Gallery Hop in the Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

Art lives here because artists live here!

The Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges are home to thriving artist hubs and works of art that will stay with you. You might be surprised that there are 22 galleries you can visit today in the region, and every one of them is worth the trip. Some support local artists, while others showcase national and international exhibitions. Some have commanding views of sweeping vineyards; others nestle quietly in secluded woodland villages. Some galleries offer fine dining and fabulous local wines, while others host working artists-in-residence or take exhibits in a stunning outdoor setting. Across all genres and mediums, this region is both a destination and a home for art lovers and all those who admire the natural beauty.

Here is your go-to list and some highlights for your next ‘art trail’. Please take a few days and immerse yourself in a unique world that speaks of the region's stunning landscape and those who walk on it.

Heide Museum of Modern Art, Bulleen
An inspiring experience of art, architecture, gardens and social history. Wander the sculpture park, visit the monthly Makers Market, and take in a wide range of ever-changing gallery collections from all over the world (and many recognisable names). Heide is an experience, an indulgence, and a peek into the story of many Australian artists who have defined our art world.

Montsalvat, Eltham
An artist colony since the 1930s, this inspiring site has artists-in-residence, several galleries featuring artists from all over the world and workshops, festivals and classes. Stunning stone buildings add to the charm.

TarraWarra Museum of Art, Yarra Glen
Seasonally changing exhibitions within an award-winning building are set in the natural landscape's rolling hills. Over 70 themed exhibitions have been presented at the Museum, covering a diverse range of stimulating and innovative Australian and international art in group and collection shows and single artist surveys. The gallery allows seeing contemporary and modern art by international and national artists.

Yering Station Art Gallery, Yarra Glen
Yering Station’s contemporary art program encompasses painting, photography, textiles and sculpture with exhibitions featuring a diverse range of artists (established and emerging) capturing the synergy between wine and art in two galleries. Home also to the Yering Station Sculpture Exhibition and awards annually.

Yarra Valley Arts Gallery, Healesville
The region’s newest gallery is home to a collective of more than 60 Yarra Valley Artists and hosts displays of members' works (also for sale) and visiting exhibitions. The art space holds workshops and opportunities to meet the maker.

The Memo, Healesville
Set in an iconic main street building and hosting a fabulous range of cultural activities, the gallery features regular exhibitions of local and touring artworks. A local treasure.

Yarra Ranges Regional Museum, Lilydale
Home to a stellar local history exhibition on permanent display and a regional destination for national and international touring exhibitions of note. Make sure you check out the public art piece - Millkulture, which brings new understanding to art on the walls!

Upper Yarra Arts Centre, Warburton
A cultural hub by the Yarra River, this gallery hosts 6-7 exhibitions per year, featuring unique and thought-provoking works by mixed media artists in the region.

Waterwheel Gallery, Warburton
With an exclusive focus on local artists, new works every three weeks, and a handmade shop where you can buy direct from local artists and handmakers, this iconic gallery is a bustling destination on the main street. See also the ‘Great Steps’ community mosaic and the totem pole art in the gardens.

Sherbrooke Art Gallery, Belgrave
Home to the Sherbrooke Art Society and founded in 1966, the Art Gallery has a constantly changing display of around 300 works for sale. The Society also runs workshops and classes and hosts numerous exhibitions, including the renowned Streeton Roberts McCubbin Exhibition, Spring Exhibition, Small Packages Exhibition and Artist of the Year.

Burrinja Cultural Centre, Upwey
A vibrant community cultural centre encompasses arts activities and events, an Indigenous gallery, collection and cultural education, a contemporary art gallery, performing arts, artist studios, live music, workshops and a café.

William Ricketts Sanctuary, Mt Dandenong
A stunning sanctuary that boasts unique hand sculptures in a tranquil rainforest setting with sealed footpaths. Walk the sanctuary while being welcomed by the sound of rosellas and unseen wildlife. Discover William Ricketts face embodied in numerous sculptures - a testimony to the inspiration, beauty and community that Ricketts shared with the local Aboriginal people.

*Exhibitions are changed regularly, so always check with the gallery to confirm opening dates and times.