops

White Coopering Bucket Making Workshop

Sat, 7 Nov, 9:00 am AEDT

Ballarat · From $615

Learn the craft of the cooper with Tony Adams. This two-day workshop is an introduction to the craft of the cooper or barrel maker. White coopering is the making of straight-staved containers such as buckets that can be used for holding liquids. Your instructor, Tony Adams, will guide you through the process of making a barrel with hand tools. You will produce a wooden bucket complete with splayed and riveted metal hoops and a rope handle using traditional techniques. At the end of the workshop, you will take your finished bucket home with you.

Image: City of Ballarat

Landmarks and Buildings

The Robert Clark Conservatory

Lake Wendouree

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.

Image: Crafts Council Ballarat

Shopping and Markets

Adam Lindsay Gordon Craft Cottage

Lake Wendouree

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.

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Lake Wendouree

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.

Image: WCPA

Entertainment Venues

Wendouree Centre for Performing Arts Ballarat

Wendouree

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.

Image: Xtreme Bounce

Amusement and Theme Parks

Xtreme Bounce

Delacombe

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.

Image: Ballarat Wildlife Park

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Ballarat Wildlife Park

Ballarat

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.

Image: State of Being

Spas and Retreats

State of Being

Wendouree

State of Being is a dedicated recovery and well-being experience in Ballarat, designed to help people slow down reset and feel better. Guest can move through a range of recovery experiences including hot and cold immersion pools, a magnesium mineral pool, finish sauna, aromatherapy steam room compression therapy sensory pods PEMF mats, breathwork and relaxation spaces. Unlike a traditional day spa, State of Being is centered on intentional recovery. Visitors can create their own experience or be guided through different recovery practices depending on how they want to feel, whether that's calmer, more energised, physically recovered or simply switched off from the demands of everyday life. Designed for everyday people, athletes, travellers, couples and groups. State of Being offers a uniquely Australian approach to modern recovery: evidence informed, welcoming and accessible. Whether you're visiting for adventure, a special event or a moment of escape, State of Being offers the perfect complement to your trip. Book a casual visit and upgrade your stay with an experience. Come as you are. Leave in a better state.

Parks and Gardens

Buninyong Botanic Gardens

Buninyong

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.

Natural Attractions

Mount Buninyong

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.

Image: Parks Victoria

National Parks and Reserves

Creswick Regional Park - Koala Park

Creswick

Creswick Regional Park is 120 kilometres north-west of Melbourne between Ballarat and Daylesford, just off the Midland Highway. The park is part of Djandak, the traditional Country of the Dja Dja Wurrung People. Parks Victoria respects the deep and continuing connection that Traditional Owners have to these lands and waters, and they recognise their ongoing role in caring for Country. You can explore diverse natural environments, from wetlands and lakes to hills and native bushland. Walking, cycling, fossicking, picnicking, camping and birdwatching are popular activities, all within a landscape shaped by Aboriginal cultural heritage and the region's gold mining history. Walkers can follow trails through gentle hills, gullies and forests, while cyclists can explore a network of roads and shared tracks throughout the park. Visitors can fossick in designated areas and discover reminders of the area's goldfields past. The park offers rewarding nature experiences year-round with spring producing wildflowers that add colour to the landscape. Koala Park is a popular destination for short walks and nature based recreation. Established in the 1940s as a koala sanctuary by the School of Forestry, it features signposted walking tracks through forested hillsides, alongside Creswick Creek and through regenerating bushland. St Georges Lake and the Slaty Creek Campgrounds offer opportunities for picnicking, camping and enjoying the outdoors, with barbecue facilities, fireplaces and accessible toilets available at selected locations.

Natural Attractions

St Georges Lake

Creswick

St Georges Lake lies two kilometres east of Creswick and is a fabulous spot to escape the hustle and bustle of town. It's framed by pristine bushland on the edge of Creswick State Forest and Koala Park. The lake was originally one of many government-built dams that supplied sluice-water to mine operations in the late 19th/early 20th century. Today, it's the ideal spot to throw down a picnic rug, cast in a line, or enjoy a paddle. There is a short but relatively challenging walking trail that loops around St Georges Lake. The path largely follows the shoreline, and some sections are narrow and relatively steep. The abundance of birdlife and beautiful views along the way makes this walk well worth the effort. For safe walking, wear suitable walking shoes and lower leg protection, and carry plenty of water, a hat, and sunscreen. Always inform friends or family of your plans and estimated time of return. Keep to designated paths and stairways, and obey all safety signs.

Image: Hepburn Shire Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Art on Albert Gallery

Creswick

Deep dive into the creative credentials of the arts community in and around Creswick by paying a visit to Art on Albert. This community art gallery was established in 2025 by a committee of volunteers to give local and regional artists a space to showcase their work to visitors. You will see paintings, ceramic works, woodwork, prints, photographs, and etchings, and all work on display is available for purchase. Art of Albert stages themed exhibitions throughout the year, including Creswick Through the Eyes of the Artist, and Bigger Hearts for the Ballarat Dementia Alliance (Creswick Group). There's always something interesting to see, and you will be able to meet some of the contributing artists during your visit. The gallery is situated in the main street of Creswick, close to cafes, bakeries and The American Hotel. Make a point of dropping by to explore the creative heart and soul of this tight-knit community.