Located on Corio Bay, this coastal Victorian city has grown from its 1835 origins into a cultural center with art galleries, museums, and a revitalized waterfront district.
Located 75 kilometers southwest of Melbourne, Geelong sits along Corio Bay as Victoria's second-largest city. Walk along the waterfront to see the 1930s art deco swimming complex, stop at local craft breweries like Little Creatures in the industrial quarter, or explore the National Wool Museum in its 19th-century building. The city center contains more than 100 Victorian-era buildings, including former merchant houses and maritime warehouses that tell the story of Geelong's port history.
Exploring the Waterfront
The north-facing waterfront buzzes with activity throughout the day. At Eastern Beach, you can swim in the restored 1930s saltwater pool complex or walk along the promenade where local families gather for picnics and swimming. Follow the waterfront path from Cunningham Pier to Eastern Beach to see the Baywalk Bollards - 104 painted wooden posts that represent characters from Geelong's past, from lifesavers to local personalities.
Arts and Culture
Step inside the National Wool Museum's 19th-century stone building to see working looms and learn about Australia's wool industry through hands-on exhibits. The Geelong Art Gallery contains important Australian paintings, including Frederick McCubbin's "A Bush Burial." In the former wool mills area, Boom Gallery runs multiple exhibition spaces where you can see work by contemporary artists and visit working studios.
Food and Drink Scene
Little Creatures Brewery occupies a former wool mill, where you can tour the brewing facilities or taste their beers in the canteen-style restaurant. Along Pakington Street, you'll find specialty food stores, wine shops, and local cafes. Restaurants line Cunningham Pier and the waterfront, with tables overlooking Corio Bay. Many restaurants source ingredients from farms and wineries on the nearby Bellarine Peninsula.
Events Throughout the Year
Watch more than 300 boats compete in the Festival of Sails on Corio Bay, the Southern Hemisphere's largest annual keelboat regatta. Join 100,000 visitors at Pako Festa, where street performers and food vendors fill Pakington Street. In summer, professional cyclists race through the region during the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race.
Getting Around
Australia's sixth-largest seaport keeps Geelong connected to international shipping routes. Trains and buses run regularly between Melbourne and Geelong along the Princes Highway. The Great Ocean Road starts near the city, leading to coastal towns and landmarks. Local buses connect the central business district with suburbs like Belmont, Ocean Grove, and Highton.
