Suggested Time: 1 Day
Geelong to Queenscliff

If you’ve got kids with energy to burn, this is a good place to bring them. One minute they’re inside a fairytale castle. The next they’re riding a steam train along Swan Bay. Add a proper playground stop, and fish and chips by the water and you’ve filled the day without overthinking it. It’s just over an hour from Melbourne. Close enough for a day trip. With so much to discover you'll want to stay the night.

Curious kids. Big day out.

1
Adventure awaits at Fairy Park

Fairy Park in Anakie has been delighting families for more than 60 years. Castles. Caves. Classic storybook scenes brought to life. A medieval…

Fairy Park in Anakie has been delighting families for more than 60 years.

Castles. Caves. Classic storybook scenes brought to life. A medieval Camelot playground where kids can roam, climb towers and explore hidden passages. There’s even a giant model train set that still pulls a crowd.

Located 60 minutes from Melbourne and 30 minutes from Geelong, Fairy Park remains one of Victoria’s most loved family attractions.

It’s old-school magic. And it still works.

Just check opening days as they are open most school holidays and long weekends.
- 141/2388 Geelong-Ballan Rd Get Directions
- (03) 5284 1262
- Website
2
Get curious at MoPA

MoPA, the Museum of Play and Art in Geelong, is built for kids who like to explore. Interactive exhibits. Creative spaces. Hands-on play that…

MoPA, the Museum of Play and Art in Geelong, is built for kids who like to explore.

Interactive exhibits. Creative spaces. Hands-on play that actually keeps them busy. And a café with decent coffee for you.

It’s one of Australia’s most recognised children’s museums and worth carving out a few hours for.
- 51 McKillop Street Get Directions
- 1800 006 672
- Website
3
A day of wonder at Geelong Gallery

When you need to slow things down for a bit, head into central Geelong. Geelong Gallery regularly hosts major exhibitions alongside works by…

When you need to slow things down for a bit, head into central Geelong.

Geelong Gallery regularly hosts major exhibitions alongside works by well-known Australian artists. It’s enjoyable with kids and close to everything.

Right next door, the Geelong Library & Heritage Centre has a whole level dedicated to children and youth. Storytime sessions, craft, digital tech and space to sit for five minutes.

Step outside into Johnstone Park and you’ve got grass, shade and room to run.
- 55 Little Malop Street Get Directions
- (03) 5229 3645
- Website
4
Light feet, big adventures at Bellarine Railway

If your kids love trains, don’t skip this. The Bellarine Railway runs real steam and diesel trains between Queenscliff and Drysdale. You’ll hear the…

If your kids love trains, don’t skip this.

The Bellarine Railway runs real steam and diesel trains between Queenscliff and Drysdale. You’ll hear the whistle before you see it.

They run special events like Day Out With Thomas, The Polar Express™, Easter weekends and school holiday rides. It’s the kind of thing kids remember.

Afterwards, grab fish and chips in Queenscliff and head to the foreshore. There’s a big grassy area and a playground, so everyone can stretch their legs.
- 20 Symonds Street Get Directions
- (03) 5258 2069

Family-friendly places to stay in Geelong & Queenscliff

With a day like this, driving home straight away is a wasted opportunity.

We have family-friendly accommodation near the waterfront, playgrounds and restaurants. Apartments with room to spread out. Hotels within walking distance of everything.

Book the extra night. You’ll thank yourself in the morning.