Best Things To Do In Adelaide | Australian Traveller

Blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, world-class cultural attractions and gastronomic delights, South Australia’s easy to navigate capital is fun, friendly and full of unforgettable adventures to suit every taste.

Ringed by sandy beaches and world-class wine regions, the South Australian capital is easy to fall in love with. But you don’t need to leave the city to enjoy the best that Adelaide has to offer. You can visit one of the world’s great food markets, learn about the region’s Indigenous history and see an Australian icon being made – all in a single day. And if you visit during one of the many annual festivals, the party continues well into the night.

Here’s everything you need to know about the best things to do in Adelaide.

1. Taste the world at the Adelaide Central Market

For more than 150 years, home cooks, chefs and tourists alike have flocked to the Adelaide Central Market, where more than 70 traders hawk fresh produce and cook up tasty treats from across the globe.

the fresh produce section at the Adelaide Central Market — Shop your way through the fresh produce section. (Image: Lewis Potter)

Whether you’re searching for Middle Eastern spices or Italian smallgoods, fresh Coffin Bay oysters or perfectly spiced empanadas, you’ll find what you’re looking for here.

a colourful mural at a dining spot in the Adelaide Central Market — Adelaide Central Market is popular for its vibrant food and art scene. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Download a free audio tour narrated by local food personalities Adam Liaw and Katie Spain to learn more about the colourful characters who have helped shape this gourmand’s paradise, or simply follow your nose and see where it leads you.

a stack of cheese at The Smelly Cheese Co., Adelaide Central Market — Pop by The Smelly Cheese Co. for artisanal cheeses. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

2. Catch a festival

Visit during February or March and it’s easy to see why Adelaideans call this the “festival season". The City’s East End transforms as temporary outdoor hubs spring up in the parklands and the world’s second largest fringe festival turns the entire city into a roving carnival with hundreds of performances every night.

coloured powder being thrown at the crowd during the WOMADelaide festival — Enjoy the vibrancy of the WOMADelaide festival. (Image: Grant Hancock)

At the same time, the city’s larger theatres (and sometimes the beaches and quarries) host acclaimed opera, theatre and dance works brought over by the Adelaide Festival, while Botanic Park rings out with a dizzying mix of samba, Ethio-jazz and throat singing during the joyful WOMADelaide festival.

crowds of people watching a concert at the WOMADelaide festival — Catch musical performances at the WOMADelaide festival. (Image: Jack Fenby)

But even outside of this time, a packed calendar ensures you’ll always find something happening in the Festival City , from the dazzling winter lights of Illuminate Adelaide to the cross-cultural collaborations of OzAsia and glammed-up burlesque performances in the Cabaret Festival. All you need to do is bring an adventurous spirit and join the party.

a light display at Illuminate Adelaide — Illuminate Adelaide is festooned with lights. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australian Tourism Commission)

3. See Adelaide through Kaurna eyes

Long before the arrival of Europeans, the land on which Adelaide (Tarntanya) now sits was the home of the Kaurna people. Many of their most sacred sites have been built over, but the traditions associated with these places have been kept alive and Kaurna-owned-and-operated Southern Cultural Immersion invites visitors into this rich world.

a group walking along the beach during the Southern Cultural Immersion tour in Adelaide — Join a Southern Cultural Immersion tour. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Guests can explore the significance of native plants and learn traditional weaving techniques, or join the one-hour Adelaide City Cultural Tour that examines the history of Kaurna yerta (Kaurna country) from pre-invasion times through to the present day, delving into the significance of some of the most important sites and inviting visitors to see the city through a Kaurna lens.

the Southern Cultural Immersion cultural tour — Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Kaurna people through a Southern Cultural Immersion tour. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

4. Take a tour of a chocolate factory

If you grew up dreaming of following Willy Wonka around his candy-coloured wonderland, there’s good news and bad news. Sadly those rivers of chocolate and everlasting gobstoppers remain firmly in the world of fiction. But on a more positive note, you can enjoy a free tour of the Haigh’s Chocolates factory in Adelaide’s inner south every day from Monday to Saturday.

chocolate flowing at Haigh’s Chocolates, Adelaide — Get your sweet tooth fix at the Haigh’s Chocolate factory. (Image: Haigh’s Chocolates)

Now onto its fourth generation, Australia’s most venerable family-owned chocolate maker still specialises in artisanal handcrafted treats and each twenty-minute tour explains how they transform ethically sourced cocoa beans into more than 250 mouthwatering products.

chocolates being offered at Haigh’s Chocolates, Adelaide — Get your hands on sweet treats. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australia Tourism Commission)

Then it’s onto the production line where visitors can watch chocolates being made before indulging in a tasting and searching for bargain price seconds at the expansive onsite store.

the chocolate-making process at Haigh’s Chocolates, Adelaide — Learn about the chocolate-making process. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australia Tourism Commission)

5. Lose yourself in a park where nature meets art and fine dining

Visitors to Adelaide are never far from a green space thanks to the Adelaide Park Lands that encircle the city. But if you want to really lose yourself in the trees, head to the Adelaide Botanic Garden on the northeastern edge of the CBD. Along with towering Moreton Bay Figs, pungent corpse flowers and ancient Wollemi pines, you’ll find greenhouses nurturing palms, cacti and giant Amazonian water lilies. If you get hungry, the 51-hectare grounds include one of Australia’s most acclaimed dining spots in Restaurant Botanic (along with some more casual options), while arty types will love the large-scale exhibitions like the showcase of famed glass artist Dale Chihuly’s eye-popping glass sculptures .

two women walking under a lavender tunnel at Adelaide Botanic Garden — Lose yourself along the purple tunnel at the Adelaide Botanic Garden. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

6. Go on a wine tour with a difference

Boasting three acclaimed wine regions within an hour of the CBD, it’s no wonder that Adelaide is one of only 12 Great Wine Capitals in the world. But you can embark on a glorious vinous journey without ever leaving the CBD thanks to the incredible collection at the National Wine Centre .

the National Wine Centre in Adelaide — Visit the National Wine Centre for a serious wine education. (Image: National Wine Centre of Australia)

All 65 of Australia’s wine regions are represented in the vast open cellar, and sommelier-led masterclasses allow you to explore the collection by varietal or region. Or you can learn about the people, places and grapes that have shaped our wine industry on a self-guided tour, then conduct some hands-on research at the Wined Bar’s array of Enomatic machines that allow you to taste 120 different wines.

visitors touring around the National Wine Centre — Explore the Australian wine collection by varietal or region at the National Wine Centre. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australian Tourism Commission)

7. Indulge in a little pampering

Self-care can take many forms, and just about every one of them is covered at Davaar House . An oasis of calm on the southeastern fringes of the city, this beautifully restored three-story mansion has been transformed into a wellness centre offering everything from stress-relieving massages to an infrared Pilates capsule and a hyperbaric chamber.

a woman undergoing a massage treatment at Davaar House, Adelaide — Spare some pamper time for yourself at Davaar House.

Book one of the sensory deprivation float tanks and you’ll feel the weight slipping from your shoulders as time drifts away, while the yoga and meditation sessions have a maximum of 8 participants to preserve the intimate atmosphere. If you can’t decide, you can even combine a range of treatments on the indulgent 5-hour retreat day. And when you’re done, the ground-floor coffee shop is the perfect spot to grab a berry smoothie or avo toast before venturing back out into the city.

a couple standing in robes at Davaar House, Adelaide — You deserve a little pampering.

8. Walk away with the ultimate souvenir

A factory tour might seem like an unusual inclusion on a list of fun things to do in Adelaide, but the R.M. Williams site in Adelaide’s north is no ordinary production facility. The iconic Australian brand’s signature Craftsman boots are still assembled in largely the same way they were when Reginald Murray first learned to make them in 1932.

visitors browsing through the boots on display at R.M. Williams — Browse through the boots on display at R.M. Williams. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Every single boot goes through more than 80 separate processes as it is transformed from a single piece of leather into a wearable work of art, and you can follow that entire journey if you visit on a half-day tour . Then it’s time to grab some morning tea and learn about the brand’s rich history before visiting Reginald Murray’s original Percy Street workshop where you’ll be fitted with the ultimate souvenir – your own pair of R.M.s to keep.

a look inside the R.M. Williams site in Adelaide — The R.M. Williams site in Adelaide’s north is no ordinary production facility. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

9. Get your culture fix at one of Adelaide’s museums and galleries

It would take weeks to visit all of Adelaide’s incredible museums and galleries, but a short stroll along the cultural boulevard of North Terrace is enough to take in some of the city’s artistic highlights. In fact, in the space of just a few hundred metres you can travel all around the globe (and beyond).

the front facade of the Art Gallery of South Australia — Step into the contemporary Art Gallery of South Australia. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

First, fall under the spell of the pharaohs in the Ancient Egypt gallery at the South Australian Museum, then marvel at the Art Gallery of South Australia’s unrivalled collection of traditional and contemporary Indigenous art before venturing to the surface of Mars at the Australian Space Discovery Centre.

a look inside the Art Gallery of South Australia — Wander through the various exhibitions. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

10. Say cheers to a local icon

Through depressions and world wars, heat waves and floods, there has been one constant for Adelaideans. After 162 years and six generations, you can still find Coopers on tap at the corner pub. The recent explosion of craft beers has only increased the brand’s popularity, and Australia’s largest independent brewery is now inviting visitors to peek behind the scenes at the brand new $70-million-dollar visitor centre in Regency Park.

a look inside Coopers brewery in Adelaide — Find Coopers on tap at the corner pub. (Image: Studio Nine Architects)

Budding home brewers can take a deep dive into every aspect of the production process or sample the finished product in the tasting room, while the onsite microbrewery is busy making a range of exclusive experimental brews.

the Coopers brewery in Regency Park, Adelaide — Peek behind the scenes at the brand new visitor centre in Regency Park.

If you want to make a day out of it, the adjacent restaurant specialises in South American and Mediterranean flavours specially designed to match the Coopers range (and sometimes incorporates the beers into the dishes).

the restaurant adjacent to Coopers brewery in Adelaide — Dine at the adjacent restaurant.

11. Shop and dine at Rundle Mall

In 1976, when the opening ribbon was cut at Rundle Mall , the then Premier Don Dunstan (who initially green-lit the project) arrived on horse and cart. Ten thousand people lined the streets, toasting champagne to a new era in Adelaide retail.

people strolling along the streets of Rundle Mall, Adelaide — Head to Rundle Mall for all things retail. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Over 40 years later, Rundle Mall remains the home of shopping, dining and entertainment in Adelaide, with over 24 million people a year visiting the car-free shopping strip.

the Haigh's Chocolates original retail store at Rundle Mall — Haigh’s original retail store is located at the corner of Rundle Mall and King William Street. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

It hosts over 700 retailers and 300 services, combining leading retail brands, a huge selection of things to eat and drink with rich history, prominent landmarks and a steady stream of vibrant buskers.

people buying French delicacies at Les Deux Coqs in Rundle Mall — Indulge in French delicacies at Les Deux Coqs in Rundle Mall. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

12. Visit one of the beautiful beaches

Adelaide has so much food, culture, art and wine to offer, that many forget it’s also home to some A+ beaches.

sunset at The Moseley Beach Club, Glenelg Beach — Have a sundowner at the Moseley Beach Club on Glenelg Beach. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Family-friendly Glenelg Beach is one of the most popular and is accessible via tram from the city to Moseley Square. Henley Beach is a high-end option, with the surrounding restaurants, cafes and shops catering to the luxury traveller.

a dog running on Glenelg Beach — Go frolicking with your dog at Glenelg Beach. (Image: Josh Geelen Photographer)

For history buffs, Semaphore Beach is surrounded by Art Deco architecture. Be sure to check out the iconic 1920s Palais bathing pavilion while you’re there.

Adelaide beaches — Sunsets at Semaphore Beach are breathtaking. (Image:

13. Explore Morialta Conservation Park

You’ll find Morialta Conservation Park just 10 km north-east of Adelaide city centre.

a cave hole at the Morialta Conservation Park — Morialta Conservation Park is home to stunning rock formations. (Image: Joel Durbridge)

The park is home to three striking waterfalls, all linked by three hiking trails ready to be explored at your leisure. If you’d like to tick off all three, the 7.5km hike will take about four hours.

a kid standing in front of a waterfall at Morialta Conservation Park — See one of the striking waterfalls at Morialta Conservation Park. (Image: Megan Crabb)

Kids will love the brand new Mukanthi nature play space, or the chance to climb the Birds Nest, discover an Aboriginal fire pit at Frog Island, find the secret tunnel at Great Snake, and reach the peak at Eagles Perch.

a woman standing at a cave entrance in Morialta Conservation Park — Outdoor lovers will enjoy exploring the natural gorges around Morialta Conservation Park. (Image: Megan Crabb)

Morialta is also one of the state’s most popular spots for rock climbing, with options that vary in difficulty for both beginners and experts.

a woman rock climbing at Morialta Conservation Park — Conquer the rock climb and abseil tour with Earth Adventure. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australian Tourism Commission)

Need somewhere to stay? Check out our accommodation guide.

Explore some of Australia’s most stunning coastlines on this epic route.

This scenic, 1800-kilometre Brisbane to Port Douglas road trip takes in some of Australia’s most beautiful landscapes, from the wildlife on Bribie Island to the rainforests of Far North Queensland. Our advice? Slow it down, take your time and really get to know this part of Australia.

Day 1: Brisbane to Noosa

Wake up in the luxurious Sofitel Brisbane Central , enjoy a hot buffet breakfast and a swim in the outdoor pool before hitting the road to travel north. Take the exit to Bribie Island to view the abundant wildlife.

aerial view of bribie island — Enjoy the beauty and animals of Bribie Island. (Image: TEQ)

In the afternoon, check into Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas hidden near Noosa National Park and spend the afternoon relaxing at the luxury Aqua Day Spa. Daredevils can book a seat on an Ocean View Helicopters tour and experience the adrenaline of exploring the Glasshouse Mountains from the air.

Before dinner, head to the Original Eumundi Markets just 25 minutes away or explore the nearby trails in the national park. For dinner, book a table at Park & Cove located just near your hotel and feast on a locally-sourced menu that changes with the seasons.

table spread at Park & Cove Novotel Sunshine Coast — Refuel at Park & Cove.

Day 2: Noosa to Bundaberg

Wake up to sounds of the rainforest outside your window and take the opportunity for a quick swim before you dive into a freshly cooked buffet breakfast at Park & Cove. After breakfast and an expertly brewed coffee, stroll down the hill and spend the morning shopping along Hastings Street in the various boutiques, or hire a kayak or surfboard and conquer the waves.

After lunch, head north for the three-hour drive to historic Bundaberg . If you feel like feeding a kangaroo or wallaby, visit the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary . Once in Bundy, head to Spitter’s Farm just outside of town. This 160-acre property offers a unique experience in their deluxe glamping safari tents, where you can listen to the cows mooing as the sun sets.

baby kangaroo at australian wildlife Sanctuary — Say hello to the adorable creatures of Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary. (Image: Jewels Lynch)

Day 3: Bundaberg to Rockhampton

Before getting back on the road, take time to visit the many museums, and, of course, the famous Bundaberg Rum Distillery for a tour. Then head to the Beef Capital of Australia, Rockhampton.

Although, ‘Rocky’ is surrounded by beef cattle farms, your first stop should be to the impressive Rockhampton Museum of Art , which features an art collection valued at over $16 million. Rest your head at the centrally-located Mercure Rockhampton overlooking the mighty Fitzroy River. Grab a quick swim in their outdoor pool before enjoying a steak at their in-house restaurant.

Day 4: Rockhampton to Mackay

Grab a strong coffee at your hotel and drive the short distance to the nearby Capricorn Caves for a morning tour of these natural limestone beauties. Then hit the road for the four-hour drive to Mackay.

Reward yourself with a swim in the large, resort-style pool at the Mantra Mackay . Overlooking the marina, it’s the perfect location from which to explore the city, before enjoying a sundowner and dinner at the popular Latitude 21 on the hotel terrace.

woman exploring the Capricorn Caves in queensland — Explore the Capricorn Caves. (Image: TEQ)

Day 6: Mackay to Townsville

Grab your breakfast to go, then head just out of town to Finch Hatton Gorge. Here, spend the morning ziplining 25 metres above the rainforest floor with Forest Flying . Head to Airlie Beach for lunch and a swim in the famous Airlie Beach Lagoon , before heading north to Townsville.

Hop on a 20-minute ferry – they leave regularly – and check into the stunning Peppers Blue on Blue Resort . Spend the evening swimming in their two pools with views across the private marina to Mount Cook National Park, before feasting on fresh seafood at their on-site restaurant, Boardwalk Restaurant and Bar.

aerial view of beach at Airlie Beach queensland — Dive into the crystal clear waters around Airlie Beach. (Image: TEQ)

Day 7: Townsville to Cairns

After a morning swim on one of Magnetic Island’s beautiful beaches, hop back on the ferry and travel north to the sleepy Mission Beach for lunch. You’ll be sandwiched by rainforest on one side, and the beach on the other.

Continue on to Cairns and check in at the centrally-located Novotel Cairns Oasis, where the lagoon-style pool and swim-up bar alone is worth the visit. Or continue north for 25 minutes to the coastal village of Palm Cove.

Once there it’s a tough choice between the luxurious, five-star Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple, or the beautifully designed Peppers Beach Club and Spa Palm Cove , where the pool has its very own beach.

two people in deck chairs by Novotel Cairns Oasis' lagoon-style pool — Relax by Novotel Cairns Oasis’ lagoon-style pool.

Day 8: To Port Douglas

No matter where you spent the night, your journey to Port Douglas will be one of the most scenic road trips you’ll ever experience. Following the coastline, travel past champagne-coloured beaches, offshore islands and submerged reefs, before rolling into town at Port Douglas.

Although you’ll be spoilt for choice with hotels, two of the best are Peppers Beach Club Port Douglas, which is closer to town (think stunning pool and walking distance to Macrossan Street) and the famous, five-star Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa , located a little further down the beach. If the 3000-metre-squared lagoon-style pool isn’t enough at this hotel, you’ll also find the exclusive Vie Spa and popular restaurant, Aluco Restaurant & Bar , widely known as being one of the finest restaurants in Port Douglas.

aerial view of pool at Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple — Revive from road-tripping in one of the best pools in Port Douglas.

Start planning your Queensland adventure at all.com.

13 of the best things to do in Adelaide for every budget