Geelong
Geelong - a vibrant alternative to Melbourne. Geelong's foreshore is the perfect place to escape the summer heat or enjoy a picnic during the cooler months. Dining out is also an experience, with something to suit all tastes and budgets. For entertainment, Geelong plays host to a variety of festivals every year and is home to a performing arts centre and an art gallery. It's home to some of the country’s best-known companies, including Ford, the Geelong Football Club and the CSIRO. With Geelong only being an hours drive away from MElbourne it's the perfect getaway with the family.
This fully fenced play space is located in the heart of Eastern Park and next to the Geelong Botanic Gardens and its feature is no other than a wooden pirate ship!
There's lots to keep little minds running with a musical bridge, sandy areas, a rock climbing wall, swings (including a Liberty swing), shadey areas under the trees, paths winding through the garden, secret tunnels and was developed with an emphasis on providing a safe and enjoyable experience for kids with special needs. Just think of it as a meandering secret garden.
Next time you find yourself (actually, your family) in Geelong, take a leaf out of our book (!!) and do your kids a favour and visit the Geelong Regional Library. There's an entire floor dedicated to children and young people, with age-appropriate collections, digital technology and activity spaces.
Just like it's sister institution (The Yarra Vallery Chocolaterie), The Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery is a very welcome addition to the Surf Coast and it makes for the most wonderful morning or afternoon pit stop. The newly built establishment has been beautifully designed and constructed - with quality finishes throughout creating a modern and welcoming atmosphere.
The free samples at the door as you enter leave you wanting more and there's an impressive range of chocolate items for sale with everything from giant chocolate freckles, chocolate frogs, chocolate buttons and even chocolate infused handcream and lip balm! Plenty of gift ideas - hint, hint!