A big day out in Geelong

A former industrial hub, Geelong is fast becoming a destination for food, drinks and culture. The arts precinct has had a glow-up, and there’s always a hot new restaurant or bar to discover. Before heading to Tassie, make a day of it in Victoria’s second city.

If you’re staying in town the night before departure, an early start to the day is well rewarded with a hot air balloon flight. Treat yourself to an unforgettable sunrise journey, peacefully drifting over the city and Bellarine Peninsula with Geelong Ballooning.

Spend the morning on Geelong’s waterfront, starting with breakfast at a building from the precinct’s original 1920s development. Pavilion’s easy-breezy renovation, panoramic Corio Bay views and tasty cafe fare is a winning combination.

Stroll the seaside promenade and see what piques your interest. Ride the Giant Sky Wheel, beautifully restored 1890s carousel, or high-flying Aero Bounce bungy trampolines. Find the art trail’s sculptures, as well as 100-plus colourfully painted bollards representing local characters of the past.

Get out on the bay without getting your feet wet on the grand old pier and new, floating Wangim Walk. Or make a splash by the sandy beach, from freshwater paddling pool to the saltwater swimming area with boardwalk and diving platforms.

Taste Geelong’s transformation at newish restaurants such as South-East Asian fine diner Two Noble, or Barwon Edge, which serves modern Middle Eastern fare overlooking the Barwon River.

For a relaxed, family-friendly meal, try the 1859 Batesford Hotel on the city’s leafy outskirts. Old is new again here: the recent renovation unites heritage charm and contemporary style, while the menu offers elevated pub classics.

Or kick back among the former Fyansford Paper Mill’s bluestone and red-brick buildings in semi-bushland by the Barwon River. Lunch options at what’s now a village of art, design, food and wine are The Door Gallery Cafe and Provenance winery’s cellar door and restaurant.

You’ll also find local creativity at the small but distinctive collection of artist studios, shops and galleries. Book ahead for a guided tour of Australia’s oldest paper mill.

Other places to spend a culture-filled afternoon in this UNESCO City of Design include Geelong Gallery. Among the nation’s oldest art museums, it boasts works by artists such as Frederick McCubbin and John Brack.

While you’re there, check out the striking contemporary architecture of its neighbours: Geelong Library and Heritage Centre, and newly redeveloped Geelong Arts Centre (now Australia’s largest dedicated regional arts centre).

History buffs might prefer the National Wool Museum, Geelong Gaol or National Trust heritage houses Barwon Grange and The Heights, while kids love MOPA, the Museum of Play and Art.

If you’re departing on Spirit of Tasmania after dinnertime, head to Little Malop Street (between Gheringhap and Moorabool streets) for a farewell feast. On an earlier sailing? Get to Geelong a day ahead, because you don’t want to miss this lively laneway offering most of Geelong’s best wining and dining.

Top options include renowned local chef Aaron Turner’s casual eateries: Hot Chicken Project, Mexican joint Tacos y Liquor, and OK Smash for premium burgers and cocktails.

Bahjong has you covered for Asian street food, from dumplings and bao to banh mi. Smart restaurant-bar The Arborist is designed around a tree, and also embraces nature on the rooftop.

Geelong Cellar Door is your go-to for regional wines and small plates. If you fancy cocktails and classy snacks, choose from speakeasy-style 18th Amendment Bar or its sleek new sibling Non Disclosure Bar.

Information included in this blog is correct at the time of publishing. Please contact individual operators for further information.