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Are you looking for some fun and interesting things to do with the family, in or near Adelaide, on the weekend? Or the school holidays? Are you looking for some solo entertainment? Maybe you have visitors coming from interstate or overseas and you would like to show them around. Or perhaps you are a visitor yourself and looking for some places to go.
Adelaide actually has a wide range of fun, stimulating and educational activities and places. With the Adelaide Hills so close, and other attractive regions, a simple old fashioned "Sunday Drive" can reveal hidden treasures and discoveries. Have a picnic or BBQ at one of the many parks and natural areas. In season you can pick fruits and berries then go home together and bake up a fruit pie or crumble, or make home made jam. Walk or bike ride along a section of one of the Linear Parks or other trails. Choose a nearby country town and spend some time just wandering and exploring what it has to offer.
For something a little more organised, you are sure to find something of interest in the suggestions below!
PLANES, TRAINS & AUTOMOBILES
Classic Jets Fighter Museum
Great place for budding aircraft enthusiasts! Collection of restored fighter planes and other aircraft memorabilia.
South Australian Aviation Museum
Want more planes? Another great collection of historical aircraft and fascinating exhibits, including Woomera rockets!
Go Flying!
How about a scenic flight? Or a rush of adrenaline on an aerobatic flight? Maybe you would even like to learn to fly!
Find out more...
http://www.adelaidebiplanes.com.au/go/our-services
http://www.adelaidewarbirds.com.au/?module=content&showContent=1
Sky Diving
If you ever felt like telling your family to go jump... now you can! Out of a plane!
http://www.adrenalin.com.au/skydiving/
Hot Air Ballooning
Up, up and away in that beautiful balloon! See the earth from a different perspective as you drift on the breeze.
http://www.balloonadventures.com.au/
Helicopter Flights
There's nothing quite like a helicopter for a thrilling air experience!
http://www.adrenalin.com.au/air/helicopters/
National Railway Museum
Are your family train enthusiasts? See a huge collection of historic trains... and go for a ride on one!
http://www.natrailmuseum.org.au/
Semaphore and Fort Glanville Tourist Railway
Enjoy this little coastal track on 'Bill' steam locomotive No. 6.
http://www.natrailmuseum.org.au/rides.php
Model Engineer Railways
Wonderful large scale operating models which are available for rides at various locations.
More details..
http://www.sasmee.com.au/
http://www.softgrow.com/sasmee/
http://users.chariot.net.au/~joanlynn/
St Kilda Tramway Museum
Unlimited tram rides! Plus great displays featuring electric trams, horse trams and trolley buses.
http://www.trammuseumadelaide.com.au/
Motor Racing
Watch a race... go for a ride... or drive a race car yourself!
Find out more..
http://www.adelaideraceway.com.au/home.shtml
http://www.speedwaycity.com.au/default.asp
http://www.adrenalin.com.au/v8-supercars/ (ride/drive)
Go Karts
Speed on a miniature scale! Race your family on the go kart track.
http://www.gokartspooraka.com.au/
http://www.kartmania.com.au/home/
National Motor Museum
Huge display of motor vehicles and their history. Well worth a visit.
http://history.sa.gov.au/motor/motor.htm
GET ACTIVE!
Paintball
Messy, hectic fun for the active family at various locations near Adelaide.
Find out more..
http://www.paintballsports.com.au/default.asp
http://www.paintballadventures.com.au/
http://www.paintballpark.com.au/about.asp
http://www.indoorpaintball.com.au/
Laser Skirmish
Like a high tech futuristic version of paintball... but without the mess!
http://www.kartmania.com.au/laserskirmish/
Ice Skating
Take to the ice and glide your cares away.
More info here..
http://noarlungaicesports.webs.com/
http://www.icearena.com.au/
Roller Skating
Put your wheels on and go!
Read more..
http://www.gawler.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=156
http://www.blackwoodrec.com.au/rollerskating.php
St Kilda Adventure Playground
Not your usual playground! Equipment that will challenge the Big Kids too!
http://cweb.salisbury.sa.gov.au/manifest/servlet/page?pg=18092&stypen=html
Wall or Rock Climbing
Climb a wall... or a cliff! Or abseil down.
http://www.verticalrealityclimbing.com/
Mini Golf
Play a round or two in attractively designed courses.
http://www.westbeachminigolf.com/platypussites/minigolf/flexipage.aspx?PageId=15
WET AND WILD FUN
Waterworld
Waterslides, pools and heaps of wet fun! (open in season)
http://www.teatreegully.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=32
Swimming Centres
Go for a casual swim, or even take some lessons. (open in season)
Check out these..
http://www.cityofadelaide.com.au/recreation/aquatic-centre.html
http://www.burnside.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=1100
http://www.unley.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=865
http://www.npsp.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=699
Sailing
Short sails, day sails, twilight cruises or multi day trips. You can even learn to sail!
Discover more here..
http://www.academysail.com.au/skip.htm
http://www.satallships.com.au/index.php/voyages/twilight-sail
Kayaking in the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary
Explore the mangrove forests near Port Adelaide in a kayak (tours or hire) and see dolphins, other marine life and some of the many shipwrecks in the area.
http://www.adventure-kayak.com.au/dolphin.html
Paddle Boats
A great way to enjoy the city section of the River Torrens is on a paddle boat! Access on river bank near Festival Centre.
Popeye
If you don't want to have to use peddle power, then a cruise on Adelaide's famous Popeye might be just what you're looking for. Access near Jolleys Boathouse.
Jet Boats
A boat ride for thrill seekers!
http://www.helava.com.au/
THIS AND THAT
Community Chess
Play giant outdoor chess in Whitmore Square... for FREE! Bookings required.
http://www.cityofadelaide.com.au/recreation/community-chess.html
Tour Adelaide Oval
Take a 2 hour tour of Adelaide Oval, viewing the stands, change rooms and the iconic scoreboard and Adelaide Oval Museum.
http://cityofadelaide.com.au/attractions/adelaide-oval.html
Tour AAMI Stadium
Join a behind-the-scenes tour of AAMI Stadium and view areas such as the Oval and surrounds, Magarey Room, Superboxes and Port Adelaide and Visiting team Change Rooms. (note: the Crows change rooms are off limits)
http://www.aamistadium.com.au/artman2/publish/Tours/index.shtml
Adelaide Festival Centre Tours
See the Festival Centre from a performers point of view, including dressing rooms, stages and performing areas.
http://www.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au/afc/whats-on/theatre/adelaide-festival-centre-tours.php
Adelaide Central Market
Sights, sounds, smells... and great fresh produce and yummy things to buy! Then why not wander on in to the Asian markets too, for something a bit different.
http://www.adelaidecentralmarket.com.au/
INDIGENOUS HERITAGE
Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute
Wander through the exhibits, watch cultural presentations and dance performances and learn about the indigenous culture and history on free guided tours.
http://www.tandanya.com.au/
Living Kaurna Cultural Centre
Visit this centre for displays, tours, workshops, performances and events.
http://www.marion.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=513
Wodliparri Trail at Kaurna Park
Wodliparri- Kaurna for Milky Way- is an Indigenous interpretative trail in the Kaurna Park wetlands, designed to build community respect for Kaurna culture and history
http://cweb.salisbury.sa.gov.au/manifest/servlet/page?pg=18082&stypen=html
ANIMALS AND NATURE
Port River Dolphin Cruises
Enjoy a cruise on the Port River... and hopefully get to see some dolphins!
Visit here and here..
http://www.dolphinexplorer.com.au/
http://www.portprincess.com.au/
Cleland Wildlife Park
Wander amongst the exhibits, take a guided tour, feed the animals, have a cuddle, take part in school holiday activities. Home to over 130 species of Australian wildlife, Cleland makes a great day out for animal lovers.
http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/clelandwildlife/Home
Adelaide Zoological Gardens
Come and see many species of animals from all over the world. Beautifully landscaped enclosures and surrounds, plus walk through exhibits, add to the appeal of the zoo.
http://www.zoossa.com.au/adelaide-zoo
Monarto Zoo
Monarto Zoo is a 1,000 hectare open-range sanctuary. Take the zu-loop shuttle bus to various viewing locations, listen to a zoo keeper presentation or go on a special guided tour.
http://www.zoossa.com.au/monarto-zoo
Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary
FREE entry to the sanctuary during the day!! Or you can pay to go on various guided walks or an animal show. Overnight accommodation is also available.
Discover more here.
http://www.zoossa.com.au/warrawong
Gorge Wildlife Park
Cuddly koalas, free flying birds, native and exotic animals. Wonderful place to experience wildlife close up!
http://www.gorgewildlifepark.com.au
Onkaparinga River Wetlands
One of the oldest constructed wetlands in the state, it consists of 3 ponds, which then discharge into the Onkaparinga River.
http://www.onkaparingacity.com/onka/living_here/our_environment/water_management/wetlands/river_road_noarlunga_downs.jsp
Warriparinga Wetlands
An area of Kaurna significance, this area also has environmental importance. There are interpretative signs, seats, toilets and a bike/walking track.
http://www.marion.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=204
Greenfields Wetlands
This is one of the first large, constructed urban wetlands in Australia, and is home to over 160 species of birds, 8 species of fish, 4 species of frogs, yabbies, tortoises and more than 25 species of aquatic plants.
http://cweb.salisbury.sa.gov.au/manifest/servlet/page?pg=16076&stypen=html
St Kilda Mangrove Trail
The St Kilda Mangrove Trail and Interpretive Centre includes a 2km km boardwalk winding through the mangrove forest of the Barker Inlet Aquatic Reserve, which is home to over 200 species of birds as well as a haven for juvenile fish.
http://cweb.salisbury.sa.gov.au/manifest/servlet/page?pg=9043
Marion Coastal Walking Trail
A 7.2 km walking trail traversing rugged coastal terrain, geological formations at Hallett Cove and remnant sites of coastal vegetation. Walkers need a reasonable level of fitness as it has some steps and steep sections, although the boardwalk sections, designed to protect the fragile environment, does make this a little easier.
http://www.marion.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=222
Sturt River Linear Park
An approximately 5km shared use walking/cycle track which follows the Sturt River past fascinating historical and environmental sites.
http://www.marion.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=224
Dry Creek Linear Park
This track follows Dry Creek, which is a seasonal creek, under large river red gums which provide habitat to many different species. It also passes some fascinated restored buildings such as the Yatala Powder Magazine, Blacksmith's Shop, guard lookouts posts and a cottage on the former property of RM Williams.
http://cweb.salisbury.sa.gov.au/manifest/servlet/page?pg=16078&stypen=html
The Paddocks
Great recreational area with wetlands, sporting fields, picnic areas, toilets, dog exercise yard, junior play park and a half-pipe for skaters.
http://cweb.salisbury.sa.gov.au/manifest/servlet/binaries?img=8328&stypen=html
Botanic Gardens
Stroll through an amazing collection of exotic and native plants, laid out in beautiful garden style. Picnic beneath huge old trees, watch the ducks, and listen to the birds as you feel your stresses drift away.
http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/botanicgardens/Visit/Adelaide_Botanic_Garden
Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens
A truly beautiful setting amid hills and valleys, for a collection of cooler temperature plants. Especially beautiful when the azaleas and rhododendrons are flowering in late spring/early summer. It is also home to the Heritage Rose Garden and the BankSA Nature Trail.
http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/botanicgardens/Visit/Mount_Lofty_Botanic_Garden
Wittunga Botanic Gardens
14 hectares of indigenous and non-indigenous collections with a lawned lakeside for picnics etc. Also a Naming Walk where you can learn about how plants are named scientifically and the origins of their names.
http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/botanicgardens/Visit/Wittunga_Botanic_Garden
Stockade Botanical Park
Set in a revegetated former quarry, this delightful park has plenty of little spots for picnics and family gatherings. It also featured a 12 metre man made waterfall.
http://www.portenf.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=909
Visit an Open Garden
Various beautiful South Australian gardens are open to the public at various times of the year. For details and dates, refer to the Open Garden Scheme calendar here.
http://www.opengarden.org.au/regions/sa_calendar.html
The Food Forest
Fascinating Permaculture Garden near Gawler, where you can have a tour and buy produce and even do some courses on permaculture principles if you have a deeper interest.
http://www.foodforest.com.au/mapsHowToGetToTheFoodForest.htm#maps
Belair National Park
South Australia's first National Park and a favourite with many families. Home to the State Flora Nursery and Old Government House, along with ovals, picnic areas, lakes, walking trails, kiosk and toilets.
http://www.belair.sa.gov.au
Para Wirra Recreation Park
Your dog is welcome here as long as it is on a lead and under your control. Walking trails, ovals, picnic and BBQ areas and toilets, along with accommodation in a basic hut if you wish a longer stay.
http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/Find_a_Park/Browse_by_region/Adelaide_Hills/Para_Wirra_Recreation_Park
Morialta Conservation Park
Spectacular rugged cliffs and seasonal waterfalls makes this park a haven for nature lovers. The park has walking trails, lookouts, picnic and BBQ areas and toilets.
http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/Find_a_Park/Browse_by_region/Adelaide_Hills/Morialta_Conservation_Park
Waterfall Gully
Part of Cleland, this area contains the largest waterfall in tha park, as well as a walking trail which heads to Mount Lofty Summit. It also boasts Utopia @ Waterfall Gully, the only restaurant in Australia set as the base of a waterfall.
http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/Find_a_Park/Browse_by_region/Adelaide_Hills/Waterfall_Gully
Mount Lofty Summit
A popular lookout complete with a visitor centre, restaurant, gift shop and toilets. Walking trails also head down to Waterfall Gully and the Heysen Trail.
http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/parks/Find_a_Park/Browse_by_region/Adelaide_Hills/Mount_Lofty_Summit
Hallett Cove conservation Park
Outstanding geological and archaeological area, with an interpretative walking trail and lookouts.
http://www.marion.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=200
HISTORY AND ART
Adelaide Gaol
Relive the daily fare of a prisoner as you wander the cells, halls and grounds of this historic gaol. View fascinating exhibits, choose to go on a day- or night if you dare- guided tour.
http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/adelaidegaol/Home
Maritime Museum
This isn't just a museum in one building.. you get to venture onto ships, a lighthouse as well as indoor displays.
http://history.sa.gov.au/maritime/maritime.htm
Migration Museum
Journey back in time to understand the origins of the people who populated South Australia, and their journeys to start a brand new life.
http://history.sa.gov.au/migration/migration.htm
Fort Glanville
Built in 1880 it is the most complete and authentic colonial fort in Australia, still in possesion of its 19th century large cannons, barracks, guardhouse and ammunitions store. The Fort Glanville Historical Association provides guided tours and demonstrations include marching drills, parade ground exercises, and canon and carbine firing.
http://www.charlessturt.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=230
South Australian Museum
Large range of collections on all kinds of categories. Free entry.
http://samuseum.sa.gov.au/
Ayers House Museum
Guided tours take you both "above" the stairs and "below", so see how both the occupants and the servants lived in the home's glory days.
http://www.ayershousemuseum.org.au/visit/
Adelaide Town Hall Tour
Free tours of various rooms in the town hall, showcasing its history and architecture. (note: not usually run on weekends)
http://cityofadelaide.com.au/attractions/adelaide-town-hall/tours.html
Marion Historic Village Heritage Walk
Take a wander around the original township of Marion and see the various historical and significant places.
http://www.marion.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=253
Port Adelaide State Heritage Area
South Australia's first state heritage area, it contains more buildings of continuous historic character than anywhere else in SA, including Customs House complex, Town Hall, Courthouse, hotels, banks, shops, offices and warehouse.
http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/Heritage/Heritage_places_and_areas/State_heritage_areas/Port_Adelaide
Hahndorf State Heritage Area
The town of Hahndorf is a truly fascinating remanant of the early German history in the Adelaide Hills. Many of the old buildings are still in use, and the town abounds with intriguing little shops and eateries. You could easily spend most of a day exploring this area!
http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/Heritage/Heritage_places_and_areas/State_heritage_areas/Hahndorf
Heritage Drive Through Marion's Historic Hills
Discover some of the areas of natural significance, and man made history, in the southern part of Adelaide.
http://www.marion.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=480
Statues, Memorials and Fountains
The city of Adelaide has a lot of historical monuments and landmarks. Seek out statues, meander round memorials or go on a fountain crawl!
http://cityofadelaide.com.au/attractions/city-landmarks.html
Cemeteries
Depending on the ages and interests of your family, a wander through cemeteries, especially the historical sections, can be quite fascinating. Of course, this may not be appropriate for some children, or adults, so discretion is advised.
For some cemetary locations, visit the following:
http://www.aca.sa.gov.au/OurCemeteries.aspx
The Cedars
Guided tours are available of the home and studio of renowned artist Sir Hans Heysen. You can also do a walk on the propert and view some of the locations his artworks depicted.
http://www.hansheysen.com.au/tours.asp
Jam Factory
Browse or buy handmade craft works... or why not take a behind the scenes tour of the galleries, studios and shop.
http://www.jamfactory.com.au/tours.php
Art Gallery of South Australia
Great collection of all kinds of artwork. Free entry except for some special exhibitions.
http://www.artgallery.sa.gov.au/agsa/home
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