Many of us have fond summertime memories as a kid – splashing around in our favourite local swimming hole, barbeque dinners that went on long after bedtime, and the creamy taste of ice cream that melted quicker than you could eat it.

But just because our childhood is behind us doesn’t mean we can’t have the same sort of fun as an adult.

So, for those looking for some summer fun, here’s our favourite ways to experience Ballarat over summer.

Enjoy cocktails in the sun

From French martinis from Clara – a cocktail caravan in the charming courtyard at The Provincial – to wine and cheese boards at roof top bar Ellington’s and cider in the sun at Johnny Alloo, your options are endless.

Some of our other favourite venues serving delicious cocktails include Roy Hammond, Mitchell Harris Wines, and Renard.

Sit back and listen to live music

Order a cold brew and relax to the sounds of local musicians who take to the stages at local brew pub Aunty Jacks and beer hall Hop Temple.

For those who prefer their music over wine and cheese platters then you can’t go past RJM’s Wine Bar.

Sign up for a workshop

Blend your own signature gin, join a truffle hunt or harvest honey straight from the hive.

Take part in this hands-on experience and learn about the craft of brewing at Aunty Jacks. If beer isn’t really your thing, then ceramics might be. Try your hand at pottery with local artisan Steph Wallace at the Centre for Rare Arts and Forgotten Trades.

Take advantage of balmy summer days and dine outdoors

Ballarat’s outdoor dining game is strong, so why opt for eating indoors when you can soak up some fresh air over a plate of fresh seasonal produce prepared by one of the region’s exception chefs.

You’re not short of options in Armstrong Street, with Pancho, Meigas, Saigon Allee and The Forge Pizzeria all great locations.

By Lake Wendouree, the Ballarat Yacht Club and Lake View are always popular, and in Buninyong you can’t go past The Shared Table.

For brunch, there’s Drive, Hydrant Food Hall, Yellow Espresso, Webster’s Market and Café, and Higher Society, just to name a few.

Wander the Art Gallery of Ballarat

Art lovers get ready to explore Australia’s oldest regional art gallery. With four months of free exhibitions to enjoy – and sweet, sweet air-conditioning on those hot days – check out the gallery’s summer exhibition program and treat your self to a day out far from the maddening beach crowds.

And, of course, we can’t forget ice cream

It’s hot, you’re bothered and all you want is something cold and delicious.

It’s at this point you need to head on over to Il Piccolo for the best artisan gelato in town.