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Family day trip to Geelong

a group of people on a beach

Family day trip to Geelong

Geelong offers endless fun for all family members these holidays. From unique cycling escapades to forest bathing, learning about Aboriginal Dreamtime and feeding wallabies, and we haven’t forgotten about the thrill-seekers!

1. Indulge the kids in an ancient health tradition

Try something a little different with the older kids these holidays by joining a guided Forest Therapy Walk at the Geelong Botanic Gardens. Forest Therapy is a growing trend in Western Countries, where it is also referred to as Nature Therapy and Forest Bathing – no bathtub required! It is believed to have been practised for centuries across the world, including Japan where it is known as “Shinrin Yoku”. Here it is prescribed for its health benefits including a lowered heart rate, reduced blood pressure and boosted immunity and mental alertness and clarity.

Essentially Forest Therapy involves immersing ourselves in the atmosphere of the forest with the aim to get us to be in the moment, using all our senses to connect with nature and allowing us to slow down. The perfect antidote to our busy and sometimes stressful lives.
For this 2-hour walk, you will be accompanied by an experienced guide, following a variety of activities – spending time walking slowly and stopping and sitting as you explore your beautiful surroundings.

Due to the nature of this event, it is only open to children aged over 12 years.

P.S. Leave the smartphone behind for this one! Bookings are FREE but essential. Click here for more >>

Geelong Botanic Garden Street, East Geelong. Click here for more >>

2. Play Eye Spy in the Sky!

Kid and parents alike will love The Giant Sky Wheel, an unmissable sight on the Geelong foreshore. Known as the largest travelling Ferris Wheel in the southern hemisphere, its perfect for not just the young, but the young-at-heart. Make some special family memories as you step into your carriage and experience a bird’s eye view of the Geelong Waterfront and the stunning Corio Bay. Alternately head down to the waterfront of an evening with your picnic dinner or visit your favourite fish-and-chip shop as you watch the Giant Sky Wheel light up the night sky with a spectacular kaleidoscope of colour – over 24 amazing light patterns. Tickets are $9 with family passes available.

The Giant Sky Wheel – 31 Eastern Beach Rd, Geelong. Click here for more >>

3. Get aboard for this family cycling escapade

The Bellarine Rail Trail is the perfect family activity, just pack a picnic and bring your own bikes on the ferry with 20 secure bike racks onboard! These bike racks are free but must be pre-booked to make sure you don’t miss out. When you arrive in Geelong the Bellarine Rail Trail is a scenic ride that will take you from South Geelong to Queenscliff. The 33km trail takes you past some stunning countryside of rolling green farmland and coastal views of the picturesque Swan Bay. The gradient is mostly flat and easy with an occasional gradual climb. Rest stops and toilet facilities are conveniently situated along the way. Once you arrive at the historic borough of Queenscliff, you’ll be enchanted by this seaside town and its grand hotels, homes, shops and cafes.

Note: For some extra fun, return via stream train! If you don’t have your own bikes, they can be hired after your ferry departure at Bella e-bikes. These popular e-bikes come in a variety of sizes to suit most family members and a 4-hour package includes a helmet, security chain and basket > ½ day is $50 (Special ferry and bike packages are available). Click here for more >>

Bellarine Rail Trail – South Geelong Train Station, Yarra St, South Geelong.

4. Feed Wallabies and learn about the Dreamtime

For a fun learning experience head to Geelong’s award-winning Aboriginal Cultural Centre, Narana Aboriginal Museum. The word “Narana”, means to deeply listen and understand, that in which you take in and give out.

This Not-For-Profit organisation is nestled amongst native trees, walkways & gardens situated on Wadawurrung/Wathaurong Country. Narana seeks to build an understanding of Aboriginal history and culture in a welcoming, friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Don’t miss the ‘Dreaming for Kids’ (recommended for ages Kinder – Grade 3). It includes Boomerang throwing, traditional Aboriginal games, a guided walk to learn about bush tucker as well as traditional medicines. It also features a tools and weapons presentation, in addition to feeding the animals. 2-hour tour cost is $15 per child.

Narana Aboriginal Museum – 410 Surf Coast Hwy, Grovedale. Click here to find out more >>

5. Pack the swimmers – Picture perfect by the bay

For the ideal free fun family day out, head to the iconic Eastern Beach Reserve area adjacent to the Geelong Botanic Gardens. It’s easily reached along the stunning Geelong waterfront and dotted with curious Baywalk Bollards and giant palm trees. The options for all ages are endless here. In the Summer, safe swimming areas are monitored by lifeguards allowing the kids to play safely on the sandy white beach that leads into a protected swimming area. Nearby older kids will also love the huge Sea Bathing area featuring a diving platform. Perfect for younger kids is the generous enclosed wading pool with fountain, partial shade sails and a great playground. Pack a picnic or everything for a BBQ feast and grab your patch on the grassy green slopes overlooking the water. Alternatively, there is a popular Kiosk, café and restaurant conveniently located here known for its charming Art Deco architecture. Don’t miss Geelong’s iconic Spanish Staircase. The views are truly Insta-worthy! Entry is FREE.

Eastern Beach Reserve – 95 Eastern Beach Road, Geelong. Click here for more >>