The Ultimate List of Best Things to Do in Adelaide
Looking for things to do in Adelaide? Places to visit, where to eat or where to stay? Look no further! We got you covered with our ultimate list of the best things to do in Adelaide!
Image via InspireRock
Adelaide is South Australia’s coastal cosmopolitan capital and it’s bustling with culture, stunning scenery, indulgent eats, some of the best wine cultures, things to do and see. It’s simply a playground of fun that you don’t want to miss!
Here are the best things to do in Adelaide, but be warned. You are going to be busy and we promise you won’t be bored.
1. Visit the Botanic Gardens
Image via South Australia
With 50 hectares dedicated to the stunning Botanic Gardens in the heart of the city, you are sure to be amazed with its beauty, architecture and diversity of plants from all over Australia. While you are here, join one of the free guided walks, check out the Santos Museum of Economic Botany or stop by the Digges Garden shop or Botanic Gardens restaurant.
2. Adelaide Central Market
Image via Play & Go Adelaide
This one is definitely not to be missed! One of the largest undercover markets in the southern hemisphere. Sounds inviting, right? Tackle the Central Market by having a coffee at The Coffee Bean Shop, pasta at Lucia’s and while you are there, try out the amazing chocolate from Haigh’s chocolates. Then, eat your way through the rest of the market.
3. Adelaide Zoo
Image via Adelaide Zoo
Another top thing to do in Adelaide is to enjoy a perfect day trip to Adelaide Zoo with the family. Say hi to the much loved Giant Pandas Wang Wang and Funi. Let’s face it, they are enough reason to visit, right? Take our word for it, they are really cute!
4. Revitalize at Himeji Gardens
Image via Kids in Adelaide
Kick back and enjoy some time out in the Japanese oasis Himeji Gardens. It contains features that are designed to recall the beauty of nature and the best part is, it’s free! The kids will love all the fish, turtles and ducks!
5. Shop at the Rundle Mall
Image via Flickr
Shop till you drop at Rundle Mall. It’s the central shopping area of Adelaide, and it’s not to be missed! The stunning architecture and sculptures make it worth a visit including the iconic Mall’s Balls Statue. Oh, besides all the major Australian and international retailers and boutique shops of course.
6. Ride the Cockle Train
Image via Flickr
Travel along on the Cockle Train on this iconic journey on the oldest steel railed railway in Australia. It’s almost like the Polar Express, just a bit warmer! The train will take you through the most picturesque coastal scenery.
7. Try some amazing food at China town Adelaide
Image via Adelaide City Tour
Visit the vibrant China town in the South East end of the Adelaide CDB. Try out the amazing international cuisine and some of the most diverse and traditional gourmet foods. It has something for everyone, five star restaurants, food courts, cafes, pubs and wine bars. You’ll leave feeling full, we promise.
8. Go on a heritage walking tour
Image via Flickr – Waterhouse, North Terrace
Adelaide is full of many gorgeous buildings, so why not go on a heritage walking tour and explore the city by foot? Most of the popular heritage buildings can be found in the city center such as the Parliament House, State library of SA, South Australian Museum, and University of Adelaide. There are plenty of informative guided tours available but if you prefer more budget friendly options, you can enjoy one of the many free self-guided historical tours provided by the Adelaide City Council.
9. Visit Kangaroo Island
Image via Wild Life Tours
Think of an island with a 509km long coastline with breathtaking scenery, unique wildlife, native bushland, stunning beaches and lots activities to experience. Yes, we are talking about Kangaroo Island! As the names entitles, you are sure to spot some wild kangaroos! How to get to Kangaroo Land is easy, grab a coach connection to from Adelaide to Cape Jervis and jump on the SeaLink Ferry for a 45 minutes’ transfer.
10. Laze in the sun at one of Adelaide’s beautiful beaches
Image via Escape.com
You really can’t go wrong with any of South Australia’s many beaches. We recommend Glenelg, Brighton, Henly or if you are looking for something a bit out of the city, check out Port Noarlunga, Christies and Moana. They all have something different to offer but one thing they do have in common, is their beauty!
11. The National Wine Centre
Images viaTravel2Next.com
The National Wine Centre is located not far from Adelaide’s Botanic Gardens. It’s a great educational experience. The Centre hosts events, wine classes, dinners and interactive wine discovery journeys. What’s not to like?
12. A day trip to Barossa Valley
Image via Jetstar
Just a 50 minutes’ drive Northeast of Adelaide you’ll find Barossa Valley. It’s one of the city’s great wine regions, well-known for its finest food and wine experiences, countryside and fascinating cultural heritage. If you feeling a little adventurous, set your alarm early for a bucket-list hot air balloon experience.
13. Sip some Adelaide wine
Image via Adelaide Now
Now that we are on the topic of wine. Why not visit one of Adelaide’s many wine bars? Adelaide’s laneways have evolved quickly. Sip some wine at one of the cool places in town. Just to mention a few places you must visit, The Tasting Room, Haines & Co, Clever Little Tailor, Mother Vine, Little NNQ, Maybe Mae, BRKLYN and many more!
14. Find a great breakfast café
Image via The Flinders Street Project
Adelaide has so many great breakfast cafes! Make sure you start your morning off right with a tasty feed and a great cup of coffee. We recommend checking out The Flinders Street Project, yum!
15. Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute
Image via Tandanya
Learn about the traditional owners of the land at Australia’s oldest Aboriginal-owned Art Museum Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute. It’s definitely worth a visit and it’s only a 15 minutes’ walk from the North Terrace Cultural Precinct.
16. Hike around he Torrens
Image via Flickr
Sightseeing in Adelaide should include a hike along the iconic River Torrens. The trail is ideal for all ages and abilities including children and it’s a perfect opportunity for a picnic for the whole family in beautiful surroundings.
17. Enjoy a quiet moment at The State Library
Image via South Australia
How beautiful is The State Library of South Australia? It’s an amazing cultural institution and repository of SA’s rich history. Explore all three award-winning buildings and enjoy free tours weekdays between 11am and 2pm.
18. Explore Glenelg
Image via South Australia
The seaside Village of Glenelg is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy the classic charm, popular destination and lovely heritage buildings. Getting there is easy, just grab the only remaining tram from Victoria Square in the city center. You’ll find lots of shops, restaurants and activities to do.
19. Street Art
Image via Lonely Planet
A visit to Adelaide can’t be completed without exploring the street art. The streets of Adelaide is fast becoming a hotspot for street art. It’s colourful, it’s vibrant and it’s definitely worth a visit and an Instagram photo. Most of the street art is centered in the CBD.
20. Stay at NightCap Adelaide Hotels
Image via Nightcap
Why not make your visit to Adelaide a little more unforgettable by staying at one of the Nightcap Hotels. It’s about unwinding, grounding and enjoying the little things in life with the people you love.
Nightcap offers several accommodation options in Adelaide to affordable prices. Experience well-designed rooms with premium beds, restaurant, bars and free wifi all within a cosy, laid-back and friendly atmosphere.
Book your stay at Nightcap in Adelaide now.