Things to Do at Ararat and The Grampians
Welcome to the heart of Victoria’s Goldfields and the gateway to the majestic Gariwerd landscape. Staying at G’Day Parks Ararat puts you in the perfect position to explore both the chilling history of our local township and the breathtaking natural wonders of the Grampians.
Attractions
Whether you're here for a weekend hike or a week-long family adventure, here are the top 10 things to do in and around Ararat and the Grampians.
Step Back in Time at J Ward & Aradale Asylum
Ararat is home to some of Australia's most significant (and spooky) historical sites. J Ward was once a goldfields prison before becoming a maximum-security ward for the "criminally insane."
Why go: Take a guided tour to hear chilling tales of the past. If you’re feeling brave, book an evening ghost tour at Aradale, Australia's largest abandoned lunatic asylum.
Website eerietours.com.au
Discover Gold Rush History at Gum San
The Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre tells the unique story of the Chinese miners who founded Ararat in 1857. It is the only town in Australia founded by the Chinese.
Highlight: An interactive museum where kids can try gold panning and calligraphy.
Website gumsan.com.au
Relax at Alexandra Gardens
Located just minutes from the park, these beautifully landscaped gardens are the local "backyard."
Features: An ornamental lake, lush lawns for picnics, a playground, and in the summer months, the upgraded 50m outdoor swimming pool is the best place to cool off.
More info grampianspoint.com.au
Get Wild at Halls Gap Zoo
Only a short 40-minute drive from Ararat, this is Victoria’s largest regional zoo.
Must-see: Over 160 species, including giraffes, meerkats, red pandas, and cheetahs. You can even book close-up animal encounters!
Website hallsgapzoo.com.au
Hike to The Pinnacle
This is the "crown jewel" of the Grampians. The view from the top offers a panoramic sweep of the Fyans Valley and Lake Bellfield.
Pro Tip: Choose the Wonderland Carpark route for a moderate 2.1km walk through the "Silent Street" and spectacular rock formations.
More info parks.vic.gov.au
Admire the Power of MacKenzie Falls
One of the largest and most famous waterfalls in Victoria, MacKenzie Falls flows all year round.
Experience: Take the steep walk down to the base for the full misty experience, or enjoy the easy, wheelchair-accessible walk to the Bluff Lookout for a stunning view from above.
More info parks.vic.gov.au
Sunset Views at Boroka Lookout
If you want the best view in the region with the least amount of effort, this is it.
Access: It’s just a short stroll from the carpark to two viewing platforms. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sunrise or sunset over Halls Gap and the surrounding plains.
More info parks.vic.gov.au
Immerse in Culture at Brambuk
Located in Halls Gap, Brambuk The National Park and Cultural Centre is the place to learn about the Jadawadjali and Djab Wurrung peoples’ connection to Gariwerd (the Grampians).
Note: Check the latest trail conditions here and view ancient Aboriginal rock art displays.
More info parks.vic.gov.au
Take in the 360° View at One Tree Hill
For a bird’s-eye view of Ararat itself, drive or walk up to the One Tree Hill Lookout.
The View: You’ll get an unparalleled 360-degree vista of the township, the Pyrenees Ranges, and the Grampians peaks in the distance.
More info parks.vic.gov.au
Underground Wonders at Seppelt Great Western
Just 15 minutes away is the historic village of Great Western. Seppelt is world-renowned for its "Drives"—3 kilometers of underground wine cellars excavated in the 1860s.
The Experience: Tour the tunnels and finish with a tasting of their iconic Sparkling Shiraz.
Website seppeltgreatwestern.com.au
Dining
From hearty pub meals to artisanal coffee and fine dining in historic cellars, the dining scene around Ararat and the Grampians is as diverse as the landscape itself.
Here are 10 of the best dining options to keep you fueled during your stay at G’Day Parks Ararat.
Sicilians Bar & Restaurant, Ararat
A local institution for over 30 years, Sicilians offers a unique and delicious fusion of Italian and Lebanese cuisine.
The Vibe: Warm, family-run, and bustling.
Must-try: Their traditional wood-fired pizzas or the Lebanese sampler platter.
102 Barkly St, Ararat VIC 3377
(03) 5352 2627
Website https://sicilians.com.au/
Salinger’s Cafe, Great Western
Located in a stunning 1860s building just 15 minutes from the park, this is a "foodie" favorite for all-day breakfast and gourmet lunches.
The Vibe: Modern industrial meets rustic history.
Must-try: The seasonal breakfast specials and their signature house-roasted coffee.
98 Main St, Great Western VIC 3374
(03) 5356 2211
Website https://salingers.com.au/
Spirit of Punjab, Halls Gap
Widely considered one of the best Indian restaurants in regional Victoria, they offer authentic North Indian flavors with incredible views of the Grampians.
The Vibe: Vibrant and welcoming, with great outdoor seating for kangaroo-spotting.
Must-try: The Butter Chicken or the Tandoori Mix Platter.
161-163 Grampians Rd, Halls Gap VIC 3381
(03) 5356 4658
Flame Brothers Restaurant & Bar, Halls Gap
An American-style smokehouse right in the heart of Halls Gap. It’s the perfect place to refuel after a long day of hiking.
The Vibe: Trendy, casual, and energetic.
Must-try: The 12-hour slow-smoked brisket or their "Monster" burgers.
10/97 Grampians Rd, Halls Gap VIC 3381
(03) 5356 4279
Foragers Cafe, Ararat
A hidden gem on Vincent Street that doubles as a deli and grocer. They focus on fresh, local produce and exceptional coffee.
The Vibe: Quaint, artistic, and peaceful.
Must-try: The house-baked cakes and their loaded brunch bowls.
82 Vincent street Ararat , Ararat, VIC, Australia, 3377
0490 340 314
Paper Scissors Rock Brew Co, Halls Gap
This independent craft brewery offers fresh beers brewed on-site and a menu designed for social sharing.
The Vibe: Lively social hub with frequent live music.
Must-try: A tasting paddle of their seasonal brews paired with Korean fried chicken wings.
119 Grampians Rd, Halls Gap VIC 3381
(03) 5311 3709
paperscissorsrock.beer
Great Western Hotel, Great Western
A classic Aussie country pub known for its massive beer garden and extensive list of local Grampians wines.
The Vibe: Relaxed and family-friendly with plenty of room for kids to run.
Must-try: A classic Chicken Parma or a local grass-fed steak.
101 Main St, Great Western VIC 3374
S.E.D.E Cafe, Ararat
If you’re looking for a top-tier breakfast before heading out on an adventure, S.E.D.E is the place locals go.
The Vibe: Friendly, efficient, and great for a quick morning pitstop.
Must-try: Their "Eggs Benedict" with a twist or a freshly squeezed juice.
96 Barkly St, Ararat VIC 3377
(03) 5352 1205
The Mess & Barracks, Ararat
One of Ararat’s newer dining destinations, offering a refined bistro menu and a great selection of cocktails and craft spirits.
The Vibe: Stylish and slightly more upscale—great for a date night.
Must-try: Their signature shared grazing boards and slow-cooked lamb.
84 Barkly St, Ararat VIC 3377
(03) 4318 6003
themessandbarracks.com.au
Barney’s Bar & Bistro, Pomonal
Located just outside Halls Gap in the village of Pomonal, Barney’s is famous for its rustic charm and stunning views of the mountains.
The Vibe: Extremely dog-friendly and a favorite for sunset drinks.
Must-try: Their hearty "Pie of the Day" or the local trout dishes.
3447 Ararat-Halls Gap Rd, Pomonal VIC 3381
0419 505 025
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