Things to do in Adelaide

Adelaide is a destination that constantly surprises. With a seductive charm that sets it apart, this city is rich with history and culture, packed with a calendar of world-class festivals and events and thriving with beachfronts and a vibrant food and wine scene. So get ready to explore vibrant markets, indulge in gourmet dining or relax by the water - here’s our guide to making the most of an Adelaide getaway.

For over 150 years, the bustling hub of Adelaide Central Market has been pumping out fresh local produce, artisan-baked goods and fine, gourmet foods. With over 70 stalls and traders under one roof, it’s one of the largest undercover fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere. Inhale the heady aromas of freshly baked bread and brewed coffee, and take the free audio tour as you wander around listening to the stories of multi-generational traders and how the market has grown and evolved. 

Step into a quieter world at the beautiful Adelaide Botanic Garden. Established in 1857, the historic gardens are a tranquil oasis spanning 50 lush hectares in the heart of the city, and an afternoon spent here is one of the best free things to do in Adelaide. Stroll majestic tree-lined avenues, wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, and discover botanical collections of plants from Australia and around the world. Explore diverse habitats in the Palm House, a Victorian glasshouse imported from Germany in 1875, and wander through lowland rainforest in the Bicentennial Conservatory, the largest single-span glasshouse in the Southern Hemisphere.

A highlight of any trip to Adelaide is a visit to the famous Adelaide Oval stadium, which is famous for more than just legendary sports matches. The stadium’s exhilarating Adelaide Oval roof climb experience allows you to walk across the iconic Western Stand to the Riverbank Platform high above the pitch and hear stories of Adelaide’s history. You’ll be rewarded with spectacular 360-degree views over the city and beyond to the scenic coastline and foothills. Twilight and nighttime climbs are particularly magical with the twinkling city lights. 

Home to over 2,500 animals, reptiles and fish, the Adelaide Zoo is one of Adelaide’s most iconic attractions. But the zoo’s star residents are undoubtedly Australia’s only pair of Giant Pandas, Yi Lan and Xing Qiu, who arrived at their new home in January 2025. You can visit these captivating creatures in the serene Bamboo Forest or join the ‘Panda & Friends’ animal experience for an early morning tour and a private viewing of the Pandas. You can also take a peek through the window at the zoo’s vet clinic to see vets in action or join a zookeeper talk to learn more about the zoo’s wonderful animals. 

Always worthy of a spot on any Adelaide itinerary is a visit to the Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA), one of Australia’s most significant art and cultural institutions. From colonial masterpieces to contemporary installations, AGSA houses an astonishing collection of over 47,000 local and international works, spanning Australian, European, North American, and Asian fine art. The Gallery also has a significant collection of Indigenous artworks. Afterwards, relax in the sunny courtyard and tuck into a hearty lunch at the gallery’s AGSA_eat restaurant.

Enjoy a scenic tram ride to Glenelg, Adelaide’s favourite city beach, only 20 minutes from the Adelaide CBD. On the wide, sandy shores of Holdfast Bay, Glenelg is known for its buzzing atmosphere, waterside cafes and sublime sunsets. Stroll the length of the Glenelg Jetty that stretches out into the sea for beautiful water views, cool off with a dip in the bay or indulge in tasty fish and chips on the famous foreshore. You can also explore Glenelg’s history and landmarks on a guided or self-guided walking trail. 

For a special night out, this Leigh Street restaurant never disappoints. Fugazzi Bar & Dining Room brings a slice of New York's vibrant dining scene to Adelaide, courtesy of the owner and Masterchef alumni Laura Sharrad. This New York-inspired Italian eatery, with its comfortable round banquettes and acclaimed house-made pastas and wood-fired pizzas, is a favourite with locals and visitors alike. Highlights include the ‘lasagna pizza’ and the Fugazzi carbonara, as well as luscious cocktails and an extensive Italian wine list. 

The Flying Fig Delicatessen

Inspired by New York-style delis and their quintessential deli sandwiches, The Flying Fig Delicatessen in North Adelaide offers a unique blend of traditional Jewish cuisine with modern Australian flavours. From the classic Reuben sandwich to house-made bagels, pickles and smoked meats, the Jewish corner deli makes most of their delicious goods on site, using fresh, local produce to offer a welcoming and authentic dining experience. Book a table to dine in or grab a goody bag to take home.

Tucked away in the serene Adelaide Botanic Garden is one of the best restaurants in Adelaide. The award-winning Restaurant Botanic is renowned for its contemporary Australian cuisine with distinctly Indigenous flavours. Executive Chef Jamie Musgrave has crafted a modern and seasonal degustation menu, sourcing local produce and ingredients from the Botanic Garden itself. The restaurant has a maximum seating capacity of 24, making it an intimate and immersive dining experience where you’ll be encouraged to linger and enjoy every mouthful.

Peter Rabbit Cafe

Inside a whimsical garden setting in Adelaide’s west end, you’ll find one of the best cafes in Adelaide city. A shipping container-turned cafe, the iconic Peter Rabbit Cafe is a relaxing retreat in the urban landscape, flanked by lemon and avocado trees with herbs planted along the roof. Always buzzing, the cafe is famed for its hearty brunch-style menu and locally-roasted coffee with a homely, backyard atmosphere. Pull up a table in the garden on a sunny day or get cosy inside by the fire.

Where to stay

You’ll find plenty of Adelaide accommodation options from comfortable inns and suites to stylish and historic boutique hotels. Comfort Inn Regal Park offers quiet, convenient accommodation, only minutes away from lively restaurants. Comfort Inn & Suites Sombrero has a range of bright, spacious rooms, fully furnished apartments and deluxe townhouses equipped for long or short stays - whether you’re ready to discover what to do in Glenelg or looking to explore the CBD.

_{Header Image Credit: South Australian Tourism Commission}