Geelong is a beautiful city located on the stunning Corio Bay. It is situated just 75 km southwest of Melbourne, and it offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and entertainment. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, cultural experiences, or delicious food, Geelong has something to offer everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Geelong.
1. Visit The Geelong Waterfront
The Geelong Waterfront is a stunning promenade that stretches along Corio Bay. It offers breathtaking views of the water, and it’s a great place to take a walk or a bike ride. You can also enjoy a picnic or a BBQ on the grassy areas, or stop by one of the many cafes or restaurants for a bite to eat. The Geelong Waterfront also features a number of attractions, including the Bollards, which are brightly painted wooden figures that represent different aspects of Geelong’s history.
It is home to several beaches, including Eastern Beach, which is the most popular. Eastern Beach is a man-made beach with calm waters, making it a great place to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a picnic in grassy areas. The Geelong Waterfront features a 3.2-kilometre walking and cycling path that runs along the bay. It’s a great way to explore the area and take in stunning views. If you don’t have your own bike, you can rent one from one of the bike rental shops located along the waterfront. This place is famous for its unique bollards, which are painted in various designs and colors. They were first installed in 1999 and have since become a symbol of Geelong. Take a walk along the waterfront to see the different designs and learn about the history of the area.
The Geelong Waterfront is also known for its range of restaurants, cafes, and bars. There are plenty of options to choose from, whether you’re looking for a casual meal or a fine dining experience. Many of the restaurants offer outdoor seating with stunning views of the bay. Don’t miss visiting the Carousel in the Geelong Waterfront as it is home to a historic carousel, which was built in 1892. It’s one of the few remaining wooden carousels in the world and has been beautifully restored. Take a ride on the carousel and enjoy the classic music and colorful lights.
2. Explore The Geelong Botanic Gardens
The Geelong Botanic Gardens is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city. It spans 200 acres and features a wide variety of plants from around the world. You can take a guided tour or explore on your own, and there are plenty of places to sit and relax in the shade. The gardens also feature a conservatory, a teahouse, and a children’s garden, making it a great place to visit with the whole family. This spot offers a range of guided tours, led by knowledgeable and experienced guides who can provide you with insights into the history and significance of the garden’s plants and architecture. Tours can be tailored to your interests, and are a great way to explore the garden and learn more about its unique features. It offers several picturesque picnic spots, surrounded by lush gardens and scenic views. You can bring your own food and drink, or pick up some snacks from the nearby cafes and food vendors. It’s a great way to enjoy a relaxing afternoon in nature.
The Geelong Botanic Gardens features a range of gardens, each with its own unique characteristics and plant species. These include the Dahlia Garden, the Rose Garden, and the Herb Garden, to name a few. Take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, enjoy the sights and smells of the plants, and take in the tranquil atmosphere.
You will see a number of bird species, including native Australian birds and migratory species in Geelong Botanic Gardens. This place also offers a range of workshops and events throughout the year, including gardening classes, botanical art workshops, and plant sales. Check their website for upcoming events and opportunities to learn more about gardening and plant care.
3. Check Out The Geelong Art Gallery
The Geelong Art Gallery is one of the oldest and largest regional galleries in Australia. It features an impressive collection of Australian and international art, including works by renowned artists such as Arthur Streeton, Tom Roberts, and Frederick McCubbin. The gallery also hosts a number of exhibitions throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see.
The gallery was established in 1896 and is one of the oldest and largest regional galleries in Australia. It has a collection of over 6,000 works of art, including Australian and international paintings, sculptures, prints, decorative arts, and works on paper. The gallery has a strong focus on Australian art, particularly from the colonial period to the present day, and features work by many significant Australian artists, including Frederick McCubbin, Tom Roberts, Arthur Streeton, and Brett Whiteley.
It also hosts a range of temporary exhibitions, public programs, and events throughout the year so you should not miss that when you are visiting this place. Visitors can also enjoy the Gallery’s cafe and shop, which features unique gifts and souvenirs.
4. Visit the National Wool Museum
The National Wool Museum is a fascinating museum that tells the story of Australia’s wool industry. It features interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, and live demonstrations that showcase the history and importance of wool in Australia. You can also see some of the world’s finest wool garments, including pieces from the famous Australian designer, Collette Dinnigan.
This museum is dedicated to the Australian wool industry and its significance to the country’s history and culture. It is located in the city of Geelong and is housed in a historic bluestone wool store building that dates back to the mid-19th century.
The museum has a collection of over 7,000 objects related to the wool industry, including machinery, tools, clothing, and artwork. It tells the story of the Australian wool industry from its origins to the present day, showcasing the impact it has had on the country’s economy, culture, and way of life.
Visitors to the National Wool Museum can learn about the process of shearing, spinning, weaving, and dyeing wool, as well as the history of wool exports and the role of wool in fashion and design. The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, as well as educational programs and events. So if you are interested in learning more about the wool industry then this spot should be on your bucket list.
5. Take A Scenic Drive Along The Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road is one of the most iconic drives in Australia, and it’s just a short distance from Geelong. The road stretches along the coast and features stunning views of the ocean, cliffs, and rainforest. You can stop at a number of scenic lookouts and landmarks, including the Twelve Apostles, which are a group of limestone stacks that rise up from the ocean.
As you drive, you can stop at several lookout points and enjoy the stunning views. The Twelve Apostles is one of the most iconic landmarks on the Great Ocean Road, and it’s definitely worth a visit. You can walk along the boardwalk and take in the stunning views of the limestone stacks rising from the ocean.
You can also explore several national parks, including the Great Otway National Park and the Port Campbell National Park when you are visiting this place. These parks offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and wildlife spotting. It is also a popular destination for surfers and swimmers, with several beaches offering good surfing and swimming conditions. You can stop at some of the beaches along the way and enjoy a swim or surf.
6. Visit the Bellarine Peninsula
It’s a popular destination for visitors who are looking for a relaxed coastal getaway, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, beach exploration, and food and wine experiences. The Bellarine Peninsula is a beautiful region located just outside of Geelong. It’s known for its stunning beaches, wineries, and charming towns. You can take a scenic drive along the coast, visit a local winery for a tasting, or stop by one of the many cafes or restaurants for a meal. The Bellarine Peninsula is also home to a number of nature reserves, including the Point Lonsdale Nature Reserve, which is a great place to see native wildlife and birds.
The Bellarine Peninsula is easily accessible from Geelong, which is located about 20 kilometers (12 miles) away. You can drive to the Bellarine Peninsula or take public transportation, including buses or trains.
This spot is also known for its wineries, which produce some of Victoria’s best cool-climate wines. You can visit several wineries and cellar doors and sample the local wines. You should not miss restaurants, cafes, and eateries that showcase the region’s local produce. You can enjoy fresh seafood, locally-grown fruits and vegetables, and artisanal cheeses. The Bellarine Peninsula is also home to several local attractions, including the historic Queenscliff Fort, the Bellarine Railway, and the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse.
You can enjoy plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, kayaking, and fishing at this place. You can explore several parks and reserves, including the Point Addis Marine National Park and the Barwon Heads Marine Sanctuary.
7. Experience the Geelong Revival Motoring Festival
The Geelong Revival Motoring Festival is a popular event that takes place every year in November. It’s a celebration of all things motoring, and it features a range of vintage and classic cars, motorcycles, and boats. There are also live music performances, food stalls, and activities for the whole family.
Visiting the Geelong Revival Motoring Festival is a must-do activity if you’re in Geelong and are interested in motoring culture and heritage. The festival offers a unique opportunity to see a range of classic and vintage cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles in action, as well as meet other motoring enthusiasts. In addition to the motorsports events and car displays, there are also food and drink stalls, live music, and other entertainment options to enjoy. Overall, the Geelong Revival Motoring Festival is a fun and exciting event that celebrates Geelong’s motoring history and culture and is definitely worth checking out if you’re in the area.
8. Take A Hike In The You Yangs Regional Park
The You Yangs Regional Park is a stunning park located just a short drive from Geelong. It features a range of hiking trails, including the popular Flinders Peak Walk, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The park is also home to a range of wildlife, including kangaroos and wallabies, and it’s a great place for bird-watching.
Taking a hike in the You Yangs Regional Park is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Geelong region. The park has a range of hiking trails that cater to all levels of fitness and experience, from easy walks to challenging hikes. One of the most popular trails is the Big Rock trail, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape from the top of a large rock formation. Along the way, hikers can also spot a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos and wallabies. Other trails in the park take hikers through forests and along ridges, with opportunities to see historic sites and learn about the region’s Indigenous culture. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a leisurely walk in nature, hiking in the You Yangs Regional Park is an activity not to be missed when visiting Geelong.
9. Visit the Geelong Vintage Market
The Geelong Vintage Market is a great place to shop for unique and vintage items. It features over 200 stalls selling everything from antique furniture and homewares to vintage clothing and accessories. You can also find a range of handmade and artisanal products, making it a great place to pick up a souvenir or gift.
If you’re a fan of vintage and antique items, a visit to the Geelong Vintage Market is a must-do activity while in Geelong. The market offers a unique shopping experience with a wide range of vintage and retro clothing, accessories, homewares, and other collectables. This market is located in North Geelong and is open seven days a week, from 10 am to 6 pm.
You will see a vast array of vintage and antique items, including clothing, jewellery, homewares, furniture, and collectables from various eras in this vintage market. Whether you’re looking for a unique piece of clothing, a vintage record, or a retro vase, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.
In addition to shopping, the Geelong Vintage Market also offers several cafes where you can grab a bite to eat or a cup of coffee. There’s also live entertainment on weekends, including music and vintage car displays.
10. Visit the Geelong Maritime Museum
The Geelong Maritime Museum is a fascinating museum that tells the story of Geelong’s maritime history. It features a range of historical artifacts, including models of ships, navigation equipment, and photographs of the city’s port. You can also take a guided tour of the museum’s collection of boats and ships, which includes a replica of the HM Bark Endeavour.
The Geelong Maritime Museum is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the region’s maritime history and culture. The museum is housed in Shed 2, a historic building located at the North Geelong wharf, which has been converted into a space for showcasing the region’s maritime heritage. The museum’s displays cover various topics, including shipbuilding, navigation, and maritime industries such as fishing and shipping. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, view historic artefacts and photographs, and learn about Geelong’s role in developing Australia’s maritime history.
The museum also features a restored steam tugboat, the ‘Wallaby,’ which visitors can board and explore. Whether you’re a history buff, a maritime enthusiast, or just looking for an educational and engaging activity in Geelong, a visit to the Geelong Maritime Museum is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
11. Enjoy The Local Food And Wine
If you’re a foodie or a wine enthusiast, Geelong is a destination you won’t want to miss. Geelong is known for its delicious food and wine, and there are plenty of places to sample the local cuisine. The region is home to a number of wineries, breweries, and distilleries, many of which offer tastings and tours. You can also find various restaurants and cafes serving fresh, local produce and seafood.
The region is home to an abundance of local produce, wineries, and dining options that showcase the best of what the area has to offer. Some of the must-try food and wine experiences include visiting the wineries of the Bellarine Peninsula or the Moorabool Valley, where you can sample some of the region’s award-winning wines. For food lovers, there are plenty of options for every taste and budget, from casual cafes and eateries to fine dining restaurants.
Some local specialities to try include fresh seafood from the nearby coast, artisanal cheeses, and locally grown fruit and vegetables. One popular spot to enjoy the local food and wine scene is the Geelong Waterfront, which offers a variety of dining options and stunning views of the bay. Whether you’re looking to indulge in some gourmet cuisine or sip on a glass of local wine, Geelong has something to offer every palate.
Conclusion
Geelong is a beautiful and vibrant city that offers a wide range of activities and attractions. Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, or entertainment, there’s something for everyone in Geelong. So, pack your bags and head to Geelong for a memorable and enjoyable trip.