Geelong Hotels

Genteel Geelong

Sitting right on the edge of glistening Corio Bay is the awesome city of Geelong. It’s such a shame that this place is constantly overshadowed by its glam younger sister (*cough* Melbourne *cough*), because this ol’ gal is full of natural charm.

If you want history, you’ll be spoiled rotten in Geelong! For some top titbits, visit the National Wool Museum (nowhere near as boring as it sounds), the Old Geelong Gaol and The Heights Heritage House and Garden for a peek into life back in the 1850s. Next on the agenda should be some fine wine – another thing Geelong does exceptionally well. Hit the Shadowfax Winery, Bellarine Estate Winery and Barwon Grange Winery for some quality plonk (and possibly a hangover). Lastly, be sure to stop by Narana Creations to pick up some authentic Aboriginal art.

GEELONG’S TOP 10

10. Geelong Performing Arts Centre Catch everything from a loud concert to a cool film festival at this modern space.	5. Ford Discovery Centre Learn all about your beloved Ford through a bunch of cool exhibits. No Holden fans allowed!
9. Lethbridge Wines One of the best wineries in the region produces the best Shiraz and Chardonnay in the biz.	4. Werribee Open Range Zoo A big chunk of Africa right in the heart of Victoria! Go on safari to spy on some elephants, rhinos and monkeys.
8. Geelong Gallery A massive collection of 19th and 20th century Aussie and Euro paintings, plus old porcelain, pottery and silver.	3. Adventure Park Don’t be afraid to act like a total kid at this water park. Giant waterslides, wave pools and rides – this place has it all!
7. Botanic Gardens Chill amongst the flourishing flora and breathe in that super-clean air. Ahh… this is the life!	2. Brisbane Ranges National Park Pretty wildflowers and cute koalas abound. Go for a chilled walk or camp out for a few nights.
6. Steiglitz Historic Park Once a bustling gold-mining village, you can still admire the 1800s architecture, while the cemetery tells you how tough things were back in the day.	1. Geelong Heritage Centre If you really want to get down to the nitty gritty of Geelong’s history, head here to peruse old photos, letters, plans and newspapers.

GEELONG EVENTS

You want cars? We’ll give you cars! Head to All Ford Day to celebrate some real beauties in February.

Lose the undies and slap on a kilt for the Geelong Highland Gathering, held every March.

October’s Toast to the Coast festival is a big ol’ celebration of the good things in life – namely fine wine, fine food and fine entertainment.

The city comes alive with buzzing crowds for the annual Central Geelong Sidewalk Sales, held on Melbourne Cup Day (November).

WHEN TO GO

Geelong sees plenty of cool, mild days and not much heat (even in summer). The average annual temp? 14°C (57°F).

If you’re not up for umbrellas and gumboots, stay away during July and August. For slim chances of rain, try December to March.

Visit our partner page Geelong hotels by Hotel.com.au

GETTING AROUND

Benders and McHarrys buses are awesome. Between them, pretty much all the touristy spots are covered, and the fares are cheap as chips.

If you want to explore further out (anywhere from Mount Gambier to Melbourne), jump on a V/Line train.

Need to get home after a long night? Get your bum on a NightBus. They run every Saturday night from 1 a.m. to 4 a.m., on four routes to over 20 suburbs.

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