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.
A visit to Mr Good Times is nothing short of whimsical. This gorgeous kid’s gift shop is filled with colourful toys, enchanting books, games, and creative crafts that are bound to ignite and bring joy to every little one this Christmas.
For more beautiful children's gift ideas, check out Bendigo Art Gallery's gift shop. They stock a gorgeous range of quality gifts from trinkets, puzzles and games, pencils and books.
When buying for a wine lover this festive season, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to local wines. There are more than 60 wineries and cellar doors throughout the Bendigo and Heathcote wine regions.
Our top picks for cellar door visits in the Bendigo wine region are Balgownie Estate, Ellis Wines, Glenwillow Wines, Mandurang Valley, Sandhurst Ridge Winery, St Anne’s Winery, and Vin du Van. Alternatively, visit Wine Bank on View in the heart of Bendigo for an incredible selection of Australian and international wines all under one roof.
Our top picks for cellar door visits in the Heathcote wine region are Heathcote II, Heathcote Winery, Munari Wines, Peregrine Ridge Winery, Sanguine Estate, Silver Spoon Estate, The Shiraz Republic, and Vinea Marson.
If a different kind of drink tickles your fancy, check out local distillers and brewers for more gift giving options.
Cornella Brewery in the Heathcote region have a fantastic range of small batch crafty ales to choose from.
Noble Bootleggers Distilling Co. are a Bendigo-based distillers with Christmas spirits and gift giving in mind. Choose from their limited-edition barrel aged Christmas Pudding Gin, The Ghosts of Christmas Past, or Christmas Gin.
The Hop Supply Co on Pall Mall also stock a wide range of local wines, beers and spirits if you’re chasing a variety of options, plus they stock bot Cornella Brewery and Noble Bootleggers too.
When you’re buying for a green thumb or someone who loves being out and about at home, a visit to Goldfields Revegetation Native Nursery is a must for native plants and wildflowers.
For something a little more decorative, visit Col Iron for an outdoor ornament, furniture or even a fire pit.
When searching for fashion and accessories, local retailers offer a great range and a personal touch. For a pop of colour and trendy designs, Pink Honey on View Street offer vibrant, must have items, and Charlotte O’Hara Vintage stock unique vintage brands and pieces.
For denim or casual styles, Rob’s Jeanery has a great selection of fits that are both comfortable and on trend. For Australian-made fashion made from natural fibres, 5ifty Boutique Studio is the go-to store. And Oliver Birch in Bath Lane stock a gorgeous range of linen and cotton pieces, jewellery, shoes and accessories.
You can pick up beautiful hats for all occasions at Bendigo Hat Shop. And for designer Aussie labels in clothing, handbags and shoes, don’t miss Robe Bendigo in Chancery Lane.
Sometimes the best gifts come in the form of a gift voucher for a little pampering, especially when it comes to the end of a busy year.
We love Flow Floatation and Sensory Retreat for an instant state of relaxation.
For a hair makeover, treatment or products, we recommend a visit to Jools for Jim.
Make your way to Bendigo’s Bath Lane precinct for an awesome variety of homeware stores to explore.
For a mix of stylish homewares, artwork, furniture and more, Oliver Birch is your one-stop shop. If they’re into staying organised, Organise My… is perfect for notebooks, planners, trinkets, and travel accessories. The Australian Eucalyptus Company is a favourite for all natural and environmentally friendly household products.
And for those who love spending time in the kitchen, whether baking, cooking or simply enjoying a hot beverage, The PepperPot Bendigo has a great range of kitchen essentials, from baking tools to water bottles and coffee mugs.
Bendigo has some fantastic creative experiences and local artwork to explore. For those that enjoy hands-on creativity, consider booking a fun experience like a Pinot & Picasso Bendigo paint and sip class, or try a wheel throwing workshop at Bendigo Pottery for a truly unique experience.
For more crafty fun, the team at Botanical Lane offers a selection of workshops, from making terrariums to kokedama.
And if you’re looking for a special gift, why not gibe the gift of local art? Visit Gail Tavener Art Studio for beautiful original pieces, or head to Uniquely Bendigo at the Bendigo Visitor Centre, where you’ll find a curated selection of locally crafted artwork and artisan products.
The gift for someone who has everything. A memorable experience is the perfect option.
Choose from tour and high tea at the historic Fortuna Villa. For a unique cinema experience, catch a movie at Star Cinema in the historic Eaglehawk Town Hall, or tickets to a live performance at Ulumbarra theatre or The Capital.
Or jump aboard the Groove Tram for a fun and music-filled ride through the city, or travel from Castlemaine to Maldon on the authentic heritage railway with Victorian Goldfields Railway.
Does your loved one have a sweet tooth? Bendigo is home to some delicious spots that are perfect for picking up the sweetest gifts.
For all things chocolate, Indulge Fine Belgian Chocolates is a must-visit. From hampers, infused flavours and rich chocolate blocks to indulgent drinking chocolate, they have something to satisfy every chocolate lover.
If you’re after a variety of nostalgic and fun sweets, Lollies2Go has an endless selection of soft- and hard-boiled lollies, chocolates, drinks and even popular international treats. It’s a sweet lover’s paradise!
Don’t forget to drop into Bendigo Visitor Centre to pick up some uniquely Bendigo Brittle.
Why not consider an accommodation gift voucher from Bendigo Visitor Centre, giving your loved one the flexibility to enjoy a relaxing stay in our beautiful region at their own pace.
When buying for someone who appreciates something special and one-of-a-kind, Bendigo’s View Street precinct is the perfect place to find unique treasures.
Valentines Antique Gallery offer an impressive collection of quality antiques and collectables including jewellery, glassware, ceramics and more from around the world. Likewise, adjacent you’ll find Bendigo Antiques & Collectables filled with worldly treasures, retro pieces and collectables that will leave you reminiscing. And Passion for Design feature an exquisite selection of handmade glassware, jewellery, art, lamps and decorative mirror – ideal for finding a truly unique gift.
Venture a little further to The Mill Castlemaine for more unique treasures, collectables, artwork, local produce and more.
Look no further than Bendigo Marketplace, where you’ll find a variety of big brand stores offering something special for everyone on your list, all in one convenient location.
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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.
