Six of the best beer gardens in Geelong
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24.02.2021

Six of the best beer gardens in Geelong

Little Creatures Geelong
Words by Bethany Long

To the beer gardens of Geelong, we salute you!

It’s a warm Saturday arvo and you and the friends are all miraculously free and in need of refreshments. Where do you go?

While the cheap allure of backyard bevs may once have been enough to hit the spot, after enduring three lockdowns in the past year I’m sure we can all agree a change of scenery (not to mention being around an actual group of people) is something we all have a newfound respect for.

I for one will fully admit to being a creature of habit with a deep commitment to my local (listed in this post!). However, in 2021 I’m looking to branch out. And what better to explore than the beer gardens around Geelong – where you can enjoy both the last rays of summer sunshine and the best the Geelong hospitality scene has to offer?

Geelong’s bar and pub scene is top-notch and is only getting better. And with new pubs and bars frequently popping up all over the place it can be tough to pick the perfect place.

Luckily, you’ve got us to give all the tips and tricks of the best rooftop bars and beer gardens in G-town.

The Inn

Well known for providing a fun night out, the beer garden at The Inn is a classic for a carefree arvo cocktail in the open air.

Their infamous day-to-night car park parties make awesome use of the space, but there’s something extra fun about a lowkey Pimms jug on a summer Saturday arvo before dinner. The exposed brick and picnic-like tables provide the perfect setting for their live music and cocktail specials. And as the sun goes down the party intensifies with DJs and dancing.

Perfect for those balmy summer nights and just as perfect as the temperature drops and you’re looking for somewhere to watch the footy.

Find it at 58 Corio St, Geelong.

Murphy’s Rooftop

With great views of the city and the bay, the Murphy’s rooftop is the perfect spot for an afternoon beer in the sun with mates.

As I mentioned earlier – I’m a creature of habit, and Murphy’s is my go-to spot. It’s always a fun night and the views on a sunny arvo can’t be beaten – there aren’t too many bars where you can see the You Yangs, the city and Corio Bay all at once! And if that view still isn’t enough to convince you, make your way up to the newly-renovated Skygarden. With built-in booths and greenery, the lush space is a little quieter than the bustling rooftop bar a level below.

The perfect place to start your arvo sesh, the rooftop bar features neon lights, a green wall and a delish menu of cocktails (with several types of espresso martinis!).

Friendly bartenders, delicious cocktails, and sunscreen in the bathrooms ensure your arvo sesh is set.

Find it at 30 Aberdeen St, Geelong West

Little Creatures

Arguably the best brewery in the Geelong region (certainly the most well-known), Little Creatures is always a good idea. The laneways of the brewery are filled with the quirk and character this space is known for and those afternoon rays filter perfectly between the buildings. Play a song on the pianos as you walk past and have a sticky beak inside White Rabbit.

My favourite way to enjoy Little Creatures? Grab a large group of friends and head down for a Sunday sesh. Order a Furphy if you’re there for the classic, but my fave is the Rogers Amber Ale – goes down a treat and you’ll look like you know your beer! Add some pizzas and you’re set for an arvo filled with good beer, good food and good vibes.

Find it at 221 Swanston St, Geelong

Centra

You know a place is good when you think “damn, I should come here more often.’

The courtyard at Centra feels like backyard drinks at your cool friend’s house – the garden, green walls, undercover area and the exposed brick all coming together for a relaxed vibe where you’re sure to feel right at home.

Make sure to try the frose and some of the phenomenal food – defs a step above the average pub grub! Plus, with cool events like wine tastings with a sommelier, there’s always something unique to add to the experience!

Find it at 131 Yarra St, Geelong

Sweet Cheeks

One of the newer additions to the Geelong nightlife, Sweet Cheeks is the go-to dessert bar. This place is practically made for summer nights out with the girls (especially those nights where you want to inflict Instagram envy upon your followers!). With to-die-for desserts and a deliciously pink rooftop bar, you can’t go wrong!

Make sure to carb load up on a stack of pancakes while devouring some of their cocktails. My recommendation? The Turkish Delight. Delicious. Chef’s kiss.

Find it at Level 1/71 Yarra St, Geelong

Please note, Sweet Cheeks is currently closed due to fire damage.

Recess

While downstairs is one of my favourite places in Geelong to eat, upstairs at Recess is one of my favourite places to drink. As the sunsets behind St. Mary’s and is replaced by lights of the city, Recess offers the perfect vantage point to soak up the city, beverage in hand.

So, who would I take to Recess? As much as I love it for a girls’ night, Recess to me screams romance. Perfect for enjoying the ambience of city views on a romantic date night. A couple of wines, delicious food and a cocktail or two to finish and I’m feeling wined, dined and spoiled. Definitely makes for a good impression!

Find it at 247 Moorabool St, Geelong

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