25 Famous Man made Landmarks in South Australia – you should’t be missing

com/landmarks/oceania-landmarks/landmarks-of-australia/”>landmarks in Australia to see, with South Australia sharing quite a few of those!

South Australia stands tall with its man-made landmarks, like towering giants with stories to tell.

From the architectural marvels of Adelaide to the mesmerizing monoliths of the outback, these landmarks are more than just concrete and steel.

They are a testament to human ingenuity, an inspiration for generations to come, and a reminder that when humans put their minds to it, they can create wonders that last a lifetime.

1. Adelaide Oval – Adelaide

A world-renowned cricket ground and multi-purpose stadium located in the heart of Adelaide.

What to see or do: Watch a game of cricket or Australian Rules Football, take a guided tour of the stadium, visit the Bradman Collection museum, or attend a concert or event.

Don’t miss: The stunning views of the city from the stands and the iconic scoreboard, which is one of the last remaining manually-operated scoreboards in the world.

Insider travel tips: Book your tickets in advance, as matches and events can sell out quickly. If you’re attending a cricket match, try to catch the famous “Mexican Wave” that often sweeps through the crowd.

And don’t forget to grab a bite to eat at one of the many food stalls and restaurants located within the stadium grounds.

2. Rundle Mall – Adelaide

A pedestrian street mall located in the heart of Adelaide’s central business district.

What to see or do: – Go shopping at the various local and international retail stores, boutiques and specialty shops.

Don’t miss: – The iconic Rundle Mall pigs – a set of bronze pig sculptures that have become a popular tourist attraction and photo opportunity.

Insider travel tips: – Visit the mall during the annual Christmas Pageant or during other events that take place throughout the year.

3. Glenelg Beach – Glenelg

Glenelg Beach is a vibrant and bustling seaside resort town located in the outskirts of Adelaide.

What to see or do: – Take a dip in the inviting waters of the ocean or have a leisurely swim in the turquoise sea.

Don’t miss: – Glenelg Beach hosts festivals throughout the year, so be sure to check the local events calendar.

Insider travel tips: – Glenelg Beach can get quite crowded during peak season, so arrive early to find a good spot on the beach.

4. Adelaide Botanic Garden – Adelaide

Adelaide Botanic Garden is a large public garden in Adelaide, South Australia that is home to a diverse collection of plants from all over the world.

What to see or do: Adelaide Botanic Garden has several different themed areas, including a rose garden, a Mediterranean garden, and a tropical rainforest conservatory.

Visitors can take a self-guided audio tour or join a guided walking tour to learn more about the garden’s history and collections.

There are also plenty of picnic areas, playgrounds, and cafes for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Don’t miss: The Palm House, a stunning Victorian glasshouse that showcases some of the garden’s most impressive tropical plants.

You should also check out the Bicentennial Conservatory, a huge geodesic dome that houses a rainforest environment and boasts the title of the largest single-span glasshouse in the world.

Insider travel tips: – The garden is free to enter and is open every day except for Christmas Day.

5. Hahndorf – Adelaide Hills

Hahndorf is a small, picturesque town located in the Adelaide Hills, known for its strong German heritage and charming town center.

What to see or do: – Stroll along the town’s main street, filled with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Don’t miss: – Trying some traditional German cuisine, like schnitzels, sausages, and apple strudel.

Insider travel tips: – Visit during the week if possible, as weekends can be quite crowded with tourists.

6. South Australian Museum – Adelaide

The South Australian Museum is the largest museum in the state of South Australia, located in the capital city of Adelaide.

What to see or do: The museum features exhibits on the natural and cultural heritage of South Australia and the Pacific region. Visitors can explore exhibits on Aboriginal culture, ancient Egypt, Australian insects and mammals, and more.

The museum also hosts frequent temporary exhibitions and events.

Don’t miss: Don’t miss the museum’s collection of opals, including the largest and most valuable opal in the world – the Virgin Rainbow.

The Aboriginal Cultures Gallery is also a highlight, showcasing the culture and stories of Australia’s First Peoples.

Insider travel tips: – The museum offers free admission but donations are appreciated.

7. Victoria Square – Adelaide

A public square located at the heart of Adelaide, South Australia.

What to see or do: Visit the iconic Torrens fountain, which features three bronze fountains with sculptures of animals representing the three major rivers of South Australia.

Take a stroll around the square and enjoy the beautiful array of flower beds and trees, or lounge on the grassy lawns.

You can also shop in the nearby cafes or boutiques.

Don’t miss: The stunning panoramic view of Adelaide from the top of the Victoria Square Tower, located at the southern end of the square.

This unique structure offers incredible views of the city and its surrounding areas.

Insider travel tips: On weekends, the square frequently hosts markets and events, so be sure to check the schedule to see what’s happening during your visit.

Additionally, the square is located near other popular city attractions, such as the Adelaide Central Market and the Adelaide Convention Centre, so you can easily tie a visit to Victoria Square into a day of sightseeing.

8. Barossa Valley wineries – Barossa Valley

A world-famous wine region located in South Australia, just an hour drive from Adelaide, known for producing some of the best Shiraz wines in the world.

What to see or do: Visit world-renowned wineries such as Penfolds, Jacobs Creek, and Henschke, take guided tours of the vineyards and cellars, attend wine tastings, and learn about the winemaking process.

Don’t miss: The opportunity to try the region’s famous Shiraz wines, as well as other popular varietals such as Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Riesling.

Also, make sure to visit local artisan food producers and sample regional specialties such as Barossa cheese, smoked meats and smallgoods.

Insider travel tips: Consider taking a wine tour with a local guide to get the inside scoop on the region’s best wineries and the chance to taste some off-the-beaten-path wines.

Additionally, try to visit during the slower months (May-June and August-October) to avoid the crowds and secure better deals. Finally, make sure to hydrate and snack between tastings to fully enjoy the Barossa Valley experience.

9. Adelaide Central Market – Adelaide

Adelaide Central Market is Australia’s largest undercover fresh produce market that offers a diverse range of fresh and quality produce from around the world.

What to see or do: Visitors can stroll around the market and experience a vibrant hub of food and culture, with over 80 traders selling everything from fruits and vegetables, meat, seafood, cheese, baked goods, and local wine.

Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to taste some of the delicious local produce, such as King Island Cheese, Boston Bay Smallgoods, and Haigh’s Chocolates.

Also, check out the iconic Market charcuterie, fresh pasta artisans, and the award-winning chocolatiers.

Insider travel tips: – Visit the market on a Friday night when it transforms into a buzzing hub of food, drink, and live music for the “Friday Feast” event.

10. Adelaide Zoo – Adelaide

Adelaide Zoo is a 16-hectare zoo located in the parklands of Adelaide, South Australia. It is home to over 2,500 animals representing more than 250 species.

What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy exploring the various animal exhibits including the panda enclosure, the rainforest aviary, the Australian Rainforest exhibit, and many more.

The zoo also offers behind-the-scenes experiences, animal encounters, and guided tours.

Don’t miss: The Giant Panda Forest is a must-visit at Adelaide Zoo.

It is home to two giant pandas, Wang Wang and Fu Ni, making it the only zoo in the southern hemisphere where you can see these rare and endangered animals.

Insider travel tips: – Get there early to avoid crowds and to witness the animals being fed.

11. Port Adelaide Historic District – Port Adelaide

The Port Adelaide Historic District is a living museum located in the northwestern suburbs of Adelaide, South Australia.

What to see or do: Visitors can explore the well-preserved 19th-century architecture that reflects the region’s maritime history.

The district includes a range of attractions such as the South Australian Maritime Museum, the National Railway Museum, the Aviation Museum, and the historic Lighthouse.

Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a stroll along the Port River, one of the main waterways that played a pivotal role in Port Adelaide’s history, or visit the Port Adelaide Fishermen’s Wharf Market, which runs every Sunday.

Insider travel tips: Plan your visit on a Sunday to experience the bustling Port Adelaide Fishermen’s Wharf Market.

12. Adelaide Hills wineries – Adelaide Hills

Adelaide Hills is a wine region located in the southeastern part of South Australia, just a short drive from the city of Adelaide.

What to see or do: There are about 60 wineries in the Adelaide Hills region, so visitors can enjoy a wide range of wines, from crisp Sauvignon Blanc to rich Shiraz.

Many wineries offer tastings, tours, and cellar door sales.

Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the countryside and indulge in delicious food at the region’s many restaurants and cafes.

Don’t miss: Some of the top wineries to visit in Adelaide Hills include Shaw + Smith, Bird in Hand, Hahndorf Hill Winery, and The Lane Vineyard.

Don’t miss the chance to taste their award-winning wines and learn about the winemaking process.

Insider travel tips: It’s best to visit the Adelaide Hills wineries in the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the vines are in bloom.

Plan to spend at least a day touring the various wineries and enjoying the stunning scenery.

If you’re driving, be sure to designate a driver or book a chauffeur service to ensure everyone can indulge in the wine tastings safely.

13. Parliament House – Adelaide

Parliament House is the meeting place of the Parliament of South Australia and hosts the state’s legislative Bicameral Parliament.

What to see or do: Visitors can tour the historic building, learn about South Australia’s political history and current parliamentary process, and watch parliamentary debates from the public gallery.

Don’t miss: The grand staircase and Queen Victoria statue in the entrance hall, the ornate Legislative Council Chamber and its red leather benches, and the historic Speaker’s Chair in the House of Assembly.

Insider travel tips: Check online for the parliamentary sitting calendar and plan your visit around a debate that interests you. Guided tours are available on weekdays and bookings are recommended.

Don’t forget to bring photo ID to enter the building.

14. St. Peter’s Cathedral – Adelaide

St. Peter’s Cathedral is a historic Anglican church located in the heart of Adelaide.

What to see or do: Visitors can admire the impressive Gothic-style architecture, intricate stained glass windows, and ornate details throughout the cathedral.

You can attend one of the weekly services or events, take a tour of the cathedral or climb up the tower for some stunning views of the city.

Don’t miss: Make sure not to miss the cathedral’s impressive pipe organ, which contains more than 6,500 pipes and is considered one of the best in the world.

Insider travel tips: For the best views of the city, climb up the tower to the observation deck. Also, if you’re interested in the history of the cathedral, guided tours are available every weekday at midday.

15. The Big Lobster – Kingston SE

The Big Lobster is a popular roadside attraction located in Kingston SE, South Australia. It is a giant statue of a lobster made of fiberglass and stands at a height of 17 meters.

What to see or do: Visitors can stop by and take pictures of the impressive Big Lobster statue. The place also has a restaurant and souvenir shop where you can buy locally made products.

Don’t miss: Make sure to take a close look at the intricate details of the lobster’s design. Its eyes, antennas, and legs are all carefully crafted, making it an impressive sight to see.

Insider travel tips: If you’re feeling adventurous, try the lobster-themed meals at the restaurant.

The Big Lobster also serves as a great rest stop while driving along the Princes Highway, providing a unique and memorable photo opportunity.

16. Adelaide Festival Centre – Adelaide

Adelaide Festival Centre is a multi-venue performing arts center located in the heart of Adelaide, South Australia.

It is one of the leading cultural institutions in Australia and hosts a wide range of performing arts events throughout the year.

What to see or do:

Don’t miss: The Adelaide Cabaret Festival, a three-week long celebration of cabaret, which takes place every June at the Adelaide Festival Centre.

It is one of the most popular events in Adelaide and features a star-studded line-up of cabaret performers from around the world.

Insider travel tips: – Check out the Festival Centre’s website for the latest events and performances.

17. North Terrace Cultural Precinct – Adelaide

The North Terrace Cultural Precinct is a significant cultural hub in Adelaide, South Australia, which encompasses some of the city’s most important cultural institutions.

What to see or do: – Visit the Art Gallery of South Australia, which features an impressive collection of Australian and international art across a range of mediums.

Don’t miss: The iconic Adelaide Oval, located just across the River Torrens, is one of Australia’s most renowned cricket grounds and also offers tours that delve into the history of the sport and the venue.

Insider travel tips: – If you love street art, keep an eye out for the many colorful murals and installations dotted throughout the precinct.

18. Himeji Garden – Adelaide

Himeji Garden is a traditional Japanese garden located in the heart of Adelaide, South Australia.

What to see or do: Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the garden and admire the beautifully landscaped grounds, which include a koi pond, cascading waterfall, and a traditional teahouse.

Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to relax on the wooden bridge that spans the koi pond and take in the peaceful surroundings.

Insider travel tips: – Visit in spring to see the cherry blossom trees in bloom.

19. The Beachouse – Glenelg

A popular entertainment center located in Glenelg, a seaside suburb of Adelaide, South Australia.

What to see or do: The Beachouse has a wide range of fun activities for people of all ages. The highlights include water slides, arcade games, bumper boats, mini-golf, dodgem cars, and a carousel.

The brave ones shouldn’t miss out on the thrilling play areas such as the Three Lane Waterslide or the Pirate’s Revenge.

Don’t miss: The Beachouse is well-known for its challenging and exciting indoor and outdoor mini-golf course. It offers a scenic and relaxing environment to enjoy a fun game with family or friends.

Insider travel tip: Visitors can save money by purchasing a multi-pass that provides access to multiple attractions. It is best to visit during the week as the weekends can get crowded.

Additionally, ensure that you carry sunscreen, towels, and extra clothes, particularly during summer.

20. The Adelaide Gaol – Adelaide

The Adelaide Gaol is a former prison located in the heart of Adelaide, South Australia.

It was operational from 1841 until 1988 and served as a maximum-security facility for some of the state’s most notorious criminals.

What to see or do: Visitors can take a tour of the prison and explore the cells, gallows, exercise yards, and other parts of the facility.

There are also interactive displays and exhibits that provide insights into the life of an inmate, as well as the history of the gaol.

Don’t miss: The gaol offers a unique experience to visitors, allowing them to step back in time and witness the harsh living conditions that inmates had to endure.

Don’t miss the chance to see the cellblocks and the gallows, which were used for public executions until 1964.

Insider travel tips: – The Adelaide Gaol is a popular destination for ghost hunters, and many believe the prison is haunted by the spirits of former inmates.

If you’re interested in paranormal activity, consider taking a night tour of the gaol.

21. Art Gallery of South Australia – Adelaide

The Art Gallery of South Australia is a world-class art museum located in the heart of Adelaide. It houses an extensive collection of Australian, Indigenous, and international art.

What to see or do: Visitors can explore the galleries and admire the impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, photographs, and decorative arts. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, featuring works from renowned artists from around the world.

Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see the gallery’s iconic pieces, such as John Glover’s ‘Nineteen Aught Four,’ a stunning painting depicting the Tasmanian landscape, and Hans Heysen’s ‘The Cedars,’ a beautiful painting of the South Australian countryside.

Insider travel tips: – The gallery offers free guided tours every day, so be sure to take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about the exhibits and collections.

22. Adelaide Convention Centre – Adelaide

The Adelaide Convention Centre is a state-of-the-art facility that hosts various events and conventions in the city of Adelaide, South Australia.

What to see or do: Visitors can attend a wide range of events, from business conferences and trade shows to concerts and exhibitions. The Centre is also a popular venue for weddings and private functions.

Don’t miss: The Centre’s impressive architecture, including the iconic Riverbank footbridge that crosses the River Torrens, makes for amazing photo opportunities. Take a stroll along the Riverbank and enjoy the views.

Insider travel tips: Plan your visit ahead of time and check the events calendar to see what’s on during your stay.

The Centre is easily accessible via public transport, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the surrounding areas for pre and post-event dining.

23. Adelaide Arcade – Adelaide

Adelaide Arcade is a heritage shopping arcade in the heart of Adelaide, South Australia. Built in 1885, it is one of the oldest shopping arcades in the country.

What to see or do: The arcade is home to a variety of boutique shops, including fashion, homewares, and specialty stores. Visitors can also indulge in high tea at the famous Adelaide Arcade Tea Rooms, which opened in 1901.

Don’t miss: Don’t miss the beautiful architecture of the arcade, including its stunning skylight and ornate features. There are also regular events and exhibitions held within the arcade, such as fashion shows and art displays.

Insider travel tips: For a true taste of Adelaide, be sure to try a pie floater from one of the nearby cafes or Bakeries.

Also, check out the Ghost Tour, which will take you on a spooky journey through the arcade’s hidden nooks and crannies.

24. The Old Gum Tree – Glenelg North

The Old Gum Tree is a historic site located in Glenelg North, Adelaide.

It is believed to be the site where South Australia’s founding document, the Proclamation of South Australia, was read in 1836.

What to see or do: Visitors can walk around the tree, which is fenced off for protection, and read about the history of the area. A small monument and plaque detail the importance of the site to the founding of South Australia.

Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to take a photo with the iconic tree, which is over 300 years old and still standing strong.

Insider travel tips: – The Old Gum Tree is easily accessible by car with a car park located just around the corner.

25. Torrens River – Adelaide

Torrens River is a picturesque river flowing through the heart of Adelaide, South Australia.

What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll along the Torrens Linear Park Trail.

Don’t miss: The iconic Adelaide Oval footbridge spanning across the river, offering stunning views of the city skyline.

Insider travel tips: Visit the river during the annual Adelaide Festival, where you can witness the spectacular Riverbank Light display.