Welcome to Adelaide, Australia’s hidden gem. Tucked away on the southern coast, this city is a breath of fresh air. It is compact, easy to get around, and packed with more culture, food, and nature than you can shake a stick at.
Forget the hectic pace of Sydney or Melbourne. Adelaide offers a chill vibe where the good life is not just a idea, but a daily reality.
So, you’re planning a trip down under and wondering what to do in Adelaide? Get ready to have your socks knocked off. We are about to dive deep into the very best this city has to offer.
From vibrant markets to wild animal encounters and stunning coastal drives, this list is your golden ticket. We have hunted down the top spots so you can stop searching and start exploring. Let’s jump right in and discover the absolute best things to do in Adelaide.
1. Adelaide Central Market – Best Overall
If you only do one thing in Adelaide, make it the Adelaide Central Market. This is the heart and soul of the city, a bustling, aromatic, and utterly delicious hub that has been serving the community since 1869.
We are talking over 70 traders under one roof, offering everything from fresh-picked produce to artisan cheeses and gourmet small goods. It is not just a place to shop; it is a full-blown sensory experience.
The second you walk in, you are hit with the smell of freshly baked bread, brewing coffee, and exotic spices. It is a beautiful chaos that feels like home.
This is one of the largest under-cover fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere. You can easily spend a whole morning here, just wandering from stall to stall. Chat with the vendors, they are legends who love their craft.
Grab a smoothie, sample some local olives, or pick up some unique Australian treats. Looking for a fantastic Adelaide activity that covers all the bases? This is it. It is perfect for foodies, families, and anyone who wants a real taste of local life.
Do not leave without trying a proper Australian meat pie from one of the bakeries. It is a rite of passage. The market is a cornerstone of any Adelaide travel itinerary and a must-see for every visitor.
2. Glenelg Tram to the Beach – Best for Families
All aboard for a classic Adelaide adventure. Hop on the iconic Glenelg Tram for a straight shot from the city center right to the sand and surf. This isn’t just any old tram ride; it is a charming journey that has been connecting Adelaide to its favorite beach since 1929.
The trip is smooth, scenic, and part of the fun. You will watch the cityscape slowly melt away, replaced by coastal views that get everyone excited. It is super easy for families, no need to fuss with parking or navigating.
When you arrive at Glenelg, or “Glanny” as the locals call it, you are greeted by a gorgeous, family-friendly beach. The water is usually calm, and the sand is perfect for building castles.
The Jetty Road precinct is packed with ice cream shops, casual eateries, and fun little stores. You can rent a bike, visit the beachfront playground, or simply sprawl out on a towel. For an extra splash of fun, check out the Beachouse, which has waterslides and arcade games.
This is easily one of the best things to do in Adelaide with kids. It is a whole day of fun without any stress. The tram runs frequently, so you can stay until the sun goes down. It is a simple, affordable, and unforgettable day out.
3. Adelaide Botanic Garden – Best for a Peaceful Stroll
Need a break from the city buzz? The Adelaide Botanic Garden is your urban oasis. Spread over 110 acres right in the city’s heart, this place is pure magic. It is not just a park; it is a living museum of plants from all over the world.
You can wander through the steamy Amazon Waterlily Pavilion, where giant lily pads look like they could hold a person.
Then, step into the stunning, pyramid-shaped Bicentennial Conservatory, filled with lush rainforest plants. It feels like you have been teleported to another continent.
One of the best Adelaide activities for a lazy afternoon is to simply get lost here. The gardens are meticulously maintained, with rolling lawns, serene lakes, and hidden pathways.
You will find locals reading books on blankets and tourists marveling at the beautiful, historic Palm House. It is a fantastic spot for a picnic. Grab some treats from the Central Market and find a quiet bench. The best part? Entry to the gardens is completely free.
It is the perfect place to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature without ever leaving the city. This is a top pick for anyone looking for free things to do in Adelaide that are still world-class.
4. Cleland Wildlife Park – Best for Animal Encounters
Get up close and personal with Australia’s most famous residents at Cleland Wildlife Park. Located just a 20-minute drive from the city in the beautiful Cleland Conservation Park, this is not your average zoo.
Here, the animals roam free in large, natural enclosures, and you can walk among them. Yes, you read that right. You can actually hand-feed kangaroos and wallabies.
They are gentle, curious, and will happily eat right out of your palm. It is an unbelievably cool experience that you will be bragging about for years.
But the fun does not stop there. For a truly unforgettable Adelaide experience, you can have your picture taken while cuddling a koala. It is a quintessential Australian thing to do. You will also see wombats, emus, dingoes, and a huge variety of native birds.
The park does incredible conservation work, so your visit helps support a great cause. Wear comfortable shoes because the park is spread over a large area with some hills, but the views of Adelaide from the top are absolutely worth it.
This is, hands down, one of the most fun things to do in Adelaide for animal lovers of all ages. Do not forget your camera.
5. Adelaide Oval Tour – Best for Sports Fans
Even if you are not a huge sports nut, a tour of the Adelaide Oval is a seriously impressive experience. This is one of the most beautiful cricket grounds in the world, with a rich history dating back to 1871.
The stadium seamlessly blends its historic scoreboard and stands with stunning modern architecture. Taking a guided tour gives you access to areas you would normally never see. You will get to walk onto the hallowed turf, step inside the players’ change rooms, and even visit the famous Bradman Collection museum.
The guides are fantastic storytellers, sharing legendary tales that bring the stadium’s history to life. For the brave at heart, you can even do a roof climb adventure. This lets you walk on the edge of the stadium’s roof for breathtaking, 360-degree views of the city and parklands.
It is a real thrill. This activity is a top thing to do in Adelaide because it showcases the city’s deep love for sport and its commitment to world-class facilities. It is an engaging and interactive way to spend a couple of hours. You will come away with a new appreciation for this iconic landmark.
6. Hahndorf – Best for a Day Trip
Take a quick 25-minute drive up into the Adelaide Hills and you will feel like you have stepped into a little piece of Europe. Welcome to Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement. Founded in 1839, this town is all about charm.
The main street is lined with beautiful old German-style buildings that now house artisan shops, art galleries, and incredible eateries. You can spend hours just wandering in and out of the stores, picking up unique crafts, and sampling local goods.
The food scene here is a major draw. You can find everything from hearty, traditional German fare to modern Australian cuisine with a focus on fresh, local produce. Many restaurants offer great vegan and meat-loving options, so there is something for every appetite.
Be sure to try a famous German-style pretzel or stop by one of the many cafes for a slice of homemade cake. Hahndorf is a fantastic Adelaide day trip that offers a complete change of scenery.
It is picturesque, relaxing, and delicious. It is the perfect escape from the city and a highlight for any traveler.
7. Port Adelaide Dolphin Cruise – Best for Nature Lovers
Did you know you can see wild dolphins just minutes from the Adelaide city center? Head to Port Adelaide and jump on a dolphin cruise for a chance to witness these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
The boats cruise through the Port River estuary, which is home to a resident pod of bottlenose dolphins. It is always a thrill when you spot your first fin cutting through the water. The dolphins are often playful, swimming right alongside the boat.
The cruise is not just about dolphins, though. You will also learn about the rich maritime history of Port Adelaide, seeing old ships and hearing stories from the knowledgeable crew. It is a relaxing and scenic way to spend a few hours out on the water.
The tours are very family-friendly and the chances of seeing dolphins are high, making it a reliable and exciting adventure. This is one of the most unique things to do in Adelaide.
It is a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature and see a different side of the city’s coastline. Remember to bring a jacket, as it can get breezy on the water.
8. Rundle Mall – Best for Shopping
Calling all shopaholics. Rundle Mall is Adelaide’s premier shopping destination, and it is a vibrant, pedestrian-only hub in the heart of the city.
With over 700 retailers, you can find pretty much anything you are looking for here. We are talking major department stores, global fashion brands, unique Australian designers, and specialty stores.
It is a shopper’s paradise. But even if you are not looking to buy anything, the mall is a great place for a stroll and some people-watching.
Be sure to look out for the mall’s famous art installations, like the life-sized bronze pigs named Horatio, Oliver, Augusta, and Truffles. They have become a beloved icon. Kids love to climb on them. There are also plenty of cafes and food courts to take a break and refuel.
The mall often has live music and entertainment, adding to its lively atmosphere. Finding the best activities in Adelaide sometimes means indulging in a little retail therapy, and Rundle Mall is the perfect place for it. It is the energetic, bustling center of city life.
9. Mount Lofty Summit Hike – Best for Views
If you are craving some exercise and a killer view, the hike to Mount Lofty Summit is calling your name. This is one of the most popular trails in Adelaide, and for good reason.
Starting from the base at Waterfall Gully, the trail is a steady uphill climb through beautiful, shaded gum tree forest. It is a bit of a workout, but it is totally manageable for anyone with a reasonable level of fitness. The path is well-maintained, and you will be joined by plenty of friendly locals.
After about an hour or so of hiking, you will burst out at the summit. And wow, the view will knock your boots off. You get a panoramic, bird’s-eye view of the entire Adelaide plains, stretching from the city skyline all the way to the coast. On a clear day, you can see for miles.
There is a cafe at the top where you can grab a well-deserved drink and snack. This hike is a must-do Adelaide experience.
It makes you feel accomplished, connects you with the stunning local landscape, and provides the ultimate photo opportunity. Just remember to bring water and wear good shoes.
10. North Terrace – Best for Culture
Think of North Terrace as Adelaide’s very own museum mile. This grand, tree-lined boulevard is the cultural epicenter of the city, home to some of its most important institutions. You can spend a full day here diving into art, history, and knowledge.
Start at the Art Gallery of South Australia, which houses an impressive collection of Australian, European, and Asian art. Best of all, general entry is free. Right next door is the South Australian Museum, famous for its amazing Aboriginal Australian culture gallery and its giant squid specimen.
Then, take a walk through the State Library and marvel at the stunning Mortlock Wing, a historic library room that looks like it came straight out of a movie. Across the road, you will find the University of Adelaide and the beautiful Botanic Garden we already talked about.
Exploring North Terrace is one of the top things to do in Adelaide for culture vultures. It is a beautiful, walkable strip that offers a deep and fascinating look into the soul of South Australia. You can not visit Adelaide without taking a stroll down this historic street.
11. Victor Harbor – Best for Coastal Charm
For another fantastic day trip, drive south to the classic seaside town of Victor Harbor. This place is a favorite for locals and visitors alike, offering a gorgeous blend of coastal scenery and old-school attractions.
The star of the show is the Horse-Drawn Tram that clatters across the causeway to Granite Island. It is a charming, slow-paced journey that feels like a step back in time.
Once on the island, you can walk the Kaiki Walk, a scenic trail that offers stunning coastal views and a chance to see little penguins (they are best spotted at dusk).
Back on the mainland, you can stroll along the Encounter Bay foreshore, visit the shops, or enjoy some fish and chips by the water. During certain times of the year, you might even spot southern right whales from the shore as they migrate.
Victor Harbor is a wholesome, family-friendly destination that captures the essence of a classic Australian beach holiday. It is one of the best Adelaide attractions for those looking to explore the stunning Fleurieu Peninsula coastline.
12. Thebarton Theatre – Best for a Night Out
Cap off your Adelaide adventure with a night out at a true icon. The Thebarton Theatre, or “Thebby” as it is affectionately known, is a historic venue that has been hosting live performances since 1928.
Walking into this place is like walking into a time capsule, with its beautiful Art Deco interior and incredible acoustics. This is where you go to see a real show. They host everything from international music acts and stand-up comedians to local theater productions.
Checking out who is playing at Thebby is a classic Adelaide thing to do. There is an electric energy in the room that you just do not get in a modern, sterile arena. It is an intimate and memorable experience.
Even if you are not a huge concert-goer, seeing a show here is about more than the performance; it is about feeling the history and being part of a local tradition. It is the perfect way to add a little excitement to your evening and see a legendary piece of Adelaide’s cultural scene.
Conclusion
Well, there you have it. Your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Adelaide. This city is a treasure trove of experiences, waiting to be uncovered.
From its world-class food and vibrant markets to its wild animal encounters and stunning natural beauty, Adelaide will surprise and delight you at every turn. It is a city that is easy to love and even easier to explore.
So, what are you waiting for? Your Australian adventure is calling. Start planning your trip to Adelaide today. Book those tickets, pack your bags, and get ready to discover why this charming city is one of the country’s best-kept secrets. You are going to have an absolute blast.