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Things to Do in Adelaide

Adelaide Australia Things to Do

Here are endless fun things to do in Adelaide which are waiting for you to make your trip to South Australia a memorable one. Ranging from admiring the best of nature in its Botanical Parks, and conserved forested areas, the city of Adelaide also has a very rich history that awaits you to explore through its ancient establishments like the Adelaide Gaol, Glenelg, and much more.

If you are planning a trip to this beautiful city with your family, the variety of things to do in Adelaide with Kids would surely make your visit even more special. You can take your kids to Latitude, TreeClimb, Adelaide Zoo, and many other places. Moreover, you can even plan a picnic with your family at one of the public gardens of Adelaide or get aboard a boat to admire the beautiful views from across the Torrens River and create some beautiful memories.

Some of the most unique activities to do in Adelaide that you cannot skip on your visit include a trip to the Himeji Garden, taking a hot air balloon ride, riding the Adelaide Tram, exploring the Chinatown, gorging on some delicious food at the Adelaide Central Market, and exploring the iconic museums of the city.

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Adelaide Zoo
This iconic place, the second-oldest zoo in Australia, is much more than an animal exhibit. It exists to save animals from getting extinct and bring people back to nature, making it one of the best places to visit in Adelaide. It houses almost 3000 species of mammals, reptiles, fish, and birds in their natural habitat. You can see indigenous species like the African lion, American alligator, Capybara, Little Penguin, Rhino iguana, etc. here.

Location: Frome Road, Adelaide.

Highlights: second oldest zoo in australia, home to 3000 different species, watch penguins and rhino, wildshow animal experiences, night walking tours

Timing: Every day 9:30 am to 5:00 pm

Price:  AUD 35 per person.
Adelaide Central Market
Experience a youthful energetic thrive in the hub of tasty gourmet and rich culture in the awe-striking Adelaide Central Market which has been stealing hearts for nearly 145 years. Established in 1869, this beautiful market accommodates more than 80 traders making it one of the largest markets in the countr abd one of the best places to visit in Adelaide.

Every week from Tuesday till Saturday, the market buzz with life loading up with all sorts of organic fruits, vegetables, seafood, poultry, premium meat, gourmet cheeses, and all sorts of bakery foods.

Every month millions of visitors stream through the market. Events like guest chef briefing on cooking tips and having cooking classes is a common scenario. One can speak to the traders who have been peddling their wares here for decades and huge knowledge to share about the market, its rich history and its versatility. One can gather information on the local produce and fetch ideas about Australian cuisine. 
Cleland Conservation Park
If you want to experience the natural and cultural beauty of Adelaide, a visit to Cleland Conservation Park is a must. The area includes the renowned Cleland Wildlife Park, the Mount Lofty Peak and the famous Waterfall Gully. There are walking as well as cycling trails that let you enjoy the varied wildlife and picturesque view of Adelaide hills and it is one of the best tourist places in adelaide.

Highlights: Cleland Wildlife Park is the habitat of a hundred and thirty native Australian species. These include the kangaroos and koalas. Stop by the Cleland Cafe for a refreshing meal and coffee. The cafe uses fresh and seasonal produces for its cuisines.

Location: The protected area is located twenty-two kilometers from Adelaide.

Timing: The Cleland Conservation Park is opened 24/7. The Cleland Wildlife Park is open from 9:30 AM to 5 PM.

Price: The entry fee to Cleland Wildlife Park is $22 for adults. The fee for children is $11. 
Mt. Lofty Botanic Garden
One of the most scenic tourist places in Adelaide, there is something new to discover at each corner of its whopping 97 hectares. You will be amazed at not only the stunning diversity and dramatic beauty here but also how it is a canvas for artists and sculptors who have showcased their works here. The beauty of the garden changes with the seasons. In the spring it bursts with colours due to rich flora and in winters it becomes a white wonderland covered with mist and fog.

Location: Lampert Road, Crafers, Adelaide

Highlights: Heritage Rose Garden, Woodland Garden, Fern Gully, Lakeside Trail and its themes like The Sun, The Senses, Wood, Water, etc., sculptors by Australia’s best-known artist Greg Johns.

Timing: Monday-Friday: 8:30 am- 4:00 pm
Weekends: 10:00 am-5:00 pm
Art Gallery Of South Australia
South Australian Museum
Known for its world-class collection of natural history and cultural remnants, the South Australian Museum is one of the best sightseeing spots of the city. It has the biggest collection of Australian Aboriginal cultural objects and more than 3000 artifacts that remain on display for the visitors to enjoy and it is one of the best places to visit in Adalaide.

The biodiversity gallery focuses on the land as well as the marine wildlife present in South Australia with gallant information on each of them. Apart from these, there are other galleries too which include Pacific Cultures, Opalised Fossils, Megafauna, Mawson, Minerals Ediacaran, and the Ancient Egyptian Room. Exhibitions, different government programs, and summer events are quite popular here. The entry is free for all.

Timing: 10:00am to 5:00pm

Location: North Terrace, Adelaide

Victoria Square
Located at the center of Adelaide, Victoria Square, also known as Tarndanyangga is a town plaza. There are a number of buildings and public institutions bordering the square, including the Supreme Court of South Australia. At the center is the statue of Queen Victoria and it is one of the best tourist places in Adelaide.

The square was developed and refurbished a number of times and now hosts a varied range of entertainment activities. There are almost endless things that one can do in and around Victoria Square. The large open space is excellent to take a walk after lunch or to work out.

Highlights: The Adelaide Central Market is within easy reach. You can pick your lunch there and then explore the shops to buy some souvenirs of the journey.

Location: The Square is a few minutes’ walks away from the Rundle Mall. You can also reach there by tram and other public transport.
Morialta Conservation Park
If you are looking for bird watching or rock climbing in Adelaide, Morialta Conservation Park is the right place for you. This protected area has a rugged and gully landscape with three waterfalls. You can find steep hills and perched cliffs. There are more than ninety species of birds including a yellow-tailed black cockatoo, black-winged currawong, Adelaide Rosella, chestnut-rumped heath wren etc and it is one of the amazing places to go in Adelaide.

Highlights: For rock-climbing enthusiasts, the Park offers a number of different routes and grades. It is one of the most popular rock climbing regions in Adelaide. Apart from that, there are picnic areas and playground as well as a barbeque facility to enjoy your day.

Location: The Conservation Park is located 10 km northeast of Adelaide.

Timing: The timing for walkers is from sunrise to sunset.

Price: There is no entry fee. But the fees of hiring the Morialta Resource Centre are $210 for a full day. 
Carrick Hill
Carrick Hill is a grand heritage manor-style structure that used to be the home of Sir Edward and Lady Ursula Hayward. The building houses a number of best in class fine art collections and furniture and fittings. It is surrounded by picturesque gardens where weddings can be organized. One can take a leisure stroll or a guided tour in and around the home and it is one of the amazing Adelaide sightseeing places.

Highlights: Visit the little gift shop located inside the house to buy a souvenir for your journey. Stop by at Carrick Hill Cafe which is 15 minutes away from the house. The cafe offers delicious cakes and coffee as well as picnic boxes. You can also enjoy mouth-watering cuisine cooked with fresh ingredients.

Location: The property is located at the base of the Adelaide hills.

Timing: 10 AM to 4:30 PM from Wednesday to Sunday and Public Holidays.

Price: $12.00 Adults, $8.00 Concession and $28.00 Family. 

Rundle Mall
If you are looking for some shopping in Adelaide, there is no better place than Rundle Mall. It is the first Australian pedestrian street mall. It houses a number of leading retail stores of South Australia. Whether it is fashion stores, electronics, jewelry, supermarket, departmental store, or food, the mall has it all and it is one of the best places to visit in Adelaide.

Highlight: The historic arcades are the major highlights of the mall. You can take a self-guiding tour brochure and start your journey on the Rundle Mall Discovery Trail. Once you are tired of the shopping and walking, you can rest at one of the several dining areas in the mall and enjoy delicious meals.

Location: The mall is located right in the Adelaide City Centre. It is in close proximity to the Government House and Central Market.

Timing: 9 AM to 7 PM (9 PM) from Monday to Thursday (Friday). 9 AM (11 PM) to 5 PM on Saturday (Sunday).  
Himeji Garden
Himeji Garden provides you a safe haven away from the busy city life. It is one of the most peaceful places in Adelaide. It is a great place to enjoy some quiet moments with your loved ones. You can enjoy a picnic or explore the mesmerizing garden and it is one of the best places to visit in Adelaide.

It was gifted to Adelaide by the sister city Himeji. There are two traditional areas - The sensui area has mountains and lakes while the kare sensui area has rock garden.

Highlights: You can take a walk under the canopy of trees to reach the old fashioned teahouse. You can also visit the traditional Japanese Zen Garden. The Adelaide central market is just a few minutes ride away.

Timing: 8 AM to 5:30 PM from Sunday to Saturday. It closes at 4:30 PM on weekends and public holidays from April to September.
St Peter's Cathedral
St Peter’s Cathedral is a major landmark of Adelaide. Located at the edge of Pennington Terrace and King William Road, this Cathedral has beautiful architecture and a mix of modern and traditional stain glass windows. Inside the building, you can feel the holiness of worship, choirs, incense, and candles and it is one of the amazing places to visit in Adelaide

Highlights: There are experienced tour guides to help you understand the history and importance of the cathedral. They will also explain the religious significance of different artworks inside the cathedral. Next to the main entrance of the cathedral, you can find a small gift shop from where you can purchase the souvenir of your visit.

Location: The St Peter’s Cathedral is just 5 minutes drive away from Rundle Mall.
Timing: 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM from Monday to Saturday and 12:30 PM to 4:00 PM on Sunday.

Price: The price per head for the commercial tours is $5.00. 
Sky City Adelaide
This humongous casino is located at the heritage railway station building and is loved for its elegant architecture, friendly ambience, and for providing world-class gaming experiences. One of the chicest places to visit in Adelaide it hosts the city’s most famous rooftop bars and restaurants that see the best city crowds.

The highlight of SkyCity is the rooftop restaurants like Madame Hanoi and Sean’s Kitchen where you can savour delicious food with incredible views of South Australia. 

Location: 125 North Terrace, Adelaide.

Highlights: Poker, Blackjack, Roulette and automated games, the place has more than 1000 gaming machines, live entertainment and sports at any of the five bars

Price: The entry fee is approximately AUD 31  per person.
Glenelg Beach
Glenelg Beach is the most popular and sought after metropolitan beach of Adelaide city. With easy access, the beach is only a 20 minutes drive from the city center, or all those who love ethnicity can ride the vintage tram in North terrace and land at Moseley Square to take a small turn and reach the wonderful location and it is one of the best tourist places in Adelaide.

 Sandy beaches, brilliant views, rippling gush of waters, buzzing of shopping strip at Jetty road, beach sports like volleyball, nice eateries, great nightlife, the location is a jam-packed entertainment package for all visitors.

Apart from all the thriving and buzzing, one can get some good ocean adventures here too which includes snorkeling and scuba diving. Dolphin sailing tours are also quite popular here. For all the enthusiastic hearts the overnight adventure on a fishing carter is truly alluring. Some of the best restaurants are present on the beachside serving a host of cuisines for all to savor. 
Henley Beach
When it comes to visiting beaches in Adelaide, one can never miss a trip to the exotic Henley beach and explore the beauty of the location. Similar to Glenelg beach, Henley beach can also be reached by fetching a tram ride from the city center and is much easy to access.

Surrounded by classy, top-rated seafood restaurants the bustling Henley square is one of the must-visit destinations to enjoy and savor, the mouth melting tastes of versatile sea food cuisines.
The shoreline stretches far away and more swimming is allowed here. So take a quick dip and get refreshed enjoying the lovely beach.

There are awesome activities that can be done here but one that really feels good is the nature walk following the River Torrens Linear Park trail that starts from the city and goes straight to the Henley beach. One of the best places to spend a quality evening, this is indeed a best tourist places in Adelaide.
Semaphore Beach
Bounded by a thick border of sand dunes, the popular Semaphore Beach is a place for all those who love to explore the historical side of Adelaide and know more about the rich culture of the city and it is one of the amazing places to visit in Adelaide.

Semaphore Beach is a wide long beach beautifies with expansive foreshore and boulevard which remains effortlessly adorned by Art Deco buildings. Almost a replica of the grandeur of the Palais, this is undoubtedly a fascinating location to spend quality and experience classic gourmet coupled with best in class wine collection.

Other attractions nearby include Semaphore’s iconic Time Ball Tower, historic buildings, ferry wheel, awesome boutiques, and historic pubs. So go ahead and visit the destination for a good time spend. Accommodation in the nearby location remains available for the interested visitors.  
Seacliff Beach
Situated in the City of Holdfast Bay, Seacliff Beach is a suburb of Adelaide City and this suburb is adjacent to Brighton, Kingston Park, and Seacliff Park, Mario. Being South Australia’s most popular stretch of beach, Seacliff allows the tourists to experience the most amazing beach holiday ever and it is one of the best places to visit in Adelaide.

It is backed by a park in the south direction, two club houses, and a caravan park, accompanied by a boat ramp and a car parking area. It comprises of fronting rock flats as well as a high tide sand section, with a shallow sand bar taking the rocks to the north.

Offering good and easy access and a wide range of facilities and utilities, it provides a safe swimming experience with very gentle surf. The visitors will not be able to resist such an enjoyable place where there are water sports as well.

 Highlights: swimming, surfing, fishing, sailing club, life-saving club.
State Library Of South Australia
The State Library of South Australia is the largest public research library in the state. It has materials related to the information of South Australia. It consists of a number of materials and documents of the history of the region before and after the European settlement and it is one of the best tourist places in Adelaide.

The Mortlock Wing is not only a public library but also an art gallery and museum. It has the rich architecture with French roof. There are collections of some of the rare books along with general and heritage books.

Highlights: Book a guided weekday tour to the library where you can browse through the extraordinary exhibitions and appreciate the spectacular architecture of the Mortlock Wing. The informative tour will enlighten you about the history and important events of South Australia.

Location: The library is located in the North Terrace.

Timing: The weekday tour starts from 11 AM and 2 PM.
Migration Museum
To understand the diverse culture of Adelaide, a visit to the Migration Museum is a must. Here you can discover the varied traditions and distinctiveness of the people living in South Australia. The museum has six permanent galleries showcasing the history of the museum itself, the impact of migration from the aborigines’ viewpoint, the establishment of colony, and the recent changes and development.

Highlights: To get the most of your visit to the Migration Museum, take a free guided tour the museum and learn about the fascinating history and attraction of South Australia.

Location: The Migration Museum is located in the North Terrace close to South Australian Museum and Art Gallery of South Australia. You can reach the museum by taking a short walk from Adelaide City Centre.

Timing: 10 AM to 5 PM from Monday to Friday. 1PM to 5 PM on weekends and public holidays.

Price: Free Admission. 
Second Valley Beach
A beach located just 90 kms from Adelaide, South Australia, second valley is sheltered in a valley amidst the farming lands. There is no specific season that one needs to find for going to this beach, the tourists can take pleasure of this beautiful beach during any time of the year. Named after a coastal town on the Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia, second valley has been rated amongst the top ten beaches of this country. It is perfect blend of spectacular scenic view as well as a beautiful beach to bask on. The Jetty Store offers delicious take away meals to tingle your taste buds and if you are a fishing fan, it provides you all kind of equipment required for fishing. In fact, second valley is a beach that offers something for everyone.

Highlights: Be it bush walking, fishing or swimming, no one would return without enjoying.

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