Tours & Activities

Sovereign Hill and Ballarat Private Day Tour

Step back in time and witness Australia’s history come alive at Sovereign Hill on our Ballarat day tour. From Main Street’s traditional goldfields costumes to the excitement of Red Hill Gully Diggings where you can pan for gold, experience working shops, hotels, schools, a theatre, crafts, a wheelwright, a candle maker, a confectioner, and steam-driven machinery.

Ballarat Day Tour: Discovering History and Heritage

Indulge in a two-course lunch and explore magnificent Victorian streetscapes that showcase the wealth generated during the gold rush. Visit the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial, Arch of Victory, and the Ballarat Botanical Gardens – one of Australia’s most significant cool climate gardens.

These luxurious private day tours in Ballarat are entirely customised to your interests, allowing you to experience this unique piece of history in style.

Golden Trails Overview: Experience Rich Heritage in Ballarat Day Tour!

Embark on a journey through time and discover the rich history of Ballarat and Sovereign Hill on this Melbourne highlights day tour. Victoria’s largest inland city, Ballarat, is a sophisticated destination that blends contemporary arts with a fascinating heritage backdrop on our Sovereign Hill day tour. Be transported to the 1850s and witness the gold rush that made Ballarat the world’s wealthiest town. Sovereign Hill offers an immersive experience of a bustling gold mining settlement, complete with traditional goldfields costumes, real gold panning, working shops, hotels, schools, and even steam-driven machinery.

Highlights of Ballarat’s Architectural Splendour

After a sumptuous two-course lunch at the elegant Gallery, Craig’s Royal Hotel, or the charming New York Bakery in Sovereign Hill, wander through the magnificent Victorian and Edwardian architecture of Ballarat’s Lydiard Street. Marvel at the stunning Ballarat Train Station, Art Gallery of Ballarat featuring Australia’s most famous artists, Old Colonists’ Hall, Mining Exchange, Former Ballarat Post Office, the legal precinct, the Ballarat School of Mines, and the remnants of the former Ballarat gaol.

Ballarat’s Botanical Gems and Historical Landmarks

Discover one of Australia’s most significant cool climate gardens, the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, with its remarkable collection of mature trees, marble statues, and the Prime Ministers Avenue. Visit the Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial, Arch of Victory, and the Eureka Stockade Memorial.

This tour is the perfect blend of sophistication, history, and adventure. It’s a journey through time that will leave you enchanted and intrigued by Victoria’s past. Join us on this exciting tour and discover the magic of Ballarat and Sovereign Hill.

  • Australia’s largest outdoor museum Sovereign Hill
  • Historic buildings
  • Botanical gardens
  • Guided mine tour and Gold Pour
  • Australian Ex-Prisoners of War Memorial
  • Arch of Victory and Eureka Stockade Memorial
  • Pick-up and return to your hotel or private address
  • Morning or Afternoon tea
  • Australia’s largest outdoor museum Sovereign Hill
  • Guided mine tour and Gold Pour
  • Landmarks of City and Garden
  • 2-course lunch at the Gallery, Craig’s Royal Hotel or the New York Bakery in Sovereign Hill
  • Flexible and fully customised itinerary
  • Luxury vehicle with free wifi & bottled water

WHAT TO BRING

  • Warm jacket, sturdy footwear, gloves and headwear if cold day

Is Ballarat worth a visit?

A Ballarat day tour with Melbourne Elite Tours provides the perfect opportunity to delve into Australian history and immerse yourself in the captivating tales of the gold rush era amidst the city’s rich cultural landscape, well-preserved architecture, museums, and historical sites.

How many days do we need in Ballarat?

Depending on your interests and level of exploration, we can customise the package number of days you need in Ballarat. Visiting Red Hill Gully Diggings, touring the city’s historical monuments and museums, taking a day excursion to Sovereign Hill, and maybe even visiting the surrounding area to explore other sights are all possible activities during a normal vacation to Ballarat. A stay of 2 to 4 days is the most advised.

Can I bring my own food to Sovereign Hill?

Yes, you can bring your own food to Sovereign Hill. You are welcome to bring your own food to the picnic places. However, there are also dining options available within Sovereign Hill if you prefer to purchase food on-site.

Is there gold at Sovereign Hill?

Sovereign Hill is a recreated gold rush town, and while you won’t find natural gold nuggets there, you can participate in gold panning activities and potentially find some gold flakes.

What time does Sovereign Hills open?

Sovereign Hill is open to the public six days a week, from Tuesday to Sunday, with operating hours from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It’s closed on Mondays. These hours are subject to change, especially during holidays or special events, so we will update the proper time during the time of booking.

What can I see at Sovereign Hill?

At Sovereign Hill, you can experience life as it was during the Victorian gold rush of the 1850s. Our tour highlights include visiting underground mines, watching gold pours, interacting with costumed characters, exploring historical buildings, and participating in hands-on activities such as gold panning and candle making.

How much time do you need at Sovereign Hill?

The amount of time you’ll need at Sovereign Hill depends on your interests and how thoroughly you’d like to explore the site. Many visitors spend a full day there to take in all the attractions and activities, but you can also choose to spend less time, at least 4 hours if you have other plans or interests in the area. We can personalise it according to your preferences.

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