Geelong in a day
Palm trees, yachts and waterfront dining nestled alongside a thriving city. It’s not far from Melbourne but Geelong really feels like another world away. And with so much to do within easy distance, it’s ideal for a day trip.
By Rail or Sea
A day out deserves to be stress free so it’s convenient that you can catch the V/Line train here from Southern Cross (70 minutes) or hop aboard the fast cat from Docklands – a 5-minute walk from Melbourne’s Southern Cross station – with Port Phillip Ferries (90 minutes). Both deliver you right in the heart of Geelong so you won’t miss the car!
See & Do
Geelong is compact and plenty is within walking distance. Spend an hour wandering the hugely picturesque waterfront path sprinkled with around 100 painted bollards representing characters in the city’s history. You’ll pass Eastern Beach and its Art Deco sea baths, complete with diving boards and floating pontoons. Wander uphill from there to find the peaceful Geelong Botanic Gardens.
Geelong’s CBD nestles against the waterfront so it’s super easy to find a bit of culture and city action. Set in an old bluestone wool store, the National Wool Museum mixes history with current art/photography exhibitions. The enormous 1910 Axminster Jacquard carpet loom is a highlight.
Established in 1896, Geelong Gallery one of the country’s oldest regional galleries and has a vast collection including nationally significant works.
For shopping, you’ll find high-street favourites at Westfield Geelong and Market Square Shopping Centre, plus a few quirky stores like Popcultcha, selling rare toys and collectables, or Our Satellite Hearts for all your witching, crystals and tarot card needs.
Eat & Drink
Drinking and dining by the sea is one of life’s simple pleasures and it’s even better in Geelong thanks to a sunny north-facing outlook. Grab a coffee and a bite at Pavilion Geelong, opposite Eastern Beach sea baths, great Asian fare at Wah Wah Gee at the end of Cunningham Pier, or head to Wharf Shed to satisfy all tastes.
For an inner city vibe, wander Little Malop Street, a pedestrianised hotspot of bars and restaurants. Sober Ramen is renowned their noodles, Westend has a sophisticated bar and restaurant, and The Arborist is a cool wine bar and restaurant with a rooftop area. Tucked up an alley off Little Malop St you’ll find the intimate Union Street Wine Bar – they really know their wines.
