Sovereign Hill and Gold Museum is a must see while in Ballarat. Step back in time to when the search for gold dominated all aspects of colonial life. Pan for gold or ride the old stage coach on the site linked with the richest alluvial gold rush in the world. It is easy to spend a full day exploring Sovereign Hill. Ph (03) 5331 1944.

Blood on the Southern Cross Sound and Light Show is not to be missed and can be enjoyed with an evening meal at Sovereign Hill, bookings essential. Ph (03) 5333 5777.

Ballarat Wildlife Park - enter another world in the Tropical Reptile house and marvel at the awesome saltwater crocodiles. Picnic and barbeque by the lake surrounded by native animals including koalas, kangaroos, and wallabies. Ph (03) 5333 5933.

Lydiard Street Historic Precinct is well worth a visit to marvel at the beautiful Victorian buildings. Places to visit in Lydiard Street include the Ballarat Fine Art Gallery which houses the original Eureka Flag and the finest art collection in regional Australia.

Sturt Street is a classic tree lined boulevard featuring beautiful gardens, historic buildings, outstanding streetscapes, and sculptures with a mix of local and national retail stores.

Visit the Botanical Gardens and Lake Wendouree and enjoy a tram ride through the gardens. The floral displays in the Robert Clarke Horticultural Centre are magnificent and a bronze bust of every Australian Prime Minister can be seen in The Avenue. Ph (03) 5334 3131. Restaurants and tearooms situated on Lake Wendouree can offer dining and afternoon and morning teas.

Eureka Street - includes  the Eureka  Centre, Street Parklands and the Diorama at the site of the famous Eureka Rebellion.

Kryal Castle offers a unique experience of medieval re-enactments and magic.
Ph (03) 5334 7388.

Ballarat has many galleries, antique shops, entertainment venues, gardens, art and craft markets, wineries and shopping centres.

Dine at Ballarat’s many fine restaurants and try the variety of nightlife and entertainment available.

Buninyong also has a variety of art and craft shops and galleries. Between Buninyong and Sebastopol experience exquisite pottery at the Clayfire Gallery and fine wooden furniture at Timeless Timber Gallery.

 Ballarat Visitor Information Centre. Ph (03) 5320 5741 Corner Albert and Sturt Sts.   Ballarat, Victoria.