From the city centre to the suburbs, Adelaide has a wonderful blend of creativity and natural attractions. It’s also a great base for exploring some of the best wine regions in Australia.
The Art Gallery of South Australia is a must-visit with its collection of over 45,000 works of art including paintings, sculptures and furniture from around the world. It also has an Aboriginal collection that features the works of the traditional custodians of the land.
1. Mount Lofty
Mount Lofty is the highest peak in Adelaide Hills and boasts spectacular panoramic views across the city skyline to the coast. The summit rises more than 710 metres above sea level.
If you are a fan of bush walking, the summit offers a variety of popular walks to Waterfall Gully or Cleland Wildlife Park. The quaint village of Stirling is also worth a visit and is just a short drive from the peak.
The iconic Mount Lofty House is a superbly positioned hotel and conference retreat, only 15 minutes from the city. Situated amongst thirty acres of gardens, this historic boutique hotel features 30 beautiful rooms, one of the state’s best restaurants and day spa.
2. Waterfall Gully
Located just outside the city, Waterfall Gully is one of Adelaide’s best outdoor attractions. It’s a picturesque hike through gullies, lakes and secluded gardens.
Depending on your fitness level, you can hike the 2.5-mile (3.9-km) path from Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit or spend a leisurely stroll admiring the gushing waterfalls and panoramic views.
You can also take a drive to Cleland Wildlife Park to see koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and other native Australian animals.
You can also visit the Art Gallery of South Australia, which houses one of the best art collections in the country. It’s one of the best things to do in Adelaide for visitors of all ages. The curated rooms and extensive collections of modern, Indigenous, and colonial paintings, furniture and more will leave you feeling wowed.
3. Barossa Valley
The Barossa Valley is one of the world’s most famous wine regions, and it’s only an hour from Adelaide. It is home to more than 80 cellar doors, award-winning wines and renowned restaurants, making it a great day trip or weekend escape from the city.
The Barossa is a beautiful region with a rich cultural history, and a wonderful place to experience some of the best things to do in South Australia. It is also a wonderful place for food lovers, with a delicious range of local produce and fantastic restaurants.
It is possible to drive around the area on your own, but if you want a more in-depth experience it is recommended that you book a tour or hire a car. You can do a full day tour or a half-day tour depending on how much time you have to spend in the Barossa.
4. Hahndorf
Known for its German-style architecture and artisanal food, Hahndorf is an Adelaide gem. Settled by 19th-century Lutheran migrants, it’s a small town that’s a must for history buffs and foodies alike.
The main street of the village is a thriving tribute to the German heritage, with restaurants serving authentic cuisine and beer halls selling a range of brews. The town is also home to numerous wineries, many of which offer tours and tastings.
The 124-acre botanic garden is an idyllic spot to relax with a picnic or browse the vendor stalls. It’s one of the city’s most popular attractions, so make sure to book a tour with a local guide.
5. Adelaide Botanic Gardens
Situated on the north-eastern corner of the CBD, Adelaide Botanic Gardens is a tranquil retreat for locals and visitors alike. It consists of 51 hectares of land between North Terrace and the Botanic Park (north/south) and between the Royal Adelaide Hospital and Hackney Road (east/west).
There is a wide variety of trees, flowers and plants in the Garden. There are also statues, fountains, heritage buildings and modern artworks.
Whether you are looking for something to do, or want to discover the history of this amazing city, the Adelaide Botanic Gardens is a must-visit destination. The beautiful flora and fauna will make you forget about the hustle and bustle of the city, leaving you with a feeling of peace and happiness.
