Sovereign Hill is an open-air museum representing the city's initial decade after the discovery of gold in 1851 in Ballarat. Officially inaugurated on November 29, 1970, it has garnered national acclaim as a prominent tourist attraction. Regarded as one of Victoria's foremost points of interest and Ballarat's most renowned, the expansive complex spans a 25-hectare site tied to the world's most abundant alluvial gold rush. Comprising over 60 historically reconstructed buildings, the site is populated by staff and volunteers donning period attire, adept at answering queries and posing for photographs. This authentic recreation is enriched with antiques, artwork, literature, machinery, livestock, carriages, and tools, all meticulously representative of the era.
UNIQUE FACTS:
• Art
• Ballarat Historical
• Social History.
3 Best Places To Visit in Ballarat, VIC
Expert recommended Top 3 Places To Visit in Ballarat, Victoria. All of our places to visit actually face a rigorous 50-Point Inspection, which includes everything from checking reviews, ratings, reputation, history, complaints, satisfaction, trust and cost to the general excellence.
SOVEREIGN HILL REVIEWS
Loved the location of the hotel and its amenities. Wife and kids enjoyed a ton. If you're coming down as a family make sure you take colonial room and above. They're worth the price you would pay. The view from my balcony (yes you do get one) was amazing. Only downside is the lack of a restaurant in the premises but there are lots of eateries around so thay shouldn't be a problem. Would definitely want to come back.
Although the buildings were made in the 1970s, they are all well looked after. The staff dressed up in that era and responded like they were still in the era made the experience realistic. I agreed with earlier comment that the comment from the diggers tour guide felt a bit political but she maybe doing what she was told to do and say. After reading someone else's comment about New York bakery, we went to Hope Bakery. Their pies and desserts were very nice. Their apple crumble was the best we had ever had. We decided to pay extra for the "Trapped" guides tour. We really enjoyed the experience going under ground as it made it felt realistic. The tour guide was the descendent of one of the victims and it made the tour felt extra special as he had the real connection to the story. The shops were also reasonably priced. The activities such as gold panning, bowling and candle decorating were also enjoyable. Lots of free demonstrations throughout the day, which made the whole day went by so fast. We really enjoyed our first experience at Sovereign Hill. Highly recommended for everyone.
Lovely people there honestly. It was a great experience for us. Loved the acting. The Hamper lunch was delicious. It was very hot today but don't worry plenty of places to cool down. They even spray a hose for those not worried about getting wet. Lots to do and see. You can make it a whole day experience so make sure u wear comfy shoes, also charge up your phones.
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Ballarat Wildlife Park is a family-owned business in Ballarat that aims to offer an immersive and engaging encounter with some of Australia’s most distinctive animals. Their expertise stems from their deep passion and extensive knowledge about animals and their jobs. Specializing in native Australian animals and a diverse range of exotic reptiles, they provide animal encounters that allow visitors to have a personal experience with various animals, including Meerkats, Koalas, Wombats, Snakes, Giant Tortoises, and more. Presently, animal encounters are available on both weekdays and weekends.
UNIQUE FACTS:
• Wildlife Park
• Parks
• Wildlife Areas
• Education Programs.
Specialty:
$Price:
Concession $29.50
Children (5-15) $19.50
Family – 2 Adults and up to 4 children $98
Contact:
Working Hours:
TBR® Inspection Report:
BALLARAT WILDLIFE PARK REVIEWS
Had a fantastic time at the Wildlife Park when my partner and I visited. The staff are super friendly and happy to chat to us and answer any questions we had on the wildlife. The Kangaroos were friendly and come right up to you. We even had a couple of emu come right up to us on their walk around the park which was amazing. We booked our tickets online and showed up not long after opening and got to explore before it started to get busy on a Friday. Highly recommend, we will be back next time we’re in the area again.
Great morning or afternoon outing depending on what you'd like to do. The park offers wildlife experiences throughout the day for an extra cost but the 1 on 1 time with the animals is truly memorable. We did the Tree Kangaroos as well as the Koalas but others are available too. There are also information sessions that can be attended with the keepers. Food from the kiosk was pretty good and not too badly priced either and gift shop visit at the end is also well worth it.
What an awesome sanctuary! Really impressed with the upgrades (I was here 15 years ago as uni students). Brought my young kids here today. Really enjoyed a day out here. Happy to see how relaxed the animals are roaming around the sanctuary. Wonderful collection of reptiles! My son was rapt to see the little penguins (his favourite animals). Keep up the good work.
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Ballarat Botanical Gardens stands as one of Australia's most significant gardens, showcasing an exceptional array of mature trees and marble statues set amidst vibrant floral displays. This renowned heritage site serves as an invaluable recreational destination for both residents and visitors alike. Encompassing 40 hectares, the Gardens are segmented into four distinct zones. The central area follows a traditional 'gardenesque' style, boasting expansive open parkland. Volunteers and guides affiliated with the Friends of Ballarat Botanical Gardens provide guided walks and tours, showcasing the garden's highlights and sharing the captivating stories behind its historic features.
UNIQUE FACTS:
• Gardening Advice
• Park
• Children’s Activities
• War Memorial.
Specialty:
$Price:
Concession $8
Children $5
Contact:
Working Hours:
Mon-Sun: 7:30am - 9pm
May-September:
Mon-Sun: 7:30 am - 6pm
TBR® Inspection Report:
BALLARAT BOTANICAL GARDENS REVIEWS
Nice walk. Lovely lady in the flower exhibition. Looked after my little dog so i could go in. Dog friendly . However there were no bins to be seen until you exit the gardens. Be prepared to carry bag or find an exit.
These botanical Gardens leave all others behind the hours you can spend in here and the amazing stories and things that you learn worth travelling in time to see.
The garden is beautiful and well maintained and entrance is free. Love the greenhouse with seasonal flowers. Plenty of parking spaces and spots for picnics.
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