Crowne Plaza Geelong has officially opened, adding a new premium hotel to the city’s evolving waterfront precinct.
The $120 million new build is located directly on the bay and adjacent to the soon to open Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre. Its opening comes as Geelong continues to strengthen its position as a destination for tourism, major events and business travel, with strong demand already evident during the summer period.
General Manager John Dickson said the opening reflected growing momentum for the city.
“The focus has been on creating a hotel that feels connected to Geelong, its waterfront and its community,” he said. “Opening during a period of strong visitor activity has been an encouraging start.”
The hotel features 200 rooms and suites with either city or bay views, designed with contemporary finishes and a coastal inspired palette. A significant commissioned artwork by local artist Kate Robertson appears throughout the property, drawing on native flora planted within the hotel and surrounding precinct.
Food and beverage venues include ground floor café Verde on Smythe, first floor Italian restaurant Sociali Trattoria & Bar, and level ten Skyline Bar, which offers views across Corio Bay. Additional facilities include a gym, an indoor heated pool and eight flexible event spaces with natural light and waterfront outlooks.
Plenary Group CEO Paul Crowe said the project was delivered through collaboration with IHG, the City of Greater Geelong and local stakeholders, and would support the city’s visitor economy by increasing access to quality accommodation.
Crowne Plaza Geelong is the brand’s first regional Victorian property and forms part of the broader transformation of the Geelong waterfront, with further development planned across the precinct in coming years.
To coincide with the opening, the hotel has introduced a stay offer including buffet breakfast for two and a $50 food and beverage credit. The offer is available for bookings made by 23 April 2026, for stays until 30 December 2026, subject to availability and conditions.
