With over 6000 works in its collection, this long-established gallery features celebrated Australian paintings such as Eugene von Guérard’s View of Geelong and Frederick McCubbin’s A Bush Burial. It also exhibits contemporary works and has free drop-in tours on weekends (from 11am to 1pm, plus 2pm to 4pm on Sunday).

Its themed shows (both free and ticketed) are always worth visiting. Recent exhibition subjects include Fred Williams, the Archibald Prize and Sidney Nolan.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. National Wool Museum

0.24 MILES

More interesting than it may sound, this museum showcases the importance of the wool industry in shaping Geelong economically, socially and…

2. Geelong Waterfront Carousel

0.37 MILES

A prominent feature along Geelong's waterfront is this ornate 19th-century hand-carved carousel, housed within a slick 21st-century glass pavilion.

3. Geelong Waterfront

0.4 MILES

Geelong's sparkling revamped waterfront precinct is a great place to stroll, with plenty of restaurants set on scenic piers, plus historical landmarks, a…

4. Old Geelong Gaol

0.65 MILES

Built in 1849, HM Prison Geelong may have closed its doors in 1991, but this old bluestone jail remains as terrifying as ever. You'll see its grim cells…

5. Eastern Beach

0.73 MILES

Making up part of Geelong's scenic waterfront are this sandy beach and art deco bathing pavilion. There's classic European-style enclosed bay swimming,…

6. Geelong Play Space

1.15 MILES

At this different kind of play area for kids, in Geelong's Eastern Gardens, near the Botanic Gardens, there's a pirate ship, a musical bridge, sandy areas…

7. Botanic Gardens

1.18 MILES

Geelong's botanic gardens (established in 1851) are the fourth oldest in Australia and make for a peaceful stroll or picnic. Aim to get here for a…

8. Boom Gallery

1.23 MILES

Down an industrial street off Pakington St, Boom's warehouse space in an old woollen mill shows contemporary works by Melbourne and local artists. It…