15 Places To Visit In Geelong For An Unforgettable Vacation

A view of azure blue waters and people enjoying the best places to visit in Geelong.

Geelong is a charming seaside city in Victoria, Australia, offering something for everyone. You’ll find plenty to do whether you want to explore nature, history, or adventure. You can walk along the waterfront, visit beautiful gardens, or explore old buildings. It’s a great spot for families, couples, and friends, with many fun activities to enjoy. There are also cosy cafés and shops where you can relax. If you’re planning a trip, the best places to visit in Geelong will make your journey unforgettable and full of wonderful experiences.

Top 15 Places To Visit In Geelong

Let’s explore some of the beautiful places to visit in Geelong, Australia for every traveller from beach reserves to lush sanctuaries.

1. Eastern Beach Reserve

A scenic view of Eastern Beach Reserve, a beautiful place to visit in Geelong, Australia.

Photo: Ajay Pandeyy / Wikimedia Commons

Eastern Beach Reserve is a beautiful place by the water in Geelong, Australia. It has a big swimming area, picnic spots, and a playground for children. Families can enjoy a fun day with BBQ areas and walking paths. The area has a lovely old-style walkway that makes it look special. People can take a relaxing walk, have a swim, or just enjoy the view. It is a great spot for everyone to visit. If you are looking for places to visit in Geelong, Australia, this is one of the top tourist attractions in Geelong for a fun and peaceful day.

Location: Geelong VIC 3220, Australia
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours

2. Geelong Botanic Gardens

A lush view of Geelong Botanic Gardens, one of the best places to visit in Geelong.

Photo: Paul Carmona / Wikimedia Commons

Geelong Botanic Gardens is one of the best places to visit in Geelong for people who love nature. It was made in 1851 and has many plants, including some rare ones. Visitors can walk through special garden areas, see beautiful plants, and learn about local trees and flowers. The gardens are very quiet and peaceful, making them a great place to relax. People can take a slow walk, enjoy the fresh air, or picnic with family. It is a perfect spot to spend time in nature and enjoy the beauty of plants and trees.

Location: Corner of Eastern Park Circuit &, Podbury Dr, East Geelong VIC 3219, Australia
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours

3. Waterfront Geelong

 A lively view of Waterfront Geelong with sculptures and clear water during the daytime.

Photo: Marcus Wong Wongm / Wikimedia Commons

Waterfront Geelong is a beautiful place by the sea and one of the best places to visit in Geelong. It has lovely views of the bay, many restaurants, and fun attractions like the Bollard Trail. People can sit at cafes, ride the big Ferris wheel, or go on a boat tour. It is a great place to walk in the evening and enjoy the fresh air. You can also eat at restaurants with a view of the sea, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing day.

Location: 95 Eastern Beach Rd, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 4 hours

4. National Wool Museum

A historic view of the National Wool Museum, one of the best places to visit in Geelong.

Photo: Helge Klais Rieder / Wikimedia Commons

The National Wool Museum is a great place for people who love history. It tells the story of wool in the area with fun exhibits, old machines, and interesting displays. Visitors can learn how wool has been important in Australia, watch live sheep shearing, and see how wool is turned into cloth. The museum makes learning easy and fun for everyone. If you enjoy history, this is one of the best tourist places in Geelong for a fun and educational experience.

Location: 26 Moorabool St, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours

5. Adventure Park Geelong

Thrilling view of Adventure Park Geelong with water slides, wave pools, and kids playing.

Photo: Angcr / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Adventure Park Geelong is the biggest water park in Victoria and a fun place for everyone. It has big water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and many exciting rides. People of all ages can enjoy different water activities. Families and friends love to visit for a fun day out. In summer, it is a great place to cool off and have a good time. The park is safe and has many things to do. If you love water fun, this is one of the best places to visit in Geelong for an exciting and happy day.

Location: 1249 Bellarine Hwy, Wallington VIC 3222, Australia
Ideal Trip Duration: Full day

6. You Yangs Regional Park

A view of You Yangs Regional Park with rocky trails, hiking paths, and eucalyptus trees.

Photo: Himiway Bikes / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only

You Yangs Regional Park is a great place for people who love the outdoors. It has beautiful walking paths, rock climbing, and bike trails. From Flinders Peak, you can see amazing views. The park is also home to many animals, making it a nice place for nature photos. It is peaceful and perfect for a relaxing day in nature. Whether you enjoy walking, taking pictures, or just sitting in the fresh air, this park is a good choice. It is one of the most popular places for Geelong trip, offering fun and adventure for everyone who loves nature.

Location: Turntable Dr, Little River VIC 3211, Australia
Ideal Trip Duration: Half-day to full day

7. Bellarine Peninsula

A view of Bellarine Peninsula with vineyards, rolling hills, and the ocean in the distance

Photo: Marcus Wong Wongm / Wikimedia Commons

The Bellarine Peninsula is a lovely place near Geelong and one of the best places to visit in Geelong. It has beautiful beaches, tasty seafood, and famous wineries. People can enjoy surfing, relaxing by the sea, or tasting different wines. There are also small, pretty towns like Queenscliff to explore. The area is great for both fun and relaxation. Visitors can walk along the beach, eat fresh seafood, or visit vineyards. It is a perfect spot for a holiday with family or friends. The Bellarine Peninsula is a wonderful place to enjoy nature and have a good time.

Location: Wallington VIC 3222, Australia
Ideal Trip Duration: Half-day to full day

8. Geelong Gallery

A view of Geelong Gallery with framed artworks, one of the best places to visit in Geelong

Photo: Geelonggallery / Wikimedia Commons

Geelong Gallery is a great place for people who love art. It has many beautiful paintings, sculptures, and modern art from Australia and Europe. The gallery has interesting exhibitions that show different types of art. Visitors can see creative works and learn about culture in a fun way. It is a peaceful place to enjoy and explore art. The gallery is perfect for families, students, and anyone who likes creativity. If you enjoy art, this is one of the top places to visit in Geelong. It is a must-see spot for art lovers in the city.

Location: 55 Little Malop St, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours

9. Serendip Sanctuary

 A view of Serendip Sanctuary with wetlands, wildlife, and birds flying over a lake.

Photo: Maias / Wikimedia Commons

Geelong Gallery is a great place for people who love art. It has many beautiful paintings, sculptures, and modern artworks from Australia and Europe. The gallery has interesting exhibitions that change from time to time, so there is always something new to see. It is a perfect spot to enjoy creativity and learn about different styles of art. If you like history and culture, you will enjoy visiting this gallery. It is one of the best places to visit in Geelong, where you can spend a peaceful time looking at amazing artworks and learning more about famous artists.

Location: 100 Windermere Rd, Lara VIC 3212, Australia
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours

10. The Carousel

A view of The Carousel with colourful horses, an amazing place to visit in Geelong.

Photo: Smallbones / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Carousel is a fun and historic place for families. It was built in 1892 and has been carefully restored. This wooden ride is great for people of all ages. It spins slowly, giving a lovely experience. The Carousel is on the Geelong waterfront, so visitors can enjoy beautiful water views while riding. It feels like going back in time. It is a great spot to visit with kids or friends. If you are looking for places to visit in Geelong, Australia, this is a wonderful choice for a relaxing day out.

Location: 1 Eastern Beach Rd, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 hour

11. Ocean Grove Beach

Ocean Grove Beach is one of the most popular places to visit in Geelong, Australia.

Photo: Clem Onojeghuo / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Ocean Grove Beach is one of the most popular places to visit in Geelong, offering a coastal retreat. It is known for its wide sandy shoreline, safe swimming areas, and relaxed family vibe. The beach is patrolled during summer, making it ideal for kids, while surfers enjoy the steady, manageable waves. A nearby main street filled with cafes, shops, and playgrounds adds convenience for day-trippers. Whether you’re sunbathing, walking along the shore, or grabbing lunch at a local eatery, it’s a great beach for all ages. The scenic dunes and picnic-friendly grassy areas make it a must-visit spot on the Bellarine Peninsula.

Location: Ocean Grove, Bellarine Peninsula, VIC
Ideal Trip Duration: Half-day to full-day

12. Thirteenth Beach

Thirteenth Beach is also a popular spot for evening strolls and relaxation by the shore.

Photo: Nathan Cowley / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Thirteenth Beach, near Barwon Heads, offers a rugged, natural setting with consistent surf and striking ocean views. Known for its long stretch of sand and powerful waves, it’s especially popular with surfers and seasoned swimmers. The beach is less crowded than others in the region, offering a peaceful escape and a raw, untouched coastal feel. While facilities are minimal, the atmosphere is perfect for long walks, beach fishing, or watching sunsets. It’s a favourite among locals seeking solitude and surfing away from tourist-heavy spots on the Bellarine coastline.

Location: West of Barwon Heads, Bellarine Peninsula, VIC
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 4 hours

13. Terindah Estate

Terindah Estate is one of the tourist places to visit in Geelong, offering scenic views.

Photo: Mikhail Nilov / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Terindah Estate blends boutique winemaking with one of the best views on the Bellarine Peninsula. Overlooking Port Phillip Bay, the estate features a modern restaurant with floor-to-ceiling glass walls and an inviting cellar door offering tastings of Pinot Noir, Shiraz, and sparkling wines. The name “Terindah,” meaning “most beautiful,” reflects its serene setting and refined atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy fresh, locally sourced meals, sip wine with a view, or attend seasonal events. With its elegant design and relaxed vibe, Terindah is a scenic stop for food and wine lovers alike.

Location: 90 McAdams Lane, Bellarine, Victoria 3223
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 4 hours

14. Jack Rabbit

Jack Rabbit is one of the top tourist places to visit in Geelong for its wine variety.

Photo: Richard L / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Jack Rabbit Vineyard is one of the famous places to visit in Geelong, offering a standout winery along with the sweeping views across Port Phillip Bay and the You Yangs. It combines fine dining and wine tasting with panoramic scenery, making it a favourite for couples and food lovers. Visitors can enjoy award-winning cool-climate wines at the cellar door or indulge in seasonal dishes at the restaurant or café. The vineyard also features an art space and boutique gift shop, enhancing its appeal as more than just a wine stop. It’s a stylish, relaxed spot for a scenic wine-country escape.

Location: 85 McAdams Lane, Bellarine, VIC
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours

15. Scotchmans Hill Winery

Scotchmans Hill Winery is famous for its premium wine making, set in a charming farmhouse.

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Last but not least, our Geelong tourist places list ends at Scotchmans Hill Winery. Located near Drysdale, it is one of the Bellarine Peninsula’s most established wine producers, known for premium Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The cellar door, set in a charming farmhouse, offers guided tastings in a relaxed countryside setting with vineyard views. Light food platters and friendly service enhance the experience. The winery’s long-standing reputation, sustainable practices, and scenic location make it a go-to for wine enthusiasts touring the region. It’s an excellent place to sample cool-climate varieties while enjoying the calm and beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Location: 190 Scotchmans Road, Drysdale, VIC
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours

Geelong is a beautiful city with nature, history, and fun activities for everyone. From pretty waterfronts to green gardens and old buildings, there is a lot to see and do. The best places to visit in Geelong will give you great memories, whether you want a quiet trip or an exciting adventure. Plan your trip with TripXL and explore this amazing coastal city today.

Cover Photo: Ziyao Xiong / Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit Geelong is during spring (September to November) and summer (December to February) when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.
A 2–3 day trip is ideal to explore the best places to visit in Geelong, including its waterfront, gardens, and historical sites.
Yes! Geelong offers family-friendly attractions like the Geelong Waterfront, Eastern Beach, and the Adventure Park.
Some free places to visit in Geelong, Australia include the Geelong Botanic Gardens, Eastern Beach, and the Geelong Waterfront.
Geelong is just an hour's drive from Melbourne. You can also take a V/Line train from Southern Cross Station for a convenient journey.
Geelong is best known for its vibrant waterfront, historic wool industry, cultural attractions, and as the gateway to the Bellarine Peninsula and Great Ocean Road.
Must-try delicacies include fresh local seafood, gourmet pies, artisan sourdough, craft beers, and regional wines from the famous Bellarine Peninsula wineries.
Budget-friendly stays are available in central Geelong, with options like motels, hostels, serviced apartments, and affordable hotels near the waterfront or train station.

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