Geelong is Victoria’s second-largest city, and a big town with a proud and interesting history. It might not strike you as a destination for a weekend away – or even an afternoon – but it’s a place well worth exploring. Begin by hiring a rental car and finding your bearings in this fantastic city.
While Melburnians often belittle their neighbouring city as boring backwater, in reality, Geelong is undeserving of the flak it cops from it’s bigger sister city. Geelong is a city on the rise, with an ever increasing popularity amongst people who have grown tired of the expense of Melbourne.
With the closure of Geelong’s historical Ford Motor Company plant in 2016, the city has found itself in a period of transition and reinvention. With the passing of the glory days of industry, and the gold rush long since gone, Geelong’s once thriving buildings are now being transformed into world-class restaurants and impossibly trendy cafes, all flooded with light from former industrial windows.
The new Geelong is attracting a whole host of makers, artists, creatives and restaurateurs, who are departing Melbourne to take advantage of the city’s cheaper rent and abundant studio space. This is giving Geelong an interesting creative edge, with a creative community that’s constantly growing and becoming more vibrant.
Take in the sights
Geelong is home to an impressive array of historical sites, as well as stunning scenery that make it an ideal weekend destination. The city is easily navigable in a rental car, with many places worth exploring, including the National Wool Museum, the Old Geelong Gaol, and the Botanic Gardens at Eastern Park. Stroll around the streets and you’ll also stumble into a number of smaller museums and galleries that are also well worth a visit.
Eat and drink
It would be a shame to visit Geelong and not get a little indulgent. With a fantastic food scene and renowned brewery in the city, make sure to take time out and treat yourself.
As a city surrounded by a beautiful bay and harbour, Geelong is well-known for its fantastic seafood. No trip here would be complete without an afternoon of leisurely dining in one of the city’s many waterfront eateries. Kick back with a cold glass of white wine and prepare to be wowed by some fantastic seafood.
Come evening time, for something a little more casual, trendy and atmospheric, head for Hot Chicken Project. Here you’ll find sumptuous southern fried chicken, done simply, with loads of spice and flavour, perfect for pairing with a cold glass of wine or a craft beer.
Another fantastic weekend hangout is the famous Little Creatures Brewery. On weekends, young and old flock here to take tours of the brewery and kick back with a cold brew while enjoying some of the delicious food on offer.
The gateway to the Great Ocean Road
Geelong is also the perfect place from which to pick up a rental car and head out to explore the Great Ocean Road – the jewel in Victoria’s crown.
Jump in your hire car from Geelong and hit the road for a cruisy afternoon drive down the coast, where you can take in famous sights such as the Twelve Apostles, as well as beautiful beaches.
Whether you devote an entire weekend to exploring Victoria's second city, or just a few hours, Geelong is well worth a visit. For the best way to see it all, jump in a rental car and hit the road.
Wherever you want to go, you’ll get there in a rental car from Hertz.
