Things to Do in Adelaide
Cleland Wildlife Park
Formerly a conservation park, this tourist attraction in Adelaide houses numerous native animals. It offers visitors an exceptional opportunity to interact with kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas in their natural habitat.
The Cleland Wildlife Park is not just a place to view wildlife from afar – it encourages hands-on experiences. You can pet the friendly kangaroos, feed the playful wallabies, and even hold a koala for a memorable photo opportunity.
Bay Discovery Centre
Located in the historic Glenelg Town Hall, the Bay Discovery Centre is a popular destination for history buffs and curious travellers. This cultural centre showcases the rich maritime heritage of Adelaide’s coastal suburbs through interactive displays and exhibits.
Visitors can learn about the early days of settlement at Holdfast Bay and explore artifacts from shipwrecks along the coast. The centre also offers guided walking tours of the area, giving visitors a deeper understanding of its historical significance.
Adelaide Gaol
Gaol is one of South Australia’s oldest buildings, so its history is rich enough for anyone to visit. The Gaol was first used as a prison, then turned into an art gallery and, finally, a museum.
Visitors can take self-guided audio tours to learn about the prisoners once confined within its walls and explore the fascinating exhibits on display. Ghost tours are also available at night for those seeking a more thrilling, albeit creepy, experience.
Steamroller Park
A largely underrated park, Steamroller Park is perfect for families with young children. The park features a life-size steamroller that kids can climb on and other unique play equipment, such as a giant slide and a flying fox.
It also has a large open space perfect for picnics and plenty of shade for hot summer days. With its fun and interactive elements, Steamroller Park will keep children entertained and active.
Adelaide Botanic Garden
This garden is a “must-visit” for nature lovers and those hoping to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The Adelaide Botanic Garden houses the Bicentennial Conservatory, home to plants from various regions around Australia. It offers visitors a peaceful retreat with stunning floral displays and tranquil water features.
The garden also hosts annual special events, i.e., outdoor concerts and art exhibitions. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic or a stroll through the beautiful landscapes.
Adelaide Himeji Garden
Located in the heart of Adelaide city, the Himeji Garden is a peaceful oasis with Japanese-inspired landscapes. It’s the perfect spot for nature lovers to relax and enjoy tranquil surroundings.
The gardens feature traditional elements such as koi ponds, stone lanterns, and a beautiful teahouse. Visitors can also enjoy Sunday guided tours to learn more about the garden’s history and design.
Hallett Cove Boardwalk
This coastal walk is a must-do for anyone visiting Adelaide. The Hallett Cove Boardwalk offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and geological formations over 600 million years old.
The 2.5 km boardwalk trail takes visitors through the Hallett Cove Conservation Park, where they can see evidence of ancient glaciers and learn about the area’s rich geological history.
National Railway Museum
The National Railway Museum is a must-visit for history buffs and train enthusiasts. It showcases over 100 exhibits of trains and carriages from different eras, including steam locomotives and electric trains.
Visitors may prefer to take a train ride around the museum grounds, explore the interactive displays, and learn about the development of railways in Australia. The museum also affords special events and themed exhibitions throughout the year.
Mount Lofty Summit
For the best views of Adelaide, head to Mount Lofty Summit. At 710 meters above sea level, it offers scenic views of the city skyline and surrounding hills.
Visitors can take a scenic drive up to the summit or hike one of the many trails in the area. Picnic areas and a cafe are also available for relaxing and enjoying the stunning scenery.
Adelaide Zoo
Home to thousands of animals worldwide, the Adelaide Zoo is a “can’t miss” opportunity for animal lovers. The zoo is dedicated to conservation efforts and offers visitors an interactive and educational experience.
Visitors can meet the famous Giant Pandas, explore the newly renovated Elephant House, and attend daily animal talks and shows. The zoo hosts annual special events like “Roar and Snore” overnight campouts.