Step Into Ballarat’s Hidden Goldrush Stories – on the city tales walking tour

Step Back in Time & Uncover the Secrets of Ballarat on the city tales tour + coffee

You want a truly unique experience that can only be found in Ballarat, but finding something beyond the usual tourist spots can be difficult. Without the right guide, you’ll miss out on so many fascinating places and stories that make this city special. Don’t leave Ballarat without truly experiencing its hidden gems.

ballarat

city tales tour

✅ Exclusive hidden spots
✅ Small group, intimate experience
✅ Led by locals with insider knowledge
✅ Stories you won’t find in guidebooks

Perfect for couples of all ages, groups of friends, and solo travellers - even kids love it! 2.5 hrs long, covering a distance of 1.5km at a relaxed pace.

This fun-filled 2.5 hr tour includes:

  • Exclusive access to the upper level of the beautiful Town Hall and the Ballaarat Mechanics Institute

  • Hot drink at the most historic, grand hotel in Ballarat

  • Fascinating and intriguing tales from the Gold Rush

  • Visit the exact spot where the Eureka Stockade speech was made

Want a shorter tour? Join the Secret Ballarat tour!

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“Hidden Lanes tours in Ballarat was such a great way to get to know the city as a new arrival!" - Peter

“Juicy facts abound, lots of laughs and we all went away feeling entertained and in good spirits.” - Melissa

join an intriguing history guided walking tour

Meeting Point: Outside Mr. Jones Dining
Duration: 2.5 hours
Price: $97 per person, $77 senior /student
Tours Run: Saturdays or Private Tours Available
Need more info? Email us at hello@hiddenlanes.com.au or SMS/call 0455528741.

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Exclusive Bonus: Enjoy coffee, hot choc or chai + a FREE Ballarat art print (RRP $12) with your tour!

Plus we’re so confident you’ll love the tour, we offer a 100% money back guarantee if you don’t have a good time.

Ballarat city guided walking tour - historical building

  • The meeting point is at the Bakery Hill car park/mural next to Mr. Jones Dining, 42-44 Main Rd, Bakery Hill VIC 3350. Please arrive 5 minutes before departure time.

  • The tour goes for approximately 2.5 hrs and includes a coffee/tea break.

  • Parking is available at the Main Road carpark (at the meeting point) or on side streets. The Main Road car park is next to Mr Jones Dining, 42-44 Main Rd, Bakery Hill VIC 3350.

  • Ballarat's driving culture is a bit different - the unwritten rule of the road here is that cars have the right of way-and they go fast! When crossing the road, if a vehicle is still moving, try to establish eye contact and wait till they stop. Do not just follow the tour guide crossing the road, only cross when it is safe for you to do so, the group will wait for you on the other side of the road.

  • Ballarat's weather is... infamous - be prepared for anything. Having said this, Mark Twain, the American writer was a big fan of Ballarat's weather when he visited in 1895!

    However, bring a warm jacket and brolly and comfortable walking shoes. On icy winter days a hat and gloves are in order. The tour will go ahead regardless of the weather.

  • This tour is enjoyable for most children. Children under 6 years old are free, but no drink or art print is included.

  • For assistance in booking please email hello@hiddenlanes.com.au or call 0455528741

With thanks to local historians Dr. David Waldron and Doug Bradby.
This tour was developed on the Country of the Wadawurrung who have performed age old cultural ceremonies, celebrations and traditions here for thousands of years. We would like to acknowledge and pay our respects to the Elders past and present.