Visit Bendigo and experience a vibrant regional city jam-packed with creativity, great food and drinks, happening festivals and happy locals, all thriving in a heritage setting that pays tribute to the grand European cities that inspired it.
Bendigo has long been a must-see destination, and it recently claimed Silver in Australia's Top Tourism Town Awards. When gold was first discovered here in the mid-1800s, the world soon cottoned on, and the box-ironbark forests and creek flats welcomed people from around the globe keen to strike it rich. Many did, and much of the wealth dug up from the earth was invested back into building the city. That’s why Bendigo boasts some of the country’s most impressive architecture, public sculptures, fountains and gardens. And while Bendigo’s heritage streetscape is historic, it’s far from old-fashioned. Today, Bendigo is a hive of creativity and innovation with loads of fun things for all ages to enjoy. Whether you're interested in art, music, food and wine, sport or nature, there is always plenty to explore in Bendigo.
Explore heritage halls, banks and factories re-invented as restaurants and wine bars. The former 19th-century mechanics' hall, fire station and even the gaol are now top-class theatres, playing host to annual cultural festivals and almost daily performances.
Bendigo’s arts and cultural precinct is also home to independent boutiques showcasing local designers, lost trades, vintage goods and quaint little cafes with some of the best views in town.
Things to do in Bendigo include shopping for locally-made goods and produce. See the latest blockbuster exhibition at the stunning Bendigo Art Gallery and learn the stories of the city at Bendigo’s must-see attractions including the Deborah Gold Mine and Talking Tram.
Central Deborah Gold Mine’s crushing plant was once heard loud and clear across the goldfields. Today the mine welcomes visitors daily for underground tours. Jump on board a talking tram here for a unique guided ride through some of the city’s most significant streets.
The Golden Dragon Museum pays homage to the significant influence Chinese people had on the goldfields. The museum houses an internationally famous collection of Chinese artifacts, including the world’s longest imperial dragon, and his friends.
Australia’s oldest working pottery is still in full production at Epsom in Bendigo and now features artist studios, galleries, and a fascinating vintage emporium. Try your hand at the potter’s wheel and create your own Bendigo souvenir, or buy a piece of genuine Bendigo Pottery for yourself or as a gift to enjoy for years to come.
Time your visit to coincide with one of the many community and cultural festivals and events. Check out the events calendar to see what’s coming up. There are food and wine showcases, major exhibitions, sporting events, and the famous Bendigo Easter Festival, a long-time favourite of local and visiting families.
Check out our Bendigo Tourism's What's On pages to see what amazing events are coming up.
Founded in 1858, Bendigo Pottery in Epsom is Australia’s oldest working pottery. Set within a heritage-listed site with historic wood-fired kilns, it showcases over 150 years of ceramic craftsmanship and innovation.
Visitors enjoy a rich, hands-on experience through exhibitions, demonstrations, artisan studios, and shopping — all in an accessible, welcoming setting.
The Central Deborah Gold Mine was the last commercial mine in Bendigo — Operating between 1939 and 1954, producing 929 kg (29,865 oz) of gold, now worth over $70 million in today’s terms. It employed around 357 miners, working across 17 underground levels and tunnels spanning approximately 15 km
The mine reached a depth of around 412 metres, before ceasing operations in late 1954 and becoming the final Bendigo gold mine to close
Go 61 metres underground with a guide to discover life as a gold rush miner.
Wander heritage-listed buildings, historic equipment & museum exhibits (incl. Hand of Faith replica).
A stupa, also known as a pagoda, is the most sacred structure in Buddhism. It symbolises the enlightened mind and the path to enlightenment, and often houses holy relics of the Buddha and other spiritual teachers.
The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion, located near Bendigo, is 50 metres wide and nearly 50 metres tall—making it the largest stupa in the Western world. It is modelled on the Great Stupa of Gyantse in Tibet, one of Buddhism’s most treasured monuments.
Objectives of the Great Stupa:
Inspire a peaceful and spiritual path
Serve as a global Buddhist pilgrimage site
Offer a refuge of serenity for all
Educate people about Buddhism
Host major teachings and seminars
Benefit as many beings as possible
Annual Events Held at the Great Stupa:
Festival of Light
Peaceful Land of Joy Meditation Retreats
Vegetarian Food Festival
Wellbeing Festival
Sacred Music & Dance of Tibet
Buddha's Day & Multicultural Festival
Interfaith Forums and Ceremonies
School and Group Tours
Bringing a four-legged family member on holiday? Good news — Bendigo is packed with dog-friendly places to walk, dine, relax, and explore. Whether it’s lakeside strolls, café stops, or wine tastings, there’s something for every good dog and their best mate.
🐕🦺 Lake Weeroona Walk & Whitby Café
🌸 Botanical Gardens & Omari Café
🐾 Harcourt Dog Park
🐾 Allingham Reserve Dog Park
The Great Stupa
Located in a beautiful historic Railway Goods Shed near the Bendigo Railway Station, Discovery is a not-for -profit centre where science comes alive for curious minds of all ages.
CURRENT EXHIBITION:
Step into a world where imagination meets innovation at CURIOSITY: Building Breakthroughs in LEGO® Bricks.
This immersive exhibition invites you to explore the foundations of our universe through hands-on creativity and play. Journey across eras and into the cosmos as you uncover the science behind engineering marvels and decode the logic of mathematical thinking — all through the power of LEGO® bricks.
Experiment, design, and construct your own creations while discovering how simple pieces can inspire big ideas. Whether you're a future engineer, a budding mathematician, or simply curious about how things work, this experience is your chance to build knowledge brick by brick.
MORE!
Bendigo’s Ulumbarra Theatre rises majestically from within what was once the Sandhurst Gaol. Discover the symbiotic fusion between 1860s penitentiary architecture and clever contemporary design to create an extraordinary arts and community facility. Our knowledgeable guides share the stories of inhabitants old and new, while exploring this world class performance facility.
Sandhurst Gaol Tours operate regularly on Tuesdays at 2pm.
Bookings essential through the Bendigo Visitor Centre.
Please select adult, child or concession ticket types.
If you would like to arrange a private group tour please contact the Bendigo Visitor Centre on 1800 813 153, subject to availability. Group rates are available for 10 or more people.
Ulumbarra, meaning ‘gather together’ in the language of the Dja Dja Wurrung people, is representative of the role the site has played over time; from an indigenous meeting place, to the original Government Camp, later the Sandhurst Gaol and now a magnificent theatre.
Constructed in the early 1860s, the gaol was based on the Pentonville prison model where the wings radiate from a central tower, now the symbiotic link between the heritage and contemporary architecture. Your guide will explore spaces throughout this extraordinary arts and community facility, telling the tales that once remained behind the walls.
Transformed in 2015 into a state-of-the-art performance and event space including world class production capabilities it is now truly a place for all to experience.
A unique opportunity to see an architectural masterpiece.
The pride and tradition which surrounds the City of Greater Bendigo is best symbolised by the majestic and lovingly restored landmark which housed the Post Office from 1887 to 1997. The grandeur, scale and wealth of intricate decorative detail can be viewed on one of our Historic Post Office Tours.
Bookings are essential through the Bendigo Visitor Centre and are available only for groups of 10 or more.
Immerse yourself in the rich stories of a golden past, explore stunning heritage architecture fashioned in a time when Bendigo was the richest city in the world!
Please note:
Historic Post Office Tours are only available for groups of 10 or more. Please select your preferred date and time and our friendly staff will contact you to let you know if your selection can be accommodated.
Call the Bendigo Visitor Information Centre on 1800 813 153 for further information.
The grandeur of the Historic Post Office is demonstrated in the exterior details with gargoyles and lions adorning all faces of this magnificent building.
These intricacies are replicated throughout the internal spaces and can be explored during these small group tours. Your guide will share their favourite stories of the building's occupants, past and present while you venture to secret spaces beneath.
A unique opportunity to see an architectural masterpiece created in 1887 by the state government to signify Bendigo's prominence in Victoria's prosperity. Designed by G.W Watson initially as a Post Office, the building served many purposes during the twentieth century and now proudly houses the Bendigo Visitor Centre.
Fully restored to its former glory in 1986, this treasured grand old dame, continues to provide a warm welcome to all, just as it would have over 125 years ago.
Immerse yourself in the rich stories of a golden past. Explore stunning heritage architecture fashioned in a time when Bendigo was the wealthiest city in the world!
Bendigo Town Hall Tours operate regularly on Wednesdays at 2 pm, and Sundays at 11 am.
During the height of the gold rush, the civic fathers of Bendigo were displeased with the basic appearance of their municipal building. A redevelopment was commissioned to reflect the abundance and splendour of Bendigo's golden age. The masterpiece that now commands the site was the creation of W.C Vahland who went on to become one of the city's most revered architects.
Decorative plaster adorned with 22-carat gold leaf, befitting a European palace, holds the stories of a city built on gold. Restoration of the splendid building was completed in 2003. It remains as it was at the turn of the century, the jewel in Bendigo's crown.
Your guide will take you on a fascinating journey through the Town Hall. Explore the current city council chambers and take a selfie at the Mayor's table!
A visit to Bendigo Tramways will leave you in awe. There's no better way to see the sights of Bendigo than aboard one of our iconic Vintage Talking Trams. Sit back, relax and let the tram do all of the talking!
Whether you're in Bendigo for the weekend or have an hour to spare, a Vintage Talking Tram Tour is the quickest way to get your bearings and see the city's key landmarks and monuments.
Your Vintage Talking Tram ticket is valid for one day, allowing you to get on or off the tram at any tram stop and wander through the city at your leisure, enjoying the many attractions, shopping and dining facilities that Bendigo has to offer.
For a detailed timetable, please click here or see any of the tram stops, ask the staff at the Bendigo Visitor Centre, or phone 1800 813 153.
Vintage Talking Trams are dog-friendly too!
The owners, brothers Paul and George Greblo, are proud to be continuing a family tradition of winemaking that began generations ago in northern Italy.
A visit to Sandhurst Ridge, less than 20 minutes from the centre of Bendigo, virtually guarantees an informative conversation with someone with hands-on knowledge of the vines as well as the wines, since Paul (the winemaker) and George (the vineyard manager) reside on the estate.
One of the gems of the Bendigo region, Sandhurst Ridge is a family-run, boutique winery that has been producing award-winning wines since its first vintage in 1995.
Nestled against a state forest, their vineyard is planted with shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, merlot, sauvignon blanc, and, in tribute to their Italian origins, Nebbiolo. Ralph Kyte-Powell awarded 4.5 stars to this intriguing Bendigo red.
Get a taste of the peaceful vineyard lifestyle by booking into one of their modern, well-appointed, one-bedroom cottages. Borrow a mountain bike to explore the surroundings, chill out on the verandah overlooking the vines, or pop over to the cellar door to enjoy tastings of the full range of Sandhurst Ridge wines, including some magnificent older vintages.
Visit the website for more information about this delightful spot in the Goldfields Region.
Authentic volunteer-run steam railway linking historic gold mining towns of Castlemaine and Maldon in Central Victoria.
Family fun - take the kids for a memorable day out. Watch the world go by from your family compartment as the steam train puffs up the hills.
First Class - for a touch of class step back in time to an era of elegance when the journey was as important as the destination. Ride on the end viewing platform on the parlour car. Enjoy a drink from the fully stocked bar.
Catch the train for a return trip from Castlemaine or Maldon stations. Castlemaine is 90 minutes from Melbourne by car on the Calder Freeway. For a wonderful day out, leave the car behind and use your Myki to catch the V/Line train from Melbourne to Castlemaine where you simply change platforms to catch the steam train.
After a leisurely 45-minute train ride you have two hours in historic Maldon to enjoy lunch at a pub or cafe and then relax on the train (maybe enjoying a drink from the bar in first-class) back to Castlemaine.
Trains run Sundays, Wednesdays, Saturdays, and school holidays. Visit the website for more information.
Support and connect with the local farmers, producers, and growers at the Bendigo Farmers Market. Your chance to purchase fresh, regional produce directly from the farmer and producer, in a friendly, relaxed environment.
Seasonal fruit, vegetables, and herbs, all kinds and cuts of meat (beef, lamb, goat, free-range chicken) as well as fresh bread, cheese, wine, olives, eggs, baked goods, cakes, dumplings, and more.
The Monthly market takes place every 2nd Saturday of the month at Bendigo Pony Club, corner Breen St and Belle Vue Rd, Golden Square from 9 am – 1 pm.
The Weekly Market right in the heart of Bendigo at 404 Hargreaves Street is held every Thursday from 2 pm – 4:30 pm.
Enjoy gorgeous produce, support your local farmers and producers, and really connect with your food and its growers.
At the heritage-listed Bendigo Joss House Temple, you can discover more about the Chinese migrants who came to Bendigo in search of gold so long ago.
The Bendigo Joss House Temple, a Chinese place of worship, was opened in 1871. Standing for over a century, the Bendigo Joss House Temple is one of the few remaining buildings of its type in Australia. It comprises a Caretaker's Residence, Temple, and Ancestral Hall.
The main temple is dedicated to Guan-Di, the god of war and prosperity. The Chinese saw Guan-Di as a wise judge, guide, protector, and provider of wealth and prosperity.
Constructed with locally hand-made bricks and painted red - symbolising the traditional Chinese colour denoting happiness, strength, and vitality - the Bendigo Joss House Temple is an important part of Bendigo's cultural history.
The Bendigo Joss House Temple is located at the Northern terminus of Bendigo's iconic Vintage Talking Tram Tour.
The Bendigo Joss House Temple is open each Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 am – 3:00 pm, with the last entry accepted at 2:30 pm.
The Golden Dragon Museum is Victoria’s first accredited museum, showcasing a stunning collection of Chinese cultural history. Inside, you’ll find:
Traditional processional regalia
Beautifully carved furniture
Exquisite costumes embroidered with gold bullion thread
Historic artefacts dating back to the Shang Dynasty (1600–1026 BC)
Explore the living history of the Chinese community in Bendigo, from the 1850s gold rush through to modern day, at the Chinese Cultural Centre of Australia.
What you’ll find on-site:
A well-stocked gift shop
Tea rooms for a relaxing break
An education centre
A research library
The surrounding Chinese precinct also includes:
The tranquil Yi Yuan Gardens
The Guan Yin Temple
The Dai Gum San forecourt
Opening Hours
Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30 am – 5:00 pm
Open 7 days during Victorian school holidays (including Mondays)
Crusoe Reservoir and No. 7 Park covers 210 hectares surrounded by the Greater Bendigo National Park. The area is known for its beautiful landscape, indigenous vegetation, rich cultural heritage, and outstanding recreational opportunities.
Crusoe Reservoir offers excellent water-based activities including swimming, fishing, canoeing, and other non-powered boating. The reservoir is surrounded by abundant flora and fauna, with seating and picnic areas located throughout, making it perfect for family outings.
Fishing
Crusoe Reservoir is home to:
Walking & Cycling Tracks
All tracks are sign-posted and colour-coded:
Swimming
The reservoir is ideal for swimming, canoeing, small-scale sailing, and general water play.
Settling Ponds
These historic filtration ponds were constructed in the 1870s, using more than one million bricks, and played a key role in early water purification for Bendigo.
Number 7 Park is an important part of Bendigo’s gold mining history. The reservoir and its water purification system were the first of their kind in Australia, supplying treated drinking water to Bendigo’s miners in the 1860s. Visitors can still see the settling ponds, basin, and channel system while exploring the interpretive walking tracks through the surrounding Box-Ironbark forest.
Park Features
The network of tracks is sign-posted and colour-coded for different distances, suitable for both casual visitors and serious runners.
Please Note: Crusoe Reservoir & Number 7 Park is a high conservation area and has a No Dog and No Bin policy.
The city’s finest musicians will be making the tram their stage, ensuring that no two nights are ever the same!
With strictly limited tickets available, the Groove Tram is one of the most exclusive parties in town.
Gather your family and friends, book your tickets online, and get ready to groove the night away.
GROOVE TRAM DETAILS:
The ultimate venue for FUN in Bendigo!
The Zone offers a range of adrenaline-packed activities that provide a challenging and lasting experience. Ideal for kids (and big kids), The Zone has an adventure waiting for everyone and is the perfect day out for the whole family.
Laser Tag – Skating – Go Karts – Mini Golf – Archery Tag – Paintball – Indoor Play Centre – Jumping Castle – Outdoor Maze – Slot Cars – Arcades.
Get the adrenaline pumping with the fantastic activities. Or sit back, relax and recharge with a coffee and a bite to eat in the cafe. Groups are welcome for a BBQ or party. They also welcome birthday parties and corporate functions.
