Geelong Powerhouse Street Art
A dynamic urban exploration site featuring vibrant street art amidst decaying industrial architecture, now also a vintage treasure trove.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Geelong Powerhouse Street Art
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dynamic urban exploration site featuring vibrant street art amidst decaying industrial architecture, now also a vintage treasure trove.
"A crumbling relic with amazing art, but watch your step!"
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The ground can be uneven and debris-filled. Prioritize comfort and safety for exploring.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture the impressive street art and unique industrial setting.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Murals
Various walls
Discover large-scale, colorful murals by talented artists that transform the industrial landscape.
Industrial Relics
Exterior and interior (where accessible)
Explore the remnants of a bygone industrial era, adding a unique backdrop to the art.
Vintage Treasures
The Malthouse (current location)
Browse a unique collection of vintage clothing, memorabilia, and quirky finds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Powerhouse
Artistic Evolution
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The ground can be uneven and debris-filled. Prioritize comfort and safety for exploring.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture the impressive street art and unique industrial setting.
🧐 Manage Expectations
The art scene has evolved; expect a mix of graffiti and vintage goods.
⚠️ Be Cautious
It's an 'urban exploration' site with hazards. Watch your step!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The ground can be uneven and debris-filled. Prioritize comfort and safety for exploring.
📸 Bring Your Camera
Capture the impressive street art and unique industrial setting.
🧐 Manage Expectations
The art scene has evolved; expect a mix of graffiti and vintage goods.
⚠️ Be Cautious
It's an 'urban exploration' site with hazards. Watch your step!
💰 Consider Donations
Entry might involve voluntary contributions, especially at the vintage section.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Geelong Powerhouse Street Art a fascinating site for urban exploration, appreciating the vibrant murals and industrial remnants. However, some express disappointment that the original graffiti-heavy 'Powerhouse' has evolved into a vintage market, with less extensive street art than before. Safety precautions are frequently advised due to the site's condition.
"This place is "closed" but still highly accessible if you're even slightly adventurous. Just be aware it is a crumbling relic with lots of hazards - watch your step!
Far from its glory days when i visited about 8 years ago - but there are still some amazing pieces. They are largely outnumbered by pigeons and artless tags, but still worth a wander for those that like a little urban exploration and seeing crumbling industrial relics."
Jeff DeMaria
"The old powerhouse graffiti art place is no longer at its original site. This new spot, aka, The Malthouse aka Powerhouse is a vintage warehouse. It is vintage clothing, paraphernalia and ladders galore. Sadly the beautiful graffiti art of the previous place is rather lacking here ... All we have left are the photos we took before. The old location is being redeveloped into apartments. But once I got over my disappointment I was able to appreciate what is now a treasure trove of vintage goods and knick knacks. You might enjoy this place. Just don't expect the graffiti art the powerhouse Geelong was known for."
Maria Ngo
"More than interesting place, I hope we could enter the factory to look at the entire building."
Danna Zh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The site is located in North Geelong. Public transport options are available, but driving or ride-sharing might be more convenient. Check local transport schedules for the best routes.
Parking availability can vary. It's advisable to check for local parking regulations or look for designated areas nearby.
Accessibility can be challenging due to the industrial nature of the site. Uneven terrain and potential debris mean it's best suited for those comfortable with urban exploration.
The art is spread across the site. A good approach is to wander and explore, keeping an eye out for murals and tags.
Geelong is about an hour's drive from Melbourne, making it a feasible day trip for those interested in street art and urban exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the street art areas is often free, but the associated vintage market (The Malthouse) may have a small entry fee or suggest donations.
As it's an open-air site, the street art is generally accessible during daylight hours. The vintage market has specific operating times.
Access to the interior of the old buildings can be restricted or hazardous. It's best to admire from the exterior and designated accessible areas. +1
While the street art itself is often free to view, some visitors have reported being asked for 'donations' by the owner, particularly at the vintage section.
The original 'Powerhouse' gallery known for graffiti has been redeveloped. The current site, often called 'The Malthouse,' is more of a vintage warehouse with some street art.
📸 📸 Photography
Look for large-scale murals, interesting architectural details of the industrial buildings, and any vintage elements. Drone footage has also captured unique perspectives.
Drone usage might be permitted, but always check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors and the site's condition.
Absolutely. The combination of decaying industrial structures and vibrant street art makes it a prime location for urban exploration photography.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography might require permission. Always be respectful of the site.
Expect a mix of large murals by artists like Adnate and Rone, alongside smaller tags and graffiti. The vintage items also offer unique photo opportunities. 
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
The current location, 'The Malthouse,' is a vintage warehouse offering clothing, memorabilia, and unique knick-knacks.
Geelong city center offers various dining options. It's recommended to explore the city for cafes and restaurants after your visit.
It's unlikely to buy art directly from artists on-site, as it's more of an open-air display. The vintage market offers different kinds of goods.
The vintage market is known for its eclectic mix of items, from clothing to industrial relics, offering a treasure trove for collectors.
The vintage market is an excellent place to find unique souvenirs and quirky items that you won't find elsewhere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Supervision is key. While the art is engaging, parents should be mindful of the environment and ensure children stay within safe, accessible areas. The vintage market at The Malthouse might also offer some interesting items for younger explorers, but the primary draw for families would be the visual spectacle of the street art.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Consider visiting during the golden hours for dramatic lighting on the murals and structures. Drone photography can offer unique aerial perspectives of the sprawling art and the industrial complex. Remember to be respectful of the site and any other visitors while capturing your shots.
🛍️ Vintage & Retro Shoppers
Be prepared to spend some time browsing through the eclectic collection. The atmosphere is part of the charm, offering a nostalgic journey through past trends and styles. It's a shopping experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Evolution of Geelong's Powerhouse
However, due to redevelopment, the original powerhouse site is no longer the primary hub for this art. The focus has shifted to a new location, often referred to as 'The Malthouse.' While this new spot still features some street art, it's now primarily a vintage warehouse brimming with clothing, memorabilia, and industrial relics. This evolution means visitors should adjust their expectations, as the experience is now a blend of urban art and vintage shopping rather than solely a graffiti mecca.
Despite the changes, the spirit of urban exploration and appreciation for art persists. The new location offers a different, yet still intriguing, experience for those interested in Geelong's industrial heritage and creative scene. It's a testament to how spaces can be repurposed while retaining a unique character.
Urban Exploration and Safety
Many visitors recommend wearing sturdy, closed-toe shoes to navigate the site comfortably and safely. While the art is captivating, the environment itself is a significant part of the appeal for urban explorers. It's a chance to see a piece of Geelong's industrial past preserved, albeit in a state of decay, adorned with contemporary art.
It's important to note that while the site is accessible, it's not a formally managed gallery. This means there are inherent risks associated with exploring such locations. Respecting the environment and prioritizing personal safety will ensure a more rewarding visit.
The Vintage Scene at The Malthouse
Unlike the raw, open-air canvas of the original powerhouse, The Malthouse provides a more curated, albeit eclectic, shopping experience. It's a place where you can find one-of-a-kind items and soak in a nostalgic atmosphere. While the street art is still present, the emphasis has shifted towards the vintage goods, making it a destination for those who appreciate retro aesthetics and unique finds.
Visitors often find themselves pleasantly surprised by the sheer variety of items available. It's a place that rewards patient browsing and an eye for the unusual. If you're looking for souvenirs or simply enjoy the thrill of discovering hidden gems, The Malthouse is worth exploring.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit