Adelaide Information

Adelaide Information

Adelaide is often overlooked by travellers as a little more than a pathway to the amazing Barossa Valley, however those in the know consider this small capital city to be one of the most vibrant and exciting places in Australia and certainly worthy or more than a passing encounter. Situated in South Australia, Adelaide offers a fantastically diverse experience for all visitors.

One of the most important areas that any visitor to Adelaide must experience is North Terrace, home to the Art Gallery of South Australia, the historic South Australian parliament and the Adelaide Botanic Gardens. The art gallery features the best collection of traditional aboriginal art in Australia. It also has regular touring exhibitions so check the local publications to see what’s on while you’re there.  The historic parliament house, dating back to 1939, is a excellent stop on your way to the botanic gardens, a highlight of any visit to Adelaide.

Adelaide, like most Australian cities, is also a sporting hub with teams regularly competing in cricket, soccer (football) and Aussie Rules. Trams and buses, both exceptionally reliable and very cheap, provide quick access to most stadiums and tickets can be purchased in advance, however are often available from the gate.

Adelaide also offers a number of options for those looking to get up close and personal with some of Australia’s iconic fauna. Cleland Conservation park, located about 30 minutes to the south east of the CBD, has an excellent range of native fauna to feed and pet at a small cost. Another half hour to the south east, wander round Monarto Zoo, the worlds largest open plain zoo. Check out Adelaide Zoo, situated next to the botanic gardens, for its amazing South East Asia ‘Immersion’ experience which includes giant pandas and Asian tigers.

Adelaide’s nightlife has become renowned for its fun and relaxed atmosphere. Gouger and Rundle Streets are most well known for their cuisine and entertainment while the Havelock Hotel (or ‘The Havey’ to the locals) has an excellent atmosphere most nights of the week.

As a capital city, Adelaide has a symphony orchestra, an opera and State theatre company.  But it also punches well above its weight as a hub of independent performing arts companies.  The events are usually well publicised.  It is always worth booking ahead where possible.  

Glenelg Beach to the south, an easy 30 minute tram from the CBD is the perfect place for a swim on a hot summer’s day. Adelaide’s topography makes it perfect for walking or cycling around and there are free bikes available for hire at locations around the city. It’s also handy to know that buses and trams are free within the CBD.