Ararat heritage town bus tour

Join us for a guided bus tour exploring the rich history, heritage, and unique stories of Ararat. Once a thriving gold-mining town, Ararat is home to a remarkable collection of historic buildings, cultural attractions, and scenic landmarks.

During this tour, participants will visit and learn about some of the region’s most significant sites, including:

• the Ararat Town Hall,
• the former Ararat Shire Hall,
• Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre,
• J Ward, and;
• the beautiful Alexandra Gardens.

The tour will also include a visit to Once Tree Hill Lookout, offering spectacular panoramic views across Ararat and the surrounding countryside. This is a wonderful opportunity to discover the people, places, and stories that have helped shape Ararat into the vibrant regional city it is today.

Tour itinerary:

• Participants travelling from Melbourne can access the Victorian Seniors Festival free travel offer and catch the V-Line train departing Melbourne's Southern Cross Station at 7:53am. You will arrive at Ararat Railway Station at 10:22am.
• 10:30am Board the bus at the Ararat Railway Station
• 10:30am – 12:00pm Guided tour of the Ararat town
• 12:00pm Drop off at the Ararat Town Hall: enjoy free time to explore the town centre, visit local shops, stroll through Alexandra Gardens, or purchase lunch at one of Ararat’s cafes and eateries (lunch at own expense)
• 2:00pm Pick up at Ararat Town Hall
• 2:10pm Drop off at Ararat Railway Station
• Participants returning to Melbourne can catch the following V/Line service: 2:28pm departure from Ararat Railway Station, arriving Melbourne's Southern Cross Station at 5:17pm.

Tour includes bus transport. The bus is not wheelchair accessible.