Top things to do in Lara (Australia)

Explore the Charming City of Lara

Located in Victoria, Australia, Lara is a small city that offers numerous tourist attractions. From wildlife sanctuaries to historical museums, parks, and gardens, Lara has something for everyone. Whether you're visiting with family, friends, or going solo, you'll find plenty of fascinating places to see and explore. In this guide, we'll highlight the top tourist attractions in Lara that you wouldn't want to miss.

Serendip Sanctuary

Serendip Sanctuary is a must-visit for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Located at 100 Windermere Rd, the sanctuary is a bird and wildlife haven with walking tracks amidst wetlands and open grassy woodlands. You'll spot a wide range of birds, including brolgas, blue-billed ducks, and black swans.

Moreover, the sanctuary offers educational facilities and programs that allow visitors to learn about the local ecosystem and how to conserve it. The facility is open all year round, and admission is free. For more information, visit Serendip Sanctuary.

Lara Heritage & Historical Museum

If you're a history buff, the Lara Heritage & Historical Museum is a perfect place to visit. Located at 2-10 Canterbury Rd W, the museum showcases the history of the city through artifacts, documents, and photographs. You'll learn about the local industries, including wool, wheat, and gold mining, as well as the role of the railway in the city's development.

The museum is open from Wednesday to Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm, and admission is free. For more information, visit the Lara Heritage & Historical Museum.

Parks and Gardens

Lara boasts several parks and gardens that offer natural beauty and great spots for relaxation and picnics. Here are some of the top ones to visit:

  • Austin Park: Located at 1 Walkers Rd, Austin Park is a family-friendly park with a playground, picnic area, and BBQ facilities. You'll also find a skate park and basketball court, ideal for sports enthusiasts. For more information, visit Austin Park.

  • Yarrabee Native Garden: Situated at 50 West Gateway, Yarrabee Native Garden is a beautiful garden that showcases Australia's unique flora. You'll find over 1000 species of plants, including native grasses, wildflowers, and trees. The garden is open to the public, and admission is free. For more information, visit the Yarrabee Native Garden.

  • Grand Lakes Estate Playground: Located at 76-78 Westlakes Blvd, Grand Lakes Estate Playground is a fantastic place for kids to play and have fun. The playground features swings, slides, climbing structures, and plenty of spaces for running around. For more information, visit the Grand Lakes Estate Playground.

  • Lara Views Estate Park: Situated at 57 Lavender Dr, Lara Views Estate Park is a scenic park with walking tracks, open green spaces, and playgrounds. You'll enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and hills. The park is open to the public, and admission is free.

  • Little Oasis Gardens: Located at 15 Lapwing Dr, Little Oasis Gardens is a charming garden with beautiful flowers, plants, and trees. You'll find several walking paths, benches, and picnic areas. The garden is open all year round, and admission is free.

  • Lakelands: Situated in the city center, Lakelands is a lovely park that features an artificial lake, walking tracks, and playgrounds. The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. Admission is free.

  • Manzeene Village Waterways: Located at the Manzeene Village estate, the waterways are a series of interconnected canals and lakes that offer a serene environment for nature lovers. You'll spot birds, fish, and other aquatic animals. The waterways are open to the public, and admission is free.

Other Attractions

Apart from parks and museums, Lara has other exciting attractions that you may want to check out. These include:

  • Ragged Edge: Located at 210 Old Melbourne Rd, Ragged Edge is a popular destination for adventure seekers. You can enjoy rock climbing, abseiling, and other outdoor activities. For more information, visit Ragged Edge.

  • Kevin Hoffman Walk: Named after a local conservationist, Kevin Hoffman Walk is a scenic walking trail that features natural beauty and wildlife. The trail is located at 63 Walkers Rd, and admission is free. For more information, visit Kevin Hoffman Walk.

  • Flinders Memorial Park: Located at 155 Forest Rd S, Flinders Memorial Park is a cemetery that has served the community for over 150 years. The park features stunning sculptures, gardens, and architectural designs. It's a great place for a peaceful stroll. For more information, visit Flinders Memorial Park.

  • Ye Rusty Wagon Wheel: Located in the You Yangs Estate Gardens, 200 Blairs Rd, Ye Rusty Wagon Wheel is a historical attraction that features a restored wagon and other artifacts from the 19th century. Unfortunately, it is temporarily closed at the moment.

Final Thoughts

Lara is a charming city with plenty of wonderful attractions to explore. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or adventure, you'll find something that suits your preferences. From bird watching at Serendip Sanctuary to playing at the Grand Lakes Estate Playground and strolling at Flinders Memorial Park, there's never a dull moment in Lara. So, pack your bags, and head over to this lovely city for an unforgettable experience.