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.
Castlemaine boasts a remarkable community of artists, writers, actors and designers, who offer a host of galleries, theatres, festivals, bookshops and boutiques. It’s a theme that runs through nearby Maldon, Newstead and Harcourt.
Rich in history and opportunity... today’s visitors come to Maryborough and the surrounding villages for many reasons. Many come to wander through the lovely box-ironbark forests with their wildflowers, birds and superb display of Wattle in the spring. Others come to research family history and discover a connection to the Victorian gold rush, or to visit nearby wineries or explore markets, galleries and museums.
Take a deep breath… and travel along the meandering roads of the Loddon Valley. They start at untouched historic villages, weave their way up to spectacular views on granite strewn hilltops, through ancient forests, and then alongside wide flowing rivers and vast wetlands.
One of Australia's oldest and largest regional galleries presenting innovative exhibitions alongside a dynamic and varied suite of public programs and events. Our collection is extensive, with an emphasis on 19th century European art and Australian art from the 1800's, alongside a strong collection of contemporary Australian art.
Bendigo Venues and Events nurtures, develops, presents and celebrates performing arts and culture for Bendigo and central Victorian communities.
If you’re family is not complete without your furry friend, then why not bring them along for a fun day out or holiday to the Bendigo region. We love dogs and our city certainly recognises the importance of having your furry friend by your side. Bendigo offers a variety of off-lead dog parks; tracks and trails with dog-friendly zones; plus, food and accommodation spots supplying some paw-some offerings.
It’s great to know that Bendigo is one place that encourages a perfect day out with your dog. To make things easier and less stressful, we’ve put together a little itinerary for you to explore Bendigo with your whole family, dog included. Enjoy!
Is there any other way to start your morning than with a coffee? Kick start your morning at Percy and Percy with some caffeine and a delicious breaky - you can't go wrong with seasonal menu full of goodness. Choose from the courtyard, a spot under the verandah or grab a spot on the grass to sit – all great options for you and your pooch.
Just a short walk around the corner, make your way to Bendigo Tramways and jump aboard a Vintage Talking Tram. Take a ride on the rails with your pooch around Bendigo’s CBD, taking in beautiful gold rush architecture and leafy green parks, all while learning about Bendigo’s history.
Hot tip, you can jump off at any of the stops and explore more. Our pick is Central Deborah Gold Mine. While dogs aren’t allowed on the underground mine tours, they are permitted to join you on a self-guided surface tours. You can happily explore the original change rooms, blacksmith’s shop and engine room of the mine, and strike it rich panning for gold.
When you’re ready for lunch, there’s nowhere better to eat with your pooch than The Boardwalk Café on Lake Weeroona. Enjoy alfresco dining on the deck and views over the Lake. Not only do they have a delicious menu to choose from for you, but they also have a K9 Katering menu for your pooch and a designated dog drinking station. Be sure to check out their dedicated ‘Dogs of The Boardwalk’ book featuring all their furry visitors over the years.
Before leaving, walk off your lunch with a leisurely stroll around Lake Weeroona.
It’s time for a change of scenery. Jump in your car and make your way to The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion, the largest Buddhist stupa outside of Asia. Take a self-guided tour of the interfaith Peace Park, make a wish in the wishing well, spin the prayer wheels, and view the largest Jade Buddha in the world.
We’re thinking a little time to chill out and relax is in order. Grab some munchies and drinks on the way to Bendigo Botanic Gardens. There is ample green space for throwing out a picnic rug and watching the rest of the day go by, walking paths to explore, beautiful natives and historic gardens to seek out.
Located opposite the gardens is The Botanical Hotel Bendigo is one of the friendliest pub’s going around, and they are dog friendly!
They have two great outdoor spaces to choose from, their Beer Garden or The Green. Overlooking the neighbouring lush green gardens you’ve spent the afternoon in, The Green is one of Bendigo’s premier all weather dining spaces – pawfect for the whole family. They have an extensive seasonal food menu including all your classics, plus a great range of burgers and pizzas. Yum.
With a full day of exploring under your belt, you’ll want to find a comfy spot to rest for the night. We recommend booking a pet-friendly cabin at BIG4 Tasman Holiday Park Bendigo. You can choose from The Pooch Pad or The Dog House, plus camping sites are also available. Each of the cabins has its own self-contained yard, plus you’ll receive a free dog wash voucher for Petstock Epsom, only two minutes down the road.
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The City of Greater Bendigo acknowledges the Dja Dja Wurrung and Taungurung Peoples as the traditional custodians of the lands across Bendigo.
We acknowledge and pay respect to their Elders past present and emerging.
