45 Places to Visit in South Australia & Top Tourist Places

Second Valley Beach, Adelaide

A beach located just 90 kms from Adelaide, South Australia, second valley is sheltered in a valley amidst the farming lands. There is no specific season that one needs to find for going to this beach, the tourists can take pleasure of this beautiful beach during any time of the year. Named after a coastal town on the Fleurieu Peninsula in South Australia, second valley has been rated amongst the top ten beaches of this country. It is perfect blend of spectacular scenic view as well as a beautiful beach to bask on. The Jetty Store offers delicious take away meals to tingle your taste buds and if you are a fishing fan, it provides you all kind of equipment required for fishing. In fact, second valley is a beach that offers something for everyone.

Highlights: Be it bush walking, fishing or swimming, no one would return without enjoying.

South Australian Museum, Adelaide

Known for its world-class collection of natural history and cultural remnants, the South Australian Museum is one of the best sightseeing spots of the city. It has the biggest collection of Australian Aboriginal cultural objects and more than 3000 artifacts that remain on display for the visitors to enjoy and it is one of the best places to visit in Adalaide.

The biodiversity gallery focuses on the land as well as the marine wildlife present in South Australia with gallant information on each of them. Apart from these, there are other galleries too which include Pacific Cultures, Opalised Fossils, Megafauna, Mawson, Minerals Ediacaran, and the Ancient Egyptian Room. Exhibitions, different government programs, and summer events are quite popular here. The entry is free for all.

Timing: 10:00am to 5:00pm

Location: North Terrace, Adelaide

Adelaide Central Market, Adelaide

Experience a youthful energetic thrive in the hub of tasty gourmet and rich culture in the awe-striking Adelaide Central Market which has been stealing hearts for nearly 145 years. Established in 1869, this beautiful market accommodates more than 80 traders making it one of the largest markets in the countr abd one of the best places to visit in Adelaide.

Every week from Tuesday till Saturday, the market buzz with life loading up with all sorts of organic fruits, vegetables, seafood, poultry, premium meat, gourmet cheeses, and all sorts of bakery foods.

Every month millions of visitors stream through the market. Events like guest chef briefing on cooking tips and having cooking classes is a common scenario. One can speak to the traders who have been peddling their wares here for decades and huge knowledge to share about the market, its rich history and its versatility. One can gather information on the local produce and fetch ideas about Australian cuisine.

Sky City Adelaide , Adelaide

This humongous casino is located at the heritage railway station building and is loved for its elegant architecture, friendly ambience, and for providing world-class gaming experiences. One of the chicest places to visit in Adelaide it hosts the city’s most famous rooftop bars and restaurants that see the best city crowds.

The highlight of SkyCity is the rooftop restaurants like Madame Hanoi and Sean’s Kitchen where you can savour delicious food with incredible views of South Australia.

Location: 125 North Terrace, Adelaide.

Highlights: Poker, Blackjack, Roulette and automated games, the place has more than 1000 gaming machines, live entertainment and sports at any of the five bars

Price: The entry fee is approximately AUD 31 per person.

Semaphore Beach, Adelaide

Bounded by a thick border of sand dunes, the popular Semaphore Beach is a place for all those who love to explore the historical side of Adelaide and know more about the rich culture of the city and it is one of the amazing places to visit in Adelaide.

Semaphore Beach is a wide long beach beautifies with expansive foreshore and boulevard which remains effortlessly adorned by Art Deco buildings. Almost a replica of the grandeur of the Palais, this is undoubtedly a fascinating location to spend quality and experience classic gourmet coupled with best in class wine collection.

Other attractions nearby include Semaphore’s iconic Time Ball Tower, historic buildings, ferry wheel, awesome boutiques, and historic pubs. So go ahead and visit the destination for a good time spend. Accommodation in the nearby location remains available for the interested visitors.

Victoria Square, Adelaide

Located at the center of Adelaide, Victoria Square, also known as Tarndanyangga is a town plaza. There are a number of buildings and public institutions bordering the square, including the Supreme Court of South Australia. At the center is the statue of Queen Victoria and it is one of the best tourist places in Adelaide.

The square was developed and refurbished a number of times and now hosts a varied range of entertainment activities. There are almost endless things that one can do in and around Victoria Square. The large open space is excellent to take a walk after lunch or to work out.

Highlights: The Adelaide Central Market is within easy reach. You can pick your lunch there and then explore the shops to buy some souvenirs of the journey.

Location: The Square is a few minutes’ walks away from the Rundle Mall. You can also reach there by tram and other public transport.

Adelaide Hills, Adelaide

Adelaide hills are actually part of the Mount Lofty. In contrast to the warmer Adelaide plains, these hills have cool and crisp air and a pleasant climate. There are a number of summer houses in the region with prominent European architecture. But the hills are most famous for their wineries and cellar doors. In fact, it is reputed as one of the most prominent wines producing region across the world and it is one of the best tourist places in Adelaide.

Highlights: The wineries are the major highlight of the area. There are a number of guided tours for food, fine dining, and wine experience. It is also the way to reach the Mount Lofty Summit which is more than seven hundred meters above sea level, and enjoy the panoramic view. Visit the Cleland Wildlife Park to witness the native Australian wildlife.

Location: Adelaide hills are just half an hour's drive from the Adelaide central business district.

Barossa Valley And Winneries, Adelaide

Barossa Valley is one of the oldest wine regions of Australia. It has around hundred and fifty wineries and celler doors. The region was first occupied by Europeans in nineteenth century. The wineries are mostly open for the tourists. At some wineries you will have to take prior appointment. The valley is also renowned for its world class restaurants, fresh and seasonal agricultural products, and skilled food manufacturers. Motorbike, bicycle and hot air balloon tours are available.

Highlights: The valley has meticulously designed wine and food trail which you can traverse through bicycle. Enjoy mouth watering meal of smoked meat and fresh bread at Butcher, Baker and Winemaker Trail. You can also visit the antique shops and galleries. Hire a tour guide for the spectacular experience of the valley on a hot air balloon.

Location: Barossa Valley is located around 70 kilometres from Adelaide city centre.

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Migration Museum, Adelaide

To understand the diverse culture of Adelaide, a visit to the Migration Museum is a must. Here you can discover the varied traditions and distinctiveness of the people living in South Australia. The museum has six permanent galleries showcasing the history of the museum itself, the impact of migration from the aborigines’ viewpoint, the establishment of colony, and the recent changes and development.

Highlights: To get the most of your visit to the Migration Museum, take a free guided tour the museum and learn about the fascinating history and attraction of South Australia.

Location: The Migration Museum is located in the North Terrace close to South Australian Museum and Art Gallery of South Australia. You can reach the museum by taking a short walk from Adelaide City Centre.

Timing: 10 AM to 5 PM from Monday to Friday. 1PM to 5 PM on weekends and public holidays.

Price: Free Admission.

Belair National Park Holiday Park, Adelaide

Spread over almost 835 acres, this is South Australia’s first national park that was established in 1891 and is one of the top Adelaide places to see. The place goes much beyond a park and stands as one of the most prominent cultural and historical landmarks. It’s great outdoors, comprising lakes and vast thickets, lies within the ranges of Mount Lofty and remains an undisturbed area for the native flora and fauna to thrive. There are adventure playgrounds, tennis courts, and huge ovals here for you to try your hands on sports. See the thousands of wildflowers and wildlife like the Shy Southern Bandicoot, kangaroos, emus, etc.

Location: 101, Upper Sturt Road, Belair, South Australia.

Highlights: South Australia’s oldest plant nursery, bush walk trails like Wood Duck Walk around Playford Lake, Waterfall hikes, Adventure Loop Trail

Timing: Summers: 8:00 am-9:00 pm

Winters: 8:00 am-7:00 pm

Other Attractions

Chapel Hill Winery

Chapel Hill Winery, located in the McLaren Vale region of South Australia, is renowned for its rich history and premium wines. Established in 1973, the winery occupies a historic chapel built in 1865, which adds a unique charm to its picturesque setting. Known for producing high-quality Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Chardonnay, Chapel Hill Winery utilizes sustainable viticulture practices to craft wines that reflect the distinct terroir of the region.

Seal Bay Conservation Park

Seal Bay Conservation Park on Kangaroo Island is a breathtaking natural wonder that offers visitors an unforgettable experience with Australian sea lions in their natural habitat. Located on the southern coast of Kangaroo Island, this unique park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

One of the standout features of Seal Bay is the chance to observe a large colony of sea lions up close. With guided tours led by knowledgeable rangers, visitors can learn about the fascinating behaviors, breeding patterns, and conservation efforts surrounding these playful marine mammals. The guided walks take you along the sandy beaches where the sea lions lounge, play, and interact, providing incredible photo opportunities and a memorable experience.

Shingleback Winery

Shingleback Winery, nestled in the renowned McLaren Vale region of South Australia, is a testament to the passion and craftsmanship of the Davey family. Established in the late 1990s by brothers Kym and John Davey, Shingleback has swiftly gained acclaim for producing exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region. The winery's name is inspired by the native Shingleback lizard, symbolizing resilience and a strong connection to the land.

Cape Du Couedic Lighthouse

Cape du Couedic Lighthouse, standing tall on the rugged cliffs of Kangaroo Island, South Australia, is a historic beacon of maritime navigation. Built in 1909, this iconic lighthouse has guided countless ships safely through the treacherous waters of the Southern Ocean.

Kangaroo Island

Australia, the queen of all islands is particularly marked for its beautiful and lavish islands surrounding the continent. Kangaroo Island is the third largest island of Australia, surrounded by water and located in the farthest southern state. Australian aboriginals were first to start a civilization on Kangaroo island, but with the tremendous rise of water level, the place, today, is more a tourist spot than a habitat area.

Highlights:
Situated on the southerly corner of Australia, Kangaroo Island serves as an authentic tourist spot for travelers. With an exclusive range of lobster and seafood, Kangaroo Island has gone forth as one of the most populated tourist destinations in Australia. This destination is not just renowned for its tourist attraction, but is likewise known as the wine lover's vacation spot. Kangaroo Island has got as many as 30 wineries across its 150km long area, offering tourists an authentic range of sweet wine.

Location: Kangaroo Island is located at the southwest of Adelaide, in the southernmost part of the continent.

Price: Entry to the Kangaroo Island is free of monetary value.

Hahndorf

Hahndorf is a small town and a famous tourist spot located in the Adelaide hills. Nestled in the heart of the region, this oldest German civilization in Australia has many attractions for visitors. This town has a quaint charm about it. Apart from the beautiful vistas, it has several boutiques, shops, restaurants and gift shops. It also houses several museums, antiques and antiques shop. The main street is bordered by century old elm and plane trees.

Highlights: Visit Beerenberg Farm to see the strawberry and mixed vegetables crop. You can also buy jams, sauces and pickles. For your kids and for those who are kids at heart the Misty Hollow Fantasy cave is a delight. You can also visit The Cedars, earlier the home for popular artist, Sir Heysen, and now houses a nice collection of his artworks.

Location: 20 minutes drive from Adelaide city centre.

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