We went to Mount Gambier during the New Year. On the way back, passing through Ballarat, the gold mining town, we discovered a lesser-known spot in Ballarat for moms and dads – the Ballarat Tramway Museum!
The experience at Ballarat Tramway Museum
We felt it was even more fun than the steam train! The staff hands you a paper ticket, and suddenly, you’re transported back to the feeling of buying tickets and boarding a train in your childhood. He shares historical stories with you, and people along the way wave to you. We even passed by Black Swan Lake where the black swans had come ashore.
There are various costumes available on-site for both kids and adults. We transformed into train conductors and crew members, such a fun experience! Normally, it’s just regular trams, but if you visit during Christmas, you might be lucky enough to ride on the Christmas tram decorated for the Christmas season!
Tickets and fees
The tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for kids, including a tram ride that takes you around Lake Wendouree. If you want to take the kids to see the black swans, don’t forget to make a side trip; it’s a very family-friendly itinerary.
However, since it’s all volunteer service, the museum is only open on Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, and Tuesdays. It’s best to check online before going.
There are about ten retired trams in the museum, including one pulled by horses. You can freely get on and off the tram, play with the historical wheels, and imagine yourself as a train conductor from decades ago. If you love taking photos, you can capture some very vintage-looking pictures!
Our favourite is still the tram ride of course. The driver has to switch tracks many times to adjust the tram’s direction in a short distance. They also collect your green ticket before you go back and give you a commemorative ticket. Such a nice experience!