Ballarat Travel Guide: 3 Visits & Still Not Enough! 🤩

We’ve been to Ballarat three times—and it never gets old! Here’s our ultimate guide to this historic gem just 1.5 hours from Melbourne. 🎟️ Must-Visit Attractions Sovereign Hill Step into the 1850s gold rush—pan for gold, ride horse-drawn carriages, and watch molten gold pours! "Australia’s answer to Universal Studios" 🎭 Kryal Castle A medieval adventure with jousting, dungeons, and archery. Perfect for kids (and kids-at-heart!). Art Gallery of Ballarat 🎨 Free entry! Stunning 19th-century architecture + rotating exhibitions. Sturt Street Lined with Victorian-era buildings and cute cafés. 🌿 Nature & Markets Ballarat Botanical Gardens: Paddle boats ($15/hr) + seasonal festivals (live music!). Ballarat Farmers Market (Saturdays): Fresh local produce and artisanal treats. 🌸 Hidden Gems Lambley Gardens: Tulip explosion in Sept-Oct (15 mins from town). Gold Mine Tour: Descend into a real 19th-century mine (dress for dirt!). 🍽️ Food Tips Craig’s Royal Hotel: Fancy high tea in a historic setting. The Hydrant Food Hall: Hip street-food vibe. #Ballarat #MelbourneDayTrips #GoldRushHistory