Ballarat Botanical Gardens

Established in 1858, the Ballarat Botanical Gardens span 40 hectares along Lake Wendouree's western shore, approximately four kilometers from Ballarat's CBD. As one of Victoria's oldest botanical gardens, it features an extensive array of flowering plants, exotic trees, floral displays, and a notable collection of Italian marble statues. The Robert Clark Conservatory showcases seasonal displays, including hydrangeas, fuchsias, and chrysanthemums, with the renowned tuberous begonia collection blooming from mid-March to mid-April. The gardens host annual events like the Ballarat Begonia Festival and Summer Sundays, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Open daily from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm (AEST) and 7:30 am to 9:00 pm (Daylight Saving Time), the gardens offer free entry and accessible facilities, including parking and rest areas.