What to do in Bendigo

by Team BV

Bendigo is a vibrant contemporary regional centre, boasting beautiful streets created from one of the world’s greatest gold rushes. Every visit will reveal new surprises and experiences. With the gusto of a gold-seeking miner, the people who live here are creating fascinating products, services and stories that add to the richness of the region’s boom time past. It is an ever-changing feast to be explored. Nearby Heathcote has not missed the beat with artisans of food, wine and art flocking to be part of the action. 
 
MUST DO LIST 
 
DEEP. DARK. DIRTY. AWESOME! @ 
CENTRAL DEBORAH GOLD MINE 
Explore the hidden underground tunnels of a real gold mine that operated during the gold rush boom of the 1900s. You are sure to catch gold fever on the famous Mine Experience Tour, includes underground tour, gold panning and gold pour demonstrations. Choose from four tours a day. For more info click here.  
 
ALL ABOARD 
VINTAGE, ANZAC CENTENARY & DJA DJA WURRUNG ‘TALKING’ TRAMS 
Sit back, relax and let the Tram do the talking! Be delighted by the remarkable stories of a golden past on a Vintage Tram Tour. Included in your ticket is the ANZAC and Dja Dja Wurrung services. 
Tickets are valid for 2 days, PLUS save more on combo packages with the Central Deborah Gold Mine. 
For more info click here. 
 
HANDS ON FUN @ BENDIGO POTTERY 
Create a masterpiece and take it home! Learn the art of clay wheel throwing with an experienced potter. Decorate your own plate or mug from our range of green ware. Explore the ceramic gallery, artists studios, museum and Antiques & Collectables centre. Something for everyone at the Bendigo Pottery. For more info click here.  
 
GOLDEN DRAGON MUSEUM 
Discover the trials and triumphs of Bendigo’s Chinese community from the gold rush to the present day. Home to the world’s longest and oldest imperial dragons and unique artefacts from the last imperial dynasty. Having become the hub of Chinese cultural activity in Australia, the museum allows visitors to experience first-hand, Chinese arts and crafts. For more info click here  
 
HERITAGE BUILDING TOURS
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. Be captivated by our passionate guides as they accompany you on a journey within these magnificent legacies of pioneering times. Tours available for Bendigo Town Hall, Historic Post Office and Sandhurst Gaol. Available; Tue, Wed, Sat & Sun For more info click here. 
 
BENDIGO WALKING TOURS 
Jill and Pete’s guided walk through Bendigo’s historic centre brings to life the extraordinary people, events and wealth that shaped our city, state and nation. Tours daily, bookings essential. 
For more information click here. 
 
BENDIGO ART GALLERY – MARIMEKKO: DESIGN ICON 1951-2018 
An Australian Exclusive – this exhibition traces Marimekko’s meteoric rise from the 1950s to the present, and explores the dualities that define its aesthetic. Its iconic fabric patterns and unconventional ready-to-wear outfits brought colour and informality to an otherwise self-conscious fashion world. With more than 60 outfits, swathes of original fabrics, homewares, sketches and other archival materials, the exhibition focuses on the work of the talented individuals who defined this local textile practice and created its internationally recognisable designs. Open 10am – 5pm Daily. For more information click here
LIVING ARTS SPACE – AG ART WEAR (14 Feb-29 Apr 2018) The Living Arts Space presents a range of exhibitions and public programs throughout the year showcasing Bendigo and region’s contemporary artists and emerging talents for the enjoyment of both visitors and the local community. AG ART Wear is a display of creative and quirky designer garments made from materials used in farming. Includes the 2016 Elmore Agricultural Field Days’ Ag Art Wear competition award winners. If you think you have seen it all in fashion, expect to be surprised! Open daily 9-5pm. For more info click here 
BENDIGO EVENT REWARDS For special offers on food, drink and attractions around Bendigo for visitors to the 2018 State Champions Week click here. 
 
For more information talk to a local at the Bendigo Visitor Centre 
Bendigo Visitor Centre 
Open 9am-5pm everyday (except Xmas Day) 
51-67 Pall Mall Bendigo 
1800 813 153 | tourism@bendigo.vic.gov.au