Here's our list of the best bars and pubs in the great regional city of Geelong.
Like our Beat Magazine family has done for Melbourne’s pubs and bars, we’ll be taking you on a virtual pub and bar crawl of Geelong, uncovering the best spots to get a cold beer on tap, sip a wine, down a solid parmi and, of course, have a boogie to some killer live music.
We’re taking the regional reigns, giving you a good old country and surf coast outing. Let’s start with Forté’s home base in Geelong.
Why not check out the best rooftop bars in Geelong for sky-high drinking?
Here are the best pubs and bars to get around in Geelong.
The Best Pubs in Geelong
Geelong Hotel
Address: 69 Yarra St, Geelong
Vibe: Revamped with neons, party central
Outdoor area: Outdoor beer garden and rooftop bar
Dedicated menu: Pub classics + seaside snacks
As with many of the pubs on this list, Geelong Hotel has had many names, including the unforgettable Bended Elbow, and seen many faces. With a much needed facelift, Geelong Hotel (better known to locals as GH), is a Friday and Saturday night go to for a classic pub meal, standout cocktails, beats galore and the occasional live music act in their dedicated upstairs bandroom.
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Eureka Hotel
Address: 98 Little Malop Street
Vibe: Relaxed and casual
Outdoor area: Garden and rooftop bar
Dedicated menu: Pub classics
Having just opened once again, Eureka Hotel is where to go for those inner city pub vibes. With a brand-new d&b Audiotechnik P.A. system, cutting-edge lighting, and mesmerizing visuals, the Eureka Hotel is set to resurrect live music in the heart of Geelong. There are big acts on the horizon, with announcements to be made very soon. Drawing inspiration from renowned venues like The Espy and Garden State Hotel, the venue has undergone a remarkable transformation. The entire venue has been reimagined and divided into five distinct spaces, positioning it as one of the largest and most unique pubs and live music venues in Victoria. As the management puts it, “The vision is to give Geelong something that it’s been asking for.”
Sailor’s Rest
Address: 3 Moorabool Street, Geelong
Vibe: Summery, laid back during day, club vibes past 9PM
Outdoor area: Rooftop Bar and beer garden
Dedicated menu: Mix of Classic Pub and tapas
This multi-level gem offers dinner, drinks and a view.
Located on Geelong’s waterfront, Sailors Rest shakes it up from an all day brunch spot to a certified good time as the sun goes down thanks to their incredible rooftop bar.
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Queen of the West
Address: 126 Pakington Street, Geelong West
Vibe: A nod to tradition with a modern twist
Outdoor area: Beer garden
Dedicated menu: Pub classics
Recently regaining its former title and becoming ‘The Queen of the West’, this venue i injecting new life into Pakington Street. The front bar echos the vibes of an old-fashioned pub with a contemporary edge, with live performances in the front bar, and a diverse and extensive menu will cater to all tastes, featuring pub classics that range from indulgent parmi’s and succulent steaks to juicy burgers. And for sports enthusiasts, there’s no need to compromise—large high-definition TVs will dot the bar area, ensuring that every exhilarating moment of the game is captured.
Malt Shovel Tap House
Address: Corner Malop St & Bellerine Street, Geelong
Vibe: Laid back, Sunday arvo vibes
Outdoor area: Beer Garden
Dedicated menu: Burgers, Snacks and classic pub meals
Malt Shovel Tap House is a home for craft beer lovers. Split into multiple dining areas, including an art deco front room, a beer garden, a more intimate booth setting and a beer hall reminiscent area, Malt Shovel Tap House caters for everyone with their well rounded offering.
Whilst specialists in rotisserie meats, they have a long list of burgers, classic pub meals and sharing plates on offer. On the beer side, you can’t go past their tasting paddle to have a taste of everything on tap.
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Grovedale Hotel
Address: 236-258 Torquay Road, Grovedale
Vibe: Live music, craft beers and good food
Outdoor area: Garden bar
Dedicated menu: Pub classics
The Grovedale Hotel, affectionately known as ‘The Grovey’, is a cornerstone in the Geelong pub scene – known for consistently raising the bar when it comes to style, entertainment and food.
When you want simple done right, head here.
The Cremorne Hotel
Address: 336 Pakington Street, Newtown
Vibe: Laid back, sports pub
Outdoor area: Small beer garden
Dedicated menu: Classic pub meals
With footy season just around the corner, The Cremorne will be frothing.
Located in the river end of Pakington Street, just a stone’s throw from GMHBA Stadium, The Cremorne is a pre and post game favourite for Geelong Cat’s fans and players, alike, and not just because it is co-owned by AFL legend Billy Brownless who is often seen chatting to locals at the bar. With great classic pub meals, cold frothies flowing, a great atmosphere and TAB and Keno facilities, The Cremorne is a local go-to spot.
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The Elephant and Castle Hotel
Address: 158 McKillop Street, Geelong
Vibe: Old-worth English pub
Outdoor area: Atrium
Dedicated menu: Elevated pub meals
Nestled on the eastern fringe of the City of Geelong, The Elephant & Castle Hotel has been part of the landscape in town for years now, with a history stretching back over 130 years. Owned by Geelong’s infamous Darryn Lyons, the last 20 months in and out of lockdown have truly made us appreciate the quirky, yet classic interior, the endless roster of live entertainment, the welcoming patrons and the generous pub feeds.
Murphys
Address: 30 Aberdeen Street, Geelong West
Vibe: Loud, energetic
Outdoor area: Rooftop Bar
Dedicated menu: Irish pub classics and pizza
Formerly Irish Murphy’s, Murphys has a rich history in Geelong as one of our oldest pubs. Established in 1855, this charmer is also linked to football, with the Geelong Cats Football club having originated there. It went on to become a stereotypical Irish pub that served loud live music and dancing of a night, trivia nights and a lovely Sunday lunch for the family. Murphys has since evolved into a more modern space with a gorgeous stained glass enclosed, rooftop bar showing a stunning view of Geelong, however they have not lost the original pub charm.
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The Sporting Globe
Address: 175-177 Ryrie Street, Geelong
Vibe: Modern sports bar
Outdoor area: Outdoor beer garden
Dedicated menu: Pub classics + bar snacks
Every year on these fine grand final days, many a fan flock to their local Sporto – and for good reason. The Sporting Globe’s grand final day celebration has all you need to catch every moment of the game with about 50 plus flat screens, an epic menu and a number of drink specials – along with the awesome game atmosphere.
The Inn Hotel
Address: 58 Corio Street, Geelong
Vibe: Mix of laid back Sunday arvo vibes and festival energy
Outdoor area: Beer garden and marquee car park
Dedicated menu: Classic meets contemporary cuisine
The Inn Hotel has built a name for itself in recent years as the pub that brings both the local talent and Australian household names to their car park parties with DJ sets a-plenty. A quality spot for a Friday and Saturday night shuffle and a Sunday session all the same, The Inn has quality food from their seasonal menu, quality drinks (espresso martinis are a go-to!) and quality tunes.
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The National Hotel
Address: 191 Moorabool Street, Geelong
Vibe: Relaxed
Outdoor area: Rooftop Bar
Dedicated menu: Classic Pub Meals
Ah, the National Hotel. To many this historic building is plastered with stories of wild nights, untame fun, legendary live performances, and heartwarming community. The Nash was trash and so were the people that lined the bar (it was a self-proclaimed nametag), but these days the National Hotel has cleaned up and has a sparkling reputation. Now a seated pub with three modern, yet homely areas (including a fireplace in the middle section) split across three stories, The National Hotel boasts a warm classic pub menu and tanks of Carlton on tap. Their rooftop area is a standout feature from the redevelopment and often has acoustic live music.
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Sawyers Arms Tavern
Address: 2 Noble Street, Geelong
Vibe: Laid back and on the upper class side
Outdoor area: Small outdoor seating area
Dedicated menu: Seasonal menu incorporating classics
Another pub in close proximity to GMHBA Stadium, Sawyers Arms Tavern has been a Geelong icon since 1850. Sawyers Arms is a stunning building that boasts exposed brick walls and a stained wood panelled bar, with high-quality cuisine to match. Their seasonal menu incorporates pub classics and plentiful seafood options made from local produce, whilst their wine selection is curated to include both local talent and renowned bottles.
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Belmont Hotel
Address: 77 High Street, Belmont
Vibe: Sunday arvo breezy
Outdoor area: Rooftop Area
Dedicated menu: Fine dining meets classic pub meal
This 1920’s establishment is located at the top of town on High Street. A favourite pick as a function venue, Belmont Hotel has embraced their art-deco interior with complimentary classic pub meal meets fining dining selection and their wide cocktail range. The rooftop is the perfect spot for a Sunday session or to gather the mates to watch sport over a pint. If you love an amaretto sour, these guys do the best in town!
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The Deck
Address: 2-4 Gheringhap Street, Geelong
Vibe: Chill, fun and good vibes all round
Outdoor area: Beer garden
Dedicated menu: Classic pub meals and killer drink specials
Since its killer makeover a couple of years ago, The Deck on Gheringhap Street has quickly become a favourite amongst locals looking for a cold beer, quality meal and decent tunes to see them through the week.
Gold Diggers Arms
Address: 87 Skene St, Newtown
Vibe: Classy comfort
Outdoor area: N/A
Dedicated menu: Pub classics with added flair
Another veteran on the Geelong pub crawl is the 1854 established Gold Diggers Arms. One of the last pubs tucked in a residential area, and a short walk from our Forté office, Gold Diggers Arms, affectionately known as ‘The Diggers’, is a blend of classy and comfortable. Sectioned into the public bar, the Saloon, the dining space and the Atticus room, Diggers is both an after work drinks destination and a luscious family dinner space.
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Telegraph Hotel
Address: 2 Pakington Street, Geelong West
Vibe: The perfect place to meet
Outdoor area: Rooftop Area
Dedicated menu: Gastropub fare
Sitting pretty right at the top of Pakington Street with an unmistakable and iconic Art Deco façade, the Tele is renowned for its a la carte dining, comfortable spaces with full service and a seasonal modern Australian menu. Open for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday, you’ll find everything from grazing boards, salads and cheese, to beef cheeks, housemade gnocchi, burnt basque cheesecake and even crème brulee.
A highlight coming into summer the award-winning Rooftop Terrace, which is the perfect spot for a few cocktails with your pals. We spy a cocktail list with espresso martini, telegraph tiramisu, and a berrylicious mojito.
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The Barwon Club Hotel
Address: 509 Moorabool St, South Geelong
Vibe: Time-tested and boisterous
Outdoor area: Beer Garden
Dedicated menu: Classic pub fare
Another iconic live music venue, the BC is everything you love about a pub. They have long been the go-to destination for the traditional pub experience in Geelong since it was first opened in the early ’90s, and it doesn’t seem like things are slowing down.
Perfect for winding down after a long day, the beer garden offers punters a chance to escape the rush of inside – a true sign the venue is still alive – with a variety of different seating options while you enjoy your parmi or burger. Seek shelter under the Barn where large tables sit along the wall, or walk a bit further and enter an open space with considerable bench seating. With huge acts regularly playing the band room, a juke-box blasting tunes in the outdoor area and regular DJs playing inside and in the beer garden, there’s bound to be something to pique your interest whatever day of the week you choose to roll up to the BC.
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The Valley Inn Hotel
Address:: 120 Fyans St, South Geelong
Vibe: Sports pub
Outdoor area: Alfresco
Dedicated menu: Classic pub meals
A well-known favourite among the locals, The Valley has something for everyone – from a state-of-the-art sports bar to alfresco dining, chef-designed menu and fresh tank beer on-site… this little gem is a go-to for footy fans.
No matter your tipple, you’ll find something refreshing to drink at The Valley thanks to an extensive wine list with a range of local and imported beers and ciders on tap. If you’re hungry there’s no stress as this place offers all-day dining from 10am right through to 8:30pm. Pick from the multiple parmis, chicken kiev, honey soy chicken wings or delicious pizza.
LP Geelong
Address: 99/101 Corio St, Geelong
Vibe: A hub for Food, Drinks & Dance
Outdoor area: Courtyard
Dedicated menu: Pub classics
Located in the heart of Geelong, LP is a locally run venue, with the aim of providing “Food, Drinks & Dance” to the masses. They say if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it… and the team at LP live by this rule.
By embracing what came before, this team preserve the best aspects of Geelong’s oldest pub venue, whilst still giving the venue their signature LP spin.
The Best Bars in Geelong
The 18th Amendment Bar
Address: 82A Little Malop Street, Geelong
Vibe: Speakeasy class
Outdoor area: N/A
Dedicated menu: Fancy cocktails
This multi-award-winning prohibition-style speakeasy, and brainchild of our darling Gorge Camorra, is by far one of the most popular bars in the Geelong region and for good reason. Take a step up the Little Malop Street stairway and back in time to experience class and concoction innovation. With groundbreaking cocktail creations and Instagrammable designs, The 18th Amendment Bar is more than a drink with friends.
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The Brewery Geelong
Address: Unit 2/73b Little Malop St, Geelong
Vibe: Surf coast vibes and ice-cold beer
Outdoor area: Front courtyard
Dedicated menu: Craft beer
From the Bells Beach Brewing team, Positioned conveniently at the iconic bar space located in Denny’s Place behind Beav’s Bar, The Brewery fits right in with an urban industrial fit-out and exterior, understated décor and abundance of seating room, truly making it the ultimate destination to sink a few surf-inspired pints with the crew, whether it be Saturday night or for a cheeky Sunday arvo session.
Piano Bar
Address: 90 – 92 Little Malop Street, Geelong
Vibe: Popping
Outdoor area: N/A
Dedicated menu: Snack food
Piano Bar has taken Geelong by storm since their inception in 2015, having since expanded to have Ballarat, Colac and Bendigo locations. The Geelong franchise returned to the Little Malop Street family in a bigger venue for bigger entertainment. As the name suggests, Piano Bar offers sing-along entertainment accompanied by the ivory keys, and, dependent on the night, by fabulous drag queens. You and your friends will have one of the best nights of your life within the Piano Bar walls, enjoying snack bar food and a general selection of wines, beers and spirits.
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Medusa Bar
Address: 2 Rock O’Cashel Lane, Geelong
Vibe: Melbourne hidden bar feel
Outdoor area: N/A
Dedicated menu: Snack food
Brought to you by the familiar faces behind Valhalla Brewing & Taproom, Medusa is one of Geelong’s best-kept secrets thanks to its DJs spinning vinyl, movie nights and some seriously unreal happy hour specials.
Valhalla Brewing Taproom
Address: 12-14 Union Street, Geelong
Vibe: Lazy afternoon fun
Outdoor area: Street dining
Dedicated menu: Jaffles
Scott Hunt opened Valhalla Taproom in 2019 and his personality has been seeping into the patrons ever since not only through the love of beer, including their own Valhalla brew, but through the love of heavy music played on their vinyl set up. True to the Valhalla legend, this place honours living your best life and enjoying the things most precious.Patrons are encouraged to bring their own vinyl to spin and share with the community as they enjoy a cold one, eating amazing spaghetti jaffles and playing UNO. Additionally they feature live, local music on Fridays from 7.30PM – 930PM.
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Wah Bar
Address: Cunningham Pier, 10 Western Beach, Geelong
Vibe: Cool, energetic fun
Outdoor area: Tables located on the stairs
Dedicated menu: Asian menu
Connected to Wah Wah Gee, Wah Bar is unmissable with its base on the end of Cunningham Pier, at the top of the stairs and illuminated by neon signs. Sharing the bao bun and delicious dumpling menu (the crispy chicken bao bun is to die for) of its sister company, Wah Bah takes up the vibrancy and boldness of the cocktail menu and adds a dancefloor to the mix. A solid way to spend your Saturday night.
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Edge Geelong
Address: 6/8 Eastern Beach Rd, Geelong
Vibe: Airy, easygoing waterfront bliss
Outdoor area: Main strip, Deck
Dedicated menu: Something for everyone
Whether you’re looking for a bite to eat or a drink, the waterfront’s Edge Geelong Bar & Restaurant has a little bit of everything for everyone – and it’s got the views and location to match!
There There
Address: 8 Malop Street, Geelong
Vibe: Chill and vibrant
Outdoor area: Connected to Captains
Dedicated menu: Cocktails on top of cocktails
There There is a the go-to for a good night out. If you love killer retro beats, if you love cocktails and if you love to boogie down, There, There is your place. With a retro fit out including dial phones, vinyl record wall displays, double and triple denim walls, leather couches, box TV’s, and a vine centrepiece, There There pays homage to the 70’s through style, music and their rich cocktail menu. The more outrageously coloured your shirt and wide your flare pants, the better.
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Beavs Bar
Address: 77 Little Malop Street, Geelong.
Vibe: Retro, metropolitan-feel
Outdoor area: N/A
Dedicated menu: Rotating roster of live musicians
This charming venue behind the big red door has been a favourite hangout for years now and has become the go-to place to listen to some acoustic original singer-songwriters, chill out on the lounge having a drink with your mates or partake in a cheeky few rounds of karaoke on a Wednesday night. With a fun atmosphere and eclectic fitout, there’s really nothing like Beavs anywhere else in town: a mishmash of coffee tables and couches, framed photos and artwork adorning the red walls; a string of shabby barbies hanging from the ceiling and a quality bar stacked with local craft beers and wines, along with an array of spirits to satisfy your needs. It’s quirky and it has personality, and that’s why we love it.
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Manhattan Bar
Address: 9 James St, Geelong
Vibe: New York bar
Outdoor area: Street seating
Dedicated menu: Craft beer, cocktails and vodka infusions
Manhattan Bar, The 18th Amendment‘s younger and more laid-back sister will have you sipping on craft beers, cocktails and quality spirits all weekend long. Manhattan Bar provides all the vibes of a New York bar in the centre of Geelong – cheap drinks, an unpretentious atmosphere, and a unique experience with equally unique individuals. Think dimly lit, big neon signs and ample seating, including booths making it the perfect spot to sit back, relax and take the edge off after a long week. With the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll coursing through its veins, inside you’ll be met with an insta-worthy neon sign as the backdrop for your weekend drinks, with the added touch of vintage tour posters, sexy lighting, framed portraits of rock gods and goddesses, retro vinyl stickers lining the furniture and some of the best records lining the walls.
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Recess Bar
Address: 247 Moorabool St, Geelong
Vibe: Late-night grown up fun
Outdoor area: Rooftop courtyard
Dedicated menu: Gluten-free menu and playfully named cocktails
Recess is Central Geelong’s only Gluten-Free Restaurant offering you a space to run around, have a snack, play with friends and make new ones! While their food is A+, it’s also one of our favourite places to go for rooftop cocktails on a balmy summer night (or any night really).
This cocktail bar impresses from the moment you head upstairs. You’re struck with a stunning beer garden (aka rooftop courtyard) with sweeping views of the beautiful St Mary’s church. With fairy lights, bar stools, umbrellas and greenery, the rooftop is a real beauty and is the perfect place to sip on their playfully named cocktails. From the classics like espresso martini and French Kiss, to the Risky Rumour, Naughty Nomad and the First Base. You’ll have a blast trying all the different concoctions.
Pair your rooftop visit with Drag + DJs, which perform every Friday and Saturday night, hosting ‘Fabulous Friday’ and ‘Saucy Saturdays’ with Queens in Sequins for Geelong’s Only Free Drag Show.
