Few destinations in the world can offer travellers a range of experiences like that of Adelaide, South Australia’s capital city. Surrounded by some of the world’s best wine regions, stunning rolling hills,, and pristine stretches of coastline, Adelaide offers adventure and a diversity of experience. The city itself boasts a rich cultural scene that includes some of the country’s best museums, and is home to a foodie culture you’re never encountered before — markets loaded with fresh local produce and innovative, world-famous restaurants. Adelaide’s wildlife offers magical experiences for visitors of all ages, its beaches promise relaxation, and, whether you’re experienced or an absolute beginner, the mountains and national parks play host to a selection of exciting outdoor activities. Join us today as we look at some of the coolest things to do in Adelaide. And while you’re here, be sure to check out our Adelaide MTB Day Tours, which cater to those of all skill levels.
A Taste of Adelaide
With a history stretching all the way back to 1869, Adelaide’s Central Market is an attraction not to be missed. Offering fresh produce and multicultural cuisine, the market is home to nearly 80 stalls and welcomes a whopping 9.5 million visitors every year. The market has a straightforward mission: to be the world’s leading food and produce market. And as the southern hemisphere’s largest market of its kind, you’re unlikely to forget this unique experience anytime soon. Market stalls serve up seasonal specialities throughout the year and all tastes and dietary requirements are adequately catered to. Bring your appetite and embark on a gastronomic journey of discovery at this magical market — a foodie wonderland.
Adelaide’s Coastal Beauty
The Adelaide metropolitan area is only a stone’s throw from a variety of exquisite beaches. The metro beaches stretch a stunning 30km along the coast from North Haven to Seacliff offering amazing swimming, walking and cycling along the coast. One of the closest options is Glenelg, which you can reach within 30 minutes by tram or a relaxing 12km spin along the Torrens River. Glenelg is home to a splendid stretch of beach, a bustling seafront dotted with shops and cafes, and its famous, picture-perfect, jetty. For lovers of seafood, Henley beach should be on your list. Situated next to this beautiful beach of shining white sands, is an array of top-class restaurants offering freshly caught fish. A little further afield, Port Noarlunga is a perfect choice for those who love to surf or snorkel. Whether you wish to roll out your towel and enjoy a slow, revitalising afternoon on the beach, or catch some of Adelaide’s epic waves on a surfboard, the options are endless.
Explore Adelaide’s Wine Regions
Globally, Australia is among the largest producers of quality wines, and we like to think that the best are found in South Australia, one of the world’s great wine capitals. Within just 30 minutes of Adelaide, wine lovers can visit McLaren Vale. Most famous for its world-beating Shiraz, McLaren Vale’s wineries (of which dozens open their cellar doors to visitors) offer magnificent tastings and locally-sourced food in an idyllic setting, with a more recent focus on mediterranean styles of wines. If your preference is for white wine, be sure to visit the Adelaide Hills wine region which is just 20mins from town and well known for it’s cooler climate white wines, or the Clare Valley, which is renowned for its Crouchen variety of grape that produces delectable, full-bodied wines. If you are planning on touring wineries during your stay, why not consider our McLaren Vale Bike and Wine Tour, which departs from Adelaide. The most popular bike tour in Adelaide, our tour takes you through areas of extraordinary natural beauty and stops at some of the best wineries. The tour can also be tailored to make visits to local micro-breweries and chocolatiers. The perfect partnership of outdoor adventure and unparalleled taste sensations.
See Adelaide’s Wild Side
Whether it is swimming with dolphins, watching marvellous birdlife in the wild, or hugging a Koala, Adelaide offers a variety of once in a lifetime wildlife experiences. Along Adelaide’s coast, you will find several spots from which you can swim with dolphins. It is a joy to get so close to these wonderful creatures in their breathtaking natural habitat. For a chance to meet one Australia’s most iconic animals, the koala, visitors need only venture 20 minutes from the centre of Adelaide. Located on top of Mount Lofty in the Adelaide Hills, the Cleland Wildlife Park provides guests with the opportunity to be pictured holding a koala, an unforgettable encounter. This experience is offered as part of our Lofty Descents tour (which also includes a money-back guarentee you will see WILD koala’s on the ride too!) Other wildlife at the site includes dingoes, emus, kangaroos, and an array of Australia’s fantastic reptile species.
Visit Adelaide’s Cultural Treasures
For culture vultures, Adelaide is home to some of the finest museums in Australia. Be sure to visit the South Australian Museum for an enriching look into Australia’s aboriginal culture through extensive collections of indigenous artefacts. A short walk from the museum, a meditative visit can be paid to the city’s historic botanic gardens. Elsewhere, the Art Gallery of South Australia can be explored free of charge, it’s beautifully curated galleries are home to thousands of artworks from across the globe and well worth a visit.
The Adelaide Botanic Gardens are stunning, and free to stroll around, and are super easy to get to, positioned just off North Terrace. A great way to while away an hour or two before brunch or lunch at one of the Rundle St Cafes nearby.
Adelaide embodies such a rich part of Australia that its metropolitan area and gorgeous, expansive natural landscapes offer guests and residents a bounty of adventures and attractions. We hope our selection of some of our coolest personal highlights has inspired you to begin planning your next trip. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.