Step into yesteryears and explore the top activities in Ballarat, the epicentre of Victoria’s gold rush past.
A mere 90-minute journey from Melbourne, vibrant Ballarat offers a wealth of learning and fun for youngsters. Recognized as the epicentre of Australia’s gold rush, Ballarat offers a captivating blend of historical tales, cultural heritage, gastronomy, and an array of gold-centric sights.
But there’s more to Ballarat than the famed gold. The city gleams with its splendid bluestone and artisan-crafted brick edifices, constructed during the prosperous times of the 1850s gold fever. Now, visitors can wander through majestic Victorian-period theatres, art galleries, and historic byways brimming with art and lively coffee shops.
Notable Spots in Ballarat
1. Sovereign Hill
Labeled as Australia’s premier open-sky museum, Sovereign Hill offers families a nostalgic journey back to the gold rush days of Ballarat. This reconstructed gold rush settlement sits atop the fertile gold-bearing lands where once fortune-seekers thrived. Spanning 25 hectares, this replicated town is a vibrant testament to history, blending education, exploration, and pure golden entertainment.At Sovereign Hill, visitors have numerous chances to engage and jest with the costumed inhabitants. Delve into subterranean mines, witness historical performances, and embark on a horse-led coach journey around replicated businesses, manufacturing units, and residences.
2. Experience AURA
As dusk envelops, witness the metamorphosis of Sovereign Hill with AURA, a dynamic and enveloping auditory and visual spectacle. This entrancing performance chronicles the 1854 Eureka revolt and the transformative power of gold on Ballarat.
Spanning 64 acres, numerous evocative projections craft a riveting narrative that delves deeper into Ballarat’s saga. The Wadawurrung origin narrative unfolds over a serene lake, confrontations and rallies ignite beneath the celestial dome, and the gold rush epoch is recreated in an unprecedented manner.
3. Wildlife Park
Young nature enthusiasts will be thrilled to interact with freely wandering kangaroos, koalas, wombats, and colossal tortoises at the renowned Ballarat Wildlife Park. Open every day, the park facilitates engaging, guided interactions with meerkats, serpents, and other reptiles. Drop by on Sundays to observe Crunch, the remarkable crocodile, during his weekly feed. When hunger calls, the park’s licensed café offers delightful meals, or bring your picnic and dine amidst the kangaroos.
4. Kryal Castle Adventures
Delve into the annals of history at Kryal Castle, a portal transporting families approximately 700 years back. Here, you’ll witness live jousting, jesting entertainers, skilled jugglers, and fiery performers enacting medieval arts.
Prepare for an immersive journey into a magical realm teeming with formidable dragons, valorous knights, and cunning sorcerers. Children will enjoy navigating the mysterious Dragon’s Maze, shaded by dark corridors, heavy gear, and intriguing skeletal remnants.
The castle is alive with regal figures and showcases of medieval skills like archery and swordplay. The arena comes alive with the pounding hooves of jousting knights, mesmerizing young lords and ladies alike.
Don’t miss the Wizard’s Den atop the Oggle Watchtower, reminiscent of a magical school’s aura, the eerie Torture Chamber, and indulge in candies at the Fairy’s Candy Store. For those wishing to prolong the enchantment, Kryal Castle’s family suites offer a luxurious stay.
5. Artistic Journey: Ballarat Gallery
Budding artists will adore their time at the Ballarat Art Gallery. They can admire diverse artistic creations, indulge in crafting their own art at Art Crate, and engage in activities inspired by ongoing exhibits. The gallery also organizes ‘Art Bites’ during school breaks, nurturing young creativity. And as you explore, keep an eye out for special labels designed for kids.
6. Eureka Discovery Centre
The Eureka Discovery Centre offers a hands-on experience of democracy’s concepts through its engaging displays. Positioned on the historic 1854 Eureka Stockade ground, the iconic Eureka flag stands as its pride.
Adjacent, Lilly’s Café presents a varied menu tailored for children and boasts views of the Eureka Stockade Memorial Park, complete with a playground and splash park available in balmy seasons.
7. Escape Smash Play
For teenagers 13 and up, Escape Smash Play Ballarat is a must-visit. Vent out any stress in rooms designed for smashing provided ceramics. Test your skill in axe throwing under expert supervision.
The venue also houses an arcade and two distinctive escape rooms, drawing you into a Jumanji quest or a pharaoh’s crypt. Parental presence is a prerequisite for teenagers.
8. Ballarat Space Observator
Future astronomers and space enthusiasts will be captivated by the Ballarat Observatory. Dive into space exploration, seeking celestial bodies through a mighty telescope, appreciating space-themed stained-glass art, and watching 3D films in the AstroVision theatre. An on-premises café and science store even let you procure a personal telescope. Pre-booking is recommended for observatory tours.
9. Historic Ballarat Tramway Exhibit
Journey to yesteryears aboard a centennial tram from the Ballarat Tramway Exhibit. Post its 2022 facelift, kids can explore trams from diverse eras. Embark on a picturesque journey on a classic tram along the city’s authentic routes, skirting the splendid Botanical Gardens by Lake Wendouree’s western shore.
10. Ballarat's Historic Celebration
If Ballarat is on your travel itinerary this May, the Ballarat Heritage Festival is a must-see. This festive event is a tribute to the city’s glistening history, featuring exhibits, guided tours, performances, and numerous activities that cater to the entire family. A highlight is the Ballarat Tweed Ride, where participants cycle dressed in nostalgic clothing.
Additionally, attendees can explore some historical edifices and embark on classic transport journeys, including the neon-lit tram at Ballarat Botanical Garden. For specifics on dates, tickets, and further details, check the Ballarat Heritage Festival’s official webpage.
11. The Ballarat Access Ticket
For families seeking nature, historical insights, or cultural experiences, the Ballarat Pass is the key. This ticket provides entry to six prime spots: Sovereign Hill, Creswick Woollen Mills, Ballarat Wildlife Park, Kryal Castle, Eureka Centre, and the Art Gallery of Ballarat. With five unique bundles such as Animal Enthusiasts, Time Travelers, Art and Culture Buffs, Ultimate Fun, and Top Trio, there’s a suitable package for every group.
12. Biking Adventure: Ballarat–Skipton Rail Trail
Families with mature kids can explore the 53-km Ballarat–Skipton Rail Trail on their bicycles. This former rail route traverses indigenous meadows, relics of gold mining, and an alluring trestle bridge. Quaint villages like Linton, Scarsdale, and Smythesdale are great for brief halts.
13. Lake Wendouree
Lake Wendouree promises a delightful time for every family member, be it canoeing, kayaking, or angling. Starting from the Ballarat Railway Station and encircling Lake Wendouree, there’s a welcoming 10-km bike route. This smooth trail is accommodating for riders of all proficiencies.
Upon reaching, youngsters will be captivated by the expansive wooden Lake Wendouree Adventure Playground. Additionally, there’s a dedicated Indigenous play zone adorned with mosaic designs, native flora, story panels, and engaging musical instruments.
14. Water Play at Midlands Reserve
If you’re visiting during the sunnier seasons, Midlands Reserve Splash Park in Ballarat’s northern section is a hit. Kids can enjoy water jets, splash buckets, and more. Adjacently, there’s a play area, shaded barbecue spot, water refill point, and picnic setups to relax.
15. Beyond City Limits: Cave Hill Creek
Can you hear that? It’s the ecstatic cheers of your children, excited for a week-long summer or winter retreat at Cave Hill Creek. And you, basking in their happiness and the upcoming respite.
Just under an hour from Ballarat, Cave Hill Creek ranks among Australia’s premier vacation camps for children. They can participate in abseiling, trekking, canoeing, mountain biking, archery, bouldering, bush cuisine cooking, and even crate stacking, which is as thrilling as it sounds! A tech-free environment lets you enjoy peace of mind, knowing their experiences are truly immersive.
16. Tuki Trout Farm
Have an angler in your family? A 35-minute drive from Ballarat will bring you to Tuki Trout Farm. Here, the pond brims with rainbow trout, each weighing more than 300 grams. Cast a line while soaking in the expansive views of Ballarat’s plains.
Whether you’re catching lunch or partaking in a paddock-to-plate adventure – which combines fishing and scavenging for a feast – the farm’s restaurant is ready to cook your catch. Using fresh farm ingredients, they transition your trout from water to skillet. There’s also the option to book a stay in a quaint stone cottage.
17. Donegan’s Farm
Donegan’s Farm in Ballarat East offers an array of family-friendly activities that involve animals, including kid-friendly tours, pony rides, feeding barn animals, and even milking cows. You can take a tractor ride to explore the farm and discover some interesting facts about Australian agriculture. A highlight is the farmhouse, which has been preserved over time and now displays artifacts from the early 1900s.
Ballarat Dining Options
Ballarat makes dining with kids simple, boasting a myriad of child-friendly restaurants. At the city’s core, the 1816 Bakehouse offers masterfully crafted sourdough, in-house pastries, pies, and freshly-made sandwiches. It’s an ideal spot to gather picnic supplies before a day at Lake Wendouree or Ballarat Botanic Gardens.
Under the warm festoon lights, the historic Hydrant Food Hall stands out. Known for its gourmet dishes, in-house roasted coffee, and casual atmosphere, families adore this cafe. Their child-oriented menu features delights like waffles, rainbow pancakes, breakfast platters, and cheeseburgers. The venue is wheelchair and pram-friendly, and kids get a unique ‘Play Bag’ to stay engaged.
In the mood for something sugary? Experience the freshly churned gelato at Il Piccolo Gelato. Offering 24 distinct flavours, there’s a treat for every palate.
The Forge Pizzeria, set in a captivating red-brick establishment in Ballarat, is a hotspot for locals and tourists. With its irresistible wood-fired pizzas and exceptional pasta dishes, its kids’ menu features mini pizzas and pasta varieties.
Accommodations in Ballarat
Quest Ballarat Station presents 77 expansive service apartments. Situated just a short walk from the Ballarat Railway Station, it neighbours The Goods Shed Events Hall and culinary hotspots. Families can select from two- and three-bedroom apartments with modern facilities and a full kitchen. They also offer accessible stay options.
Eureka Stockade Holiday Park enhances your Ballarat experience. It’s conveniently close to the main attractions and offers a water park, game zone, and an outdoor BBQ section. This park also welcomes pets, so everyone can join. They provide spacious three-bedroom villas and areas for your caravans.
NRMA Ballarat Holiday Park, a niche caravan and camping site, offers activities like jumping pillows, playgrounds, and even discos for kids. Guests can enjoy amenities like a solar-powered pool, game area, and tennis court.
For a unique stay, consider BIG4 Kryal Castle Holiday Park, scheduled to open in April 2023. It promises two-story luxury tiny homes and family cabins. The park’s offerings range from a container pool and Sunset Deck to children’s playgrounds and a game room. Guests receive discounted admissions to Kryal Castle. Plus, pet lovers will appreciate that their four-legged companions are welcome.
Articles about Great Ocean Road
