10 Must-Do Activities That Make Geelong Worth Visiting All Year

Key Takeaways:

• Geelong offers a perfect mix of coastal charm, art, food, and family-friendly activities year-round.

• From beachfront boardwalks to top-tier museums and lively events, the city is packed with things to do no matter the season.

• It’s a laid-back alternative to Melbourne, with its own strong identity and hidden gems waiting to be explored.

Geelong, Victoria’s second-largest city, is a coastal gem with a thriving arts scene, buzzing waterfront, and strong community vibe. Just an hour from Melbourne, this city offers year-round appeal—from sunny strolls along Eastern Beach to rainy-day retreats in galleries and cafes. Historically a port town with deep roots in wool and industry, Geelong has reinvented itself into a lifestyle destination full of character and charm. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or on a weekend getaway, you’ll find plenty of memorable experiences. Its walkable city center, proximity to the Great Ocean Road, and growing food scene make Geelong a standout stop all year long.

Table of Contents

1. Walk the Geelong Waterfront and Bollard Trail

2. Visit the National Wool Museum

3. Catch a Game or Concert at GMHBA Stadium

4. Explore the Geelong Botanic Gardens

5. Browse Art at Geelong Gallery

6. Take a Wine Tour in the Bellarine Peninsula

7. Ride the Giant Sky Wheel by the Bay

8. Attend Geelong After Dark or Local Festivals

9. Take a Day Trip to You Yangs Regional Park

10. Shop and Dine Along Pakington Street

1. Walk the Geelong Waterfront and Bollard Trail

Geelong’s iconic waterfront is one of the most scenic and beloved places in the city. The paved promenade stretches along Corio Bay, offering stunning views, public art, picnic spots, and easy access to cafes and playgrounds. A standout feature is the Bollard Trail, which showcases over 100 colorful wooden sculptures that tell the story of Geelong’s history. Created by artist Jan Mitchell, each bollard represents a different moment, figure, or era from the city’s past.

This walk is perfect any time of year—cool breezes in summer, crisp skies in winter—and is ideal for both relaxed strolls and bike rides. The area is also home to the Geelong Carousel Pavilion and splash-friendly Eastern Beach. With nearby fish and chip shops and gelato stands, it’s an activity that appeals to all ages and interests. Bring a camera and enjoy one of the most walkable and photogenic areas in the region.

2. Visit the National Wool Museum

Geelong has long been considered the wool capital of Australia, and the National Wool Museum celebrates that legacy with fascinating, hands-on exhibits. Located in a restored 19th-century bluestone warehouse, the museum explores wool production, fashion, and Geelong’s role in the global textile industry. You’ll see vintage machinery, interactive displays, and beautiful textile art showcasing the evolution of fabric-making.

Open year-round, the museum is a great rainy-day option that appeals to kids and adults alike. Rotating exhibitions also keep the experience fresh for repeat visitors. The building’s blend of heritage and modern storytelling makes it one of Geelong’s most underrated attractions. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop, which features locally made woolen goods and sustainable fashion.

3. Catch a Game or Concert at GMHBA Stadium

Home to the Geelong Cats AFL team, GMHBA Stadium is more than just a sports venue—it’s a community hub. On game day, the whole city lights up with energy as fans pour in to cheer on their team. But the stadium also hosts concerts, festivals, and public events year-round. Whether you’re into sports or not, attending something at this venue is a great way to experience local spirit.

Tours of the stadium are also available for behind-the-scenes access to locker rooms and the field itself. Events range from major matches to open-air movie nights, so there’s something happening in every season. Located close to the city center, GMHBA is a major cultural cornerstone of Geelong life.

4. Explore the Geelong Botanic Gardens

Located in Eastern Park, the Geelong Botanic Gardens are a peaceful, beautifully maintained oasis overlooking the bay. Established in 1851, the gardens are home to exotic plant collections, native flora, heritage greenhouses, and sculptures. It’s a lovely place for a picnic, mindful walk, or nature photography session. Seasonal blooms mean the landscape is constantly changing, making it a fresh experience every time you visit.

Open year-round and free to enter, the gardens are a favorite with both locals and visitors. There are shaded benches for quiet reading, guided walks for plant lovers, and special events throughout the year like floral displays and eco-workshops. It’s a tranquil escape from the city buzz without leaving town.

5. Browse Art at Geelong Gallery

Geelong Gallery is one of Australia’s oldest and most respected regional galleries, featuring over 6,000 works of Australian and international art. Its collection includes paintings, sculpture, ceramics, and photography, with key works by Frederick McCubbin and Eugene von Guerard. The exhibitions change regularly, blending historical pieces with contemporary installations that challenge and inspire.

The gallery is located near the city center, making it easy to pair with other downtown activities. Admission is free, and the atmosphere is quiet and welcoming—great for a reflective solo afternoon or a date with culture. With occasional artist talks and workshops, it’s a creative hub that showcases Geelong’s vibrant arts community.

6. Take a Wine Tour in the Bellarine Peninsula

Just a short drive from Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula is a treasure trove of boutique wineries offering tastings, vineyard tours, and gourmet dining experiences. The cool climate is perfect for producing crisp whites and elegant pinots, and the ocean views from many cellar doors make the experience even more memorable. Wineries like Jack Rabbit and Scotchmans Hill are popular for both their wine and picturesque settings. Whether you’re a wine aficionado or a casual sipper, there’s something for every palate.

Tours run throughout the year and are especially popular during spring and autumn. Many wineries also host live music events, weekend markets, and farm-to-table meals using local produce. It’s a perfect way to explore the countryside while enjoying some of the region’s best flavors and hospitality.

7. Ride the Giant Sky Wheel by the Bay

The Geelong Sky Wheel, located along the waterfront near Eastern Beach, offers panoramic views of the city, bay, and beyond. At night, it lights up with colorful LEDs, making it a visual centerpiece of the area. A ride in the enclosed gondolas is relaxing, scenic, and suitable for all ages. It’s especially popular with families and couples looking for a romantic photo op.

The wheel operates year-round, with extended hours during school holidays and summer. On clear days, you can see all the way to the You Yangs and the Bellarine coast. Whether you’re visiting during the day or after dark, it’s a simple but memorable way to see Geelong from a whole new perspective.

8. Attend Geelong After Dark or Local Festivals

Geelong is home to a dynamic calendar of events that run throughout the year. One standout is Geelong After Dark, a nighttime arts festival that transforms the city with projections, installations, and performances. Other highlights include the Pako Festa (a multicultural street festival), the Royal Geelong Show, and Toast to the Coast wine festival. These events bring the city to life with music, food, culture, and community energy.

No matter the season, there’s usually something happening. Many events are free and family-friendly, making them great for visitors on a budget. To stay updated, check local listings or event calendars—and plan your trip around one of these vibrant community celebrations.

9. Take a Day Trip to You Yangs Regional Park

Located just 30 minutes from Geelong, the You Yangs are a series of granite ridges that rise dramatically from the plains. The park offers hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and birdwatching, with trails for all fitness levels. The Flinders Peak Trail offers incredible views over Geelong, Melbourne, and Port Phillip Bay. There are also Aboriginal cultural sites and interpretive signs highlighting the area’s significance.

You Yangs is a fantastic year-round destination, with spring wildflowers, summer breezes, autumn colors, and crisp winter hikes all offering something unique. Pack a picnic and plenty of water, and enjoy one of the most naturally stunning escapes just outside the city.

10. Shop and Dine Along Pakington Street

Pakington Street in Geelong West is a hotspot for boutique shopping, artisan goods, and some of the city’s best food. From stylish clothing stores to vintage treasures and handmade jewelry, it’s a browser’s paradise. The café culture here is strong, with places like King of the Castle or Box Office offering standout coffee and brunch options. You’ll also find international eateries, organic markets, and chic wine bars as you stroll.

It’s a place that reflects Geelong’s evolving urban style—creative, laid-back, and welcoming. Perfect for a weekend morning or lazy afternoon, “Pako” is a must for those looking to blend retail therapy with a delicious bite.

What to do if you have kids?

Geelong is extremely family-friendly, with many attractions designed to entertain kids year-round. The waterfront alone offers hours of fun with its playgrounds, splash pad, and carousel. Families can visit the Botanic Gardens for a nature adventure, ride the Sky Wheel, or hop on the vintage train that runs seasonally along the foreshore. Many museums, like the National Wool Museum, also offer interactive exhibits for children. Local parks and calm beaches make it easy to find space for play and exploration. Keep snacks handy, plan for weather changes, and let the kids lead the way—there’s something here for every age.

Where can I find free events in Geelong Australia taking place this weekend?

To discover what’s happening in Geelong this weekend—without breaking the bank—use PlanMyWeekend.ai. This free tool helps you find local events tailored to your interests and location, including community festivals, outdoor concerts, pop-up art shows, food markets, and family activities. Just enter “Geelong” to see a curated list of exciting, no-cost happenings in real-time. It’s your go-to resource for experiencing the best of the city every weekend.

Final thoughts

Geelong is the kind of place that rewards every type of traveler, no matter the season. From beach strolls and bold art to rich history and outdoor adventures, it has depth, style, and accessibility wrapped in one. Whether you’re here for a quick getaway or an extended stay, Geelong offers something fresh, fun, and genuinely local all year long. Plan ahead—or don’t—and you’ll still walk away with great memories.