Welcome to Adelaide, the capital city of South Australia! If you plan to visit this beautiful city, I have an excellent suggestion for you.
This is what I always Google wherever I go “Things to do in…”. So, I thought, as I am a local now, I would love to give you some recommendations worth doing when you visit Adelaide.
This list is perfect if you stay in the city for a day or two. And you don’t even need a car to enjoy it. There are also free trams and buses around the CBD if you need a ride. So now, let’s jump in!
1. Historical trails
One of the best ways to explore places is by slowly walking around and letting your mind merge with the surroundings.
You can spend a whole day discovering Adelaide’s rich history through these historical trails.
Adelaide is the only city in Australia settled for free people, not convicts. The CBD was planned and structured by a British-Malayan officer, William Light or Colonel Light.
And what I like about Adelaide is that although we live in the city, we still have a quiet street. So we can go for a walk in the morning or evening without being crazy busy and crowded like another capital city.
I love wandering around the city’s west and east sides, surrounded by charming and attractive historic buildings. You can spot the blue plaque displaying the identity and a short history of the building.
There are more than ten historical trails around the city, depending on your interests. My favourite trails are the Multicultural southwest trail, where you can find the oldest mosque in Australia, and the Village in the city trail.
You can check all the self-guided historical trails here. And enjoy the beautiful architecture and history of Adelaide.
2. Adelaide Himeji Garden
Can you believe that you can find a piece of Japan in Adelaide? This garden is located in the southeast of Adelaide Park Lands. It’s a celebration of the Sister City relationship between Adelaide and the ancient Japanese city of Himeji.
The minute you walk through the gatehouse, you are suddenly in another world. You can feel calm and peaceful just by looking at the lake in the middle and the mountain garden behind, the layout of plants, the sounds of water, and the position of the rock in the dry garden.
You would feel like you have to sit down and meditate. It’s such a beautiful hidden gem.
3. Central Market
This is one of Greg’s favourite places. He would go there every single day if he could! But I can’t blame him as it has everything you need.
It is a busy area in the city. But if you are a market person, you will enjoy a variety of choices, from fresh fruit and veggies to lovely meat, great seafood, cheese, delicious dishes, beautiful coffee, delightful bakeries, and chic bars.
I am a foodie with a sweet tooth, so sometimes I can spend a whole day just shifting from café to café, having a ton of food and sweets there. My favourite place is Big Table, Cumbia Bar Kitchen, SiSea, Mr.Cheese, Skala Artisan Bakers and Providore.
The only thing I would complain about is trading hours. They are closed at 5.30 PM except for Friday at 9 PM. Saturday is open till 3 PM and closed on Sunday and Monday. It’s just a bit odd how they operate the hours here.
4. Rundle Mall
It’s a haven for shoppers! You can enjoy a wide range of brands in Adelaide’s biggest shopping centre.
I am not into buying stuff, but during the sale seasons, you can find great deals for designer clothes or sneakers for a 50% -70 % discount here.
5. Walk along the River Torrens or Karrawirra Parri.
Just to the north, further from North Terrace, there is a calm, lovely riverside dividing Adelaide CBD and North Adelaide. We love going for a walk along the river in the late afternoon.
On the east side, where the river starts from, there is a lovely vertical garden with a little bridge looking over the river. But if you keep going on the walking path along the river further east, it will take you to the nice suburbs of St. Peters Billabong.
The west side of the City bridge is an Elder Park with high buildings like hotels and functional centres in the background. There is a little historical gem, an octagonal rotunda made in Glasgow and shipped from London in 1882.
It’s probably one of Adelaide’s landmarks that you must visit. Especially in the twilight time at the bridge, you can see the beautiful reflection of the Adelaide Oval and all the buildings on the river with an aesthetic orange-pink sky.
If you don’t like walking that much. There are bars on the riverside where you can grasp a drink or a bottle of wine, share with your loved one and enjoy the beautiful Karrawirra Parri.
6. North Adelaide
The first thing you will see on the City Bridge heading up to North Adelaide is the enormously stunning St Peter’s Cathedral, established in 1869. And it’s obviously an excellent introduction to this glamorous residential suburb.
Besides the historical trails for those interested in a good old day and fascinated by gorgeous mentions and villages around the suburb. The O’Connell and Melbourne streets are a way to fill you with various café, restaurants, and historical pubs.
Oh, and don’t forget to check the Light’s Vision. It’s up on the hill behind the Adelaide Oval where the statue of William Light or Colonel Light, who planned the city layout, looks over to CBD. You can’t see much of the city as the Oval in the way, but you can’t miss the beautiful background of Adelaide hills and the history of the city plan.
7. Adelaide Zoo
Please don’t say, oh Mossy, it’s not my thing. Well, you never know. So let yourself explore and get closer to those adorable creatures. You will find that the Adelaide Zoo is one of the most iconic attractions that you shouldn’t miss.
You will find so many things happening in a small space in the middle of the city. There are so many animal experiences for the whole family, from watching cutie Red Panda to feeding Giraffes, Hippo and getting close to the iconic Australian, Koala.
8. The State Library of South Australia
This is one of Australia’s most beautiful state libraries. And you must come and see how amazing it is with your eyes. There are three buildings you can explore. But one of the most elegant is the Mortlock Wing, with the beautiful interior of Victorian splendour.
And in the same area, North Terrace Cultural Precinct, you can also explore more about arts and culture at the South Australian Museum, Art Gallery of South Australia and Migration Museum.
9. Adelaide Botanic Garden
It’s a perfect place to relax and unwind. Saying that, there are also many things to see in the garden. The First Creek Wetland, Kainka Wirra Main Lake, Mediterranean garden, International Rose Garden, Amazon Waterlily Pavillion, and Bicentennial Conservatory.
Nothing is better than lying in the soft grass under the giant tree and feeling nothing to worry about.
One of my favourite spots is a hallway of tall trees from Friend’s gate that lead to the Botanic Garden restaurant.
There is also a café and Botanic shop where you can get nice plants and garden gear as well.
10. National Wine Centre of Australia
A must before you head to any wine region in South Australia. This National Wine Centre of Australia is on the east side of the Botanic Garden.
And is just a short walk from the city, and you will find the unique architectural building that evokes a sense of winery. You can learn about Australian wine’s history and a wide range of products. In the middle of the centre is the Southern Hemisphere’s most extensive wine cellar, which can store up to 38,000 bottles. And good news! They are available for you to take home (with price).
In other words, let’s enjoy the taste of an award-winning venue with any choice of a glass or a bottle of wine you like and have a good time!
I hope the 10 best things to do in Adelaide that I recommended will help you find that Adelaide has something to offer everyone. So, whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, make sure to check out these top ten things. With its friendly locals, beautiful scenery, and vibrant culture, Adelaide is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So pack your bags and get ready to discover this charming city!
Xoxo, have a gorgeous day 🌈❤️💛