Adelaide Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Travel & Itinerary
Q: Is 6 days in Adelaide too long?
A: Not at all, especially if you plan to visit wine regions and Kangaroo Island. You can easily spend a day in each wine region.
Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Adelaide?
A: Many suggest autumn (March-May) for the beautiful leaves in the Adelaide Hills and pleasant weather. Summer (Dec-Feb) can be very warm, but great for beaches. June is good for the Cabaret Festival.
Q: What’s the general “vibe” of Adelaide compared to other Australian cities?
A: It’s considered more relaxed and less hectic than Sydney or Melbourne, often described as a “big country town” with a strong community feel.
Q: What are some must-do activities for a first-time visitor?
A: Central Market, Art Gallery of South Australia, Botanic Gardens, a day trip to a wine region (Barossa or McLaren Vale), and a trip to Glenelg beach.
Q: How walkable is Adelaide’s CBD?
A: Very walkable. The city square is only a mile square, making it easy to explore on foot.
Q: What are some unique or quirky activities?
A: Visiting Bunnings for a “sausage sizzle” (a cultural experience), trying axe throwing at Maniax, or visiting Project Break (a smash space).
Q: Are there any good free activities in Adelaide?
A: The Art Gallery of South Australia (most exhibits), Botanic Gardens, walking the River Torrens Linear Park, and MOD (Museum of Discovery) are all free.
Q: Is Adelaide safe for solo female travelers?
A: Generally very safe for walking around, especially in tourist areas. Hindley Street late at night on weekends might be an area to be more aware.
Q: What are some good souvenir ideas from Adelaide?
A: Local wines, produce from the Central Market, or items from local artisan shops.
Q: How can I see native Australian animals?
A: Cleland Wildlife Park, Gorge Wildlife Park, Monarto Safari Park (for larger animals and a safari experience), or even some national parks like Belair National Park or Morialta Conservation Park for wild kangaroos and koalas.
Food & Drink
Q: What are the must-try restaurants in Adelaide?
A: Parwana (Afghan, highly recommended for eggplant), Shobosho (Japanese/Korean fusion), Osteria Oggi (Italian), Golden Boy (Asian), Herringbone (Halifax St), Sosta (Italian, Rundle St), Two Bit Villains (vegetarian/vegan), Soi38 (Thai), Concubine (Asian), Nola (snack foods/beer), Africola.
Q: Any good Italian recommendations beyond Osteria Oggi?
A: Roma (Waymouth Street), Fugazzi (mixed reviews but popular), Amalfi’s, La Trattoria.
Q: Where can I find good Asian food?
A: Golden Boy, Soi38 (Thai), Ong (Vietnamese), Daughter in Law (Indian/fusion), Busan Baby (Korean), Kazumi (ramen in Norwood), Shanxi Noodle Bar (hand-pulled noodles).
Q: Best spots for breakfast/brunch?
A: Hey Jupiter, Penny University, Peter Rabbit, Market St Cafe, Sugar Man (for pastries).
Q: Where to get good coffee?
A: Many cafes serving Dawn Patrol, de Groot, or ONA beans are generally good. Two Sisters Cafe is also mentioned.
Q: What’s the deal with the Central Market?
A: It’s a must-visit for foodies, offering a wide range of local produce, gourmet foods, and eateries. Note: it’s currently undergoing renovations but still open.
Q: Any recommendations for a casual bite?
A: Pub food is generally good, and many cafes offer casual dining. The Central Market has many options.
Q: What’s a unique Australian food experience to try?
A: The “sausage sizzle” at Bunnings.
Q: Any good dessert places?
A: Eggless Dessert Cafe (often has a queue), Sugar Man (for pastries).
Q: Best places for a drink in the CBD?
A: Peel Street and Leigh Street have many great cocktail bars. Mr Goodbar, Bank Street Social, The Collins (at Hilton), Electra House, Hey Jupiter (for brunch drinks).
Day Trips & Surroundings
Q: Which wine region is better for a day trip: Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale?
A: Both are excellent. McLaren Vale is often preferred by some for being closer to the coast and having a less pretentious feel. Barossa is famous for its Shiraz.
Q: How do I get to the wine regions without a car?
A: Trailhopper offers hop-on-hop-off tours to both Barossa and McLaren Vale. Public buses can get you to towns like Hahndorf or Stirling in the Adelaide Hills, but not directly to individual wineries.
Q: What’s there to do in the Adelaide Hills?
A: Hahndorf (German town), Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens, Waterfall Gully (hiking), Red Cacao Cafe (chocolate), Beerenberg Farm (strawberry picking), Jurlique Farm Tour.
Q: Is Hahndorf worth visiting, especially in winter?
A: Yes, it’s a popular tourist spot. It’s especially charming in autumn with the changing leaves, but still worth it in winter for its historic village feel, food, and shops.
Q: What beaches are recommended near Adelaide?
A: Glenelg (most popular, easily accessible by tram), Henley Beach (can walk or bus from Glenelg), Brighton Beach, Semaphore Beach (good for kites), Port Noarlunga (reef for snorkeling), Second Valley and Rapid Bay (scenic southern beaches).
Q: What’s the deal with Kangaroo Island? Is it worth the ferry price?
A: It’s a significant cost (around $440 AUD per way for a car and passengers) but offers rugged beauty, unique wildlife (seals, kangaroos, wallabies), and natural attractions like Flinders Chase National Park and Seal Bay. Worth it if you have 2 full days dedicated to it.
Q: Any suggestions for animal encounters beyond traditional zoos?
A: Warrawong Sanctuary (for platypus and close-up kangaroo encounters), Gorge Wildlife Park (koala holding), Monarto Safari Park (Lions 360 experience).
Q: Where can I see koalas in the wild?
A: Cleland Wildlife Park (guaranteed), Belair National Park, Morialta Conservation Park (sometimes in trees).
Q: Are there good hiking spots near Adelaide?
A: Mount Lofty (summit or botanic gardens), Waterfall Gully, Chambers Gully, Anstey Hill Recreation Park (kangaroos), Morialta Conservation Park (waterfalls), Kuitpo Forest.
Q: What’s Monarto Safari Park like?
A: It’s a large open-range safari park with a bus that takes you around to see various animals like lions, giraffes, and rhinos. Praised for its upgrades.
Q: What’s there to do in Victor Harbor?
A: Granite Island (for penguins, accessible by horse-drawn tram or walk), Port Elliot Bakery.
Q: Any interesting historical day trips?
A: Moonta (historic mining town), Strathalbyn (quiet country town with shops and cafes), Anlaby Station.
Q: What about fruit picking?
A: Beerenberg Farm (strawberries) and Lyndoch Lavender Farm are mentioned.
Q: What is the “Big Rocking Horse” and is it worth visiting?
A: A quirky roadside attraction with a wildlife park attached. New owners are improving it, and it’s rarely crowded.
Q: Where can I see dolphins?
A: Torrens Island (part of the dolphin sanctuary, can go kayaking here), dolphin spotting cruises from Port Adelaide.
Public Transport
Q: How good is Adelaide’s public transport?
A: It’s a “mixed bag.” While usable, many travelers express frustration with bus punctuality and limited train electrification. It’s generally considered behind Sydney and Melbourne, but better than similar-sized US/Canadian cities.
Q: Is public transport sufficient for tourists, or do I need a car?
A: For exploring the CBD and immediate surrounding areas (like Glenelg by tram), public transport is generally fine. For day trips to wine regions or more remote attractions, a car or organized tour is highly recommended.
Q: What’s the “O-Bahn”?
A: A unique guided busway that runs from the CBD to Modbury. Buses run on concrete tracks. It’s mentioned as a unique experience.
Q: What’s the main tram line in Adelaide?
A: The tram runs from Glenelg to the CBD (with two branches). Note: there have been recent temporary “tram bustitutes” (bus replacements) for maintenance.
Q: How frequent are buses and trains?
A: Train frequency is typically 15 minutes at rush hour and 30 minutes off-peak. Bus frequency varies greatly, from every 15 minutes to once an hour on some routes.
Q: Can I use public transport for getting to the Adelaide Hills towns like Hahndorf or Stirling?
A: Yes, public buses go to these towns, but they won’t take you directly to wineries outside of the main town areas.
Q: Is there an app for public transport?
A: While not explicitly mentioned in these threads, most Australian cities have public transport apps (e.g., Google Maps is generally reliable for planning routes and real-time updates).
Q: What are the main transport hubs in the CBD?
A: Adelaide Railway Station for trains, and various bus stops throughout the city. The tram runs along King William Street.
Q: Is there a free tram zone in Adelaide, similar to Melbourne?
A: No, there isn’t a dedicated free tram zone like Melbourne.
Q: How can I buy tickets for public transport?
A: Not explicitly detailed, but generally you can buy tickets on board or use a Metrocard. It’s best to check the Adelaide Metro website for current fare information.
Accommodation
Q: What are the best areas to stay in the CBD?
A: The northern half of the CBD is recommended for walking distance to attractions. Hilton and Indigo are good near the Central Market/Gouger Street. Pullman or Crowne Plaza are good for proximity to Rundle Mall and Rundle Street.
Q: Any recommendations for family-friendly hotels?
A: Lakes Resort Hotel (good buffet and pool), Grand Chancellor on Hindley (treasure hunt, kids’ breakfast bar), Crown Plaza (rooftop pool, next to Amalfi’s), Playford.
Q: Are there any luxury hotel options?
A: EOS is considered fantastic but pricey. The Mayfair is also highly rated and has a luxurious feel.
Q: Are there hotels with good pools?
A: Lakes Resort Hotel (excellent temp year-round), Crown Plaza (rooftop), Alba.
Q: What about accommodation outside the CBD?
A: Staying near McLaren Vale might be convenient if focusing on wine tours and Kangaroo Island. Glenelg has options like the Stamford Grand, but some find it dated.
Q: Are there budget-friendly accommodation options?
A: Not explicitly mentioned in detail, but travelers often suggest looking into Airbnb or hostels for more affordable stays.
Q: Can I get a late checkout at hotels?
A: Some hotels, like Grosvenor, are noted for offering late checkouts for a fee if arranged at booking.
Q: Is it better to stay in a hotel or an apartment/unit?
A: Depends on travel style. Hotels offer amenities, while apartments can provide more space and a local feel, especially for longer stays.
Q: Are there any specific hotels to avoid?
A: No specific hotels are universally “avoided,” but some comments suggest the Stamford Grand in Glenelg might be dated.
Q: How far in advance should I book accommodation?
A: For peak seasons or major events (like Fringe Festival or Cabaret Festival), booking well in advance is advisable.
Arts & Culture
Q: What’s on at the Art Gallery of South Australia?
A: It has a permanent collection and frequently changing exhibits. First Friday of the month offers late-night viewing with drinks, food, and a DJ.
Q: Are there any good museums?
A: South Australian Museum, Maritime Museum (Port Adelaide), Train Museum (Port Adelaide), Aviation Museum (Port Adelaide), Australian Space Discovery Centre (free, 1-2 hours).
Q: Where can I find live comedy?
A: Rhino Room on Pirie Street.
Q: What about live music/cabaret?
A: Adelaide Cabaret Festival is usually in June. Check the Adelaide Festival Centre website.
Q: Any unique cultural experiences?
A: Visiting the Central Market for its diverse food culture, or exploring the historic buildings like the State Library and Barr Smith Reading Room.
Q: Is there a “hidden gem” art space?
A: MOD (Museum of Discovery) is mentioned as having cool futuristic interactive educational galleries.
Q: Any recommendations for theatre or shows?
A: Beauty and the Beast was playing at the Festival Theatre (check current listings).
Q: What’s the “Illuminate” festival?
A: A winter light and art festival. Check dates to see if it aligns with your visit.
Q: Are there any historical sites to visit in the city?
A: Adelaide Gaol, Old Treasury and Tunnels.
Q: What’s the vibe of Adelaide’s art scene?
A: Generally a strong and evolving scene, especially during festivals like Fringe and Cabaret.
Nightlife
Q: Where should I go for clubbing in Adelaide?
A: Fabric (similar layout to former D&D, has a rooftop), Cherry, Shotgun Willie’s (country/pop/RnB), Mary’s Poppin (drag shows, pop music), Dynasty (mostly Asian crowd, 2000s club/RnB).
Q: What are the popular bars for a good night out?
A: Peel Street and Leigh Street have numerous cocktail bars. Mr Goodbar, Bank Street Social, Casablabla, Fugazzi.
Q: Is Adelaide’s club scene still vibrant?
A: Some travelers lament a decline in the club scene compared to past decades, with many events finishing earlier. However, options still exist.
Q: Are there any specific bars to avoid?
A: Woolshed is mentioned by some for its smell and “radio repeat slop” music.
Q: What kind of music can I expect in Adelaide clubs?
A: Varies by club, from popular hits, RnB/hip hop, 2000s club anthems, to country/pop. Mary’s Poppin plays iconic pop.
Q: Any good places for a quiet drink?
A: Many pubs and smaller bars on Peel/Leigh Street would fit this, especially earlier in the evening.
Q: Is Hindley Street safe at night?
A: It’s considered the “red light district” and can be rowdy, particularly late on weekend nights. General caution is advised.
Q: Are there any late-night dining options?
A: Gondola Gondola on Gouger Street is praised for its late-night dining.
Q: What’s the general closing time for clubs?
A: Varies, but some events mentioned finishing as early as 11 pm or 12 am.
Q: Any recommendations for a mature crowd (30+)?
A: Some older travelers express difficulty finding “vibe-check” places, but many suggest the smaller bars on Peel/Leigh Street.
Family Activities
Q: What are good activities for young kids (2-5 years old)?
A: Glenelg (Beach House playground), Adelaide Zoo (awesome playground), Morialta playground (at foothills, often koalas, short walk to waterfall), St Kilda Adventure Park, Jubilee Park (Port Noarlunga).
Q: Where can we see farm animals?
A: Hahndorf Farm Barn, Barrister’s Block Winery, Narnu Farm, AlPacEm Inn (Kangaroo Island farm stay).
Q: Are there any free activities for kids?
A: Botanic Gardens, Art Gallery (look for dragons in artwork), exploring Mount Crawford or Kuitpo forest (building teepees), Bunnings DIY workshops.
Q: What about animal parks beyond the main zoos?
A: Gorge Wildlife Park (affordable, holding koalas, feeding kangaroos), Urimbirra (near Victor Harbor).
Q: Any good playgrounds in Adelaide?
A: Morialta playground, Glenthorne National Park adventure playground.
Q: Is there a good spot for a picnic with kids?
A: Many places in the Adelaide Hills, like near the Big Rocking Horse, or in the botanic gardens.
Q: Can we go fruit picking with kids?
A: Yes, Beerenberg Farm for strawberries is a popular family activity.
Q: Are there any unique educational places for kids?
A: MOD (Museum of Discovery) and the Australian Space Discovery Centre.
Q: What about beach activities for families?
A: Building sandcastles, digging holes, beach cricket, football. Metal camping spades are recommended over flimsy plastic ones.
Q: Are there any “storybook walks” or similar?
A: Carrick Hill storybook walk is mentioned as great.
Specific Interests
Q: Where can I find old-school photo booths?
A: Not many vintage ones, but a large arrangement upstairs at Capitol Square and one in the main shops at Burwood.
Q: Are there good antique shops or op shops (thrift stores)?
A: Semaphore Road (op shops, vintage stores), Rock N Rustic on Magill Road (antiquing), stretch on Grange Road for op shops, Tweedehands (rent-a-rack place near Tea Tree Plaza).
Q: Any recommendations for car enthusiasts?
A: Octane (night car meets), @vicparkpitstop (cars and coffee event at Adelaide 500 location), Birdwood Motor Museum (Australian automotive history).
Q: Where can I find some good street art or graffiti?
A: Not explicitly detailed in these threads, but general city exploration and specific laneways might reveal some.
Q: What’s the best place to see a sunset?
A: Glenelg beach, Windy Point (free, needs a car).
Q: Any good spots for birdwatching?
A: Not specifically mentioned, but national parks and coastal areas would likely offer opportunities.
Q: Are there any good markets besides the Central Market?
A: “My Dead Grandpa?” is a new market mentioned for unique finds. Local farmers markets are also prevalent.
Q: Where can I find quiet places to read?
A: The State Library and Barr Smith Reading Room are described as lovely places.
Q: Any recommendations for a rainy day?
A: Museums, art galleries, Central Market, indoor activities like axe throwing or smash rooms.
Q: What are “honesty stalls”?
A: Roadside stalls where you can buy homemade goods, often operating on an honor system. Worth Googling for a list.
Miscellaneous
Q: Is Adelaide generally an affordable city to visit?
A: While specific costs aren’t detailed, the availability of free activities and relatively compact CBD suggest it can be explored without excessive spending, especially compared to Sydney or Melbourne.
Q: What’s the typical weather like?
A: Summers can be warm to hot. Winters are generally mild. Autumn and spring are usually pleasant.
Q: Are there any local events or festivals I should check for?
A: Cabaret Festival (June), Illuminate (winter), Adelaide Fringe (February/March). Always check specific dates.
Q: What’s a common local saying or “inside joke” in Adelaide?
A: “Farmers Union and Malls Balls” is a common phrase or symbol associated with Adelaide.
Q: What’s one thing that makes Adelaide special to locals?
A: The easy access to nature (hills and beaches) and world-class wine regions, often within a short drive from the city center.