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 is lucky to have a variety of lush parks and green spaces throughout the city and the wider region to roll out your picnic blanket. There’s something about enjoying sunny days outside with great food, family and friends that makes a picnic even more enticing. So, check out our list of top picnic spots easily accessible for one and all to enjoy!
This hidden gem lies on the outskirts of Bendigo in Eaglehawk and it’s well worth the venture out. Not only will you find a gorgeous village set up, you’ll find this lush garden space with Lake Neangar and Lake Tom Thumb nearby, the region’s largest play space inspired by Banjo Patterson’s poem Mulga Bill and fantastic walking paths weaving all these amazing spaces together.
The Perks: you can easily spend half a day here exploring, playing and relaxing.
One of Bendigo’s most popular choices, Lake Weeroona is a man-made lake and reserve that was brought to life in 1869 and has continued to be a local favourite for outdoor fun. Take a walk along the boardwalk, enjoy a barbeque, watch your little ones on the playground and rowers on the lake. Better yet, you can treat yourself to a coffee, homemade gelato or a meal right on the lake.
The Perks: there’s something for everyone to enjoy here.
Nestled on the edge of Bendigo and surrounded by the Greater Bendigo National Park, this unique park provides an abundance of inviting natural and recreational features. The park covers 210 hectares including both reservoirs, a hidden pine forest ideal for a secluded picnic with a view and is home to an extensive range of native vegetation and wildlife.
The Perks: you’re amongst nature.
Boasting an abundance of green lush space, you’re sure to find the perfect spot here. We’re talking 60 acres of lush lawns, ornate statues, shady trees, a fernery, historic conservatory and so much more. Find both native and exotic trees to pull up a shady spot, the kids can play at the playground on weekends and take the opportunity to venture to new heights at the Poppet Head Lookout with panoramic views of Bendigo and beyond.
The Perks: location, location, location.
This park is the perfect location for family gatherings and picnics all year round. Tucked away in Bendigo suburbia on Crook Street, Strathdale Park offers green lawns, barbeques, public facilities, an all-abilities play space including a water-wise play space, walking paths and more. Plus nearby you’ll find sporting ovals, Kennington Reservoir for more picnic options and more.
The Perks: ample parking, facilities and play space.
Known as Bendigo’s first public gardens and now a Victorian Heritage Registered park, Bendigo’s Botanic Gardens is not only a picturesque choice, but holds historical, architectural, scientific, aesthetic and social significance. We love it for it’s facilities, magical playground for your little ones, it’s aviary, wide open spaces and enjoying the sunshine.
The Perks: big open spaces for gatherings, outdoor play and easy access.
This pick is one that will surprise you. It offers the quaintest of picnic spots to choose from as you overlook the Campaspe River. With picnic benches, tables and ample grassy spots to pull up, there’s plenty of options to watch the clouds float by and relax by the water’s edge. You’ll find Platypus Compass and a trail of historic plaques that tell the story of the area, plus you’re on the O’Keefe Rail Trail and the perfect spot to find wildlife and if you’re lucky enough, you might even see a platypus.
The Perks: picturesque countryside by a quaint little river.
Just a short drive from Bendigo you’ll find Lake Eppalock. A great space all year round for nature lovers with water activities, ample space to pull up and find your own picnic space with a view of the lake. You’ll find grassy patches perfect to throw your rug down, sand spots by the lake ideal for chairs, enjoy a nibble in your car or you'll even find a picnic table or two dotted around the foreshore.
The Perks: an abundance of wildlife and plenty of space.
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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.
