When it comes to finding the best school holiday activities in Geelong, look no further. This beautiful coastal city is a wonderful place to bring a family and spend some quality time together. We have compiled all the best school holiday ideas and the top attractions in Geelong for you these holidays.
The December & January 2024 school holiday activities in Geelong are a child’s dream and include a museum designed purely for kids and a waterfront precinct that families will love. As locals, we embrace our region that has so many things to do in school holidays in Geelong. We really are spoilt for choice.
Holiday activities for kids don’t have to be a chore, even if you stay at home (check out our stay at home ideas included below). No matter the weather, you will find something to entertain children of all ages with these school holiday activities in Geelong. Take a look at our list of school holiday fun activities to help you plan the next school holidays and then get out there and enjoy!
We have compiled the complete guide to what to do in school holidays in Geelong over the December & January school holidays to help make your life so much easier!
Easter school holiday dates:
State schools finish on Thursday 28 March and return to class on Monday 15 April 2024.
Easter school holidays in Victoria are Friday 29 March to Sunday 14 April 2024.
Fun things to do for the Geelong school holidays
We have broken our list of fun Geelong school holiday activities this summer into sections to help you:
- Fun things to do for the Geelong school holidays
- 10 fun free school holiday activities for summer
- 10 fun cheap school holiday activities
- 10 BIG days out in Geelong these school holidays
- 15 things to do at home these school holidays
- Theatres with kids shows on in Geelong these school holidays
- Geelong kids holiday ideas
- Even more VIC school holiday ideas:
- Easter school holiday dates:
As with everything at the moment, please check with the venue directly (either by their website or social media pages) to ensure they are open during the times you wish to attend. You should also check their current policy around advanced bookings, entry requirements and timings.
10 fun free school holiday activities for summer
Sometimes the school holidays can seem like they go forever, so it is great to have a heap of free fun things to do in Geelong to fill in some time. Take a look at our list, because we know the kids will love everything on it.
Geelong waterfront
The Waterfront is probably the most famous and one of the best tourist attractions in Geelong. That is why it tops our list of top attractions in Geelong. There is no better way to really experience Geelong than to spend some time on the waterfront. Start at the Eastern beach and build a few sandcastles, then wander by the saltwater pool and carousel before exploring part of the bollard trail. Finish up at the Eastern Beach playground (which the kids will love!) with a coffee and an ice-cream. This is where the locals spend their free time and it wont’ take long to work out why.
Read about the waterfront before you go.
Bellarine Rail Trail
Grab some bikes and hit the road! The Bellarine Rail Trail goes from Geelong to Queenslcliffe (35km) and explores some beautiful countryside and coastal views along the way. The trail is mainly sealed or gravel and offers some places to stop and take in the scenery. Families tip: Avoid going uphill on the return journey and travel back to Geelong via steam train!
Geelong Library and Heritage Centre
The Geelong Library and Heritage Centre is no ordinary library! This pink dome shaped building is worth a visit, just to see the building itself. Standing out on the Geelong skyline the library has 5 levels, including a level dedicated to kids and youth. If that isn’t enough, they host up to 4000 events per year so make sure you check out what is happening while you are there.
Buckley Falls
When you are craving some time out of the city in the great outdoors, take a trip to Buckley Falls. While not exactly massive waterfalls (think small rapids) this is a great ways to spend a family morning. Take a look at the falls from above at the lookout, then head down to the rocks for a closer look. Families tip: If you have time, head further downstream to see the old paper mill. It is a beautiful walk and picturesque location.
Visit the website to find out more about this walk.
Poppy Kettle Playground
Perfectly situated on the Geelong waterfront is Poppy Kettle playground, a great space for kids to enjoy. In addition to traditional playground equipment (slide, climbing wall and swings) there is also a water rock garden and sandy playspace. This playground is ideal if you are staying in town (to avoid paying for parking) or in combination with a day exploring the Geelong waterfront.
Read more about the playground here.
Geelong Playspace and Botanical Gardens
Combine a trip to the Botanical Gardens with a fabulous playground. The gardens themselves are located on the water and have some beautiful gardens and spaces to enjoy. Kids can enjoy following a picture trail (download before you go) through the gardens and during the holidays there are family discovery programs on offer. End the day with some time at the Geelong Playspace, an all abilities playground located just beside the gardens.
Geelong Bollard Trail Walk
The Geelong Bollard Trail is one of the many fun outdoor activities to do in Geelong. This trail is comprised of colourful bollards, carved from old timber pier pylons by a local artist. They are shaped and painted as people who have been impactful in Geelong’s history. There are 100 bollards along the 3km trail, so pick a section that works for your family and go exploring! Families tip: Rabbits are painted on the feet of some bollards so get the kids to count how many rabbits they can spot.
Geelong Gallery
The Geelong Gallery is a wonderful place to spend a cultural morning with kids. The gallery offers a chance for kids to experience art through play based activities and story-telling. You can also download “Orby” a digital guide, before you go, aimed at taking kids on an augmented reality journey through the gallery. Make sure you take a look at the website before you go to see what else is happening these holidays.
Serendip Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary is a great place for families to see kangaroos, emus, wallabies and a huge variety of birdlife. A perfect day trip, Serendip is conveniently located a short drive north of Geelong and is a great place to do some walks. There are four trails on offer, all no longer than 2km, meaning that it is doable even for little legs. Explore on your own or take a guided tour.
Address: 100 Windermere Road, Lara VIC 3212
Find out more about the sanctuary here.
Armstrong District Park
When you need day at a playground, head to Armstrong District Park. This nature based playground is perfect for kids of all ages. Offering tunnels, slides, sand play, diggers climbing frames, mini trampolines, ping pong tables, a skate park and much much more, the kids won’t want to leave. We suggest bringing lunch and having a barbeque there, or grabbing a coffee at the locals choice café next door.
Check out the park before you go.
10 fun cheap school holiday activities
School holidays don’t have to break the bank to leave a lasting impression. If you know where to look (and we do!) you will find some great fun things to do in the holidays. Plus, we have included some indoor activities in Geelong for when the weather isn’t so great.
Fort Queenscliffe Museum
Take a guided tour through a historic walled fort in Queenslcliffe, just outside Geelong. This important historic site lets you see a working lighthouse, plus preserved battery guns and historic buildings as well as a visit to the ammunition magazines buried under the cliffs. Stop off afterwards at the museum and hear the stories from when the fort was in action.
Visit the website for more information.
Bellarine Adventure Golf
Grab the family these holidays and enjoy a game of mini golf! Bellarine Adventure Golf offers two outdoor 18 hole courses set amongst gardens, creeks and waterfalls. This is not your average mini golf experience as each hole is creative and challenging. Enjoy a coffee and treat afterwards at the café.
Meerkat Manner Indoor Play and Café
This indoor playcentre is great all year round. If you visit these summer holidays, you may find the (enclosed) log fire going, making it a wonderful cosy atmosphere. The venue is small enough not to be overwhelming and is perfect for letting kids blow off steam and for parents to relax with a coffee.
Geelong Gaol Museum
A unique museum experience, the Geelong Gaol Museum offers tours of a once working gaol. The gaol was closed in 1991 and now people can visit and explore a piece of Geelong’s history. There are a range of tours available (including a night tour) so jump online and find one that is right for your family.
Waterfront Train Tours, Bungy Trampoline or Giant Ferris Wheel
Enjoy a ride on the waterfront train along the Geelong waterfront. The train runs from the famous Geelong carousel to the eastern beach pools and goes for approximately 20 minutes. Afterward, kids can bounce on the bungy trampoline and or take a ride on Geelongs giant ferris wheel.
National Wool Museum
The National Wool Museum is a place where curiosity is encouraged. This unique museum allows kids to learn about the history of this staple fibre. Through exhibits and machinery (including a 1910 carpet loom) you can learn why wool is so important to Australia’s history. Located in the heart of Geelong, it is a perfect rainy day activity.
Ten pin bowling
Hit the lanes for a game or two of ten pin bowling these holidays. Geelong locals love Oz Tenpin with 28 lanes, for the great atmosphere and not to mention yummy food. There are bumpers for the little ones (or maybe the adults too!) and licenced café with extensive menu. Enjoy a great family experience for when the weather isn’t so great.
Visit Oz Tenpin on their website.
Geelong Carousel
Treat the kids to a blast from the past on this historic carousel. Built in the 1890’s the carousel is steam driven and the horses are hand carved. It has been restored to its former glory and is a feature on the Geelong waterfront. The carousel also allows wheelchair access.
Barrabool Maze Estate
Who doesn’t love a good hedge maze! This maze is a must see for your holiday. Perfect for kids of all ages, they will fall in love with the magic of the maze. There are two lookouts built into the maze to give a view of the gardens (and maybe to help cheat a little?!) as well as a playground. Stroll the grounds and admire the gardens. The café onsite means you can refuel after.
Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre
Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre is a place to learn about Aboriginal heritage and culture. Take a look at the exhibitions, art gallery and kids are welcome to feed the wallabies onsite (for a small fee). There is a colourful playground and a café to sit back and relax in while the kids play.
10 BIG days out in Geelong these school holidays
Every holiday needs some big days out. Take a look at our list of top places to visit in Geelong that will leave the kids with some something to brag about.
Otway Fly
If adrenalin is your thing, then add Otway Fly to your list of places to visit in Geelong. The zipline adventure lets you fly through the treetops over the beautiful Otway Ranges. Stop at each ‘cloudstation’ 30m above the ground along the way before continuing on. If this is a little much, the Treetop Walk is 600m platform in the treetops where you can admire the forest standing on your own two feet. There are also a number of enchanted forest adventures to explore, which you can check out on the website before you go.
Enjoy a dolphin experience
Let the kids enjoy the magic of swimming with dolphins. A tour with See All Dolphin Swims can take you to the best parts of Port Phillip Bay to swim with dolphins and seals. If you prefer to stay dry, take a boat tour and watch these creatures jump and play. This day on the water is sure to leave a lasting impression and has to be one of the top attractions in Geelong.
We rock the spectrum Geelong
This kids gym is a fabulous space for all kids. This unique playspace is an all-inclusive facility for kids up to 13 years and features equipment for kids with differing sensory needs. This colourful gym offers climbing frames, trampolines and even a zipline. There is toddler area with games as well as a calming room for kids that prefer a quieter experience. A wonderful option for many families these holidays and perfect for rainy days.
Fairy Park Anakie
You will see Fairy Park long before you enter, as it is literally a castle on a hill! This outdoor themed park lets you walk through fairy tale scenes that are housed in castles, cottages and caves. You can also enjoy the adventure playground, take a look at the model trains or have your photo taken with a unicorn. There is something for the young and young at heart.
Find out more about Fairy Park here.
Visit Torquay
A day at Torquay is a day enjoying nature and surf culture at its finest. Torquay is the home of famous surfing location Bells Beach and is the start of the Great Ocean Road. Located just 30 minutes from Geelong, you can try your hand at surfing, visit the Surf World Surfing Museum or just enjoy some time at a playground or the beach. A great day out all the family.
The Bellarine Railway
Train enthusiasts will love a heritage train ride on the Bellarine Railway on either a steam of diesel train. A few different routes are on offer so pick the one that is right for your family. Kids can grab an activity sheet before they board for an added activity on the train. Trains run most Sundays and on school holidays they offer family events.
Live Wire Park
Take a trip outside Geelong for an adrenaline fuelled day out. Live Wire Park is the ultimate elevated adventure, offering experiences in the treetops. There are 3 activities on offer for varying levels of skill and bravado. Those who want the ultimate thrill should try out the super circuit, a high intensity high ropes circuit 53 mid-air trails, suspension bridges and much more. For those a little less adventurous, try the short circuit or zipcoaster.
Get your short circuit tickets here.
Get your super circuit tickets here.
Get the shockwave zipcoaster tickets here.
Port Arlington Miniature Bayside Railway
Enjoy the charm and magic of miniature trains at the Port Arlington Miniature Bayside Railway. Hop on board at the vintage railway station then enjoy a ride through the parkland. Afterwards grab a coffee (and maybe an ice-cream?) at the kiosk or have a barbeque and make use of the undercover facilities and picnic tables. Kids will also love the nearby adventure playground.
Check out the school holiday timetable.
Bounce Inc trampoline park
Get bouncing and burn off the extra energy these holidays at Bounce. Bounce offers interconnected trampolines, a dodgeball court, slam dunking lanes, a climbing wall AND ninja warrior course. Phew! Little kids will love the playground and parents will enjoy the chance to sit down and relax. A great option for a rainy day.
Museum of Play Art (MOPA)
MOPA is one of the best kids activities in Geelong and must not be missed. This museum is built purely for kids and focuses on education through creativity and play. Kids are welcome (and encouraged!) to interact with exhibits and displays and includes things like wind tunnels, painting, art and music. They can even have a go at painting a car! Make sure you add this incredible museum to your to do list. Bookings essential.
15 things to do at home these school holidays
Staying at in doesn’t have to be boring. Make some time and memories at home these school holidays.
Start a garden
Start getting the kids excited about gardening and the environment by planting some seeds. Take a look at what is good to plant this season, grab some seeds and get planting!
Go on a treasure hunt
Kids just love a good treasure hunt, and it doesn’t have to be hard. Hide a treasure somewhere in the garden and then create a simple map for them to follow.
Put on a show
Most kids just LOVE performing, so why not put on a show. Put a sheet up in front of a makeshift stage and encourage the kids to do a bit of singing and dancing. Why not invite the neighbours and put on a performance.
Potato stamps
This is great for kids of all ages. Cut potatoes in half, carve out numbers or letters into each half then dip in paint. Great for fun and learning.
Make a book out of your favourite movie
Rather than sitting in front of the tv, encourage the kids to make a book about their favourite movie instead. They can draw pictures or cut images out of a magazine or newspaper, then tell you the story in their own words.
Got bored kids? Here are 10 more things they can do at home when they are bored!
- Draw, colour, or do a craft project.
- Read a book or listen to an audio book.
- Play with toys or make a fort.
- Write a story or make a comic strip.
- Do a puzzle or play a board game.
- Bake or cook a simple dish with adult supervision.
- Have a dance party or put on a play.
- Build with Legos or blocks.
- Do a science experiment or make a homemade slime.
- Play outside with balls, frisbees, or other outdoor toys, weather permitting.
Theatres with kids shows on in Geelong these school holidays
Nothing beats a good kids show for entertainment. Take a look at our suggestions to add to your school holiday list.
Geelong Arts Centre
This performing arts centre is the premier venue for performances in Geelong. Offering a range of live shows and music for children and families, make sure you check out what’s on.
Centre Stage
If you are looking for amateur theatre, then head to Centre Stage. With a range of family shows and reasonably priced tickets, a show here is sure to delight.
The Pivotonian Cinema
A trip to the cinema is always a hit! Easily accessible by public transport and located near the Geelong waterfront, you are sure to find a latest movie that the kids will love.
Geelong kids holiday ideas
If you’re looking for more things to do in Victoria, click here.
Soooo…. what do you think? Plenty of Geelong days out ideas here to keep you and the kids entertained for the whole school holidays? These Geelong holiday ideas for kids are updated every term, so remember to bookmark this page.
Let us know if we missed your favourite or if you would like us to add your venue or event!
Even more VIC school holiday ideas:
If you are heading off on a Victorian road trip these school holidays check out our other articles:
