10 Things to Do in Adelaide

Known as the city of churches, Adelaide is one of the more picturesque towns in Australia. Even if you only have a few days to spend in Adelaide, there are plenty of things to see and do. To help you plan your trip to Adelaide, here is our selection of the best things to do.

1. Take a Cruise on a Murray River Boat

The Murray River is one of the most beautiful stretches of water in this sunburnt country, flowing over 2,500 kilometres. It is possible to take a cruise along a small, peaceful section of the river in a day-trip from Adelaide.

A short drive out of town and you will be sailing on a riverboat watching citrus orchards and rolling hills float past you. The Murray River is also home to some wonderful birdlife. Look out for cockatoos, pelicans and Australian galahs. The riverboat cruises also include a scrumptious lunch made from local produce that will keep you satiated as you relax and soak in the serenity.

2. Take a Tour of Adelaide Oval

A popular cricket ground in Australia, the Adelaide Oval has been home to the South Australian Cricket Association since 1871. 

Volunteers who are passionate about sport and their town, run tours of Adelaide Oval. They will take you not only through the venue but also inform you of the history and some of the secrets of this picturesque cricket ground. The tours are held on weekdays except on public holidays or when a match is on.

 

3. Learn All about Chocolate at The Haigh's Chocolate Factory

Belgium may consider itself the chocolate capital of the world but as a self-proclaimed chocolate connoisseur, I personally prefer Haigh’s chocolate. It is delicate, creamy and oh-so-delicious, and it is made in Adelaide. You can tour the Haigh’s factory that has been producing chocolate in Adelaide since 1915 and decide for yourself.

The tour takes you through how chocolate is created, from its humble beginnings as cocoa beans through to the tasting room.  Personally, I recommend trying the famous dark chocolate peppermint frogs, delicately crafted truffles and the milk chocolate speckles for the kids.

4. Stroll Along North Terrace

The cultural centre of Adelaide is North Terrace, and a simple stroll down this street could take you a whole day if you stop at all the interesting sites along the way.  Here, you will find the National Wine Centre of Australia where you can learn all about how wine is produced and even sample a few local vintages. Further down North Terrace are the Art Gallery of South Australia and the South Australian Museum. Both have some interesting collections and exhibitions for those interested in art and history.

The stately building on the corner of King William Street is home to the Governor of South Australia and Parliament House is also just down the road.

Read More: Australia: A Quick and Handy Travel Guide

5. Visit the Adelaide Botanic Gardens

Walking distance from the centre of the city is the Adelaide Botanic Gardens. This historical garden has some beautiful landscapes and an impressive collection of plants and fauna.  Interestingly there are also three glass houses in the Gardens including the Bicentennial Conservatory, which is the largest single span glasshouse in the southern hemisphere. Each glasshouse was built during a different era adding historical character to the scenery.

One of the most beautiful sites in the Adelaide Botanical Gardens must be the avenue of Moreton Bay fig trees, which are the oldest in Australia. Other notable gardens include the International Rose Garden, the Cactus and Succulent Garden and the Eremophilia Garden.

6. Go Shopping at Rundle Mall

The best shopping destination in Adelaide has to be Rundle Mall in the heart of the city. With over 700 stores spread over 15 arcades, more than 23 million people come to Rundle Mall each year searching for that perfect item. Originally Rundle Mall was a street open to vehicular traffic but in 1972, it was closed, opening again in 1976 to foot traffic only.

More than just a shopping destination, the Rundle Mall also has historical significance with some interesting architecture, sculptures and landmarks including The Rundle Mall Pigs, Beehive Corner and the Girl on a Slide Sculpture. There is even a Rundle Mall Discovery Trail if you are interested in learning more about what makes this great shopping precinct tick.

7. Visit Glenelg Beach

A short drive from the centre of Adelaide is the seaside suburb of Glenelg. Here, you can kick off your shoes and walk barefoot on the sandy golden beach or jump into the water and go swimming with the dolphins. Whilst it is now popular for its relaxing holiday feel, Glenelg also has historical significance; it was the first settlement in South Australia in 1836.

In 1859, the Glenelg Jetty or Pier was built but later destroyed by fire and hurricane. It has since been rebuilt and is a great place to sit and watch the world go by. If you would like to learn more about the history of the region, you could visit the beautiful old Town Hall known as the Bay Discovery Centre, which is now a historical museum.

 

8. Explore Cleland Wildlife Park

Cleland Wildlife Park has over 35 hectares of open bush land to explore and get close to some of Australia’s best wildlife. For most, the biggest thrill at Cleland Wildlife Park is getting the opportunity to hold a koala, stroke their fur and even get your photo taken with the Australian icon. You can even arrange for a private session with these cuddly animals so that you and your travel companions can have the koalas all to yourselves.

If you feel like being adventurous, why not hike the Waterfall Gully-Mount Lofty Summit Trail. The 8-kilometre walk is considered to be challenging but the view of Adelaide at the summit is well worth the effort.

 

 

9 . Take a Day Trip to Kangaroo Island

Kangaroo Island is situated just off the coast of South Australia but you may as well be a world away. Packed into this small island are some of Australia’s most pristine beaches, amazing wildlife, lush forests and fresh gourmet food. It is possible to visit the island on a day-trip from Adelaide, but don’t be surprised if you are tempted to stay for a few more days.

For those that like the outdoors, you can explore huge sand dunes, go hiking in the forest or watch sea lions basking on the beach. If you prefer some of the finer things in life, you can taste some fresh cheese, watch King George Whiting fish being caught from the crystal blue waters or try the sweet local honey. A short trip to Kangaroo Island from Adelaide is just like taking a holiday to another country.

 

10. Tour the Wine Region

One of Australia’s premier wine making regions is the Barossa Valley. Renowned worldwide for its robust reds and crisp chardonnays, the Barossa Valley is about an hour and half form Adelaide, perfect for a day-trip.

German speaking communities who were able to use their knowledge of vineyards to develop this valley initially settled in the region.  They also left behind some interesting history including Hahndorf Village.  This village is near the Adelaide Hills wine region and is Australia’s oldest surviving German Settlement. Here, you can learn about German heritage, enjoy authentic European food or just enjoy the unique village feel.

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