The $120 million Crowne Plaza Geelong will open on January 23, 2026, aiming to capitalise on a string of summer events in Geelong.
“We’re excited to introduce a new level of accommodation that complements the region’s existing attractions and encourages more visitors to experience what the region has to offer,” said Crowne Plaza Geelong’s general manager, John Dickson.
The hotel will offer a café, a restaurant, a level 10 Skybar, a gym, an indoor swimming pool and interestingly – given its location – some meeting space.
The hotel is located within the convention centre precinct where Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre is set to open in July next year. Both are being built by Plenary Group.
The Skybar is the first venue of its kind in Geelong and will offer wine, craft beer and gin from the local region.
“Plenary’s investment backs the future of Geelong as the beating heart of some of the greatest tourism attractions in Australia including world-class wine, produce, tourism attractions and major events coming out of Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula, the Surf Coast and the Great Ocean Road,” said Plenary CEO, Paul Crowe.
Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine executive director, Tracy Carter, said the tourism body was “delighted” with the forthcoming hotel opening.
“It’s a significant milestone for the precinct and the opportunities our region has with Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, but it’s also an important addition to the local accommodation offer as we look to build new markets, particularly internationally.
“Hotels with global brand recognition are a crucial part of the product mix.”
As the convention centre nears opening, a subvention funding initiative for the venue recently opened, offering significant discounts to event organisers.
