Adelaide, the coastal capital of South Australia, is known for its abundance of festivals, gardens and churches.
This popular city boasts a rich history, best explored through its iconic landmarks. From sporting venues to vibrant gardens, discover the must-visit destinations on any trip to Adelaide, and where to dine nearby.
Be entertained at Adelaide Oval
Starting us off strong, Adelaide Oval is a world-class venue that hosts major sporting events and concerts year-round. Opened in 1873, it has long been recognised as one of the most beautiful cricket grounds in the world, while also toppling many impressive records including becoming the first stadium with its own RoofClimb. It even welcomed an impressive 70,000 people to Adele’s world tour in 2017.
When visiting the oval, you will discover many popular food outlets that serve top-quality dishes all day long. Beer-lovers should book a table at Malt Shovel Taphouse, located at the end of the Adelaide Oval footbridge. The menu celebrates locally sourced ingredients, specialising in rotisserie meats. Order Murray Valley roasted pork, house seasoned roasted chicken, or some small share plates for the table. Of course, the taphouse also prides itself on a selection of South Australian craft beers, as well as local wines and handmade cocktails.
Indulge in produce at Adelaide Central Market
The Adelaide Central Market was first opened in 1869, and now hosts over 70 stalls. Here, passionate traders share their fresh fruit, seafood, meats, cheese, baked goods and a bustling central hub produce market, is one of the oldest markets in Australia. With over 70 passionate traders, it is crawling with fresh fruit, veggies, seafood, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and eateries. With more than 8.5 million visitors per year and approximately one million kilograms of fresh produce delivered to the market and sold every month, it is an integral part of what makes Adelaide so special.
On Friday nights, the market stays open until 9pm, making it a great place to grab dinner with friends. Stop by Cumbia Bar Kitchen for Colombian-influenced dishes including empanadas and patatas bravas, or enjoy incredible Korean food such as bibimbap and fried sushi from Sunmi’s Sushi.
Explore beautiful Adelaide Botanic Garden
Next up, the Adelaide Botanic Gardens is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature and culture. This 51-hectare public garden opened in 1857, and is located adjacent to the Adelaide Zoo. In 1863, its familiar pagoda was built, and in 1864, it became the home of the first herbarium and botanical library in Adelaide, modelled after the Museum of Economic Botany at Kew Gardens in England.
When visiting, you can wander through several botanical collections, including the award-winning international Rose Garden with more than 350 rose cultivars. The gardens are home to several native animals, meaning you’re likely to spot birds, turtles, lizards and flying-foxes on your trip. Plus, in the Museum of Economic Botany, you can explore how plants have shaped the human experience throughout history.
If you’re hoping to dine amongst the stunning shrubbery of the gardens, head to the Botanic Lodge. By day, this elegant yet relaxed restaurant offers quick coffees and cakes, long lunches, or drinks in the courtyard. On Friday and Saturday evenings, guests with dinner bookings can watch the sunset over the lake, and wander garden paths without disruption from daytime visitors. The menu changes seasonally, to reflect the best produce available. The wine list also prioritises local beverages, with some of the best drops in the country.
Take a wander in Victoria Square
Victoria Square is the largest of five public squares designed by Colonel William Light, originally called ‘the Great Square’. Named after Princess Victoria in 1837, this square was given a second name, Tarntanyannga, in 2003 to honour the traditional owners of the land. The square has cultural significance, as the Yarndanya people used to gather here for special ceremonies and dances. In the square, you will find the centrepiece, the Victoria Square Fountain, and the iconic statue of Queen Victoria.
Victoria Square is bordered by many public institutions, such as the Supreme Court of South Australia, the Former Adelaide General Post Office, the Historic Old Treasury Building, the Roman Catholic Cathedral Church of St Francis Xavier, and even Carnegie Mellon University.
To dine overlooking Victoria Square, head to Coal Cellar + Grill. This modern Australian restaurant offers a menu focused on the best South Australian produce. Tuck into the famous tomahawk steak served with vegetables and homemade sauces, and compliment your meal with a wine from the impressive glass-encased cellar (home to more than 500 labels from Australia’s best regions). If you’re after a more relaxed experiences, the Lobby Lounge is ideal for pre or post-dinner drinks, tapas, and cocktails.
Or, stop by for an Express Lunch, where you can have a main dish and a glass of wine, beer or soft drink for only $39.
Appreciate wildlife at Adelaide Zoo
Adelaide Zoo is one of Adelaide’s most iconic attractions, and it’s easy to see why. This conservation centre is home to more than 2400 animals and 200 species of native and exotic species, and continues to draw crowds every year for its behind-the-scenes experiences. Meet an endangered Sumatran Tiger and feed them by hand, pat a capybara, or even wander through the bamboo forest before the zoo opens to meet Australia’s only Giant Pandas.
Opened in 1883, Adelaide Zoo is Australia’s second-oldest zoo. Throughout the day, you’ll also have the chance to join a free keeper talk, where you’ll learn all about your favourite animals, watch a feeding, and speak to the people that care for them.
Just inside the main entry to the zoo, Wisteria Cafe is the ideal place to fuel up for a day of exploring. Enjoy a hot coffee and croissant overlooking the giant tortoise enclosure, or come back later in the day for a hot meal with burgers, steaks and more. On sunny days, you can even enjoy your drink outdoors.
Let your tastebuds be the judge at the National Wine Centre of Australia
South Australia is known for its extensive wine-making culture, best showcased in the National Wine Centre of Australia in Adelaide. A local hub for wine education, tourism, and appreciation, it’s the best place to learn what makes Australian wine so unique.
When visiting, you can embark on a guided tour through the exhibitions, which tell the story of the country’s wine-making history and the evolution of winemaking techniques. Your friendly guide will discuss Australia’s 65 wine regions, each possessing its own unique character, and delve into some of the most famous industry figures.
There are also plenty of tasting and dining experiences available. Head to the largest tasting room in Australia to sample from a list of 120 wines, dispensed from an Enomatic server that keeps each drop in perfect condition. On a flight of three carefully-selected wines, you will be able to taste from some of the best producers in the country.
The Sommelier Experience is a wine masterclass like no other. With expert guidance from a sommelier, you will sample some of Australia’s most esteemed wines, learning to distinguish each drop’s characteristics while learning more about wine making process.
Or, choose the food and wine experience, where expert chefs present delicious dishes that champion local ingredients, each paired with top Australian wines.
Step back in time at Carrick Hill
Carrick Hill is a 100-acre grand estate museum, and Australia’s most intact period mansion. This English manor house was once owned by Ursula and Bill Hayward, a powerful couple known for their rich lifestyle, patronage of artists, and love of dramatic events. The Haywards used their home to entertain a circle of elite friends at dinner parties and cocktail evenings. Some of the most famous names to grace the halls are Sir Kenneth Clark, Katharine Hepburn, and Sir Laurence Olivier.
When visiting, you’ll find experiences that the whole family will love. The Storybook Trail takes children through the estate gardens, where they will find statues and displays from some of their favourite stories. Make sure to also join a guided tour through the mansion, where you’ll explore the stunning architecture, gardens and impressive art collection. There is also a rotating series of exhibitions, including live performances of famous texts such as Pride and Prejudice, and sunset sessions where evening views and live music combine.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Rozelle’s for a Mediterranean-inspired menu. This casual dining venue offers views over Carrick Hill, with a veranda for outdoor dining as well as relaxed indoor seating. Choose from wood-fired pizzas and antipasti, and sip on a spritz while you wait.
Looking for tasty vegetarian dining options in Adelaide? Check out our recommendations here.
Rex flies to Adelaide. Head to the website, or check out the route map below.
