Bendigo Art Gallery Tours and Activities

Bendigo Art Gallery
Bendigo Art Gallery featuring a statue or sculpture
Bendigo Art Gallery featuring interior views
Bendigo Art Gallery featuring modern architecture and a sunset
Bendigo Art Gallery which includes interior views

Go on a journey through two centuries of art as you explore the galleries of one of Australia’s oldest regional galleries and its sleek contemporary wing.

Bendigo Art Gallery is a revered regional institution that presents its captivating holding of 19th-, 20th- and 21st-century art through a curated series of exhibitions and public programs. Explore magnificently restored 19th-century galleries and a modern expansion and discover a superb collection of painting, sculpture, photography and decorative arts.

Notice the original Victorian façade of the gallery, which features red-and-white brickwork and an arched entryway. Dating back to 1887, the institution’s magnificent Victorian- and Edwardian-era galleries have been beautifully restored and provide a fitting backdrop for the extensive collection of 19th-century European and Australian art. Peruse landscapes and scenes from Australia’s early history and admire the charming stuccowork and decorative elements throughout the exhibition rooms.

Make your way to the modern addition to Bendigo Art Gallery, which is a series of exhibition halls designed by acclaimed architect Karl Fender. Unveiled in 2014, this contemporary wing adds over 6,460 square feet (600 square meters) of exhibition space to the gallery. Among the contemporary Australian artists in the gallery’s collection are Patricia Piccinini, Bill Henson, Fiona Hall and Emily Kame Kngwarreye. Admire the exceptional contemporary architecture that houses the gallery’s extensive and varied selection of artworks.

Bendigo Art Gallery has a thought-provoking public program that includes artist talks, seminars and workshops that interpret the touring and permanent exhibitions. Go on a free guided tour of the permanent displays or call ahead to organize a customized special-interest tour. Order breakfast, lunch, coffee or a snack at the gallery café. The gallery shop stocks a wide range of gift items, collectibles and keepsakes.

Visit Bendigo Art Gallery while exploring the city’s downtown area on foot. You can also reach the gallery by car or bus and it’s a 15-minute walk from Bendigo Train Station. The gallery is open daily, except for Mondays and Christmas Day. There are varying ticket prices for the gallery’s temporary and touring exhibitions. For more exhibitions curated by the team at Bendigo Art Gallery, check out the nearby Post Office Gallery.

Plan a trip to see Bendigo Art Gallery

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CitiClub Hotel Melbourne

CitiClub Hotel Melbourne

3.5 out of 5
Melbourne Central Business District
Save 100% on your flight
per person
23 Oct - 30 Oct
found 23 hours ago
Return flight included
Adelaide (ADL) to Melbourne (MEL)
7.6/10 Good! (1,008 reviews)
Great Location, But Not for a Peaceful Stay The location is fantastic—an easy walk to Hardware Lane and Bourke Street. If you're planning to enjoy the nearby nightclubs, this hotel is ideal. However, if you're after a relaxing, quiet staycation, I’d recommend spending a bit more and booking elsewhere. While some noise is expected given the central location and proximity to nightclubs, the way it's handled is disappointing. You’re only informed after payment that nightclub noise will continue until 5am, and that earplugs are available—but only if you come down and ask for them. If noise is such a known issue, why not provide earplugs in the room or offer them at check-in? Instead, you're left having to get out of bed, ride the lift down in your pyjamas, approach an unmanned reception desk visible to nightclub queues, ring a bell, and wait for someone to hand you earplugs. Then it’s back to bed, hoping for some sleep. The rooms are not soundproof. You can hear your neighbours talking, showering, flushing the toilet, and even hallway conversations as if they’re happening inside your room. Street noise during the day is minimal, but once the nightclubs start, the bass reverberates through the floors and walls. We were on the 7th floor and still felt it—lower floors would likely be worse. Parking Tip: The hotel is not affiliated with the Citihotel Secure Parking lot located underneath. Pre-booking can save you a bit of hassle. Overnight parking is around $40, which is on par

Reviewed on 27 Jul. 2025

Aussie Escape Apartments - Skyline Collins Tower

Aussie Escape Apartments - Skyline Collins Tower

3.5 out of 5
Melbourne Central Business District
per person
17 Oct - 24 Oct
found 5 hours ago
Return flight included
Adelaide (ADL) to Melbourne (MEL)
8.2/10 Very Good! (327 reviews)
The view from our room was fantastic One issue was the bathrooms flooded after each shower. Drier did not work well to dry floor mats. We paid money to open the other bathroom only to find it very dirty and dusty. The toilet was not cleaned, the drawers to basin had water marks on them. Dust everywhere Needs more bin liners for all bins. Apart from that it was great. Thank u

Reviewed on 12 Jun. 2025

Melbourne Corporate Stays – Docklands Waterfront

Melbourne Corporate Stays – Docklands Waterfront

3 out of 5
Docklands
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per person
13 Oct - 20 Oct
found 1 day ago
Return flight included
Sydney (SYD) to Melbourne (MEL)
8/10 Very Good! (1 review)

Popular places to visit

Rosalind Park

Rosalind Park

4.5/5(168 reviews)

Bendigo’s central park tells the city’s story through historic relics, heritage gardens, leafy avenues and a beautiful 19th-century conservatory.

Rosalind Park
Queen Elizabeth Oval

Queen Elizabeth Oval

4/5(41 reviews)

Explore the great outdoors at Queen Elizabeth Oval, a lovely green space in Bendigo. Take in the acclaimed art galleries while you're in the area.

Queen Elizabeth Oval
Bendigo which includes street scenes and heritage architecture

Post Office Gallery

You can spend an afternoon exploring the galleries in Post Office Gallery during your travels in Bendigo. Take in the acclaimed art galleries while you're in the area.

Post Office Gallery
Bendigo showing landscape views and heritage elements

Sacred Heart Cathedral

4.5/5(105 reviews)

Find out about the history of Bendigo when you spend time at Sacred Heart Cathedral. Take in the acclaimed art galleries while you're in the area.

Sacred Heart Cathedral
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Hargreaves Mall

3.5/5(165 reviews)

Indulge in some retail therapy, grab a drink or a bite to eat or catch one of the many events that take place in Bendigo’s central shopping precinct.

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Bendigo Library showing an administrative building, a sunset and modern architecture

Bendigo Library

4/5(39 reviews)

Bendigo’s local community hub is a great place to learn about the Goldfields region, read a book at the café or bring the family for a day of educational fun.

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Top Bendigo Art Gallery Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Hotel Shamrock Bendigo

Hotel Shamrock Bendigo

3.5 out of 5
Corner of Pall Mall & Williamson St, Bendigo, VIC
Hotel Shamrock Bendigo
National Hotel Complex and Bendigo Central Apartments

National Hotel Complex and Bendigo Central Apartments

3.5 out of 5
182-186 High Street, Bendigo, VIC
National Hotel Complex and Bendigo Central Apartments
Mercure Bendigo Schaller

Mercure Bendigo Schaller

4 out of 5
60 Lucan Street, Bendigo, VIC
Mercure Bendigo Schaller
Crown Accommodation Bendigo CBD

Crown Accommodation Bendigo CBD

2.5 out of 5
238 Hargreaves Street, Bendigo, VIC
Crown Accommodation Bendigo CBD
Quality Hotel Lakeside

Quality Hotel Lakeside

3.5 out of 5
286 Napier Street, Bendigo, VIC
Quality Hotel Lakeside
All Seasons Resort

All Seasons Resort

4 out of 5
171-183 Mcivor Highway, Strathdale, VIC
All Seasons Resort
Quest Bendigo Central

Quest Bendigo Central

4.5 out of 5
228 Mccrae Street, Bendigo, VIC
Quest Bendigo Central
Oval Motel

Oval Motel

3 out of 5
194 Barnard Street, Bendigo, VIC
Oval Motel
Elm Motel

Elm Motel

2.5 out of 5
454 High Street, Golden Square, VIC
Elm Motel
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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Bendigo Art Gallery

At Bendigo Art Gallery, visitors can enjoy a range of activities including guided tours that delve into the gallery's impressive art collection. Nearby, the Bendigo Show offers a taste of local culture, while the city's vibrant arts scene and recreational options like golf provide additional entertainment. Whether you're exploring the gallery or participating in local events, Bendigo promises a rich experience for art enthusiasts and tourists alike.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Hargreaves Mall, just 483m from Bendigo Art Gallery, offering a vibrant mix of shops and cafes. If you're up for a drive, check out Restorers Barn and Wesley Hill Market, both 35.4km away, featuring unique gifts and local produce.

Recreation

Bendigo Stadium, only 3.2km from the gallery, offers an energetic atmosphere for fitness enthusiasts. Quarry Hill Golf Club, located 1.6km away, invites you to enjoy a round of golf amidst beautiful landscapes. For relaxation, La Larr Ba Gauwa Park, 27.4km away, provides a serene environment for wellness and rejuvenation.

Adventure

Embark on a scenic hike to Mount Tarrengower Lookout, located 33.8km from the Bendigo Art Gallery, offering stunning vistas. Explore the Pink Cliffs trail, 43.5km away, for breathtaking views. Don’t miss the Leanganook Track Trailhead, also 33.8km distant, perfect for outdoor adventure enthusiasts.

Nightlife

In Bendigo, the Ulumbarra Theatre offers a vibrant atmosphere with captivating performances just 483m from the gallery, perfect for culture and romance. For family fun, head to Bendigo Fun Factory, an arcade adventure zone 3.2km away, guaranteeing an exciting night out.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Bendigo Art Gallery

Bendigo Art Gallery is surrounded by a variety of attractions that cater to culture enthusiasts and families alike. Popular spots include urban parks, serene lakes, and the nearby Bendigo Visitor Centre and Library. Explore the renowned Bendigo Art Gallery and immerse yourself in the rich local culture while enjoying the beautiful outdoor spaces that enhance this vibrant destination.

  • Rosalind Park: A charming urban park located 161m from the Bendigo Art Gallery, Rosalind Park offers a family-friendly atmosphere with beautiful gardens, walking paths, and picnic spots that are perfect for a leisurely day outdoors.
  • Central Deborah Gold Mine: Situated 966m away, this historic mine invites you to delve into Bendigo's rich gold mining history. Explore underground tunnels and learn about the culture and heritage of the region through guided tours.
  • The Capital-Bendigo's Performing Arts Centre: Right next to the gallery, this vibrant arts centre showcases an array of performances, including theatre, music, and dance, making it a cultural hub for entertainment enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Bendigo Art Gallery

The best time to visit Bendigo Art Gallery can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Bendigo Art Gallery falls in January and January. January has average visitor numbers and sunny weather. The coolest average temperature around Bendigo Art Gallery falls in July and July. July has average visitor numbers and mostly cloudy weather.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January73.0°F (22.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
January73.0°F (22.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
February71.2°F (21.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February71.2°F (21.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March66.2°F (19.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
March66.2°F (19.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April59.2°F (15.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April59.2°F (15.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May52.2°F (11.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
May52.2°F (11.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
June47.5°F (8.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
June47.5°F (8.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly HighAverage
July46.2°F (7.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
July46.2°F (7.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly CloudyAverageAverage
August47.3°F (8.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
August47.3°F (8.5°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
September51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October56.8°F (13.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November63.1°F (17.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
November63.1°F (17.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
December68.4°F (20.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
December68.4°F (20.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Bendigo Art Gallery

When planning your visit to Bendigo Art Gallery, consider travelling during cheaper months like February, August, or November, and opt for a Tuesday stay for the best rates. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodation by sorting results from lowest to highest prices and filtering for eco-certified hotels. Combine your hotel booking with flights and activities for extra savings. To navigate Bendigo affordably, take advantage of public transport options, and explore free activities around the gallery to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Bendigo Art Gallery are February, August and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to January and March to April, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Bendigo Art Gallery is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Bendigo Art Gallery is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You have the option to arrange your search results from lowest to highest prices, allowing you to easily find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at the Bendigo Art Gallery with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.