Autumn is one of the most magical times to explore regional Victoria, and Ballarat is no exception. With its tree-lined streets blazing in hues of amber, gold, and crimson, this historic yet contemporary city transforms into the perfect autumn getaway.
Famous for its gold rush heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and blossoming food and wine offerings, Ballarat is best explored at your own pace with a rental car. And with Redspot Car Rentals available at both Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) and Little Collins Street in the city, you’re only a short drive away from one of Victoria’s most rewarding weekend destinations.
Autumn in Ballarat: Why It’s the Perfect Season
The crisp air, long golden afternoons, and picture-perfect streetscapes make Ballarat in autumn feel like a living postcard. It’s also the time when the city showcases its best food and wine, thanks to the Restaurant Ballarat series in May and June, where local chefs and winemakers put the region in the spotlight.
Whether you’re planning a romantic couples’ escape, a weekend with friends, or a solo foodie adventure, Ballarat’s autumn calendar is brimming with delicious opportunities.
Evening One: A Taste of World Flavours
Ballarat has become a melting pot of international cuisines, making it a culinary destination in its own right. Kick off your getaway with one of these favourites:
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Catfish Thai – Awarded as one of the country’s best Thai eateries, this restaurant delivers authentic, fiery flavours.
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Carboni’s Italian Kitchen – A true Italian experience with woodfired pizzas, handmade pasta, and warm hospitality.
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Fu Man Lou – A buzzing dumpling house perfect for sharing plates with friends.
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Café Meigas – Spanish-inspired dining with tapas and sangria for a lively start to the weekend.
Day One: From Café Culture to Craft Beer
Morning – Café Brilliance
Begin with breakfast at one of Ballarat’s thriving café hotspots:
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Webster’s Market & Café – Beloved for its wholesome menu and artisan coffee.
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The Local – Fresh, seasonal fare with a welcoming community vibe.
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Little Bird Café – A vintage diner-inspired venue full of charm.
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Kittelty’s – Comfort food and hearty homemade dishes perfect for a cool autumn morning.
Afternoon – Craft Beer & Brewing Experiences
Ballarat has fast earned a reputation as the craft beer capital of Australia. A few must-visits include:
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Hop Temple – A hidden laneway bar and beer hall serving local and international brews.
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The Mallow – A gastro pub offering a wide selection of craft beers on tap, paired with elevated pub classics.
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Red Duck Brewery & Cubby Haus Brewing – Both provide tours that showcase the brewing process — complete with tastings, of course.
Evening – Elegant Fare
For dinner, settle into one of Ballarat’s intimate wine bars or fine dining restaurants:
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The Forge Pizzeria – A local favourite known for woodfired pizza and warm atmosphere.
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Mitchell Harris Wines – A boutique urban winery offering small-batch wines and a sophisticated dinner menu.
Pair your meal with Ballarat’s cool-climate wines — Pinot Noir and Chardonnay shine in this region.
Day Two: Brunch & Divine Dining
Morning – Brunch with a Twist
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Yellow Expresso – Famous for its modern souvlakis and crispy chips.
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Eclectic Tastes Café & Pantry – A contemporary eatery blending classic brunch dishes with fresh, innovative twists.
Afternoon & Evening – Restaurant Ballarat
For a truly unforgettable dining experience, plan your visit to coincide with Restaurant Ballarat (running across select dates in May and June). Each event features:
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Three-course feasts prepared by leading Ballarat chefs.
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Locally sourced produce and award-winning wines.
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A rotating lineup of unique heritage venues across the city, turning dinner into an immersive cultural experience.
Beyond the Plate: Other Ballarat Highlights
While food and wine might be the headline acts in autumn, Ballarat has plenty more to offer:
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Sovereign Hill – Step back into the gold rush era with this open-air museum.
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Ballarat Wildlife Park – Meet kangaroos, koalas, and more in a family-friendly setting.
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Lake Wendouree – Stroll, cycle, or row around this beautiful lake framed by autumn colours.
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Art Gallery of Ballarat – Australia’s oldest regional gallery, showcasing both historic and contemporary works.
Plan Your Autumn Road Trip with Redspot
Ballarat is just 90 minutes’ drive from Melbourne Airport or just over an hour from Melbourne CBD. A rental car gives you the freedom to explore not only Ballarat but also the surrounding Pyrenees wine region, Daylesford spa country, and the Grampians — all perfect autumn escapes in their own right.
Redspot Car Rentals offers:
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A new-model fleet ranging from compact cars for city driving to SUVs for countryside exploring.
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Convenient pick-up at Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine) and Little Collins Street in Melbourne CBD.
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Flexible options for business or leisure travel, including insurance cover choices and 24/7 roadside assistance.
Final Thought
Autumn in Ballarat is an experience like no other — where vibrant foliage, gourmet dining, and rich history come together. Whether you’re here for a weekend escape or a longer food and wine journey, having the right rental car makes all the difference.
Book your Redspot rental today, pick up at one of our Melbourne Car Rental locations, and set off to discover the best of Ballarat this autumn. 🍂🚗🍷