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Bendigo Top 10 Things to Do - Vintage Trams, Beautiful Gardens & Gold Rush History

  • Aug 18, 2022
  • 7 min read

Updated: Jan 29



Bendigo Top 10 Things to Do - Vintage Trams, Beautiful Gardens & Gold Rush History


Bendigo is Victoria’s fourth-largest city, located approximately 150 kilometres northwest of Melbourne, in the Goldfields region of Victoria, making it an easy and rewarding day trip or weekend getaway. The city has a rich gold rush history, dating back to 1851 when gold was first discovered in the region. During its heyday, Bendigo became one of the world’s richest gold-mining towns, attracting thousands of miners and fortune seekers from across the globe.


Today, Bendigo is a vibrant and modern city that perfectly blends its historic heritage with contemporary culture. Visitors can explore beautifully landscaped gardens, elegant streetscapes, and grand Victorian-era architecture, including ornate town halls, banks, and historic homes. The city also boasts world-class museums, art galleries, and cultural attractions, from immersive gold mining exhibits to cutting-edge contemporary art.


Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply seeking a lively regional city with great food, cafés, and boutique shopping, Bendigo offers a rich variety of experiences that celebrate both its past and its thriving present.


Bendigo Heritage Tram ~ Victoria.

Bendigo Heritage Trams


A ride on one of Bendigo’s vintage talking trams is a must-do for visitors looking for a unique way to explore the city. Operating seven days a week, these beautifully restored historic trams take you through the heart of Bendigo, allowing you to sit back and enjoy a narrated journey through the city’s gold rush history, grand architecture, and local landmarks.


The trams run on a convenient hop-on, hop-off system, so you can explore at your own pace, stepping off at key attractions or cafés along the route before catching the next tram to continue your tour. It’s both fun and relaxing, offering a charming blend of history, sightseeing, and vintage charm — perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to see Bendigo in a leisurely, informative way.



Golden Dragon Museum ~ Bendigo, Victoria.

Golden Dragon Museum


The Golden Dragon Museum is a fascinating insight into Bendigo’s rich Chinese heritage, celebrating the contributions of Chinese miners and communities during the gold rush era. Inside, you’ll find interactive exhibits, historic artefacts, and cultural displays that explore Chinese traditions, the life of the goldfields, and the famous dragon and lion dance rituals that are still an important part of Bendigo’s culture today.


After exploring the museum, you can step outside to wander the serene Yi Yuan Gardens, a beautifully landscaped Chinese garden complete with ponds, bridges, and traditional pavilions. Nearby, the Buddhist Temple adds another layer of cultural and spiritual heritage to your visit.


Whether you’re a history enthusiast, culture lover, or simply curious about Bendigo’s vibrant multicultural story, the Golden Dragon Museum is a must-see stop in the city.




Central Deborah Gold Mine ~ Bendigo, Victoria.

Central Deborah Gold Mine


For a hands-on experience of Bendigo’s gold rush history, a visit to the Central Deborah Gold Mine is a must. Open daily, the site offers a fascinating glimpse into life on Victoria’s goldfields. On the surface, you can explore heritage-listed buildings, mining equipment, and machinery that were once essential to the mine’s operation. The onsite Interpretive Museum features displays on the gold rush era, including a replica of the famous “Hand of Faith” gold nugget, one of the largest modern gold finds in Australia.


For the adventurous, guided underground tours take you deep into the mine itself, where expert guides share stories of miners’ daily lives, demonstrate historic mining techniques, and explain the gold extraction process. It’s a thrilling, educational experience that brings Bendigo’s rich mining heritage vividly to life.



Great Stupa of Universal Compassion ~ Bendigo.

Great Stupa of Universal Compassion


A true architectural marvel, the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion is a Buddhist shrine and the largest stupa in the Southern Hemisphere. Standing 50 metres high with a base of 50 metres square, it dominates the landscape just outside Bendigo and serves as a striking symbol of peace, compassion, and spiritual awakening.


Visitors can explore the stupa, wander the surrounding beautifully landscaped gardens, and take a moment to meditate or simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Inside, the stupa houses a stunning Jade Buddha statue, along with sacred artworks and intricate murals that reflect Buddhist philosophy and teachings.


Whether you’re interested in architecture, spirituality, or simply seeking a serene retreat, the Great Stupa offers a peaceful and inspiring experience. It’s a remarkable destination that showcases Bendigo’s cultural diversity and provides a quiet space to reflect, learn, and admire one of Australia’s most impressive religious landmarks.




Rosalind Park ~ Bendigo, Victoria.

Rosalind Park


Rosalind Park is a 60-acre green oasis right in the heart of Bendigo, offering a peaceful escape amid the city’s historic streets. The park features lush gardens, towering trees, and beautifully landscaped lawns, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a family picnic. Kids will love the fantastic playground, while art and history enthusiasts can admire ornate statues, charming fountains, and heritage-listed features throughout the grounds.


One of the park’s highlights is the historic conservatory, where visitors can explore a variety of exotic and native plants in a beautifully preserved Victorian structure. Rosalind Park is also home to picturesque walking paths, shaded benches, and water features that create a serene atmosphere in the midst of the city. Conveniently located on the corner of View Street and Pall Mall, Rosalind Park is easily accessible and makes a lovely stop for anyone exploring Bendigo’s central attractions.


Poppet Head Lookout ~ Bendigo, Victoria.

Poppet Head Lookout


For panoramic views of Bendigo and the surrounding countryside, the Poppet Head Lookout is a must-visit. Originally part of the Garden Gully Mine, this iconic structure was relocated to Rosalind Park in 1931, preserving a piece of Bendigo’s rich gold mining heritage.


Climb to the top of the lookout to enjoy sweeping 360-degree vistas, where you can see the city’s elegant streets, historic buildings, and lush parks, with rolling hills and farmland stretching into the distance. It’s a perfect spot for photography, sightseeing, or simply soaking in the history and beauty of central Victoria. The lookout also offers an interesting reminder of Bendigo’s mining past, connecting the city’s present-day charm with its gold rush legacy.


Bendigo Pottery ~ Victoria.

Bendigo Pottery


Step back in time at Bendigo Pottery, Australia’s oldest working pottery, where history, craftsmanship, and creativity come together. Founded in 1858, the pottery continues to produce beautiful handmade ceramics using traditional techniques.


Visitors can explore the on-site museum, watch skilled artisans at work in the studios, and browse a wide range of handcrafted pottery available for purchase. The experience is enhanced by the charming café, where you can enjoy a classic Devonshire tea, and the lovely gardens, perfect for a leisurely stroll.



Lake Weeroona ~ Bendigo, Victoria.

Lake Weeroona


Lake Weeroona is a picturesque ornamental lake nestled within expansive parklands on Napier Street in Bendigo. A favourite with both locals and visitors, the lake is perfect for relaxing, exercising, or enjoying a leisurely day outdoors. Surrounding walking and cycling paths make it ideal for a stroll, jog, or bike ride, while shaded picnic areas and open lawns provide the perfect spot for a family outing.


The scenic walking track circles the lake, offering beautiful views of the water, gardens, and historic features nearby, making it a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. Whether you’re looking for active recreation or a peaceful spot to unwind, Lake Weeroona is a Bendigo gem.


Heritage Walk ~ Bendigo, Victoria.

Bendigo Heritage Walk


Bendigo is renowned for its grand 19th-century architecture, with stunning examples of Victorian, Edwardian, and Art Deco styles that reflect the city’s gold rush wealth and heritage. A leisurely walk through the city’s streets feels like stepping back in time, with ornate façades, intricate stonework, and elegant detailing around every corner.


Some of the standout buildings include the Sacred Heart Cathedral, an impressive Gothic Revival masterpiece; the Bendigo Town Hall, famous for its opulent interiors and grand clock tower; the historic Court Buildings; and the beautifully preserved former Fire Station. Wandering through these streets allows visitors to appreciate not only the architectural beauty but also the rich history and cultural significance that make Bendigo a unique regional city.


Bendigo Art Gallery ~ Victoria.

Bendigo Art Gallery


Established in 1887, the Bendigo Art Gallery is one of Australia’s oldest and largest regional galleries, making it a cultural highlight of the city. Housed in a beautifully restored heritage building, the gallery showcases an impressive collection of 19th-century European art, Australian art from the 1800s, and contemporary works by leading Australian artists.


The gallery hosts regular touring exhibitions, special events, and educational programs, ensuring there’s always something new to discover. Visitors can explore the galleries at their own pace or join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the artworks and the artists behind them. Open daily the Bendigo Art Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone wanting to experience the city’s vibrant cultural scene.



Best Time to Visit Bendigo

Bendigo is a delightful destination year-round, but the experience varies with the seasons. Spring is ideal, with mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and lively outdoor markets creating a vibrant atmosphere throughout the city Autumn offers cooler weather and beautiful foliage, making strolls through historic streets and Rosalind Park especially picturesque.


Summer is perfect for enjoying outdoor attractions, such as Lake Weeroona, walking tours, and café culture, though daytime temperatures can get warm. Winter brings crisp air and fewer crowds, providing a peaceful way to explore Bendigo’s galleries, historic architecture, and cultural sites.


For the best experience, try visiting on weekdays or early mornings to enjoy popular attractions with fewer crowds. Planning your visit around seasonal events, festivals, or exhibitions can also enhance your trip and help you soak in the city’s lively arts and cultural scene.







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