How to Plan a Perfect Day Trip in Adelaide: Hidden Gems and Must-See Attractions

Though, often found flying under the radar, South Australia’s capital of Adelaide sure does leave no stone unturned in enticing and enthralling vacationers. Perfectly positioned as both a cultural cauldron and a launchpad into the world of fine wines, the city beckons the adventure-savvy and laidback visitors to come and embrace its nuances. Here is how you can spend one entire day in Adelaide.


Adelcentralmarket, FacadeJuly2018-14, CC BY-SA 4.0

Hike up Mount Lofty

Located on the south-eastern fringes of the city is the glorious sight of Mount Lofty which affords both sublime views and an energetic beginning to your day’s proceedings. Hire a taxi or drive towards the car park found at the end of Waterfall Gully Road where you will be joined by like-minded hiking fanatics keen on scaling one of the city’s cherished landmarks. The closer you get to the summit, the more breathtaking the vistas as you will be warmly welcomed by St Vincent Gulf together with Kangaroo Island.

Wander through the Adelaide Central Market

Seen as the ‘heart and soul’ of Adelaide is the acclaimed and historic setting of the Adelaide Central Market. Established in 1869 and known to house a staggering 70 stalls, the Adelaide Central Market has etched its presence as one of the largest undercover markets in the entirety of the Southern Hemisphere. Showcasing a wealth of fresh produce to select from, the intrepid traveller will find all the reason in the world to purchase meat items, artisanal bread, coffee and even seafood for one memorable time made up of strolling, buying and uttering a "G’day" to the friendly locals who you are bound to meet.

Set foot within the South Australian Museum

A thought leader in regional and remote community engagement that has successfully made Australia’s cultural heritage a far more delightful experience to come into contact with, the South Australian Museum must not be missed out on during your time in the area. Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm and covering 5 floors, this edifice bears testament to the biggest collection of Australian Aboriginal cultural material the world has ever come to witness. Although the entrance is free, a donation of AUD 5 will be appreciated for these funds to go towards making the South Australian Museum a popular pit-stop for colourful exhibitions and engaged learning.

Take a chill pill at Peter Rabbit

Allow the verdant surrounds of Peter Rabbit to coax you into ordering your favourite caffeine fix as you settle down to catch up with your friends and take time to contemplate your next move. Although pre-bookings are the norm, walk-in guests are permitted to experience the appeals of this café which accommodates both indoor and outdoor dining.

Escape to the cool vibes of Adelaide Botanic Garden

Serving as one of the better things to do in Adelaide, the charmingly appointed Adelaide Botanic Garden found a short distance from Avani Adelaide Residences is your introduction to well-manicured gardens and appealing architecture that will leave you breathless from the moment you enter. Spend time studying some of the country’s best collections of plant life that have found refuge within the Garden’s 50 hectares. What’s more? You may choose to unwind without a care in the world or get lost in its warm embrace with a cuppa coffee for company.

Board the Popeye

Set foot on a heritage icon of the city which is the Popeye that will see to it that the remainder of your day is well taken care of. Get comfy in your seat as you travel along the picturesque River Torrens while being fed invaluable information on what makes Adelaide one of the most liveable cities in the world.

Beeline for Barossa Valley

Nestled 50 minutes northeast of Adelaide is the sought-after region of Barossa Valley which is known for one thing – wine making! While scenes of Lutheran churches and stone cottages will evoke memories of the German settlers who arrived here in the 19th century, wine connoisseurs will be quite at home in Barossa Valley. Holidaymakers will be led on a journey replete with opportunities to meet local wine producers, explore wineries and have a cellar-door tasting to cap off one remarkable adventure in South Australia’s capital city.