Best Things to See and Do in Bendigo with a Campervan Hire
Welcome to our extensive guide to exploring Bendigo in a camper—a vibrant city steeped in culture, heritage-listed buildings, and natural beauty. Whether you’re planning to visit Victoria on an upcoming family getaway or a solo adventure, the Bendigo region is a must-visit, even if only for a few hours!
In this blog, we will delve into the city’s renowned attractions, from the artistic allure of the Bendigo Art Gallery to visiting a real gold mine at the Central Deborah Gold Mine and answering all your questions about exploring the Bendigo area in a camper. Get ready to create your perfect travel itinerary and visit Bendigo to discover the best things to do when you visit Victoria next!
What is Bendigo known for?
Bendigo is an institution when it comes to Australian heritage and culture. This regional Victorian city, originally a gold rush boomtown in the 1850s, is now famous for its magnificent Victorian architecture, rich history, and vibrant arts scene.
Beyond its historical significance, Bendigo is known for its family-friendly attractions, expansive parks, and a culinary scene that rivals major metropolitan cities. In fact, Bendigo has recently been designated as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, which recognises its rich culinary heritage, vibrant food culture, and commitment to sustainable food practices (did someone say impressive?)
The influence of Chinese culture and history is also evident in Bendigo, with landmarks like the Joss House Temple and the Golden Dragon Museum showcasing the contributions of Chinese immigrants during the gold rush era.
Last but certainly not least, Bendigo is also a hub for local artisans, with numerous studios and galleries showcasing unique Australian crafts and artwork. Whether you want to explore its historical roots or enjoy contemporary cultural festivities, Bendigo offers a dynamic blend that makes this regional Victorian city a must-visit!
What’s the best way to explore Bendigo
There is no better way to experience all that Bendigo offers than with the independence and comfort provided by an Apollo campervan. With Melbourne just a 1.5-hour drive away, picking up your campervan and setting off on an Australia road trip to Bendigo couldn’t be more convenient.
This mode of travel offers not only flexibility to explore at your own pace but also the practicality of visiting even the most hidden gems throughout the region and checking out local natural beauties like Greater Bendigo National Park.
Whether you’re looking to dive into the bustling city centre or escape to the quiet outskirts, a campervan hire allows you to cover all grounds comfortably.
Image: Visit Victoria
Best things to see and do in Bendigo
Get ready to fill your travel itinerary with exciting activities and attractions as we explore the best things in Bendigo, from bushwalking and mountain biking in the Bendigo Regional Park to exploring historical gold mining relics and a little clay play at Bendigo Pottery. This guide will take you through must-visit sites and some hidden treasures to add to your list for when you visit Bendigo.
Bendigo Art Gallery
Located in the heart of the city, the Bendigo Art Gallery is one of Australia's oldest and largest regional art galleries. It hosts an impressive collection of Australian art along with significant international exhibitions. The gallery is renowned for its dynamic programming, including major seasonal exhibitions that attract visitors from all over the nation.
When visiting, you can expect to immerse yourself in various art forms and cultural events that highlight both traditional and contemporary art. If you’re travelling in your motorhome, parking is conveniently available at the QEO Car Park on Gaol Road, just a short walk from the gallery, making it easy to visit without worrying about where to leave your vehicle.
Central Deborah Gold Mine
For a deep dive into Australia’s gold mining history, the Central Deborah Gold Mine offers an authentic underground adventure. This historical site allows visitors to explore the hidden underground tunnels with a knowledgeable guide who shares tales and insights into this bygone era.
You can choose between an above-ground tour of the big equipment that made the mining possible or a 65-meter underground adventure that explores the honeycomb of shafts—perfect for those with a sense of adventure.
Bendigo Pottery
Established in 1858, Bendigo Pottery is Australia's oldest working pottery and a significant cultural site that offers a unique blend of history and hands-on artistry. Bendigo Pottery offers guests the chance to join a wheel-throwing lesson, where participants can learn the basics of pottery from skilled artisans.
This hands-on experience allows you to create your own pottery pieces, which makes for a memorable and personal souvenir for the whole family! The on-site museum showcases an impressive array of historic pottery pieces, illustrating the evolution of ceramics in Australia.
Notably, the workshop space is expansive, providing an authentic and inspirational setting for budding and experienced potters alike. Conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from the centre of Bendigo, visitors travelling by motorhome can park at the large onsite parking area, specifically accommodating larger vehicles, ensuring easy access to the pottery's facilities.
Sacred Heart Cathedral
Sacred Heart Cathedral stands as a beacon of architectural splendour in Bendigo. Known for its grand Gothic Revival style, it is one of the largest cathedrals of its kind in Australia. Visitors can explore the cathedral through guided tours that reveal its historical and architectural significance, including its stunning stained-glass windows and detailed facade.
The cathedral also hosts regular mass services and is a pivotal community centre, offering a spiritual and cultural glimpse into the life of Bendigo's Catholic community. Located in the centre of Bendigo, it’s merely a 5-minute drive from the central business district.
Rosalind Park
Looking for things to do in Bendigo to keep the family active and outdoors for the day? Rosalind Park is a central hub of natural beauty and tranquillity in Bendigo, spanning over 60 acres. It’s an ideal spot for a family picnic, with designated areas equipped with tables and benches. Its proximity to the city centre makes it an easy addition to any visit to Bendigo.
Additionally, the park features a lookout tower that offers panoramic views of the cityscape, perfect for capturing memorable photos. The park is directly accessible from the city centre, just a short drive or even a walk from most parts of Bendigo. For those visiting with a campervan, parking is available at the adjacent QEO Car Park on Gaol Road, which is well-suited for larger vehicles and provides easy park access.
Lake Weeroona
Nestled just north of Bendigo's city centre, Lake Weeroona is a picturesque locale that is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. This scenic spot offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and a plethora of family-friendly activities, such as a playground and a walking track that circles the lake.
Uniquely, Lake Weeroona is a hub for community events, including markets and festivals, so be sure to check for any upcoming events when planning your itinerary. That said, this area boasts excellent facilities with also make it a perfect destination for a barbecue or a casual outdoor meal in nature.
It's conveniently located just a 5-minute drive from the heart of Bendigo, with ample campervan parking available at the adjacent car park on Napier Street, making it easily accessible for a day trip.
Discovery Science & Technology Centre
The Discovery Science & Technology Centre, situated in the heart of Bendigo, is a cornerstone for educational entertainment, making science accessible and enjoyable for all ages. The centre features over 100 interactive exhibits, ranging from a fascinating Vertical Slide to immersive planetarium shows.
This venue is an ideal visit for families looking to add an educational twist to their travel itinerary or to occupy active kids during the Victorian school holidays.
Bendigo Tramways
Want a quirky and unique experience to add to your itinerary? Bendigo Tramways is known for operating the oldest tram fleet in Australia and offers guided historical tours aboard beautifully restored vintage trams. The tramways not only highlight the technological evolution of tram transport but also offer a unique perspective on Bendigo’s rich heritage as you travel through the city’s picturesque streets (oh, and did we mention all the great photo opportunities?)
Golden Dragon Museum and the Great Stupa
For those interested in Bendigo’s rich Chinese heritage, Bendigo is home to the Golden Dragon Museum, which offers an in-depth look at the history of Chinese immigrants in the region as well as the Great Stupa of Universal Compassion—the largest stupa in the Western World.
The museum is part of a larger cultural precinct that includes the lush Chinese Gardens and the Stupaview Café, where visitors can enjoy light refreshments in a setting that overlooks the Great Stupa.
Bendigo Botanic Gardens (and other local nature escapes)
In addition to Lake Weeroona, there are plenty of great nature escapes including Bendigo Botanic Gardens and the Greater Bendigo National Park. These spots offer beautiful gardens, scenic trails, and a plethora of outdoor activities like picnicking, walking, and bird-watching.
How can families make the most of their visit to Bendigo?
Bendigo offers numerous family-friendly activities that are perfect for school holidays and kid-friendly adventures. In addition to the Discovery Science and Technology Centre, with its interactive exhibits, the engaging Vintage Talking Tram Tour, and various designated picnic areas, here are a few extra ideas to check out for a family-friendly Bendigo adventure:
Bendigo Easter Festival
If your visit coincides with the Easter holidays, don't miss this iconic Bendigo Easter Festival. This event features a parade, Easter egg hunts, and numerous family-oriented activities that add a festive air to your holiday experience.
Local markets and festivals
Bendigo's local markets and festivals are a perfect attraction for the whole family to explore. The local markets are perfect for sampling local cuisine, purchasing artisan crafts, and enjoying live music performances. These markets often feature kid-friendly activities and are a great way to soak up the local culture. The Bendigo Blues and Roots music festival is a top favourite for those planning to visit Victoria in the holidays.
Educational walks and tours
In addition to joining guided tours at attractions like the Central Deborah Gold Mine, families can also opt to take a heritage walk around the city to discover its architectural marvels, such as the Alexandra Fountain.
Ready to explore Bendigo?
Bendigo offers a cultural smorgasbord of attractions suitable for the whole family, all easily accessible with a campervan hire—from serene lakeside leisure at Lake Weeroona to educational adventures at the Discovery Science & Technology Centre and historical journeys with Bendigo Tramways.
Ready to set off on your own adventure to explore Bendigo for yourself? You can book your Apollo camper online and pick it up from any Apollo branch before starting your trip. Whether you’re crafting pottery, exploring scientific wonders, or cruising in a vintage tram, your time in Bendigo promises to be filled with memorable experiences. Pack your bags, start the engine, and get ready to explore all that Bendigo has to offer in the comfort and convenience of your campervan.