Adelaide has been ranked among the top ten most liveable cities in the world – so you can be sure that you’ll enjoy your time, however long you’re in the South Australian capital for. However, with so much to see and do, you may want some help planning your trip to ensure you don’t miss anything.
Here are just a few things you might like to see and do:
Adelaide Zoo
Come face to face with more than 2,500 animals across 250 species at this zoo. This is one of the city’s most popular attractions and is the second oldest zoo in Australia, first opening back in 1883. You get even closer to your favourites with an animal encounter. Koalas, meerkats, tree kangaroos, lions and yellow-footed rock wallabies are all waiting to meet you. If you want to see even more animals, then you can choose a ‘Two Zoo Pass’ when you book your tickets and visit the Monarto Safari Park too.
Rundle Mall
If you fancy a spot of retail therapy, then head for the Rundle Mall. This is the city’s main shopping street and is home to more than 700 local and international retailers as well as 300 services. While you are browsing, make sure you stop to admire the iconic sculptures that line the street including a giant cockroach and life-size bronze pigs as well as the impressive decor of Adelaide Arcade. There is late night shopping here every Friday.
Cleland Conservation Park
If you want to see animals in their natural habitat, then pick up car hire at Adelaide airport and you can easily make the 20-minute drive from the city centre to this conservation park. Here you can expect to see koalas, kangaroos, wombats, wallabies as well as dingoes, birds and snakes. You’ll get the opportunity to hand feed the animals and listen to keeper talks to learn more about them. This park is a member of the South Australian Tourism Hall of Fame after winning the ‘Significant Tourism Attraction’ at the South Australian Tourism Awards.
Adelaide Central Market
Foodies will be in heaven at this market – or ‘Adelaide’s food hub’ as it is also known. There are more than 80 stalls to browse at the country’s largest fresh produce market. You’ll find everything from fruit and vegetables to meat and seafood as well as bakeries and health food. Make sure you check what events are on when you are here, you may be able to take part in a cookery class or enjoy the live music on a Friday night.
Art Gallery of South Australia
The Victorian building, situated in the city’s cultural precinct, is home to the finest – and largest – collection of art in the country. Here you can browse more than 45,000 works of art ranging from sculptures and paintings to textiles and ceramics. There are also European and North American pieces as well as Asian exhibits, including the country’s only permanent Islamic gallery.
The Adelaide Botanic Gardens
These gardens are a tranquil escape away from the hustle and bustle of the city. If you have been to the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew, then you’ll be able to see the similarities as this green space was influenced by the English gardens. Don’t miss the Palm House, Bicentennial Conservatory, the National Rose Trial garden and the Museum of Economic Botany.
Now you know what there is to see and do, you can start planning a few into your itinerary.