Little Malop Street, Geelong

With its palm-fringed, 50s-inspired waterfront and breezy, laid-back outlook, Geelong is firmly on everyone's must-visit list. At its heart is the utterly charming Little Malop Street precinct, where an enticing melting pot of food, wine, bars, coffee and culture awaits.

Coffee & culture

During daylight hours, any exploration should begin with a heart-starter from Cartel Coffee Roasters. Wander up to see some art at the Geelong Gallery, featuring a trove of permanent and revolving exhibitions that hero renowned local talent such as Rone, as well as hosting touring displays of international significance.

Next door, the stunning Geelong Library and Heritage Centre is an architectural marvel, set over five floors featuring a diverse collection of print, multimedia and heritage items. The library also offers spectacular views across the city and the bay.

For lunch, pop into Sober Ramen for dumplings or the hot and fresh ramen noodles they’re renowned for. 

See more, do more

There’s plenty of shopping in the nearby streets and malls to fill your afternoon. Alternatively, take a stroll along the waterfront past the imposing woolstores-turned-university campus and a beautiful heritage-listed children’s carousel. Try a water-borne view of the idyllic Royal Geelong Yacht Club from the Wangim Walk wave attenuator, or cruise onwards to the postcard-pretty Eastern Beach.

Drink & dine

Later, Little Malop Street begins to bustle as drinkers and diners alike converge on a plethora of options. Get lost in the wine list at Geelong Cellar Door or snag a table at acclaimed modern French restaurant Felix for a fine feed indeed.

After dinner, adjourn to the award-winning 18th Amendment Bar, a dimly-lit cocktail den styled after the prohibition era for which it is named.