Geelong is the place to be for holidaying and for those considering a sea change. Not only does it boast ocean living but is the second largest city on Victoria, meaning there are ample facilities and activities for temporary visitors or long term residents. Read below for a raft of fun family activities in Geelong and its surrounds so your next getaway is not spent trying to find a babysitter.
As a waterfront location, the city centre of Geelong boasts dining, shopping and ocean views, all within a few blocks. You’ll find larger malls such as Westfield, and markets, which are a great way to pick up fresh produce or bespoke gifts from local traders. Aside from a waterfront makers and growers market (seasonal), along this peninsula you’ll find farmer’s markets, community markets and twilight markets to keep the family occupied. Online you’ll find dates and details through What’s on in Geelong and Surrounds.
No trip to Geelong with the family is complete until you head to Adventure Park. Water lovers will especially enjoy the fact that Victoria’s biggest and longest water slide opened in November this year, to complement over 23 other rides and attractions. If water play or laying by the pool isn’t your thing, check out the go-carts, archery, kids cars and trains or the ever popular mini golf course. Best to spend a day here to make the most of this large theme and water park.
The botanical gardens and the Eastern Beach Recreation reserve are also highly recommended, especially in the summer months. Besides two protected swimming areas that are great for families, you’ll find a pier, eateries and a ferris wheel. Walk a little further west and you’ll find the historic, working carousel that has been painstakingly restored. Many kids love to watch the yachts come and go as well as hunt for the iconic bollards that line the foreshore. There’s over 100 characters, courtesy of the artist Jan Mitchell.
Besides these main players, stay tuned for several new tourist upgrades announced earlier in 2017. Dessert lovers will be most interested in a new chocolate café in Forrest. Not only will the licensed, artisan café serve many treats to its guests, but will offer an insight into the chocolate making process of the Platypi Chocolate team. Opening in Jan 2018. Just west of Apollo Bay will see the construction of a major ecotourism experience when the Wildlife Wonders project sets up shop. Not only will this facility showcase Australian wildlife along one of Victoria’s most popular tourist routes (the Great Ocean Road), but expect educational and conservation initiatives to play a major part in its operations. Just watch out for drop bears!
And, if after all this you want a little break to grab dinner, hit up Geelong Nannies, We Need a Nanny or Find a Baby Sitter to get a carer based in Geelong who has completed a suitable childcare course to take the little ones off your hands for a few hours.
