Ballarat

Ballarat is the city that started the Victorian Gold Rush in 1851, resulting in the immense wealth of the state since then. The city has played a major part in the gold mining industry and history of Victoria. The historic re-enactments at the open-air Sovereign Hill Museum and the Art Gallery of Ballarat are points of interest that show the deep history and culture of the city.

Heritage buildings dot the cityscape of Ballarat, and of particular interest are the Ballarat Town Hall, Her Majesty’s Theatre and Craig’s Hotel. At Sovereign Hill, visitors will take a step back in time as the area is a re-enactment of the gold nine townships from the 1850s, complete with underground mines and coach rides. Among the delightful sights in this living museum are shops, schools and houses from that time period populated by costumed actors to provide an authentic experience. Besides its historical and cultural riches, Ballarat also boasts some serene natural beauty.