Explore our Museum Display
Step inside the Ballarat Tramway Museum and be transported back to a time when trams were part of everyday life in Ballarat. Our volunteer-run museum showcases a fascinating collection of historic tramcars and artifacts, each with its own story to tell.
Whether you’re passionate about transport history or simply curious, our displays offer a hands-on look at the technology, design and community life of earlier eras.
You’re invited to explore the tramcars up close, discover the history behind each vehicle, and enjoy interactive experiences that bring the past to life. From restored interiors to informative displays and QR-enabled details on your phone, there’s something here to engage visitors of all ages.
TRAMS ON DISPLAY
Our tram displays bring transport history to life, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere, craftsmanship and character of a bygone era.
Inside the depot you will find a collection of historic tramcars, each carefully preserved or restored. You are invited to step aboard four trams that are open for public access — Nos. 32, 14, 27 and 40 — and experience their interiors up close. Sit in the seats, take in the details and imagine daily life when these trams were part of Ballarat’s streetscape.
Other tramcars, including Nos. 1, 2 and 41, can be viewed externally. While these trams are not open for entry, they remain an important part of our collection and restoration story.
Each tram is accompanied by an information display explaining its history and significance. QR codes beside each vehicle allow you to explore even more detailed information on your phone.
Whether you are a transport enthusiast, a history lover or simply curious, our museum displays offer a fascinating glimpse into Ballarat’s working past.
Current Museum collections
Explore the fascinating objects and stories on display inside the Ballarat Tramway Museum. These exhibits showcase original artefacts, photographs, uniforms, models and interpretive displays that help tell the story of Ballarat’s tramway history.
Each display highlights a different aspect of tramway life — from the people who worked on the trams to the events, traditions and community connections that shaped their story. We invite you to visit the Museum and experience these displays in person, where you can see the detail, craftsmanship and history up close.
Ride the Trams
Your admission includes a tram token — a small but memorable part of the experience. Present your token to the conductor to receive your traditional paper ticket, just as passengers once did. Hold onto your ticket, as it allows re-entry to the Museum and gives you the opportunity to enjoy another ride during your visit.
The journey is a three-kilometre return trip along the original 1887 tramway line, travelling beside the beautiful Ballarat Botanical Gardens and Lake Wendouree. All rides depart from and return to the stop directly in front of the Museum.
You are welcome to hop off along the route to explore the Gardens. Simply let the conductor know before you disembark. Keep your paper ticket, and when you are ready, board a later tram at one of the designated stops to return to the Museum.
Theatrette
Step into the theatrette, take a seat and enjoy historic film footage of Ballarat’s trams in action. It’s a wonderful way to see how the tramway once operated on the city’s streets and to appreciate the heritage that the Museum preserves today.
Younger visitors can get creative with coloured pencils and decorate their own tram picture — a fun keepsake from the day.
When the kitchen is open, you are also welcome to relax with a cup of tea or coffee and enjoy a quiet moment during your visit.
