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If you have you seen the landmarks in Australia, you’d know there are quite a few of them are here in Adelaide
Adelaide, a city that wears its history proudly, is adorned with landmarks that tell the story of its past in stunning detail.
From towering monuments to iconic buildings, each landmark is a testament to the enduring spirit of this remarkable metropolis.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most famous landmarks in Adelaide:
1. Adelaide Botanic Garden
A 51-hectare public garden, showcasing a diverse collection of plants from around the world.
Where is it: North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll through themed gardens, tranquil ponds, and historic buildings. Marvel at the glasshouse conservatory, which houses unique and rare plants, or enjoy a picnic in the lush green lawns.
Don’t miss: The Bicentennial Conservatory, one of the largest single-span glasshouses in the world, featuring rare and endangered rainforest plants. Check out the Santos Museum of Economic Botany, featuring exhibits on the historical uses of plants.
Insider Travel tips: Visit early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid crowds. Take a guided tour to get a more in-depth understanding of the gardens. Don’t forget to grab a bite at the outdoor cafe, which serves delicious coffee and snacks.
Getting there: The Adelaide Botanic Garden is easily accessible by foot, public transport or car. It is approximately a 15-minute walk from the Adelaide CBD or can be accessed via the free City Connector bus. There are also several parking options available nearby.
2. Adelaide Oval
One of the most famous Adelaide landmarks, Adelaide Oval is a cricket and Australian Rules football stadium that has hosted many international matches and events.
Where is it: The stadium is located in North Adelaide, along the banks of the River Torrens.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a guided tour of the stadium, which includes access to the player change rooms, media centre, and a walk around the oval. There is also a roof climb experience available, which provides stunning views of the city and surrounding areas.
Don’t miss: Watching a game of cricket or football at Adelaide Oval is a must-do experience for sports enthusiasts. The atmosphere is electric and the stadium’s architecture is impressive.
Insider Travel tips: Adelaide Oval is located within walking distance of the city centre, making it a convenient and easy destination to access. The stadium is also home to a range of restaurants and bars, so visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the views.
Getting there: The stadium is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus and train stops located nearby. There are also plenty of parking options available in the surrounding areas.
3. Victoria Square
A public square located in the heart of Adelaide, South Australia.
Where is it: Adelaide, South Australia.
What to see or do: Victoria Square offers a vibrant hub for concerts, art events, and other cultural activities. Visitors can see public art displays, sit and relax in the shade, or grab a bite to eat at one of the cafes or restaurants.
Don’t miss: The iconic fountain in the center of the square, which was installed in 1963 and features a sculpture of three silver spheres. It’s a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to take photos and cool off on hot days.
Insider Travel tips: Visit the square on Sundays to check out the bustling Adelaide Central Market, which is located right next door. The markets offer fresh produce, gourmet foods, and unique souvenirs.
Getting there: Victoria Square is located in the heart of the Adelaide CBD and can be easily accessed by public transportation, including buses and trains. Paid parking is also available nearby.
4. Adelaide Central Market
A bustling indoor market selling a wide range of fresh produce, gourmet treats, and local specialties.
Where is it: Located in the heart of Adelaide’s CBD, on Gouger Street.
What to see or do: Shop for fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood, taste local cheeses, oils, and wines, grab a bite to eat at one of the many food stalls, or browse artisanal crafts.
Don’t miss: Trying the famous local specialty, the Adelaide Pie Floater, which consists of a meat pie served in a bowl of thick pea soup.
Insider Travel tips: Arrive early in the morning for the best selection of produce, and bring your own bags or baskets to carry your purchases. Also, be sure to explore the nearby Chinatown district for even more culinary delights.
Getting there: The market is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus and tram stops located nearby. Paid parking is also available in the surrounding streets and garages.
5. Glenelg Beach
A beautiful beach located near the city of Adelaide in South Australia.
Where is it: Glenelg Beach is situated in the suburb of Glenelg, about 10 kilometers southwest of Adelaide’s central business district.
What to see or do: The beach offers a range of activities such as swimming, sunbathing, boating, fishing, and volleyball. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops along the Jetty Road, which runs parallel to the beach. Visitors can also take a ride on the historic Glenelg tram or the jetty to enjoy the stunning views of the beachfront.
Don’t miss: Watching the beautiful sunset over the horizon while enjoying your evening walk on the white sandy beach. Also, keep an eye out for dolphins that are often spotted near the shore.
Insider Travel Tips: The beach can get busy on weekends, so try to arrive early in the day to secure a good spot. The best time to visit Glenelg Beach is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is warm and sunny. If you’re a fan of seafood, don’t miss out on tasting the fresh catch of the day from one of the local restaurants.
Getting there: Glenelg Beach is easily accessible by car or public transport from Adelaide CBD. Visitors can take a bus or tram from the city center to reach the beach in around 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a 25-minute taxi or Uber ride from Adelaide CBD to reach the beach.
6. South Australian Museum
An impressive natural history museum filled with cultural and scientific exhibits.
Where is it: Located in the heart of North Terrace, Adelaide, adjacent to Adelaide Botanic Garden.
What to see or do: Explore the vast collection of Australian Aboriginal and Pacific material culture, Australian natural history specimens, and stunning minerals, fossils, and rocks. Take a walk through the Megafauna Gallery and Ancient Egypt Gallery, and attend the interactive exhibitions and special events.
Don’t miss: The famous “Babe” skeleton exhibit, which belongs to a Diprotodon, the world’s largest marsupial. Also, don’t forget to visit the South Australian Biodiversity Gallery, which displays the state’s unique flora and fauna.
Insider Travel tips: Admission to the museum is free, but a donation is welcome. The gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs, and the on-site café serves excellent coffee, meals, and snacks.
Getting there: The South Australian Museum is within walking distance from various attractions in Adelaide’s city center. The closest tram stops are on King William Street and North Terrace. Parking is available on-site, and public transportation is easily accessible.
7. Adelaide Zoo
A 130-year-old zoo located in the heart of Adelaide, South Australia.
Where is it: It is located along Frome Rd, near the River Torrens, in the city centre.
What to see or do: Explore a diverse range of animal species including Australian natives such as kangaroos, koalas, and emus, as well as exotic creatures like giant pandas, Sumatran tigers, and meerkats. Be sure to catch the free interactive animal shows that run throughout the day.
Don’t miss: The panda exhibit where you can catch sight of Wang Wang and Funi, the only breeding pair of giant pandas in the Southern Hemisphere.
Insider Travel tips: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, and don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat during the summer months. If travelling with kids, consider purchasing a family pass for discounted admission.
Getting there: Adelaide Zoo is a 10-minute walk from the city centre or accessible via public transport. Paid parking is also available onsite.
8. Adelaide Festival Centre
Adelaide Festival Centre is a renowned performing arts venue in the heart of Adelaide, South Australia.
Where is it: King William Road, Adelaide, South Australia.
What to see or do: The Adelaide Festival Centre hosts a wide range of performances including theatre, music, dance, and comedy shows. Visitors can catch a show at one of the several performance spaces within the centre which include the Festival Theatre, the Dunstan Playhouse, Space Theatre, and more.
Don’t miss: Make sure to catch a show at the Festival Theatre, the largest proscenium arch theatre in South Australia, which can seat up to 2,000 people.
Insider Travel tips: You can get discounted tickets for some shows if you buy them at the Lasttix booth in Rundle Mall. Also, make sure to check out the free exhibitions and events that are often held at the centre.
Getting there: The Adelaide Festival Centre is easily accessible by car, foot, or public transport. There are several bus and tram stops nearby, and parking is available at the centre’s car park.
9. Rundle Mall
A bustling outdoor shopping precinct, considered the heart of Adelaide’s retail scene.
Where is it: Located in the central business district of Adelaide, South Australia.
What to see or do: Shop till you drop from a wide variety of retail stores ranging from fashion, beauty, electronics, and more. Take a break and watch the street performers or grab a coffee at one of the many cafes dotted around the mall.
Don’t miss: The iconic “Malls Balls”, a pair of large metal spheres that have become the unofficial symbol of Rundle Mall.
Insider Travel tips: Visit during the week for a less crowded experience. Look out for the periodic themed decorations and events that are held during various holidays throughout the year.
Getting there: Rundle Mall can be easily accessed via public transport, with bus and tram stops located along its perimeter. It is also within walking distance from most hotels in the CBD.
10. Art Gallery of South Australia
Art Gallery of South Australia is a world-class art museum located in Adelaide, Australia.
Where is it: North Terrace, Adelaide.
What to see or do: The gallery features an extensive collection of Australian, Indigenous, and International art, including works by renowned artists like Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Claude Monet. Visitors can also explore contemporary art exhibitions, attend cultural events and workshops, and browse the gallery’s gift shop.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the impressive collection of 19th-century Australian art, including works by Tom Roberts, Arthur Streeton, and Frederick McCubbin.
Insider Travel tips: The gallery is free to enter, although some special exhibitions may require an admission fee. It’s also open late on certain days of the week, so check the website for updated hours. Don’t forget to grab a coffee at the café or a bite to eat at the restaurant.
Getting there: The Art Gallery of South Australia is easily accessible by public transport or car. It’s a short walk from the Adelaide train station, and there’s a bus stop right outside the gallery. Metered street parking is available nearby, or you can park at a nearby car park.
11. State Library of South Australia
A cultural institution and research library that holds a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and other materials related to South Australia’s history and culture.
Where is it: Located in the heart of Adelaide’s cultural precinct, on North Terrace, next to the South Australian Museum and Art Gallery.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the library’s impressive collection, attend talks and events, browse exhibitions, and use the reading rooms for research or study.
Don’t miss: The Mortlock Chamber, widely considered the jewel in the library’s crown, with its ornate 19th-century architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows.
Insider Travel tips: Take a free guided tour to learn more about the library’s history and architecture, and to see rare and unique items from the collection. If you’re interested in genealogy, make sure to check out the family history section.
Getting there: The library is easily accessible by public transport, with several bus and tram stops nearby. On-site parking is limited, but there are several public car parks in the area.
12. Adelaide Hills
A picturesque region in South Australia, just outside of Adelaide, known for its scenic drives, quaint villages, and world-class wineries.
Where is it: The Adelaide Hills are located less than an hour’s drive east of Adelaide and span around 900 square kilometers.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely drive along the winding roads through the hills, stop in charming towns like Hahndorf and Stirling, and visit some of the region’s iconic wineries such as Shaw + Smith and The Lane Vineyard. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting in the Mount Lofty Ranges.
Don’t miss: The stunning Mount Lofty Botanic Garden which boasts a collection of over 2,500 plants from around the world, and the charming German town of Hahndorf, with its traditional architecture and delicious German cuisine.
Insider Travel tips: Visit the Adelaide Hills in the autumn months (March to May) to see the region’s stunning foliage, and consider staying overnight in one of the area’s boutique hotels or B&Bs for the ultimate weekend escape.
Getting there: The Adelaide Hills are easily accessible by car from Adelaide via the South Eastern Freeway. Alternatively, there are several tour operators who offer day trips to the region.
13. Haigh’s Chocolate Factory
A mecca for chocolate lovers, Haigh’s Chocolate Factory is an iconic landmark of Adelaide, known for producing delicious chocolates for over 100 years.
Where is it: The factory is located in the suburb of Parkside, just a few minutes’ drive from Adelaide’s city center.
What to see or do: Take a guided tour of the factory and witness the magic of chocolate making firsthand. See the antique machinery and learn about Haigh’s chocolate history, production and the company’s commitment to sustainable farming practices. Sample the delicious chocolates and treat yourself to some sweet souvenirs at the factory shop.
Don’t miss: Make sure to taste the famous Haigh’s Speckles – milk chocolate drops coated in crisp candy shells. They are a local favorite and a must-try!
Insider Travel tips: Book your tour in advance to avoid disappointment as the factory tours tend to sell out quickly. Don’t forget to arrive about 15 minutes before your tour, so you have time to explore the retail store and indulge in some chocolate tasting.
Getting there: Take a bus or a tram from the Adelaide city center or drive to the factory, with free parking available onsite.