The Geelong Botanic Gardens was begun by Daniel Bruce in 1858. Bruce was a renowned botanist who accompanied Ludwig Leichhardt on two of his expeditions, and was married to the youngest daughter of John Batman, co-founder of Melbourne. He studied botany at Royal Kew Gardens in London and enthusiastically set about developing the 200 acres set aside at Limeburners Point by the newly formed Geelong Council in the 1850's. The gardens are considered second only to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Melbourne and the colourful history is best explained on the free guided tours which operate Wednesdays at 2.30pm., and in summer, at the same time on Sundays. The gardens are open daily for private inspection.

Also see Eastern Park