Business Ballarat

Tourism is a key component of Ballarat's economy and contributes to economic growth and diversity.

Steeped in history, Ballarat is Victoria's largest inland city and is famous as the site of the world's largest deposit of alluvial gold.

A rich legacy

Explore the legacy of the gold rush, still evident in the majestic architecture and wide tree-lined streets of the town today. Admire the city's Victorian and Edwardian architecture, parks, gardens, statues, and churches by following the visitor information centre's self-guided heritage walks.

Blood and gold

Pan for gold and watch the hustle and bustle of an 1850s gold mining settlement at Sovereign Hill. Don't miss the dramatic Blood on the Southern Cross sound and light show, telling the story of the Eureka Rebellion.

Art, music and shopping

Spend a day enjoying the magnificent collection of Australian art and the original Eureka flag at the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Australia's oldest and largest regional gallery. Catch a show at Her Majesty's Theatre, which originally opened in 1875, and wander through specialty shops stocking everything from boutique clothing and books to homewares, crafts and homemade supplies.

Things to do:

Sovereign Hill

Pan for gold, ride in a horsedrawn carriage, or go underground into a mine at Sovereign Hill.

Art Gallery of Ballarat

Visit Australia's largest regional gallery, and view the comprehensive collection of Australian art.

Her Majesty's Theatre

Take in a performance at Her Majesty's Theatre, Australia's oldest purpose-built theatre.

Ballarat Wildlife Park

Get close to Australian native animals in their natural surroundings.

Eureka Stockade

Visit the site of the Eureka Rebellion known as the birthplace of Australian democracy.