Why Adelaide Should Be Your Next Aussie Destination

Tourists favouring more well-known destinations like Sydney and Melbourne might often overlook Adelaide. However, this charming and vibrant city has a lot to offer visitors, from its delicious food and wine scene to its beautiful natural surroundings and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Adelaide has something for everyone. 

We’ll explore why Adelaide should be your next Australian destination, highlighting the best places to eat, drink, and play in this underrated city. From the lesser-known gems to the must-see attractions, we'll help you discover all the things to do in Adelaide. So pack your bags and get ready to uncover all Adelaide has to offer!

1. The Wine

Adelaide is a wine lover’s paradise, home to some of Australia's most renowned wineries and vineyards. The region is particularly famous for its warmer reds like Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon, but also produces a wide variety of other wines, including Chardonnay, Riesling and Tempranillo. 

The wineries in Adelaide and surrounding areas offer a range of experiences, from traditional tastings to unique and experimental blends. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious beginner, visiting one of Adelaide's wineries is a must-do experience. Here are a few vineyards where you can indulge in the rich flavours and aromas of some of the best wines in the world.

Penfolds Winery

Penfolds is one of the most sought-after Adelaide attractions, being one of Australia’s oldest and most renowned wineries. Visitors can tour the winery, learn about winemaking, and taste some award-winning wines. 

Penfolds is known for its iconic Gcrange, which has consistently been rated as one of the world's most outstanding wines. The winery also offers a range of other wines, including the Bin and Icon series. It's a must-visit destination for any wine lover visiting Adelaide.

d’Arenberg Winery

This family-owned winery is known for its unique and experimental wine styles and striking "Cube" tasting room. Visitors can tour the winery, taste wines, and enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant. 

d”Arenberg is particularly famous for its red blend, "The Dead Arm Shiraz", and its flagship wine, "The Coppermine Road Cabernet Sauvignon". The winery also offers a range of other wines, including whites, sparkling and fortified wines.

The Lane Vineyard

This small boutique winery is situated in the picturesque Adelaide Hills region and offers tastings of its estate-grown wines in a rustic and intimate setting. The winery is known for its elegant and refined wines, particularly Pinot Noir and Riesling. 

The Lane Vineyard offers a range of tastings and tours, including a vineyard walk and barrel tastings. It's a perfect destination for wine lovers who want to experience a more intimate and authentic winery experience.

2. The Food

Adelaide is a foodie's delight, with a vibrant culinary scene exhibiting the finest regional cuisine and global flavours. From the historic Adelaide Central Market to the trendy cafes and restaurants of the East End, there's something for every taste and budget. 

The city is also surrounded by some of the country's most renowned wine regions, making it the perfect place to indulge in delicious meals paired with local wines. Get ready to tantalise your taste buds and discover the culinary delights of Adelaide with our top picks. 

The Adelaide Central Market

This historic market is a food lover's paradise, with over 80 vendors selling fresh produce, meats, seafood, artisanal cheeses, and baked goods. Only a few minutes’ walk from iStay Precinct, it’s a perfect place to sample the local flavours, shop for ingredients, and watch cooking demonstrations. The Adelaide Central Market is a great place to experience the diverse culture and find ingredients to cook your meals while enjoying one of the best places to visit in Adelaide. 

The Botanic

Boasting the title of Australia’s Restaurant of the Year 2023, Restaurant Botanic is undoubtedly a must during a visit to Adelaide. If you’re in a rush, you may want to save this one for a later date, as the minimum dining time is four hours. Why, may you ask? This experience provides 20 flavour combinations curated on a tasting menu by head chef Justin James, inspired by the surrounding flora and fauna around the restaurant. 

The East End

This bustling neighbourhood is home to various food options, from trendy cafes and bars to international restaurants and street food vendors. The East End is a melting pot of cultures, and you can find a wide range of food options, from Italian, Mexican, and Thai, to Indian. It's a great place to explore and try new things, and you'll find some of Adelaide's best coffee shops and bars.

3. The Activities

There are many fun things to do in Adelaide for visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you're after an outdoor activity, something indoors or simply looking for a fun and exciting way to spend your time, there's something for everyone in Adelaide. We’d also highly recommend looking at the extensive list of the top things to do in Adelaide.  

Hike In The Adelaide Hills

The Hills is a popular spot for hiking and outdoor activities, with various trails and scenic lookouts to explore. Visitors can take in the city's and surrounding countryside's beautiful views and enjoy the area's fresh air and natural beauty. Some popular trails include the Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit hike, which offers spectacular views of the city, and the Cleland Wildlife Park, which provides a chance to spot native Australian animals.

Bike Riding

A great way to explore the city is to take a bike ride along the scenic River Torrens Linear Park Trail. Visitors can take in the sights and sounds of the city while enjoying a leisurely ride along the river. The trail is also perfect for families and people who want a relaxed and peaceful activity.

Dolphin Sanctuary Guided Eco Tour

Experience the beauty of Adelaide's marine life with a Dolphin Sanctuary Guided Eco Tour. See bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat and learn about their behaviour, habitat, and conservation from experienced marine biologists. The tour also includes visiting the Dolphin Sanctuary to learn more about research and conservation efforts. A perfect activity for families and nature lovers.

4. The Culture

If you’re looking for what to do in Adelaide, it’s your lucky day. A city rich in culture and history, Adelaide has a diverse range of cultural institutions and landmarks that offer a glimpse into the past and present of South Australia. From the art and artifacts of the Art Gallery of South Australia to the natural and cultural history of the South Australian Museum, there is something for everyone to discover and explore. 

The Art Gallery of South Australia

The AGSA is an impressive gallery home to a vast Australian and international art collection, including paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from different cultures and periods. Situated a few minutes from Oaks Adelaide Horizons Suites, visitors can explore the galleries and exhibitions, which showcase the works of famous artists such as Van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso, and Australian artists like Arthur Streeton and Tom Roberts. The gallery also hosts special exhibitions and events throughout the year, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers.

The South Australian Museum

The South Australia Museum is a great place to learn about the natural and cultural history of South Australia, with a wide variety of exhibits and displays. Visitors can discover the state's diverse flora and fauna, explore the region's natural history and learn about the Indigenous culture. The museum also has a range of interactive exhibits and activities, making it an excellent place for families to visit.

The Old Gallery Gaol

This historic prison is a fascinating place to learn about the history of crime and punishment in South Australia. Visitors can tour the prison and learn about the lives of past inmates, including notorious criminals and political prisoners, and their living conditions. The gaol also offers special tours like the "Ghost Tour", which provides a glimpse into the darker side of Adelaide's past. It's a must-see for history lovers and anyone interested in true crime.

5. The Wildlife

Adelaide and its surrounding areas are home to a diverse range of wildlife, from native Australian animals to exotic bird species. The natural beauty of the region provides the perfect habitat for these creatures, making it an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Put your phone away and immerse yourself in discovering all the rich wildlife that Adelaide has to offer. 

Cleland Wildlife Park

Cleland Wildlife Park offers a chance to see and interact with various native Australian animals, including kangaroos, koalas, emus, and Tasmanian devils. Visitors can walk through the park, see the animals in their natural habitats, and participate in animal encounters and feedings. The park also offers guided tours and educational programs, making it an excellent destination for families and nature lovers. Located just twenty minutes from the city centre in the Adelaide Hills, there’s no excuse to miss this out.

Adelaide Botanic Garden

This beautiful garden is home to various plants and bird species. Visitors can stroll through the park, enjoy the plants' natural beauty, and spot some of the garden's resident bird species like parrots, rosellas and kookaburras. The garden also hosts regular bird walks and bird-watching events, making it an excellent destination for bird lovers.

Adelaide Zoo

The Adelaide Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals from around the world, including 3,000 different animals across 300 species. Visitors can take a zoo tour, learn about the animals, and enjoy the beautiful gardens and picnic areas. The zoo also offers memorable experiences like the "Panda and Friends" and the "Behind the Scenes Experiences", making it one of the best things to do in Adelaide for animal lovers. 

6. The Shopping

Rundle Mall

Rundle Mall is the leading shopping destination in Adelaide, with over 1,000 stores, including major department stores, fashion boutiques, and specialty shops. Visitors can find a wide range of products, from clothing and accessories to electronics and homewares. The mall also features a variety of street performers and events, making it a great place to shop and entertain.

Queen Street, Croydon

Discover the charm of Queen Street in Croydon, Adelaide. The street offers terrific local products from independent and specialty stores, from vintage clothing to artisanal cheeses. Take a stroll, admire the Victorian architecture, and enjoy various cafes, restaurants and bars along the street—a perfect destination for unique shopping and dining experiences.

The Adelaide Arcade

The Adelaide Arcade is a historic shopping destination in Adelaide, home to specialty stores, fashion boutiques, jewellery shops, and bookstores. Visitors can find unique local products and admire the arcade's beautiful stained glass dome and architectural details—a must-visit for those looking for a unique shopping experience and a glimpse into Adelaide's history.

Ready To Go?

Ready to pack your bags, hop on a plane and experience everything Adelaide has to offer? Oaks Hotels has the perfect Adelaide accommodation to ensure you get the most out of your trip, offering a central location to all attractions with world-class amenities.