Insider’s Guide to the Best Ararat Tourist Attractions

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore the best tourist attractions in Ararat, ensuring seamless communication while discovering the region’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural landmarks.

Ararat Rural City, located about 205 km west of Melbourne in Victoria, Australia, beckons visitors with a stunning landscape, fascinating history, and plenty of unique experiences. This guide takes you through some of the top Ararat tourist attractions and things to do in Ararat, complete with insider tips to help you plan an amazing trip.

From touring historic buildings that date back to the 19th-century gold rush era to hiking scenic trails, browsing colourful markets, and sampling the region’s famous wines, Ararat has something for every type of traveller. So, let’s dive into the best places to visit and activities to try in this charming part of Victoria. Here’s your ultimate guide to Ararat sightseeing.

1. Immerse Yourself in Gold Rush History at Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre

Start your Ararat sightseeing at the Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre. This fascinating museum offers a glimpse into the lives of Chinese miners who came to Victoria during the gold rush of the 1850s.

• Admission: Adults $10, Children $4

• Hours: 11 am-4 pm, Tues-Sun

• Address: Ararat Railway Station Precinct, Lambert St, Ararat VIC 3377

• Phone: (03) 5352 1078

Insider Tip: Don’t miss the Cantonese Opera Costumes exhibit, featuring intricate, colourful costumes from the 19th century.

2. Hike to Scenic Lookouts in One Tree Hill Regional Park

For stunning views of Ararat and the Grampians ranges, head to One Tree Hill Regional Park, one of the top Ararat attractions for nature lovers. The park has several well-marked walking trails:

Insider Tip: Visit around sunset for incredible golden hour views over the countryside. Bring a picnic dinner to enjoy at the scenic lookouts.

3. Shop Local Produce at Ararat Market

Held every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month, the Ararat Market is a bustling hub of local producers, artisans, and growers. Browse stalls selling everything from fresh fruit and veggies to handmade crafts, clothing, plants, secondhand books and more.

• Hours: 9 am-1 pm, 1st & 3rd Sundays

• Location: Ararat Showgrounds, 70 High St, Ararat VIC 3377

• Entry: Free

Insider Tip: Arrive early to snap up the best seasonal produce and one-of-a-kind items before they sell out. Stop by Deb’s Produce for amazing homemade jams and preserves.

4. Sample Ararat’s Wines on a Winery Tour

The Grampians region is renowned for its cool-climate wines, especially Shiraz and Riesling. Many wineries around Ararat offer cellar door tastings where you can sample their latest vintages:

• Montara Wines: 30 30-minute drive from Ararat, known for award-winning Shiraz and Pinot Noir. Open 11 am-5 pm daily.

• Fallen Giants Vineyard: Located just outside Ararat, this boutique winery crafts small-batch Shiraz, Riesling and Cabernet. Tastings by appointment.

• Mount Langi Ghiran: A 30 min drive away, this scenic vineyard is famed for its spicy, complex cool-climate Shiraz. Open 10am-5pm daily.

Insider Tip: For a memorable lunch paired with Grampians wines, book a table at nearby Wickens at Royal Mail Hotel, a hatted restaurant showcasing local and foraged ingredients.

5. Take a Ghost Tour at J Ward Museum

For a spine-tingling brush with Ararat’s dark past, join a guided ghost tour at J Ward Museum. Originally a 19th-century gaol for the criminally insane, this imposing bluestone building now hosts tours where you can learn about its haunting history.

• Ghost Tours: Sat evenings, booking essential

• Admission: Adults $35, Children $20

• Address: Corner Tuson & Girdlestone Streets, Ararat, VIC 3377

• Phone: 0412 390 718

Insider Tip: The 9 pm ghost tour is not for the faint of heart. Bring a torch and your courage as you explore the gaol’s eerie nooks and crannies at night.

6. Admire Glassworks & Sculpture at Ararat Gallery TAMA

Housed in Ararat’s historic Town Hall, the Ararat Gallery TAMA hosts rotating exhibitions of contemporary art, sculpture, Indigenous art, and the famous R.W. Cameron glass collection, one of Australia’s most significant.

• Admission: Free

• Hours: 10 am-4 pm Mon-Fri, 10 am-2 pm Sat-Sun

• Address: Town Hall, Vincent Street, Ararat VIC 3377

• Phone: (03) 5355 0220

Insider Tip: Time your visit to catch a glassblowing demonstration by a visiting artist – an incredibly unique experience watching molten glass transform into stunning works of art.

7. Ride Ararat’s Scenic Cycling Trails

Ararat Rural City boasts several picturesque cycling trails winding through vineyards, farmland and bushland. Bring your own bike or rent one from Ararat Bicycle Centre.

• Kokoda Loop: 12 km easy trail circling Ararat, passing J Ward Museum

• Challicum Hills Wind Farm Ride: 31 km return visiting the scenic wind farm

• Ararat to Halls Gap Rail Trail: 50 km one-way trail to the heart of the Grampians

Insider Tip: The Visitor Information Centre has free maps of Ararat cycling trails. Pick one up and get tips from the friendly locals before setting out.

Essential Ararat Tourist Information

Getting There

• Ararat is a 2 hr drive west of Melbourne via the Western Highway/A8

• V/Line trains run from Melbourne to Ararat, with the journey taking around 2 hrs 15 min

Where to Stay

• Chalambar Motel: Modern motel 1 km from town, with family rooms available. 220 Barkly St, Ararat

• Blue Duck Inn: Charming B&B in a historic homestead, 15 15-minute walk to Ararat attractions. 9 Shirrefs St, Ararat

• Pyrenees Motel: Budget-friendly option near Ararat Racing Club. 1 Lambert St, Ararat

Staying Connected While Touring Ararat with Airtel

Fast, reliable mobile data is a must for accessing maps, booking activities, and staying in touch on the go. Airtel’s Prepaid International Roaming packs offer affordable, hassle-free connectivity across Australia, so you can share every moment of your Ararat adventures without worrying about roaming charges.

From historic sites to spectacular lookouts and vibrant markets to acclaimed wineries, Ararat tourist attractions promise a getaway full of unique experiences. Use this guide to craft your ideal Ararat itinerary, and get ready to create unforgettable memories in this charming corner of Victoria.