Ballarat city tales tour
discover secrets of Ballarat on a history guided 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
Embark on an adventurous journey through Ballarat and explore beautiful cityscapes, artistic treasures, and the city's fascinating history! The Ballarat City Tales Tour uncovers intriguing tales of the the birth of Ballarat as a modern city - from the Eureka Stockade to bushrangers, and royal assassination attempts to secret libraries.
Perfect for couples of all ages, groups of friends, and solo travelers. 2.5 hrs long, covering a distance of 1.5km at a very 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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“This tour is wonderful! Our guide Jarrod was so friendly, informative and really made the stories come alive."
join an intriguing history guided walking tour
Tours regularly run on a Saturday at 10:30am, and go for approx. 2 hrs 30 mins including coffee break.
Need a specific time/date? Make a booking here. Need more info? Email us at hello@hiddenlanes.com.au or SMS/call 0455528741.
Click here for Ballarat corporate tours.
Terms & conditions
inquire about a group tour
for groups from 4 to 20 people
tour bonus: get a free Ballarat art print (worth $12) + coffee/hot drink
For every ticket holder, they will receive a hot drink/coffee and an A5 Ballarat art print (Ballarat black cockatoo or swan). 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!
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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.
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The tour goes for approximately 2.5 hrs and includes a coffee/tea break.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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This tour is enjoyable for most older children. Children under 4 years old are free, but no drink or art print is included.
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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.