Top 15 Things to Do in Geelong
Heading to Geelong for a break away from work? Squeeze in as much as you can from this ultimate list of things to do in Geelong!
1: National Wool Museum
Wool farming put Geelong on the map as the “wool centre of the world”. Since sheep arrived in Australia in 1788, Geelong has dominated the wool industry and in honour of this achievement the National Wool Museum was established. The Wool Museum gives visitors an experience in the story of Australian wool, from sheering through to dispatch and all the history that made it Geelong what it is today.
2: Surf, SUP and Swim
It’s no secret that Geelong is home to the world famous Bells Beach – home to the Rip Curl Pro competition – so pack your surf gear and make the most of the water while you can. If you aren’t ready for high volume waves, or prefer to SUP and swim, try the Barwon Heads River or the Eastern Beach Reserve. Surf and SUP lessons are available all along the coast, proving to be the top thing to do in Geelong.
3: Geelong’s Markets
Geelong hosts a number of markets in various locations around the city throughout the year. From October to December the Geelong Showgrounds Markets offers a range of products and fresh produce, while the Geelong Waterfront Markets takes place each month, year round, attracting foodies seeking a gourmet experience. No matter what time of year your head to Geelong, there are markets dotted across the city, with plenty of delicious food and wares to explore.
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4: Portarlington Mussel Festival
The Portarlington Mussel Festival takes place every January, where fresh seafood and hot weather mingle beautifully with the aid of beer, wine and cider. The Portarlington Mussel Festival isn’t just about mussels. With free music, jumping castles, live animals, classic cars, stalls selling all kinds of trinkets and tonnes of other foods to feast on, you won’t be stuck for things to do.
5: Racing Club
The Geelong Racing Club hosts numerous races each month, ranging from free entry to package deals for friends and families alike. Christmas parties and social days at the Geelong Racing Club welcome the public to enjoy horse racing and entertainment. Take advantage of the beautiful gardens, menu and dance floor at the GRC this summer with plenty of events to choose from.
6: Vue Day Spa
As one of the most highly rated spas in Geelong, Vue Day Spa offers a range of treatments in a relaxing environment. Perfect for a couple of girlfriends, the day spa run specials frequently and is located in the centre of Geelong city. Head to Vue Day Spa to top off your Geelong visit with the pampering you deserve.
7: Otway National Park
A little way out of Geelong is the Otway National Park. Featuring access to stunning, rugged coastline, forests and waterfalls, this national park will amaze you. Take a day to explore the hiking trails, take your camera and a backpack with water and snacks and get lost for a while.
8 Great Australian Beer Festival
Live music, visual arts, keg rolling competitions, food stalls and beer – all the beer you could possibly want to taste in one place. The festival takes place at the Geelong Racecourse in February, boasting over 200 craft beers and ciders and a great family environment.
9: Werribee Mansion
The Werribee Mansion was built between 1874 and 1877 and is the picture of Australian history. The mansion is surrounded by 10 hectares of formal gardens, and a short walk away is the Victoria State Rose Garden, which has won prestigious awards for excellence. The Werribee Mansion is a popular attraction for spring, when the flowers are blooming and the weather calls for sparkling wine, tea and scones.
10: Werribee Open Range Zoo
Werribee Open Range Zoo is great for young and old. Werribee zoo houses a grand display of animals, all of which enjoy the space to roam around, including elephants, cheetahs, gorillas and hippos. The zoo provides tours, with close encounters, scheduled feed times and plenty of running around space for the kids.
11: Wineries
With over 40 wineries to choose from spanning the Bellarine Peninsula, Moorabool Valley and Surf Coast of Geelong, you will definitely have a taste of the region. Tour buses can take you out and around the Geelong, which produces award winning Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling and Viognier.
12: Adventure Park
The water park is always a hit with kids and adults. Open between November and early April, the Geelong Adventure Park is the perfect way to spend a hot summer day. With a selection of rides for all ages, plenty of food stalls and public transport to the entrance, the heavy lifting of your day is sorted.
13: Botanical Gardens
Step into an amazing world of luscious grass and vibrant flowers at the Geelong Botanic Garden. The gardens provides free guided tours and monthly garden highlights for visitors, along with talks about the gardens and other workshops and events that revolve around gardening education and appreciation.
14: Great Ocean Road
Most of the top things to do in Geelong are accessible via the Great Ocean Road. This is THE road to be on if you are in Geelong, no matter what time of year you visit. It’s your direct route to the 12 Apostles, Otway National Park, Bells Beach and plenty of other Australian treasures.
15: Eastern Beach
One of the most popular locations in Geelong is the Eastern Beach. The Bollards Trail is a series of 48 sites where over 100 painted and carved bollards tell a story about like in Geelong. Allow two hours to walk the trail, beginning at Limeburner’s Point and ending in Rippleside Park.
