Top 10 Best Family Accommodation In Ballarat [2023]

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Heading to Ballarat? Lucky you! It’s a beautiful part of the world. The next step after deciding to go is to find the best family accommodation in Ballarat. And that’s what we will help you with here!

Best known for being the centre of the Gold Rush in the 1800s, the Central Highlands city of Ballarat has plenty to offer for visitors from re-creations of the gold mines you can visit (a hit with kids) at Sovereign Hill, to the Ballarat Wildlife park and Creswick Woolen Mills.

There’s plenty to do for adults here, too, with plenty of micro-breweries, a beer festival, and Ballarat Art Gallery. What’s more, it’s easy to find Ballarat accommodation to suit the whole family – I’ll share my tips for the best Ballarat kid friendly accommodation in this post as well as my votes for the best accommodation Ballarat Victoria has to offer.

Ballarat, Victoria
Ballarat, Victoria

In this article, I help you find the best accommodation Ballarat area offers especially for families no matter what your budget or what exactly you are looking for.

So whether you are looking for a Ballarat caravan park accommodation, staying in one of the top Ballarat hotels, a luxury accommodation Ballarat Victoria or booking a cheap accommodation Ballarat area offers, we have you covered with the best places to stay in Ballarat Victoria for you.

Here is our list of the best accommodation in Ballarat as well as some information on exactly where to stay in Ballarat Victoria.

Contents

Comparison Of The Best Family Accommodation Ballarat, Victoria

NameStarsLocationPriceBook
Best Western Plus Ballarat Suites★★★★Main Road$$Click here
Quality Inn The George Hotel Ballarat★★★★Lydiard Street North$$Click here
Sovereign Park Motor Inn★★★★Main Road$$Click here
BIG4 Ballarat Goldfields Holiday ParkClayton Street$$Click here
RACV Goldfields Resort★★★★☆Midland Highway$$Click here
Craig’s Royal Hotel★★★★★Lydiard Street South$$$Click here
Lake Wendouree Luxury Apartments on Grove★★★★★Grove Street$$$Click here
Lake Inn Ballarat★★★★☆Mair Street$$$Click here
Oscars Hotel & Cafe Bar★★★★Doveton Street$$Click here
Eureka Stockade Holiday ParkStawell Street South$Click here

Top 10 Best Family Accommodation In Ballarat [2023]

Best Western Plus Ballarat Suites Review

Address: 525 Main Road, Ballarat
Room Types: A range of suites (superior, king, executive, deluxe)
Family Friendly Features:

  • Perfect location for exploring Sovereign Hill and other attractions
  • Restaurants nearby and hotel offers room service for breakfast
  • Free parking and wifi

If you’re looking for Ballarat accommodation near Sovereign Hill, you can’t get much closer than the 4* Best Western Hotel Ballarat.

Located just across the road (100m) from Sovereign hill, this all-suite hotel provides upscale accommodation close to all the major attractions including Sovereign Hill, the Eureka Centre and Ballarat Wildlife Park.

Hotel facilities include free parking, free wifi throughout the hotel, morning room service for breakfast (there’s no restaurant on site), and in room coffee makers, microwaves and fridges.

When it comes to Best Western Ballarat accommodation, you can choose from regular king or twin rooms, or go for the luxury experience and book a suite with a jetted tub – perfect if you’re looking for Ballarat accommodation with spa bath! All rooms are spacious and modern, and sofa beds can be added for kids.

Click here for more information.

Best Parts?

We love the new and contemporary feel at this hotel and its amazing location across from Sovereign Hill.

Worst Parts?

There’s no restaurant or much in the way of services on site, but with so many great places to eat nearby, it’s not an issue.

Summary

The Best Western Hotel Ballarat is a great hotel in a great location at a really good price for the standard too. It’s really hard to go wrong with this hotel – just be aware that it gets booked up quickly! When it comes to accommodation in Ballarat, Vic, this is one of our go-to places.

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Quality Inn The George Hotel Ballarat Review

Address: 27 Lydiard Street North, Ballarat
Room Types: Studios and standard rooms, one bedroom suites and family rooms
Family Friendly Features:

  • On-site Pizzeria and The Lane café and bar
  • Free on-site parking and wifi
  • Offers a range of high end family rooms with self contained rooms available

When it comes to the best hotels in Ballarat, Vic, the George Hotel Ballarat is definitely up there. Built in 1854 and Ballarat’s second licensed hotel, staying here is to experience a slice of history (and style).

Located in the heart of the historic town on Lydiard Street North and just across the street from the Ballarat Art Gallery, the George Hotel is a living part of Ballarat’s history and has recently undergone a radical refurbishment, and now boasts beautiful accommodation, a balcony, two restaurants and function spaces.

Hotel facilities include onsite parking, a Pizzeria, The Lane café and bar, complimentary wifi, and 24 hour reception.

Room choices are Studio rooms (no capacity for extra beds, just 1 king bed), or Standard Queen or Twin rooms which can both accommodate an extra bed. Family rooms are the best deal, with two interconnecting rooms, one with a Queen bed and the other with two single twin beds.

If you are looking for Ballarat hotel accommodation with self-catering facilities then consider their Executive suite rooms which come with kitchen included and balcony access on the second floor of the hotel.

Click here for more information.

Best Parts?

The best thing about this accommodation, Ballarat, Vic choice is its unique vibe and high-end ambience. If you love history, this is the place for you.

Worst Parts?

This is being very picky – the glass wall between the bedroom and bathroom may not suit some if you don’t want to be woken up by your family at night turning on the light inside the bathroom.

Summary

If you’re looking for 5 star accommodation Ballarat, Vic, the George is definitely an option you’ll want to consider. With its unique vibes and historic location, it’s hard to beat this experience and the kids may love it. What’s more, staying here won’t break the bank.

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Sovereign Park Motor Inn Review

Address: 223 Main Road, Ballarat
Room Types: A range of rooms (standard, deluxe, family) and two bedroom suites
Family Friendly Features:

  • Kids playground, indoor tennis court and great pool and spa area
  • On-site Red Lion restaurant, bar and cafe
  • Free parking and wifi offered

Certainly one of the best kid friendly accommodation in Ballarat, Vic options, Sovereign Park Ballarat has been set up to be a great option for family stays.

Located in central Ballarat, Sovereign Park Motor Inn is just a few minutes from both the historic town centre and from Sovereign Hill, so if you’re looking for Sovereign Hill Ballarat accommodation, this is another good option to consider.

The complex includes the Sovereign Park Motor Inn hotel, Red Lion restaurant, bar and cafe for eating and drinking on site, and a kids playground. The menu at Red Lion is kid friendly as well.

The Motor Inn offers 4* Ballarat motel accommodation as well as some self contained apartments which can sleep up to 6 if you’re looking for Ballarat apartment accommodation.

The motel unit room types available include standard, deluxe, family and two-bedroom units, with family and two bedroom being the best types for families. Family units accommodate 4 in one room with 1 queen and 2 single beds, while two-bedroom units accommodate one queen bed and 3 singles in the interconnecting room.

Click here for more information.

Best Parts?

The accommodation set up makes this one of the best places to stay for larger families, we love their two-bedroom suites.

Worst Parts?

The standard rooms are a little small, but still okay if you won’t be spending much time in your room.

Summary

Sovereign Motor Inn is a solid option for family accommodation near Sovereign Hill Ballarat and if you’d like to stay somewhere that has been set up with families in mind.

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

BIG4 Ballarat Goldfields Holiday Park Review

Address: 108 Clayton Street, Ballarat
Room Types: A wide range of cabins and villas (studio, one/two/three bedroom)
Family Friendly Features:

  • Walking distance from Sovereign Hill
  • Indoor and outdoor pools and many kid friendly play facilities
  • Camp kitchen and laundry on-site

The BIG 4 caravan park, Ballarat is known as Ballarat’s Boutique holiday park, and is the best option if you’re searching for Ballarat accommodation caravan parks.

Located in historical Ballarat and just a 300m walk from Sovereign hill, the Goldfields caravan park Ballarat is close to all the major Ballarat attractions and places to see.

The park is also a participant in the Gumnut award program and has implemented a number of sustainable initiatives, including their solar heated outdoor pool. There are plenty of facilities on site for kids and adults alike including an indoor pool (as well as the outdoor one), jumping pillow, tiny tots indoor playroom for toddlers, and pedal karts for older kids.

There’s also a camp kitchen and laundry on site for all Ballarat accommodation Big 4 guests.

When it comes to accommodation at Big 4, you can choose to either bring your own caravan, motorhome or tent to use at one of the site’s en-suite pitches or else choose one of the many different styles of villas, cabins and cottages, each with their own unique style and multiple bedrooms and kitchens that make them the perfect setup for families. Whether you’re looking for Cottage accommodation Ballarat has or Ballarat accommodation cabins, there’s something here for you.

Click here for more information.

Best Parts?

With the diversity of cabins and rooms on offer, there’s bound to be something that suits your needs, plus we love all the kid-friendly facilities on site.

Worst Parts?

There’s no restaurant on site, but that’s not really an issue given it’s just a short walk to the Red Lion and several other eateries.

Summary

If you’re looking for caravan parks, Ballarat, Victoria, here is a great place to start. Feeling more like a family resort, Ballarat attractions are all on your doorstep here, too.

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

RACV Goldfields Resort Review

Address: 1500 Midland Highway, Ballarat
Room Types: A range of 7 rooms/suites with one/two bedroom and family rooms available
Family Friendly Features:

  • Offers upscale family accommodation with bright, modern rooms
  • On-site pool, gym, tennis court, golf course and spa
  • Bikes available for rent for exploring nearby tracks

If you prefer something that feels a bit more upscale and are looking for Ballarat resort accommodation, have a look at RACV accommodation Ballarat at Goldfields resort. The resort is located a short drive from Ballarat, near the town of Creswick.

As well as being only 7 miles from Ballarat, here you are set in the heart of Goldrush country, and can enjoy the miles of trails on the Goldfields tracks by bike or walking, or Daylesford and the lake are a short distance away for further exploration.

On site, you’re spoiled for choice with facilities at this Ballarat holiday accommodation. There’s an 18-hole golf course, spa and pool, games room, outdoor playground and plenty of mountain biking or hiking trails to go on through the Creswick state forest (the hotel rents out mountain bikes and helmets).

There are 7 different room types to choose from at this family resort Ballarat, including two different types of family rooms – there are two bedroom one bathroom suites as well as two bedroom two bathroom suites for families who prefer more space. All of the rooms are bright and modern, many with balconies overlooking the beautiful grounds.

Click here for more information.

Best Parts?

There’s so much to do at this accommodation near Ballarat, you may not even make it into town!

Worst Parts?

You’re not in Ballarat town centre here, but trust me that you won’t be short of things to do.

Summary

If you’re looking for Ballarat places to stay with plenty of things to do on site and love hiking and nature walks within easy reach of Ballarat town, this is the place for you. The high-end rooms are great value for money, too.

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Craig’s Royal Hotel Review

Address: 10 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat
Room Types: A range of rooms/suites (standard, classic, royal), extra beds added on request
Family Friendly Features:

  • Boutique, luxury accommodation just steps away from the centre of town
  • Great high tea offered in the Gallery restaurant

The iconic Craig’s Royal Hotel Ballarat is as legendary as hotels come in this part of the world; Craig’s is a beautiful boutique hotel Ballarat option – perfect if you want a little luxury for the family.

Located on Lydiard in the heart of historic Ballarat, Craig’s is the legendary Goldrush hotel built in 1862 and has seen many historic events happen since then, both inside and outside its doors. Staying at this accommodation Ballarat central option you’ll be within steps of the central town area including the art gallery, shops, and a short walk from Sovereign Hill.

If you stay at this Ballarat hotels 5 star option, you’ll have amazing dining options available to you at the hotel (booking in advance is recommended), whether it’s for high tea, wine tastings or cocktails, or culinary experiences in the hotel’s renowned Gallery restaurant.

Featuring 41 unique bedrooms, there are no family rooms per se here, although the larger suites can accommodate extra beds for children – request when booking. Classic rooms are the smallest, while Superior rooms have lovely balconies and the Royal suites are fit for… royalty.

Click here for more information.

Best Parts?

The high tea and beautiful rooms! If your kids love great food, they will not be disappointed here.

Worst Parts?

This is not really a family hotel as such so your kids will need to be fairly well behaved – it is a treat for anyone, though!

Summary

If you’re looking for the best place to stay in Ballarat that’ll give you the wow factor, that’s probably Craig’s. Although the rooms are not cheap, it’s perfect for special occasions when you have the budget.

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Lake Wendouree Luxury Apartments on Grove Review

Address: 18 Grove Street, Ballarat
Room Types: Offers 6 one/two bedroom apartments
Family Friendly Features:

  • Offers stunning lake side accommodation
  • All apartments are fully self contained
  • Free on-site parking and wifi available

For accommodation in Ballarat near Lake Wendouree, look no further than this lakeside hotel Ballarat has to offer: Lake Wendouree Luxury Apartments on Grove.

With the feel of a lakeside vacation resort, staying here you get the feeling of being away from it all while being under 10 minutes away from the city centre of Ballarat. A collection of one and two bedroom apartments are located on the south-eastern edge of Lake Wendouree, making this a great option for those looking for laid back holiday accommodation Ballarat has to offer.

Featuring just 6 apartments, this family run accommodation is set with direct access to the lakes and you can choose from a one bedroom apartment, a two bedroom one bathroom apartment or a two bedroom two bathroom apartment.

Click here for more information.

Best Parts?

The bathrooms feature heat lamps and great rain showers to keep you toasty and warm on cold mornings in Ballarat.

Worst Parts?

Nothing really, this is not a luxury accommodation in Ballarat but it’s comfortable and cosy.

Summary

If you’re looking for friendly, welcoming Lake Wendouree accommodation Ballarat has, you’ll likely love these apartments and their layout for family stays.

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Lake Inn Ballarat Review

Address: 1317 Mair Street, Ballarat
Room Types: A range of suites/rooms with one/two bedroom apartments available
Family Friendly Features:

  • A lovely location from exploring attractions near Lake Wendouree
  • On-site restaurant and bar
  • Hotel offers free parking and wifi

If you like the sound of staying by the lake and are interested in accommodation Lake Wendouree Ballarat has to offer, but would be prefer a 4* hotel setup, then the Lake Inn may be the perfect option for you.

The Lake Inn Hotel, Ballarat, is located in the south end of the lake and is just 20 minutes walk into the city centre for all the main attractions, or a 10 minute drive to Sovereign Hill, meaning you get to stay right by the lake as well as being close to all the main Ballarat things to do to keep the family entertained.

This accommodation at Ballarat has a restaurant and bar on site, free parking, free wifi and 7 different room types, ranging from Deluxe double rooms with spa bath to an Executive Twin room which has one double and one single bed, and a two bedroom apartment perfect for families of 4 or 5.

Click here for more information.

Best Parts?

The location here is great and rooms are spacious and well maintained.

Worst Parts?

Some guests have found the Wifi a bit unreliable, but nothing too bad.

Summary

If you’re looking for good quality hotel accommodation Ballarat, Victoria has to offer and want to be near the lake, the rooms here are comfortable and spacious and are well worth a try.

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Oscars Hotel & Cafe Bar Review

Address: 8 Doveton Street, Ballarat
Room Types: Studios, deluxe/double rooms and deluxe spa rooms (extra beds available on request)
Family Friendly Features:

  • Boutique accommodation in the heart of Ballarat
  • On-site restaurant and café with in-room dining available
  • Complimentary wifi available

Oscars Hotel Ballarat offers unique accommodation in the heart of city-centre Ballarat, just a few steps from the historical district. This is definitely one for you if you’re looking for Ballarat boutique accommodation.

Originally the Criterion hotel, Oscars is an art deco style cafe and boutique hotel with lovely, individually designed rooms. Staying here you’ll be in easy walking distance from pretty much anywhere you want to go in Ballarat.

Facilities include the Restaurant, free wifi and onsite parking, in-room dining service and daily housekeeping. Oscars accommodation Ballarat comprises just 13 modern & stylish individually designed rooms, ranging from compact studio rooms through to Deluxe rooms which have private balconies or deluxe spa rooms. For extra beds for children, check with the hotel in advance.

Click here for more information.

Best Parts?

We love the style of this quirky boutique hotel, and especially love the rooms with balconies.

Worst Parts?

Parking is limited so not guaranteed if there’s an event on.

Summary

If you like independent, unique places to stay you’ll love Oscars hotel. It has many loyal fans and we can see why – you are in a fabulous location with great food and rooms – what more could you need?

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Eureka Stockade Holiday Park Review

Address: 104 Stawell Street South, Ballarat
Room Types: Villas ranging from one to two bedroom (multiple sleeping capacities)
Family Friendly Features:

  • Offers some of the best budget family accommodation
  • Outdoor pool, gardens, BBQ facilities and kids playground
  • Free parking and complimentary wifi available

If you’re looking for cheap family accommodation Ballarat has to offer then the Eureka Stockade Holiday park is some of the best budget accommodation Ballarat, Victoria options we’ve found so far.

Located in Ballarat East, you’re an easy drive (around 10 minutes) into the city centre of Ballarat and Sovereign Hill. There are also plenty of things to keep everyone busy on site so you don’t need to leave to find entertainment, either.

Some of the highlights of facilities here include access to a huge outdoor heated pool (this is seasonal, between November-April). There are gardens, BBQ facilities, a kids playground and complimentary wifi around the park. There’s also free parking on site. Some cabins are pet friendly if you’re looking for pet friendly accommodation Ballarat Victoria has. However, you need to contact the Holiday Park in advance to arrange it.

Accommodation is available in several different sizes of villa and is perfect if you’re looking for Ballarat cottage accommodation. Villas range from one bedroom villas through to two bedroom villas and cottages which can sleep between 5 and 6 people. There are lots of different bedding configuration options with/without bunk beds so do have a look through the different options before choosing your room. Villas include kitchen facilities with dishwashers.

Click here for more information.

Best Parts?

Being a Ballarat accommodation with pool is a definite plus here – kids love the pool! This is also great value for a family getaway, making it a no-brainer.

Worst Parts?

Some guests have complained about the wifi being slow.

Summary

If you’re looking for family friendly accommodation on a budget and want plenty to keep the kids busy, the Eureka Stockade Holiday Park is a winner – especially if you’re visiting during summer and your kids love to swim!

Click here for more information and the latest prices.

Map Of The Best Ballarat Family Accommodation

Best Family Accommodation In Ballarat map
Clicking the map will open this map in Google Maps where you can get exact directions to each location in this article.

I hope you found this top Ballarat accommodation guide useful. You can also find our guides to family accommodation in Melbourne here, Phillip Island here and Warrnambool here. Find more of our Victorian travel guides here.

By Anne Sutherland-Smith

Anne Sutherland-Smith is the founder of the Pretraveller and Everywhere Australia blogs which focus on travel planning. Anne has extensively explored her home country of Australia. As a result, she writes from personal experience to help others plan their Australian trips.