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.
Bendigo boasts so many great arts & culture experiences for you to learn and enjoy. Our street art, our world-famous exhibitions, our rich Chinese history, the largest Buddhist Temple in the Western World, just to name a few! Here is a list of all our must-see arts & culture spots in Bendigo.
If you are into street art, you have come to the right place! Grab a coffee and let the talented and passionate artists from Nacho Station show you all of Bendigo's famous street art pieces, all created with a unique story. Learn the history behind how each project came to life, and the motivation behind each creation. You can even leave your own mark on our walls during the tour.
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If you are coming to Bendigo to explore our arts and culture, Bendigo Art Gallery has to be on top of your list. Bendigo Art Gallery has earned its reputation of one of Australia's largest and most innovative regional galleries with their crowd-drawing international exhibitions such as Grace Kelly and Marilyn Monroe, as well as a range of public programs and funky events.
Their latest upcoming exhibition, Mary Quant: Fashion Revolutionary is an Australian Exclusive from V&A in London is opening March 20 2021 and runs until July 11 2021.
Image: Mary Quant and Vidal Sassoon, 1964. © Trinity Mirror / Mirrorpix / Alamy Stock Photo
Bendigo's Chinese heritage sets us apart from any other town in Australia. Walk through the huge wooden doors at the Golden Dragon museum into a spectacular world with dragons, Chineese cultural pieces and costumes.
Meet Old Loong, the oldest dragon in the world, and Dai Gum Loong, the longest processional dragon in the world.
Situated in the Historic Bendigo Post Office, The Living Arts Space hosts a range of exhibitions throughout the year showcasing the Bendigo region's contemporary artists and emerging artists. It offers a unique venue to showcase artwork created by locals the Bendigo Region.
Visit The Living Arts Space next exhibition House of Flux, featuring until 11 April. A solo exhibition of works by Nikita Hederics.
Immerse yourself in the incredible street art scene whilst cycling along Bendigo's Creek Trail. Perfect for a weekend adventure, the Back Creek Trail is brought to life by breath-taking artwork, created by various local artists. The trail connects the Spring Gully and Bendigo Creek Trails.
Celebrate multicultural and multi faith by experiencing the Biggest Buddhist Temple in The Western World, The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion. Along with being visually impressive a 48m high and 50m wide, The Great Stupa is also home to the worlds largest Jade Buddha. He toured the world for 9 years and has been seen by over 10 million people before finally settling at the temple, surrounded by many other holy objects.
Roll up your sleeves and get your craft on at Australia's oldest working pottery. Enjoy hands on activities with clay and interpretive displays. After your clay making experience you can explore the museum and learn about the history of Bendigo Pottery from its opening in 1858 to today.
Finish your day with some retail therapy! Visit Valentines Antique Gallery and browse their range of antiques and collectibles, including but not limited to, pieces from the Georgian through to the late Victorian periods. You will also find Gallery 369, a contemporary commercial exhibition space space in the heart of Bendigo.
