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Things to do in Geelong with kids
Discovering the perfect family-friendly activities in Geelong has never been easier. This charming coastal city, nestled along the shores of Port Phillip Bay, offers experiences that are bound to keep both kids and adults happy. From interactive museums and scenic waterfronts to fun playgrounds and cultural venues, Geelong has something to offer every member of the family.
Here is a selection of the best things to do in Geelong with kids.
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1. Port Phillip Ferries
Families can now travel by ferry across Port Phillip Bay between Melbourne and Geelong, with the twice-daily service from Port Phillip Ferries. Enjoy a leisurely cruise down the Yarra River with stunning views of the Melbourne city skyline, before setting sail across Port Phillip Bay, spotting native wildlife such as seals and dolphins along the way. The ferry then cruises into Corio Bay before docking at Steampacket Quay in the heart of Geelong’s vibrant waterfront. A one-way trip takes approximately 90 minutes.
2. MoPa – Museum of Play and Art
The Wintergarden building in the heart of Geelong has been transformed into an immersive play space for children aged 1 to early primary and their families. The Museum has been designed to encourage kids to explore, create, play and experiment together with all the features of the Museum.
The play-based learning offered by the Museum is not only loads of fun but has also been aligned with the Early Learning Framework for Kindergarten-aged children and with the Victorian Curriculum for Children in early primary school.
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3. Eastern Beach Waterfront
Easter Beach Waterfront has so much to offer, families can enjoy the Geelong waterfront playground, swimming area, carousel, mini train, giant Ferris wheel and the famous Geelong Bollards. The bollards now come to life with the new Augmented Reality app.
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4. Poppy Kettle Playground
Poppy Kettle Playground is located on the beachfront near Cunningham Pier, Geelong. The playground has one big colourful slide, a climb-on dragon, swings, a wobbly boat, a pyramid climbing net and an interactive Poppy Kettle water feature. When walking around the playground keep a lookout for the cute little bronze statues of the Poppy Kettle people which are inspired by local children’s book author Robert Ingpen.
5. Geelong Botanical Garden
The Geelong Botanic Gardens is a beautiful regional garden that conserves plants from around the world. Founded in 1851, the gardens are one of the oldest botanic gardens in Australia. It’s free to visit, grab a picnic and explore the numerous walks around the gardens.
6. National Wool Museum
For many years Geelong was known as the ‘wool centre of the world’. The National Wool Museum features the history of the wool industry and why it has been at the heart of our economy for nearly 200 years.
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7. Geelong Gallery
Geelong Gallery is one of Australia’s leading and oldest regional art galleries. The gallery has an impressive collection of Australian and European paintings, sculpture, printmaking and decorative arts dating from the 18th century to today.
8. The Carousel
Built around 1892, the Armitage-Herschell portable steam-driven wooden carousel stands as a rare testament to a bygone era. With just around 200 of its kind still operational globally, this carousel is a unique relic of history. For those eager to relive the magic of the past by taking a ride, tickets are available for purchase.
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9. Geelong Library and Heritage Centre
The Geelong Library and Heritage Centre also known as The Dome, offers culture, fun and learning for all ages. This impressive building houses five public levels for reading, studying, meeting, discovery and fun. The balcony has spectacular views over Geelong and beyond.
10. Geelong Arts Centre – GPAC
Geelong Arts Centre has been redeveloped, showcasing performances from the region’s finest community theatre, dance and music groups. From theatre shows to music concerts, there are plenty of family-friendly performances.
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We try our best to provide accurate information on kid-friendly events around Victoria but do recommend parents check details directly to confirm dates, times, prices as some details may be subject to change.
