Ballarat Tramway Museum
Ballarat Tramway Museum
4.5
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
Closed
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Wednesday
Closed
Thursday
Closed
Friday
Closed
Saturday
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
The Ballarat Tramway Museum is staffed by volunteer members who are dedicated to preserving and operating a part of the former Ballarat street tramways. The Museum is now open every weekend and most public holidays from 11:00am until 4:00pm. On Tuesdays and selected days during school holidays it is open 10:00am to 3:00pm. Check our website for summer opening times. Tram rides through the beautiful Botanic Gardens alongside Lake Wendouree are available from the Museum. Entry is $15 Adults, $13 concession, $7 children and $40 for families. Rides on the tram are included in the entry fee. There are special activities for children of all ages. The Museum welcomes groups and can cater for a variety of special occasions. Special event days are promoted on our web and Facebook pages. Visit the Museum's web site for further information.
Duration: < 1 hour
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- AmandaPanda82Pakenham, Australia141 contributionsCute historical placeHubby and I visited the Tram Museum on our couples weekend. We loved it. Lots of history. The volunteers have done an amazing job restoring the gorgeous old trams. It's $10 per adult and includes a tram ride. Such a great place. It's not massive but it's fun. It reminded me of being a kid again.Thank you Amanda for your enthusiastic reviewWritten 23 April 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 2 March 2024
- John T370 contributionsTramway Through HistoryWe visited the Ballarat Tramway Museum today, on a bright, sunny, picturesque day. Looking at the many historic trams, from horse-drawn versions, through to later ones was a look back into the history of transport. We had a wonderful time, and the Motorman and Cibductor had so many interesting stories as well.Thank you John for your reviewWritten 23 April 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2024Travelled with familyWritten 4 March 2024
- Gail ShawMelbourne, Australia24 contributionsPerfect adventure for all childrenWe had a 2 and a 4 year old with us and they LOVED this experience. Finished it off with a walk across the road to Lake Wendouree and the awesome adventure playground. The staff at the Tram Museum were welcoming and knowledgeable and it was great that my grand children could climb all over the old trams.Hi Gail Thank you for your great review. We hope to see your family again soonWritten 22 September 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2024Travelled with familyWritten 22 May 2024
- ThinController168 contributionsGreat for those interested in historyWe visited the Ballarat Tramway Museum on a Sunday. The nearest parking we could find was about 400 metres away but it was a level walk to the museum. Entry for adults is $15 and includes unlimited tram rides. The museum is very interesting to explore for anyone who is interested in history. While you are unable to tour the active workshop, there are many trams on display in the museum area with a summary of their histories - several of the trams were acquired by the Ballarat system from other tramways and have very interesting histories. The motorman on our tram ride was knowledgable and we had a very interesting chat with him when the tram was at the end of the line and the conductor was swinging the pole. A very nice touch is that the museum offers visitors free tea and coffee. There is also a small shop with publications and videos We would be very happy to return. TCThank you for your great review. The Museum has a level access entry on the Gillies Street side of the building with a small disabled parking area. Parking within the Botanic Gardens is limited to the roadways only.. When volunteers are available we can guide visitors through the workshops. Just ask next time you visit.Written 22 September 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 22 July 2024
- Fiona O10 contributionsA trip down memory laneA credit to the love and hard work of those involved restoring these beautiful old trams to their former glory . Take a 20 minute ride then browse the tram collection and other historic memorabilia in the museum. Even receive an authentic tram ticketVisited October 2024Travelled as a coupleWritten 11 October 2024
- Andrew A2 contributionsWonderful but a bit hard to findWe had a great time there, super helpful staff. But the carpark was hard to find, the GPS not much help and Melbourne roads are intimidating at times. It's possible to join the tram tour outside the Museum and pay on board for the Museum entry which includes the rides, that is what we would do next time.Hi Andrew. Thank youu for your review. If you need level access to the Museum there is a carpark near the Gillies Street entrance which is accessible southbound just past the roundabout. As the Museum building is situated in parkland we cannot provide parking on the lakeside.Written 1 December 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited October 2024Travelled with familyWritten 19 October 2024
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4.5
210 reviews
Excellent
137
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63
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5
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3
phebianMelbourne
Eaglemont, Australia1,014 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
Was pleasantly surprised to find the trams operating Good Friday. This is NOT a criticism as we had visited Ballarat late last year and the tramway was closed due to COVID. The tramway is operated by volunteers, so it is an inexpensive outing, and the tramfare includes visiting the tramway museum. I can recommend both the tram trip and visiting the museum
Written 7 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Phebian for your review. Yes, we do open all of Easter and when volunteers are available we even run the tram on Christmas afternoon. We know how much visitors to the Gardens appreciate our attraction being open at times that many others are nable to do so.
Written 14 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Paul P
Melbourne, Australia232 contributions
Apr 2023
The clang of a tram bell is so memory evoking. Modern tams are soulless. Old trams open to the air, leather straps and the clang of the bell take me back to my childhood and later. Ballarat is one of many towns that used to have trams but alas now only a couple have working rideable trams. The good thing about this museum is that it includes the fare for a tram ride, and you get a real tram ticket. The museum display is not vast but it holds beautifully restored trams. My favourite is the double decker horse tram #1. Not only do they have Ballarat trams but a Victorian Railways tram and a Geelong Tram, yes sleepy hollow once had trams. It will not take long to visit and it is cheap and as I said you get a tram ride. "Move inside the tram you school kids."
Written 10 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Paul for your great review
Written 14 April 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
victraveller2017
Ballarat, Australia40 contributions
May 2023 • Family
Great addition to Lake Wendouree. A nice modern space. Not the old sheds you might expect for a tram collection. The volunteers are friendly and knowledgeable but let you wonder and ask questions only if you want.
The parent area with activities for young kids is a really thoughtful addition.
The tram ride included with the entry ticket was fun and informative.
The parent area with activities for young kids is a really thoughtful addition.
The tram ride included with the entry ticket was fun and informative.
Written 3 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Victraveller2017 for your kind review. A small group of volunteers have worked so hard over the last three years to establish the new facility and they are pleased you enjoyed your time with us.
Written 17 August 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Traveller
Melbourne, Australia17,552 contributions
Mar 2023
My wife and I visited this place during our visit to the Ballarat Begonia Festival at the Botanic Gardens.
The Ballarat Tramway Museum was formed to preserve the tramway experience that existed on the streets of Ballarat from 1887 to 1971. Trams are operated along an original section of the Wendouree Parade track using authentic methods of operation.
At the south end of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens is the tram depot, which houses the tramcar collection, a museum display with photographs, videos, tramway memorabilia, stories, souvenirs and book shop.
Included in the museum display is Ballarat Horse Drawn Tram No. 1. This was the first tram to operate in Ballarat in 1887. Also, under restoration is one of the first electric trams to be operated in 1905 by the original Electric Supply Company of Victoria fleet.
The Ballarat Tramway Museum was formed to preserve the tramway experience that existed on the streets of Ballarat from 1887 to 1971. Trams are operated along an original section of the Wendouree Parade track using authentic methods of operation.
At the south end of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens is the tram depot, which houses the tramcar collection, a museum display with photographs, videos, tramway memorabilia, stories, souvenirs and book shop.
Included in the museum display is Ballarat Horse Drawn Tram No. 1. This was the first tram to operate in Ballarat in 1887. Also, under restoration is one of the first electric trams to be operated in 1905 by the original Electric Supply Company of Victoria fleet.
Written 23 March 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you World Traveller for your review. Our small and enthusiastic group of vonunteers work very hard to present the story of Ballarat's tramway history.
Written 24 March 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Owen C
2 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
The museum isn't big, but it is definitely worth the price. With the admission ticket, you can have the chance to ride in a well-maintained classic tram and take a trip for around 20 minutes or so. The tram is operated by volunteers, which demonstrates the passion these people have for preserving and educating others about this heritage. Apart from the ride, there are also several static trams on display, some of which you can climb on for a closer look and photo opportunities. Staff there are also very very friendly too. This museum really adds a nice touch to this cute city.
Written 21 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
IThank you Owen. It is wonderful when we read that the work of our diverse group of volunteers is being so appreciated
Written 13 November 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
B T
London, UK1,256 contributions
Nov 2022
Excellent place to visit, they had some old trams inside and included was a tram ride as they have an old tram running and it goes along the edge of the lake with nice views. It is worth doing. Volunteers that run it were all really friendly.
Written 5 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Michael-4551
Caloundra, Australia5,518 contributions
Aug 2022
Visited on Sunday 28th August. What a change from my last visit here, they have built new sheds to display their collection of trams. Well set out and they even offered a free tour of the old workshops if I wanted to have a look. The trams were not running but I was given a card to use another time if I wanted to come back when they were.
Written 26 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
elnjay
Perth51 contributions
Nov 2022 • Couples
Unfortunately visited on a rainy day in Ballarat. This place is well organised and presents well. Kudos to the volunteers who work there. Our $8.00 concession entry fee included a tram ride. Well worth a visit.
Written 19 November 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review. We hope you were able to enjoy you time in the Musuem out of the rain and perhaps hve a 'cuppa' as well.
Written 6 December 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Strinjun
Ballarat, Australia71 contributions
Nov 2020 • Family
This tramway museum is a real labour of love for the dedicated volunteers & well worth the visit. There is quite a collection of trams & information about the tram’s history is thoughtfully displayed. This tramway is well worth the visit if you are visiting Ballarat on a Sunday
Written 25 January 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OldJill
Melbourne, Australia24 contributions
Mar 2021
Traveling on the tram is excellent value at $5. A fun way to spend 30 minutes and see a part of Ballarat's history. The tram runs along the lake so there is lots to see while traveling. The museum is free. A few restored trams to view.
Written 23 March 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Jill for your review. COVID restrictions have required all our visitors to join the tram at the Museum instead of along Wendouree Parade and it has been very rewarding that so many have been coming to the Museum, having a look at our displays and then chosing to take a ride on the tram.
Written 4 April 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hi, We have been on a road trip to Melbourne and then the Great Ocean Rd, stopping overnight at Warrnambool. We will be driving to Ballarat tomorrow and plan to visit the tram museum. My kids are really
Looking forward to riding on the tram. Just checking to see if they will be running tomorrow (Wednesday) and do I buy tickets on the tram?
Thanks
Written 18 December 2018
Ro09
Ballarat, Australia
Hi Begud,
The Tramway Museum Doesn’t Operate On Weekdays But It Does On Weekends And Public Holidays
And You Can Pay either at the Depot Or On The Tram
Written 13 June 2020
icareaboutmyfamily
Ballarat, Australia
Does it go right around the lake and down to the shops? Also, is there a place to sit prams safely?
Written 16 June 2016
Yes they do and there are conductors to help.
Written 19 June 2016
Heather T
Warracknabeal, Australia
Does the tram operate on Tuesday's please-I'm bring some clients to ballarat for an outing and I thought they may like this adventure
Written 13 July 2015
Hi Heather. The tram normally only operates on weekends, Victorian school and public holidays but if you would like to contact me via info@ our web address with further information about your proposed visit and the planned date we may be able to accommodate you. Peter Winspur (Operations Manager, Ballarat Tramway Museum)
Written 13 July 2015
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