Things to do

Ballarat Municipal Observatory and Museum

439 Cobden Street,
Mount Pleasant VIC 3350

Get directions

$12 - $320

Adult $35, Concession $25, Student $15. Private group from $320. Discounts for Large groups, Community groups and School Groups.

The Ballarat Observatory is one of the oldest observatories in regional Australia, with one of the best collections of 18th to 21st century telescopes.

Ballarat Observatory has the first telescope built in Australia for disability access, which is also suitable for those who can no longer climb ladders or are too small for some of the older telescopes.

Leading 3D Astrotour movies will have you on the edge of your seat and amaze you as you discover the amazing universe.

School groups, community groups, cub or scout astronomy badge activities, just ask them to help to provide a fascinating program.

The Observatory can host your next birthday party, unusual wedding, end of year function, or any celebration or reason for a party you might have.

Summer viewing is late due to daylight saving time. The best viewing nights are in winter, when the frost is out, and the atmosphere is perfectly still. viewing of some of the best objects in the southern hemisphere sky. Dress for the snow to keep you internal heater warm, top up with warm drinks at the Third Rock Cafe.

Bookings taken for any day or night times outside open times.

Content: Ballaarat Astronomical Society

Accessibility Information

  • Caters for people with sufficient mobility to climb a few steps but who would benefit from fixtures to aid balance. (This includes people using walking frames and mobility aids)
  • Caters for people who use a wheelchair.
  • Caters for people who are deaf or have hearing loss.
  • Welcomes and assists people who have challenges with learning, communication, understanding and behaviour. (includes people with autism, intellectual disability, Down syndrome, acquired brain injury (ABI), dyslexia and dementia)
  • Caters for people with allergies and intolerances.

Please note: The accessibility information above is provided by the business operator. For more information, please contact the business directly.

Visitor Information Centre
Ballarat Town Hall

225 Sturt Street
Ballarat VIC 3350

Acknowledgement of Country

Across Victoria’s Midwest, we acknowledge that we travel across the ancient landscapes of many First Peoples communities. These lands have been nurtured and cared for over tens of thousands of years and we respect the work of Traditional Custodians for their ongoing care and protection.

We recognise the past injustices against Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in this country. As our knowledge grows, we hope that we can learn from their resilience and creativity that has guided them for over 60,000 years. As we invite people to visit and explore Victoria’s Midwest, we ask that alongside us, you also grow to respect the stories, living culture and connection to Country of the Ancestors and Elders of our First Peoples.


©️ 2024 Visit Ballarat. This initiative is funded by the City of Ballarat and Tourism Midwest Victoria.