Known as one of the recognized wine capitals of the world, its incredible dolphin-watching opportunities, and splendid markets featuring the best of local foods, Southern Australia’s capital city Adelaide offers something unique to your Aussie travels that are 100% worth the trip to this coastal city.
Start your adventures on a scenic river cruise down River Torrens or book an incredible dolphin spotting boat tour, with a side of a few shipwrecks sightings!
If nature is your calling, you’ll be happy to see the beauty awaiting you at Cleland National Park and Coorong National Park with endless fun like kayaking, hiking, and animal encounters!
Hungry? You won’t be disappointed with Adelaide’s growing food scene featuring world cuisines, as well as local bites, from casual to Michelin level!
The city is known as the “20 Minute City” for its extreme accessibility and that nothing in town will ever take more than 20 minutes to get to! So get ready to walk until your feet hurt (in a good way!) and let’s see all the incredible things to do in Adelaide!
1 – Taste the organic produce at the Central Market
Step inside the 1869 Central Market, offering for generations a culinary spectacle of organic products from meat, produce, baked goods, and other incredible foods.
The Central Market is undoubtedly one of the most visited sites in Adelaide, as it’s the number one food destination in the city!
Always offering seasonal goods, you’ll be able to meet more than 70 local traders to get the inside scoop on their products, and even a few recipe recommendations to use with the ingredients.
Don’t want to cook? Stop by the cute cafes and restaurants or take an exciting food tour, and try the best of the city’s cuisine from oysters, cheeses like Allium Piper, and local white fish.
2 – View Australian art at the Art Gallery of South Australia
Adelaide is known for many incredible attractions, and one of those goes to the arts. The Art Gallery of South Australia is a beautiful space to view impressive art exhibits that span different cultures, continents, and ideas.
Known as one of the most important art spaces in Australia, housing the most important collections of Indigenous and Islamic art in the country, there are also an additional 45,000 art pieces within its walls.
Book a free art tour to get the most understanding of the art pieces, plus a few extra tidbits about the museum.
Don’t have time to go inside? Book a walking tour and see it from the outside, while learning about its beautiful facade!
3 – Tap into your wild side at the wildlife parks
Get into the great outdoors when you visit the impressive wildlife parks in Adelaide, starting with Cleland Wildlife Park, featuring wildlife feeding, education, and a close-up of local animals in their habitats.
With koalas to kangaroos, wallabies, dingoes, and tons of varieties of birds, Cleland Wildlife Park offers numerous animal experiences for everyone in your travel group, from breakfast in the wild to holding reptiles!
Gorge Wildlife Park is another awesome wildlife park offering tons of animal spotting, such as Tasmanian devils, wombats, echidnas, and other exotic animals! From learning about them to being with them, a trip to Gorge Wildlife Park will ensure the full wilderness experience alongside professional zoologists.
4 – Soar high on a hot air balloon ride
Get high on life and views when you book a hot air balloon ride, giving you expansive sights of the city and nature.
Greet a new day as you fly over the Barossa Valley, 1 hour north of Adelaide, and take in the sight of panoramic rolling hills, vineyards, and beautiful valleys down below. The 1-hour experience in the sky will truly leave you with a lifetime of memories, whether you’re celebrating something or someone special, or you’re treating yourself to an incredible moment.
As part of your hot air balloon journey over the Barossa Valley, you’ll also enjoy a delicious breakfast after a successful experience at one of the local restaurants. Roundtrip transportation is included.
5 – Catch a cricket game at Oval Stadium
Tour the impressive Oval Stadium, home of a number of events from sports, concerts, and much more!
Known as the largest stadium in South Australia, with a capacity of 53,583 people, you will learn all the monumental moments that happened within its walls, as well as exciting upcoming events to look forward to.
Take a 90-minute tour of the stadium with a staff member, and learn interesting facts from its opening in 1871, to the modern renovation that occurred between 2011-2014, access secret areas and hallways not normally open to visitors, and check out the Bradman Collection dedicated to the Australian Cricket all-star Sir Donald Bradman.
Guided tours start under $20 USD.
6 – Gain local insight at the South Australian Museum
Walk throughout the fascinating 5-floors of the South Australian Museum, dedicated to teaching the public about southern Australia’s natural and cultural heritage, from the Aboriginal people to interesting natural scientific findings and much more.
Learn about the numerous varieties of animals and insects and their connection to the region, and step into the Biological Sciences exhibit to see everything from bugs to whales.
Visit the Humanities collection to view one of the largest collections of Australian Aboriginal items in the world, including from other Aboriginal cultures in the Pacific, Africa, and the Americas.
Check out the temporary exhibits, designed to highlight a specific topic in humanities, science, and more. Entry to the museum is free.
7 – Stop to smell the roses at the Adelaide Botanic Garden
Located in the center of Adelaide is the magnificent Adelaide Botanic Garden, featuring a feast to the senses when it comes to flowers, plants, trees, and seasonal outdoor exhibits.
Stop by the Santos Museum of Economic Botany, a space that dates to 1881, and houses several dried plants and flowers, and other historical and botanical findings.
Appreciate the gardens, each dedicated to a specific type of flora, from the cactus and succulents to the interesting “Economic Garden” which shows you what the plant version of fibers, herbs, and spices all look like.
Walk under the shady Australian Forest, and stop for lunch at the various eateries inside. Visit the gift shop to pick up a few mementos!
8 – Take up some professional surf lessons
The beaches in southern Adelaide offer unbeatable waves too good to pass up, that it would be a crime not to get in the water at least once!
Book a professional surf lesson and learn everything from how to get on the board, to how to balance, and finally how to start surfing on baby waves until you feel confident for bigger ones.
You’ll receive everything you need except for a swimsuit. Choose between a morning or afternoon lesson, so no matter what your itinerary has in store, you’ll have flexibility with this activity!
Surf lessons are accommodating to children and families, so there’s truly no excuse not to get on the board!
9 – Appreciate the Australian Aboriginal flag at Victoria Square
Victoria Square was formerly known solely as Tarntanyangga by the Aboriginal people, and it was known as the place for gathering, socializing, and even dancing. Today, Victoria Square is also known by its original name and is the space where protests and civic activities take place.
Known as the largest of the 6 squares, the square is surrounded by government buildings, and adorned with beautiful native plants and manicured gardens. You’ll know you’ve arrived when you see the statue of Queen Victoria, hence the name.
Visit at night to appreciate multiple lights illuminating the statues, including the main one at the center of the square.
10 – Take a tour of the River Torrens
Journey through the most significant river of the Adelaide Plains, River Torrens, located in the heart of the city! The reason for its main importance is a historical one, as this was a river that provided food and shelter for the local Kaurna people.
Today, you can hop on a scenic River Torrens boat tour and get a view of Adelaide from the water, as you learn more about the river’s historical significance and the multiple ecological projects necessary to restore the river’s health.
Expect to see the famous Adelaide Oval and the Adelaide Gaol, amongst other interesting and beautiful sites. Previous guests raved about the detailed commentary and fun ambiance, so don’t miss out!
11 – Pedal your way through Adelaide on a bike tour
One of the best ways to see Adelaide fully is on an exciting bike tour! Adelaide is spoiled with dozens of different sites, from parks and nature to city and history to see on two wheels!
Book a full-day bike tour of the native bushland and Mount Lofty, or consider doing the Adelaide City to Sea bike tour. There are tons of different tours available, even a bike tour to the beautiful McLaren Vale vineyards, taking you through the quaint countryside, and then rewarded with a small wine tasting and enjoying lunch in the open.
Ride along with a small group of avid travelers as your guide takes you to see the different sides of Adelaide!
12 – See what’s up at the Adelaide Festival Centre
Make plans to check out what’s going on at the Adelaide Festival Center, located in the center of the city!
From the cabaret festival to musical concerts, comedy shows, and national and international performers taking center stage, there’s a long list of events and entertainment happening all year round at the Adelaide Festival Centre.
If you have children, check out the family-friendly events that take place, and for those looking to dig deeper into indigenous culture, check out First Nations performances.
To update yourself on upcoming shows, make sure to check out the festival center’s website with the upcoming shows and dates, and where you can buy tickets as well!
13 – Visit the historical St. Peter’s Cathedral
Situated in the city’s Victoria Square is St. Peter’s Cathedral, one of the main landmarks in Adelaide for its position as the Anglican Diocese of Adelaide and its cultural meaning for the religious community of Adelaide. Dating back to 1878, the cathedral today hosts many events from concerts, to mass, religious events, and more to check out.
When you book a city tour in Adelaide, you’ll be able to take in the beautiful French Gothic architecture, as well take in the extensive brick, stonework, and stained glass windows.
Though on a walking tour there won’t be much time to step in, the cathedral is open daily during the week from 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM.
14 – Plan a day trip to Hahndorf
Founded in the 19th century by German-born Lutherans, Hahndorf is a quaint little town buzzing with so much to do and experience, and known as Australia’s oldest German settlement.
Only a 27-minute drive from Adelaide, a day trip to Hahndorf is a wonderful day trip to see a little bit of German culture through food, drinks, arts, and culture coexisting with some indigenous influence.
When you book a day trip, you’ll also get to stop at a few other places of interest along the way, such as Barossa Valley where you’ll do a small wine tasting in the scenic vineyards, and also stop by a few other villages on the hills on your way to Hahndorf!
15 – Encounter pandas at the Adelaide Zoo
The Adelaide Zoo is Australia’s second oldest zoo in operation, located centrally in Adelaide, and offers a close encounter with some of Australia’s iconic animals, plus a few exotic animals.
From tigers, pandas, giraffes, and hippos to lemurs and koalas, there are tons of experiences awaiting you to get in touch with your wild side! If you have kids, take them to experience the Penguin in Person experience, or see a wallaby at the Yellow-Footed Rock-Wallaby Encounter.
Daily tickets start at $42.50 AUD for adults, and $22.50 AUD for children between 4-14 years of age. To save a bit of money, opt for the two-day pass, and gain access to the Monarto Safari Park!
16 – Cool off on a scenic boat tour
Choose from several boat tour options to see Adelaide from the water, from a classic yet scenic river cruise through the River Torrens to a dolphin-watching cruise on a catamaran on the shores of Adelaide.
Celebrating something? Check out the Glenelg Sunset Catamaran Cruise with Drinks where you and your friends can hop on for the early evening and jet off into the sunset while drinking and toasting to an unforgettable time in Adelaide.
If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, check out the Port River and Ships’ Graveyard Cruise, offering an up-close look at a few shipwrecks while learning the rich maritime history, and of course, spotting a few dolphins!
17 – See Adelaide from the tops of Mount Lofty
Located only 24 minutes away from Mount Lofty is the highest peak in the Mount Lofty ranges inside the Cleland National Park.
With beautiful natural surroundings, impressive hiking trails, and mountain bike opportunities, make sure to check out a tour from Adelaide brimming with non-stop fun and adventure!
Check out a Mount Lofty Descent Bike Tour from Adelaide, discovering the hills and the scenic views as you journey along the mountain with your group. Check out the local residents of Mount Lofty on a tour that will take you face-to-face with local wildlife on the Cleland Wildlife Park Experience Tour.
If waterfalls and hikes are your thing, check out the Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Hiking Tour!
18 – Make your way to Kangaroo Island
Plan another escapade, this time to the famous Kangaroo Island, a 3-hour journey towards the southern island famous for its nature reserves and local residents like sea lions, koalas, penguins, and kangaroos.
On a day tour from Adelaide to Kangaroo Island, you’ll relish a complete itinerary that will grant your access to a panoramic ferry ride to the island, as well as visit some of the nature preserves and conservation parks, and national parks.
Spot numerous animals in their complete natural habitat, as you observe quietly from the side, and then follow up with a beautiful hike from the Flinders Chase National Park on the coast of the island.
Lunch is included in the experience!
19 – Take a look at the art pieces inside Carrick Hill
Set only 15 minutes from the center of Adelaide is the historic Carrick Hill mansion and estate, known as the previous home of the couple Sir Edward and Ursula Hayward.
Preserved in its historic charm and beauty, Carrick Hall is open to the public today to visit and roam the inside a bit, taking in the lavish details and architecture of the Great Hall, the Dining Room, and the Library, while also peeking at some of the art galleries inside.
Outside, make sure to see a dreamy rose garden, and English-style gardens all throughout the property! Stop by the Australian Museum of Gardening to learn a bit more about this worldwide hobby.
20 – Explore the wild nature at Coorong National Park
Trek the natural landscapes inside the Coorong National Park, covering a wide range of sites from coastal lagoons, to other protected areas that safeguard the local ecosystem known as The Coorong.
With numerous day trips from Adelaide to Coorong National Park, check out a full-day kayaking tour through the national park’s saltwater lagoons with lunch provided. Afterward, hit the sand dunes at the Young Husband Peninsula!
Another adventure is a 3.5-hour discovery cruise through some waterways, as you learn about the natural ecosystems and the history of the Aboriginal people who lived there.
If you’re looking for something special, check out a sunset kayak tour with a picnic, ideal for 2 people!
21 – Do some dolphin watching on the shores
Visit a dolphin sanctuary on a 3.5-hour dolphin cruise on the shores of Adelaide, and see as the dolphins approach your boat, swim, and do tricks for a memorable experience.
On your tour, you’ll be taken to the golf waters of Adelaide, and receive incredible views from the water of the nature around, before the intelligent dolphins make their appearance. Your tour guide will also provide fun facts about the dolphins, as well as their habitat, further enriching the experience!
If you would like to add a bit of extra sightseeing to your dolphin cruise, consider the dolphin sanctuary and ship graveyard kayak tour for a unique encounter with dolphins on a kayak.
22 – See Adelaide’s natural side on a hiking trip
Pack your hiking boots and get ready to trek up some seriously beautiful trails, each with different challenge levels.
Check out a memorable hike through the Morialta wilderness, 16 minutes away from Adelaide, where you’ll witness vast amounts of local plants, trees, rock formations, gorges, and even a few waterfalls to cool off with.
Visit Cleland Wildlife Park on a self-guided hiking tour, enjoying the day getting close to the native lands at Mount Lofty, local animals, and a few waterfalls. On a self-guided tour to Cleland Wildlife Park, you’ll be equipped with water, snacks, a map, and round-trip transportation.
Feeling a bit more adventurous? Check out a 5-day hiking tour to the Ikara-Flinders ranges.
23 – Feel zen at the Adelaide Himeji Garden
Take a break from sightseeing in the city, and visit the Adelaide Himeji Garden, located centrally in the city.
Visit the garden gifted by Japan, and its many little shady corners to escape the sun for a bit and relax under a tree. Bring a snack and enjoy it at the park or have some downtime with friends. Check out the “Kare Senzui” garden to witness a zen sand garden with rocks.
There are various walking trails throughout the garden that connect to different points in the city, so you may even walk into the park accidentally before realizing it’s one of the most scenic places in Adelaide!
The park is open daily.
24 – Map out a day trip to the Murray River
Take a fabulous river cruise down the Murray River, which is known for being one of the greatest river systems in Australia, and perfect for navigating to see the beautiful natural surroundings.
Hop on a Murray River tour from Adelaide, offering a historic tour through the river while learning about the interesting rock landscapes, cliffs, weeping willows, and tons of local wildlife. As part of certain river cruises, lunch is provided on board.
Want to enjoy the Murray River at sunset? Check out a River Murray dark sky and sunset tour, featuring a dinner at the Swan Reach Hotel, and then a tour through different parts of the river not shown on other cruises.
25 – Sign up for an exciting Jeep tour
Enjoy a rugged journey through the wild on a jeep tour through Kangaroo Island, where you’ll get close views of dozens of local birds, iconic kangaroos, and wallabies, as well as traverse the exotic bushland and pass along stunning beaches.
Some Jeep experiences are day trips, while others are offered in 2-day or 3-day excursions with hotel and meals included. One of those multi-day experiences includes a Jeep tour to the Flinders Ranges with tons of Jeep excursions, and planned-out routes to see the most in the park.
But if you’re eyeing a single-day excursion, check out a few available, and get ready to drive down untamed nature like never before!
26 – Enjoy the green spaces at the parks
19 minutes away from Adelaide is the Morialta Conservation Park, featuring everything from waterfalls, gorges, creeks, and dozens of walking trails and picnic areas.
Belair National Park is a wonderful park offering everything from hiking and biking trails to tennis courts and other games with equipment ready to rent.
Discover ancient homes from the 1880s on your hike throughout Onkaparinga River National Park, whether you hike, bike, or horseback ride.
If you have kids, bring them to enjoy the playgrounds at Thorndon Park Reserve, while you take advantage of the different sports and fitness equipment!
Enjoy a picnic at Rymill Park /Murlawirrapurka, and bring a book to enjoy under the trees while feeding the ducks!
27 – Enjoy Victor Harbor on a day trip
Visit the wonderful and quaint Victor Harbor, only 1 hour away south of Adelaide, for a day of exploring the popular surf beaches, checking out Granite Island’s rugged nature, or taking in the landscapes from The Bluff Lookout.
The easiest way to make your way to Victor Harbor is by looking into a day trip from Victor Harbor from Adelaide, which oftentimes offers bonus stops in other places like the McLaren Vale wine region, and other Southern Australia destinations.
Board a horse-drawn tram, take a boat tour from Victor Harbor to see the local penguins that live on Granite Island, and enjoy the bus ride to Victor Harbor, as you’ll be passing through incredibly scenic panoramas!
28 – Get tipsy at the National Wine Centre of Australia
Get an expansive crash course on the best wines of Australia when you visit the National Wine Centre of Australia, featuring wine exhibits and displays about the cultivation and wine-making process, as well as varied tasting rooms.
Check out the tasting rooms with large windows that focus on the center’s extremely beautiful gardens and vineyards, as you learn about the modern construction of the building itself.
Choose from a variety of tours and cellar visits offered, including the Australian Wine Discovery Guided Tour which is an all-encompassing tour showing the historic, cultural, and science of Australian winemaking, or the Taste of South Australia Guided Tour and Tasting.
Tours start at $15 AUD.
29 – Mingle with the locals at the best beaches
Glenelg is one of the easiest beaches to get to in Adelaide, and it’s also incredibly family-friendly! At only a 20-minute public transport ride away, the beach offers a lively ambiance of people, seaside restaurants, and cafes to enjoy.
For a bit of a high-end beach experience, head to Henley Beach. Offering luxurious seafood restaurants beachside, and various social spaces, the well-maintained beach is known for great swimming and great dining.
Get to Semaphore Beach, only a little under 30 minutes away from Adelaide where you can walk on the long boardwalk, admire the sand dunes, and of course, take a dip at the popular beach in the shallow waters. Perfect for families!
30 – Grab lunch at Henley Square
While visiting Henley Beach, make it to Henley Square, only a few steps from the beach and only 18 minutes away from the beach!
Brimming with tons to do and see, many locals flock to Henley Square to enjoy a moment with friends for lunch, or to grab a midday coffee or smoothie right on the beach. What’s more, is that there are tons of events swarming the square throughout the year.
Check out the events calendar to see what’s going on, and enjoy local offers at the restaurants.
Walk off lunch afterward on the Henley Beach Jetty, a 440 meters long walkway that goes into the Gulf of St. Vincent, with benches to admire the scenery.
31 – Get expansive views of Adelaide on a helicopter tour
Make your visit to Adelaide that much more memorable, and take off on an exquisite helicopter tour, getting ready to see all of Adelaide from your comfortable seats, including the beaches and countryside.
Fly over the scenic Southern Barossa region, known for its vineyards as well as Hoffnungsthal Valley! Your helicopter conductor and guide will share with you incredible facts and point out to you impressive sights, and some of Australia’s most famous wineries.
Helicopter tours include photo ops throughout the experience, so make sure to bring your fully charged cameras and phones to capture your special moments.
The helicopter tours can last anywhere between 10 to 30 minutes, and some tours start at $83 USD.
32 – Choose your own kayaking adventure
Put your lifejackets on and slather that SPF for a thrilling kayaking voyage, moving through various natural landscapes including a 10,000-year-old mangrove forest, and even a few shipwrecks!
Make it to Coorong National Park, and kayak through the natural saltwater lagoons, taking in the magnificent scenery of the park, or opt for a dolphin sanctuary kayak tour, and get face-to-face with these intelligent beings.
More of a city lover? Check out the city kayaking experience, as you traverse through the historic River Torren and see Adelaide from a different point of view on the 1.5-hour experience.
Kayaking tours are beginner friendly, so don’t be shy to try something new!
33 – Learn about Adelaide’s local culture at the Migration Museum
Deepen your knowledge about the cultural diversity that’s been created in Adelaide throughout time and migration, with exhibits inside showcasing different parts of the ethnicity, class, gender, age, and region. Take a historic look at a snapshot of the people of Adelaide at the museum.
With numerous activities and events taking over the Migration Museum on a yearly basis, chances are that whenever you visit, there will be something going on, a temporary exhibit to check out, and much more!
Explore everything from traditional Arabic board games to learning about the asylum babies, to seeing an old-school puppet show. This is a great kid-friendly museum to consider!
Admission to the museum is free.
34 – Take the road less traveled on a quad tour
Fulfill your quest to find Adelaide’s hidden gems on a quad tour experience through the nature and rugged lands nearby!
From the beach to farms, and parks, you’ll surely enjoy all the different sceneries, and experiences awaiting you on different quad tours!
Enjoy driving past a historic 1800s farm, with pit stops at the local beaches where fishermen like to collect their daily catch. Best of all, you can choose between two departure times throughout the day, so it’s rather accommodating!
Hop on a 1-hour quad tour through Waitpinga Beach, enjoying a thrilling ride through the South Coast, as you also make pit stops to take photos, and learn a few facts from your guides.
35 – Appreciate the beer-making process on a beer tasting
Aside from incredible beers, Barossa Valley is also known for its grand breweries and distilleries, so a beer tasting is in order to try a wide selection of locally crafted brews!
From gins to beers, wines, and more, you’ll get to try a handful of different local beverages, as well as learn about the unique brewing process when you book a beer-tasting tour!
On your way to some of these breweries, you’ll also be able to stop by a few quaint towns such as Tanunda, tucked into Barossa Valley.
Your beer-tasting experience includes a comfortable bus journey from Adelaide, a professional driver, and stopping by a minimum of 3 breweries.
36 – Sip some Aussie wines at McLaren Vale
If you think that the Barossa Valley is the only place near Adelaide with nationally recognized wineries, think again!
McLaren Vale is another commonly known wine region, just 37 minutes south of Adelaide, with wide open spaces and rolling green hills to take in.
If you’re a wine lover, then you must check out the daily McLaren Vale day trips from Adelaide, which will take you throughout the Fleurieu Peninsula (where McLaren Vale is), and stop by a few popular wineries in the area.
Your activity will also include a delicious lunch featuring local cuisine in the vineyard to complete the amazing experience!
Some tours also include a bonus stop if you’re interested in exploring further!
37 – Taste local culture in a cooking class
One of the best ways to enjoy and understand a new city is through its food, and what better way to get your hands into the local culture than in a cooking class?
Sharpen your culinary skills with a professional cooking instructor, in a classroom setting, as you learn about the essential ingredients always found in an Australian kitchen, as well as what some of the regional dishes are.
Depending on your class, you will be focusing on a specific cooking theme, whether it is bread, vegetarian, or even fine dining classes.
At the end of your experience, you’ll get to take a cookbook with the recipes of the dishes you created that day with everyone!
38 – Plan a hike at Hallett Cove Conservation Park
28 minutes south of Adelaide is Hallett Cove Conservation Park, a beautiful park with numerous trails ready to take you through not only an amazing nature walk but a historical walk back in time.
It’s said that some of the walking trails showcase geological remains and examples of an Australian ice age around 280 million years ago, which can be seen around the northern cliff.
Aside from hiking, you can also take some incredible photos as you walk through the Coastal Park Path boardwalk, which follows the coastal cliffs, biking, or even taking a dip at the park’s beach!
The park is spectacular all year round, you can either drive down or take public transport.
39 – Splash around with the dolphins at a Dolphin Sanctuary
Visiting dolphin sanctuaries is one of the most popular things to do in Adelaide, so there are many ways to get on this adventurous activity. It’s really up to you how you’d like to see them.
You can kayak through thousand-year-old mangroves to get to the dolphin sanctuary, traversing natural lands full of marine animals and all sorts of fascinating ecosystems.
Check out the Adelaide dolphin sanctuary and ship graveyard kayak tour where you’ll get to see loads of local animals and exotic birds, as well as the story behind some of the shipwrecks. Some of the shipwrecks you can even see popping from out of the water!
Dolphin sanctuary tours start at $23 USD.
40 – Swing around the tree tops at TreeClimb Adelaide
Challenge yourself with a go around the obstacle courses at TreeClimb Adelaide! Set in the beautiful surroundings of Kurrangga Park in Adelaide.
With over 5 elevated and fun tree-top courses, you can choose between the engaging and challenging Grand Course designed for the ultimate adrenaline-seekers, the Zip-Loop Course that will sweep you off your feet and onto the flying between the tree tops, and much more!
There are also obstacle courses for children specifically, as well as the ultimate family course so everyone in your group is in for a great time, together!
When planning your visit, make sure to wear short or long sleeve pants and athletic-style tops that allow for movability and comfort.
41 – Feel the powerful mist of the Waterfall Gully
Set at the foothills of the spectacular Mount Lofty within Cleland National Park is Waterfall Gully, with an elevation of 234 meters above sea level, and a medium-challenging hike to get there.
Traverse a beautiful and secluded hike through dense forests to the waterfall on a self-guided hiking tour to Waterfall Gully from Adelaide, which will pick you up from your hotel as well as helpful tips and a local tour guide.
The trail is around 3.9 kilometers long and has plenty of incredible viewpoints along the way to truly enjoy the views towards Adelaide, and various other waterfalls while being surrounded by the sound of nature.
Self-guided tours to the waterfall start at $82 USD.
42 – Let your kids run wild at the St. Kilda Adventure Playground
Traveling with kids? This one is for you! Take them to unleash their energy at St. Kilda Adventure Playground, offering numerous games with slides, swings, basketball courts, a draw bridge, a bouncy boomerang, and more to enjoy daily between 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM.
This playground is unlike most, as it offers tons of fun for children to enjoy, it almost feels like a mini-amusement park for them! It’s also a great activity to do with the locals, as many families enjoy taking their kids to this park.
The playground is often monitored by staff and is located only 30 minutes north of Adelaide.
There is also a dog park nearby, for those traveling with dogs!
43 – Sample some incredible Cabernet Sauvignon in Barossa Valley
Enjoy a day trip to the wonderful Barossa Valley, only an hour away from Adelaide, and most famous for its wine-making traditions, fertile grounds, and spectacular wineries along with its deeply rooted German traditions.
One of the best ways to truly enjoy Barossa Valley is of course to visit some of its renowned wineries for a sampling of the best wines and a delicious lunch in the vineyards.
Relish a behind-the-scenes look, while sampling the region’s most famous wines – shiraz, cabernet sauvignon, and Grenache. On your way around Barossa Valley, you’ll pass incredible natural landscapes of vineyards, as well as traditional stone cottages built by 19th-century German immigrants.
Day trips start at $105 USD.
44 – See a cultural performance at the Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute
Visit the Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute overflowing with art pieces, exhibits, and other works of art created by talented Aboriginal artists, including cultural performances.
The cultural institute is located centrally in Adelaide and offers great insight and understanding of the important history and continuous influence of the Aboriginal people specifically in Adelaide.
Check to see upcoming performance dates on their website, and be sure to purchase tickets in person a few days beforehand. There is a wonderful gift shop and cafe inside, which offers the perfect end to an education-filled day.
The museum is free admission, though donations are appreciated.
45 – Enjoy Rundle Mall like a local
Shop till you drop at Rundle Mall, with over 1,000 stores and shops from clothes to accessories, home goods, and electronics, you’ll find everything you need here, and more!
Rundle Mall is a great place to walk around, be with locals and enjoy an afternoon browsing local brands at the mall, as well as stepping into a few internationally recognized brand shops. What’s more, is that it’s very simple to get to the mall on public transportation!
Aside from shopping, check out the famous, and large art displays like the Rundle Mall Pigs and the fountain. Tours are also available of the mall offering everything from late-night shopping to turning the mall into an escape room!
46 – Sip some Riesling at Clare Valley
Wine and more wine! Clare Valley is a beautiful region a little under 2 hours north of Adelaide, most widely known for its fertile lands that help cultivate wine, especially Riesling.
Not to be confused with the other famous wine region, Barossa Valley, Clare Valley is actually one of Australia’s oldest wine-producing regions, first settled by the Jesuits in 1851 where they cultivated their sacramental wine.
Today, you can also enjoy the fruits of the very fertile lands on a day trip to Clare Valley from Adelaide, with a visit to the region’s more famous and historic wineries, surrounded by the magical rolling hills of its remote location, and of course, sipping on some delectable Australian wine.
47 – Relish a unique wine-drinking experience on a wine tour
Visit the 5-story cube winery at d’Arenberg, located 42 minutes north of Adelaide, famous for its wine production, as well as a spectacular restaurant with views of the surrounding rolling hills.
Coriole Vineyards will transport you to the Tuscan hills of Italy in spring with its traditional winery, and delicious restaurant offering locally foraged ingredients.
Enjoy a tour of the Wirra Wirra Vineyards, while sampling their best wines, and if you can towards the end, try ringing the ¾ tonne bell on site!
Looking for more? Explore the convenience of a hop-on hop-off wine bus tour through Barossa Valley and a few other wine regions while checking out the rest of the wine tours in Adelaide.
48 – Peek the antique boats at the South Australian Maritime Museum
Dive into the depths of Australian Maritime history at the South Australian Maritime Museum! Ship lovers and historical fanatics will love walking through the different exhibits, viewing some of the glass negatives, portraits of ships, and a collection of artifacts that used to be utilized for trade.
Check out the exhibit on South Australia’s lighthouses, figurines, and statues that belonged to the interiors of ships that were rescued, and so much more!
Lastly, don’t forget to stop by the Vessel Collection with over 20 large and small ship parts and boats, for a true look at some of the historical boats that are spoken of inside the museum.
Tickets start at $21.50 AUD.
49 – Face your fears of skydiving
Brace yourself for an epic journey, dropping down to the earth on a skydiving experience!
Have an epic story to return home with, and recall with your friends the adrenaline of dropping some 15,000 feet from the earth into either McLaren Vale surrounded by the vineyards, or Adelaide’s Basham Beach where you saw the crystal blue waters right below you!
When you embark on this journey, you’ll receive a complete safety session to calm down any nerves, and then you’ll head to the sky and fall onto the earth with the guidance of your instructor.
Skydiving in Adelaide packages starts at $214 USD. Make sure to wear closed-toed shoes and comfortable clothes.
50 – Enjoy some epic whale watching
1 hour south of Adelaide is one of the best whale-watching spots in all of the country, where you’ll not only see whales but also witness sea lions, seals, dolphins, and more!
If you want to add something unique and local to your list of things to do in Adelaide, you must consider whale watching!
There are plenty of tours that offer whale-watching opportunities right from Adelaide, with one in particular that lasts a couple of days around the Eyre Peninsula, and a few lakes nearby for some animal and whale-watching!
Part of the experience includes stopping by other seaside towns and even dining oysters in such a heavenly site. The price includes guides, transport, and meals!
51 – Enjoy some local bites on a food tour
Get to know Adelaide through its unique flavors and local dishes on a delicious food tour!
Try some of the local delicacies such as oysters, white fish, cheeses, and specialty meat dishes like Pie Floater, while learning about the importance and emphasis on local ingredients, and seasonal eating.
On a food tour, you’ll explore places within the area like Barossa Valley and their foods that pair excellently with the wines.
Other food tours will also include stops at the local markets, as well as activities with chefs and local restaurateurs that will offer their local insights, while others include walking tours!
Bring the family along, as many tours offer a variety of foods for all to enjoy!
52 – Reach new heights abseiling
Kick up the adrenaline up a notch or two on an abseiling experience at Onkaparinga National Park, where you’ll encounter some challenging and fun abseiling experiences, with the guidance of expert rock climbers.
Admire the beauty of the park from your unique point of view, as you’re led to numerous different routes and the best climbing spots that only the true local climbers know of. As you climb up, you’ll be able to admire waterfalls in the distance, gorges near you, and the sound of nature so close, unlike any other kind of activity.
Abseiling packages include the 4-hour long experience, with all equipment, even shoes provided for you. Just make sure to wear athletic clothes.
53 – See a historic train at the National Railway Museum
Walk through the numerous exhibits showcasing many different trains and railways used specifically throughout South Australian Railways and the Commonwealth Railways.
Considered to be Australia’s largest railway museum, whether you’re a fan of trains or not, you’re bound to learn something new, and gain an appreciation for one of the oldest modes of transportation in the world!
Explore the 3.5-hectare wide space full of trains, as you see the progress of their creation from engine to design, as well as learn about the impact of train usage throughout southern Australia.
Tickets for the National Railway Museum start at $17 AUD for adults. The museum is located 19 minutes away from downtown.
54 – Play golf with a pro
Whether you play golf often or you’ve never played it before, enjoy a sunny afternoon at the best golfing ranges in Adelaide with a professional golfer!
Perfect your skills or simply take up the new sport as you learn from an AAA-accredited and professional golf pro, with access to the Adelaide golf course and all the sports equipment that you’d need with your package!
Learn the basics like how to hold and swing a golf club, or ask all the technical questions you want if you already know the basics for the entire 60-90 minute session together.
If you don’t have proper golfing clothing, simply pack some athletic clothes.
The golf package starts at $150 AUD.
55 – Take a selfie with the Big Rocking Horse
43 minutes east of Adelaide is one of Australia’s quirkiest monuments, the 20 meters high Big Rocking Horse! With many other activities to do nearby, especially for children, this is one of the most unique things to do in Adelaide!
After taking your selfie with the Big Rocking Horse, climb the horse all the way to the third level for $2 AUD to see what the inside looks like! While you’re visiting, make sure to also stop by the 40-year-old Old Toy Factory, and witness how some wood toys are still made today.
Afterward, stop by the Wildlife Park to see a few animals from kangaroos to wallabies, goats, and many different types of birds!
56 – Get spooked at the Adelaide Gaol
Those looking for something spooky to do in Adelaide, check out the Adelaide Gaol, a historic prison and the first permanent one in Southern Australia.
The prison is now a museum that holds artifacts from its days as a prison, and a record of some of the most notorious inmates and their stories. Step inside a few of the cells, and check out the nearby archaeological site!
Kick up the level of creepy and check out a ghost tour and investigation! Fulfill your ghost hunter curiosity, and communicate with some of the ghosts still remaining, learning about the mysterious ways in which some of the inmates died.
The ghost tour starts at $27 USD.
57 – Try your luck at SkyCity Adelaide
Win big at the SkyCity Adelaide, one of the popular casinos in Adelaide with tons of entertainment options, from live music, great food and drinks, and of course, tons of casino games.
From blackjack to poker, roulette, and all the action of table game stadiums, a fun evening at the SkyCity Adelaide awaits you with incredible thrill and enjoyment.
Past visitors especially can’t rave enough about the staff and hospitality, from valet to the games, so rest assured that your needs will be taken care of while you’re there!
The SkyCity Adelaide Casino is located in the center of the city and is accessible via public transportation.
58 – Treat yourself to the best restaurants
Indulge the seasonal dishes at Herringbone Adelaide, with an ever-rotating menu based on seasonality. The restaurant is known for its warmth and cozy vibes serving refined dishes. Make sure to book your table first!
Enjoy a bit of modern Australian cuisine at Peel St. offering lunch and dinner dishes that are served fresh with local ingredients, try some local Australian bites with a modern twist!
Try some fine dining with plant-based dishes at Allegra Dining Room, including favorites like fermented roots with sesame butter or a watermelon carpaccio with strawberry and more!
Lastly, have some delicious South African BBQ dishes at Africola, offering seafood, meats, to vegetable dishes to die for!
59 – Hit the town and visit the best clubs
Check out Maybe Mae, an award-winning cocktail bar, and order the specialty drink inside their swanky and chic space. Known for using seasonal and high-quality ingredients in their drinks, swing by to try a few for yourself.
Feel the high elegance in the middle of the city at Hennessy Rooftop Bar Adelaide, situated within the swanky Mayfair Hotel. Cheers to a great day exploring Adelaide with a sunset view of the city and craft drink in hand.
Get social at the underground Bank Street Social, an award-winning underground bar with incredible pizza and drinks, especially Australian gin and whisky. The later it gets, the more the fun increases with the resident DJ’s music and fun vibes.
How to get to Adelaide?
The best way to get to Adelaide is to fly directly to Adelaide International Airport, and from there get on public transportation which takes around 15 minutes.
For a quick solution, however, check out an airport transfer which will await you at arrivals promptly, and will take around 7 minutes to take you to your hotel in downtown Adelaide.
Where to stay in Adelaide?
Stay at the historic Mayfair Hotel, located right beside Rundle Mall, and rest inside the modern and chic rooms with incredible views of the heart of Adelaide. Past guests rated highly the spaciousness of the rooms and bathrooms, as well as the hotel’s cleanliness.
Lakes Hotel is located right beside West Lake in Adelaide and houses an incredible restaurant and award-winning bar. With breakfast served daily in a grand dining space with views of the lake, and more, you’ll see why this hotel is rated among some of the best in Adelaide!
Enjoy close proximity to the Botanic Gardens and a few minute’s car ride from Glenelg Beach at Ibis Adelaide. Enjoy the hotel’s impeccable hospitality, cleanliness, impressive views, and central location.
Check out Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide located within the city’s business district, with a fabulous rooftop and pool, delicious breakfast, and comfortable and clean rooms, near Rundle Mall.
Where to go next?
Check out some of the best places to visit in Australia, starting with Melbourne, with a boat tour down the scenic Yarra River, and a walk around Federation Square.
Venture south and stop by Phillip Island, a fascinating place known for its abundant wildlife and beautiful scenery.
Visit Bondi Beach in Sydney for a surf lesson, and of course, make it to the Sydney Opera House and walkthrough of Darling Harbour.
Keep it natural in Brisbane visiting the Glow Worm Caves, and a scenic kayak tour of the city at sunset. Next, head to Springbrook National Park for epic hiking!
Relax in Darwin at the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, and for those a bit more adventurous, check out a thrilling crocodile cruise!
Perth is brimming with fun, from a wildly entertaining time at Fremantle to kangaroo spotting at Yanchep National Park, and a scenic stroll through the Elizabeth Quay.
Don’t miss Kangaroo Island near Adelaide, a nature lover’s paradise with unique species and stunning natural formations.
Check out more multi-day trips from Adelaide, including a visit to Lake Eyre, one of the world’s largest salt lakes!
Final thoughts
From beach bum at Glenelg Beach to adventure-seeking at Cleland National Park and Mount Lofty, to ultimately dancing the night away at some of the award-winning bars and clubs, we hope that our list of the best things to do in Adelaide satisfied what you’re looking for in an epic trip!
Happy travels down under!