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Top Things to Do in Geelong with Kids: Family-Friendly Attractions
Looking for the best things to do in Geelong with kids? This vibrant coastal city, just an hour from Melbourne, is packed with family-friendly attractions and activities that are perfect for weekend getaways or school holiday adventures. From interactive museums and creative play spaces to beautiful beaches and cultural experiences, Geelong is a destination that truly caters to families.
Here’s a guide to the top family-friendly attractions in Geelong that are guaranteed to keep little ones engaged and entertained.
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1. Port Phillip Ferries – Melbourne to Geelong Ferry Ride
Travelling from Melbourne to Geelong by ferry is a fun and relaxing experience for the whole family. Port Phillip Ferries offers a twice-daily service, cruising from Docklands along the Yarra River and across Port Phillip Bay. Kids will love spotting dolphins, seabirds, and the Geelong waterfront as the ferry arrives at Steampacket Quay.
📍 Departs Docklands, arrives at Geelong Waterfront
Parent Tip: Bring snacks, sunscreen, and card games to keep little ones entertained during the 90-minute journey.
2. MoPa – Museum of Play and Art
MoPA is one of the most popular things to do in Geelong with toddlers and primary-aged kids. Housed in the beautifully restored Wintergarden building, the museum encourages hands-on play, creativity and exploration, all aligned with early learning and school curriculums. Expect interactive zones, art activities, and sensory experiences.
📍 51-59 Ryrie Street, Geelong
Parent Tip: Sessions can book out quickly, especially on weekends—pre-book your tickets online to avoid disappointment. Bring a change of clothes for messy play.
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3. Eastern Beach Waterfront Precinct
Eastern Beach is a top family destination in Geelong. With a large swimming enclosure, shaded picnic areas, BBQs, a historic carousel, Ferris wheel, and a waterfront playground, there’s plenty to fill an afternoon. Don’t forget to spot the famous Geelong Bollards and try the new Augmented Reality app that brings them to life.
📍 Eastern Beach Road, Geelong
Parent Tip: Arrive early to secure a shady spot or BBQ. Pack swimmers, towels and spare clothes for the kids.
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4. Poppy Kettle Playground
This ocean-themed playground is inspired by local author Robert Ingpen’s The Voyage of the Poppy Kettle. Located near Cunningham Pier, kids can enjoy a big colourful slide, climbable dragon, swings, wobbly boat and pyramid net, along with cute hidden bronze sculptures throughout.
📍 Cunningham Pier, Geelong Waterfront
Parent Tip: Bring a towel—kids love playing in the interactive water feature. Coffee options are nearby for a parent break.
5. Geelong Botanical Garden
Take a break from the bustle and enjoy nature at the Geelong Botanic Gardens. Established in 1851, these beautifully maintained gardens are free to visit and feature walking paths, lawns for picnics, and a wide range of native and exotic plants.
📍 Eastern Park Circuit, East Geelong
Parent Tip: The gardens are pram-friendly. Pack a picnic blanket and stop by the café for coffee and light snacks.
6. National Wool Museum
Learn about Geelong’s rich history in the wool industry at the National Wool Museum. It features hands-on exhibits, fascinating displays, and live demonstrations. Kids will enjoy learning how wool travels from sheep to finished product.
📍 26 Moorabool Street, Geelong
Parent Tip: Keep visits short for younger children—there are interactive zones to help break up the learning.
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7. Geelong Gallery
For families who enjoy art and culture, the Geelong Gallery offers exhibitions and collections spanning centuries. The gallery often holds family-friendly activities and school holiday programs.
📍 55 Little Malop Street, Geelong
Parent Tip: Check the gallery’s website for current family-friendly exhibitions and creative programs.
8. The Carousel
Take a ride on a piece of history at the Armitage-Herschell Carousel. This 1892 steam-driven carousel has been beautifully restored and sits on the Geelong waterfront. It’s a nostalgic experience for both kids and adults.
📍 1 Eastern Beach Road, Geelong
Parent Tip: Tickets are affordable, and a ride on the carousel makes for a fun treat after a busy day of sightseeing.
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9. Geelong Library and Heritage Centre (The Dome)
The striking Dome building houses books, interactive installations, digital media, and regular children’s programs. It’s a great rainy-day activity in Geelong and offers spectacular views from the top floor.
📍 51 Little Malop Street, Geelong
Parent Tip: Check out the children’s level with storytelling sessions and indoor play areas. It’s a great wet-weather backup.
10. Geelong Arts Centre – GPAC
Catch a live performance at the newly redeveloped Geelong Arts Centre. The centre hosts a mix of family-friendly theatre, dance, music and comedy – ideal for introducing kids to the performing arts.
📍 81 Ryrie Street, Geelong
Parent Tip: Book tickets in advance for children’s shows, and check for age recommendations before purchasing.
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Plan your next family day out or weekend escape with these top Geelong attractions for kids – you will find fun, learning and adventure all rolled into one destination.
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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.
