adelaide travel with toddler

Top 20 things to do in Adelaide with toddlers

• Do , Kiddo Guides
• December 27, 2023

We know what it’s like when you have a toddler – sometimes you just NEED to get out of the house. Immediately!

But what is there to do for toddlers in Adelaide? Unfortunately our little toddler sized people don’t come with an instruction manual with an index of “ways to entertain” them and “places to go” to keep them busy, having fun and burning beans!

Luckily, that’s where we come in! We know toddlers here at KIDDO, and we too have had to find things to do in Adelaide with toddlers in tow. Drawing on our years traipsing around Adelaide with little people full of energy to burn, we’ve created your ULTIMATE guide of things to do in Adelaide with toddlers .

We have toddler friendly indoor activities, play centres, baby and toddler play groups to join, toddler story times, and plenty of outdoor options too. Suffice to say, there’s actually a LOT of things to do in Adelaide with toddlers – we’re at 20+ top activities at last count, and we’ll keep adding whenever we find a good activity for you and your toddlers!

UPDATED: December, 2023

Top 20 things to do in Adelaide with toddlers:

Minibounce zone at bounceinc.

If you can walk… you can bounce! BOUNCEinc has dedicated areas and activities for junior jumpers to play, develop and explore, perfect for your toddler.

Toddlers and preschoolers can enjoy soft play in a safe and multi sensory environment for them to harness balance, coordination, strength and agility in a way that focuses on fun, creativity and movement. It is the perfect freestyle playground for toddlers to progress and develop, inspiring self-expression and social connection in physical activity. Jump to it!

164-168 Richmond Rd, Marleston

bounceinc.com.au

A to Zoo program at the Adelaide Zoo

Designed for 2-5 year olds, bring the magic of Adelaide Zoo’s animals to life in this engaging 8-week learning program.

Join our Conservation Educators to discover more about our amazing native animals during weekly play-based, creative learning sessions. Each session runs for 45 minutes and focuses on a different animal every week.

While you’re there, your toddler can take a walk on the wild side and experience the Zoo’s Nature’s Playground. The play equipment was built on nature play principles that stimulate all the senses through climbing structures, water play features, a natural creek bed and aerial walkways!

Term 1 2024 sessions begin on Monday 29 January!

Frome Road, Adelaide

zoossa.com.au

Playgroup is a group of mums, dads, grandparents and caregivers who meet together each week with their babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers (aged 0-6 years) for interaction and fun.

Parents and caregivers work together to provide their babies and young children with opportunities to learn through play. Each parent or carer is responsible for their child’s behaviour at playgroup and this helps to ensure close supervision of all children.

• Playgroups provide a large range of toys and activities often not available at home
• Playgroup activities are low cost
• Playgroups are not-for-profit and are run by the people who attend

playgroupsa.com.au

Toddler Sense

Multi-sensory adventures for busy people from 13 months to 3.5 years? Can we get a HECK YES?! Toddler Sense offers a whole new world of sensory stimulation, play, fun adventures and learning for your toddler or child.

Every Toddler Sense session is jam-packed with fabulous activities and fun adventures to help your adventurous toddler or child burn off excess energy and develop vital physical, communication, social and intellectual skills that form the foundation of all future learning.

The team at Toddler Sense knows what keeps your toddler happy, busy, motivated, interested and excited to learn! Join the exciting world of magic and adventure in a safe and happy environment – there’s always something new and wonderful to look forward to! Baby sensory classes are also available for little ones from birth to 13 months.

toddlersense.com.au

KinderGym is a national program which provides a fun and safe environment where babies, toddlers and preschoolers can develop socially, cognitively, emotionally and physically and have a whole lot of fun while they’re doing it!

At KinderGym parents and caregivers play an active role in each class, singing with them, playing along side them and helping them through the obstacles and play areas.

It’s a great opportunity for you to connect with your child and share in their fun and development, meet other parents and caregivers with kids of a similar age, and the best part is, there are KinderGyms run all across Adelaide, so you’re bound to find one in a suburb near you!

kindergymsa.com.au

Local Council Library activities

Many local council libraries have regular programs, events and activities aimed at babies, toddlers and preschoolers, from children’s story time , baby time to craft sessions and costumes to hire and take home.

Some council libraries even have toy libraries , a veritable wonderland for you and your toddler to explore and borrow from, with a huge collection of toys to roll, bounce, twist, push, pull and spin!

Check in at your local council library to find out what programs they run for babies and toddlers – we bet you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how much they have on offer!

Council Libraries

Cirkidz Tiddlerz and Big Tiddlers

This circus class is for Little People (toddlers from age 2.5 years – 3.5 years) and their Big People. Trainers take everyone on an adventurous journey as participants explore the way their bodies work, move, and play. Tiddlerz toddlers discover that they can roll, balance, throw, jump and bounce in ways they could never have imagined. Circus obstacle courses each week allow Tiddlerz to develop their fine and gross motor skills, learn about themselves, interact with others and have fun at the circus.

Big Tiddlerz (3.5 years – 5 years) continues the work on fine and gross motor skills, confidence and teamwork, and follows the same format with the same familiar trainers as their Tiddlerz classes, while preparing them to venture out on their own in our after school classes.

The Tiddlerz activities program has been developed by Joel Osborne in conjunction with Early Childhood experts, and, while the kids are having too much fun to realise it, progressively develops skills over the semester. Parents and guardians receive regular feedback as their children reach milestones and Tiddlerz are invited to perform for their friends and families at the end of each semester.

27 Fifth Street, Bowden

cirkidz.org.au

Variety Children’s Zoo at Adelaide Zoo

The Variety Children’s Zoo is an amazing play space for toddlers and kids alike, filled with interactive areas that allow them to get closer than ever to some of the zoo’s most popular residents.

Complete with areas for children of all ages and abilities to play and explore, the Variety Children’s Zoo features things like balance beams and ladders for the zoo’s charismatic goats, climbing branches for the friendly quokkas and a dedicated presentation area for keepers to share stories about their animal friends.

Located right next door to the zoo’s incredible Nature’s Playground and connected via aerial walkways catering for all abilities and prams, the Variety Children’s Zoo is a must-visit stop with your little one! Spend the whole day at Adelaide Zoo and your toddler will be completely tuckered out by the end of the day!

adelaidezoo.com.au

Hahndorf Farm Barn

Hahndorf is just a short drive up the freeway and is the cutest lil town you ever did see. Thereʼs loads to do there and lots of rich German culture and history to immerse yourself and the kidlets in.

Itʼs also home to the Hahndorf Farm Barn – aka heaven for the animal loving toddlers – where your little ones can get up close and personal, interact, hold and feed most of the animals with the cutest little residents from baby lambs to guinea pigs to donkeys. And itʼs educational too, children learn all about the animals as well as have opportunities to milk a cow and ride a pony!

Check out our review of Hahndorf Farm Barn – we visited with toddlers in tow and it was a hit!

2282 Mount Barker Rd, Hahndorf

farmbarn.com.au

Cleland Wildlife Park

We all know toddlers are fascinated with things that crawl and bounce and move, and at Cleland Wildlife Park, your toddler can get up close and personal with roos, koalas, wallabies, betongs and Tasmanian devils – most of which are in their natural habitat – and itʼs just 20 minutes away from the city centre!

Itʼs also a great place to have a picnic. For opening hours, information on planning your day, fees and to buy tickets, head straight to the website. Cleland also hosts birthday parties, for more party venue ideas check out our  KIDDO Adelaide Party Venue guide !

365 Mount Lofty Summit Road, Cleland

clelandwildlifepark.sa.gov.au

Toddler World at Funtopia Prospect

Funtopia Prospect have a dedicated toddler zone (Toddler World, designed for children under 2) where your tiny tot can let their imagination run wild with lots of activities to encourage imaginative play.

With building blocks, slides and play equipment, interactive games and plenty of obstacles for little people, your toddler will thoroughly wear themselves out at Funtopia… just in time for a NAP!

If you have bigger kids in tow, you can let them loose in Playground World or on the climbing walls so everyone’s entertained (while you drink a coffee – the Funtopia baristas don’t disappoint)! We visited Funtopia with our kiddos – here’s what we thought !

259-269 Main N Rd, Sefton Park

funtopiaworld.com.au

Croc’s Playcentre

Crocs Play Centre in Kilburn have a dedicated toddler zone which is separate from the main play area and is designed for children aged four years and under.

This area features small slippery slides, a bouncing castle, and lots of soft play options that will have the little ones well entertained, but also away from the bigger kids who might be playing a little bit more raucously! For more options for indoor play centres, check out our guide to Adelaide’s play cafes and activity centre s .

Churchill Road, Adelaide

Visit Croc’s Playcentre

Lollipops Playland & Cafe

Your toddler will be in their element as they climb, slide, swing and jump their way through an outing to one of Lollipops Playland indoor play centres.

Lollipops Playlands all have dedicated toddler and baby areas, away from the area the big kids play, so you can enjoy a hassle-free coffee while you’re toddler does what they do best… plays, explores and has fun, in a space designed with our littlest people in mind!

With centres at Golden Grove, Happy Valley and Croydon, you can pick the centre closest to you (or the one furthest away if you want your toddler to sleep in the car on the way home… we get it!!)

7-11 Helicon Drive, Golden Grove | 449 Port Rd, Croydon | 18/50 Kenihans Rd, Happy Valley

lollipopsplayland.com.au

Henley Square Water Play

Henley Beach is a haven for families, and nothing is as popular for toddlers there than the in ground water feature. Grab a takeaway coffee (or iced coffee if it’s the height of summer!) and watch on as your little person chases the water spouts and plays in the reflection pool (when we say pool.. it’s not even ankle deep so no fear of any underwater mishaps here!).

Do be aware though that there isn’t any fencing between the nearby road and the water play area so do make sure to keep a close eye on your little ones. If you prefer to venture a little closer to the ocean, there’s also a grassy area at the foreshore with plenty of room for toddling, wooden wave shaped seating that kids LOVE to clamber over, and an awesome shower water feature that will get your kids drenched!

For more splash zones and swimming centres check out our guide to Adelaide’s indoor and outdoor pools .

Henley Square, Henley Beach

Carrick Hill

If you want to head outdoors with your toddler in tow, head to Carrick Hill. Your little person will love  Carrick Hillʼs Story Book Trail   – a self guided (pram friendly) half kilometre trail with themed areas to explore (your toddler will LOVE the cubby house glade) and discover throughout the picturesque Carrick Hill grounds!

This activity uses classic childrenʼs stories to encourage and ignite their imagination, from Wind in the Willows to The Hobbit to The Jungle Book and The Secret Garden, these are just a few tales kids will discover along the way.

You can also explore the picturesque grounds of Carrick Hill, with lush green hills (perfect for picnics… or rolling down!), and there’s a cafe on site for when little (and big!) tummies get hungry!

46 Carrick Hill Dr, Springfiel

Visit Carrick Hill

Adelaide Botanic Gardens

We are so lucky in Adelaide, our Botanic Gardens are seriously beautiful and oh-so-peaceful considering theyʼre in the heart of the hustle and bustle of the city!

It really makes for a fun day out, take a wander around, stop for a picnic and just enjoy being present in nature – thereʼs plenty of flora and fauna to see and loads of room for your toddler to run around!

The paths are pram friendly so you’ll have no issues if your toddler decides their little legs have had enough!

North Terrace, Adelaide

Visit Adelaide Botanic Gardens

Find a toddler friendly playground

If you have a toddler, you’ve probably walked the well worn path to the local playground. Over and over again!

We are so incredibly lucky to have so many amazing parks and playgrounds in Adelaide and South Australia, so many of which cater so beautifully to toddlers and preschoolers. We’re talking playgrounds with fences. Playgrounds with toilets. Playgrounds with fun things that little people can climb and reach!

Check out our guide to the best playgrounds in Adelaide and see if there are any you’ve missed that might be perfect for an adventure with your toddler in tow.

Cockle Train

Calling all train loving toddlers! This is the adventure for you! Apart from the fact that a day out to Victor Harbor is already the perfect fun for families with toddlers (especially that snooze on the car trip for your little human!), itʼs made even better by the fact that itʼs home to the Cockle Train which travels along the oldest steel railed railway in Australia dating back to 1887.

All aboard! Times, fares and booking info is all available on the website.

Victor Harbor, SA

steamrangerheritagerailway.org

Intergenerational playgroups

Helping Hand Residential Care in North Adelaide is proving that imagination is ageless, hosting intergenerational playgroups each Wednesday during the school term.

The Learning Tree Playgroup connects three generations (elders, parents and children), bolstering the proverbial village it takes to raise a child, while also bringing joy and good old-fashioned fun and laughter to elderly residents living in aged care, as well as the unconditional love that only a child can give.

This is such a meaningful activity for you and your toddler and all families with children aged up to 6 are welcome every Wednesday 10am-12pm during school terms at Helping Hand, North Adelaide – 49 Buxton Street. Intergenerational playgroups run across the state thanks to Playgroup SA!

Impact Kids World Barossa

Impact Kids World is a play centre in the Barossa with birthday party rooms, a toddler area, sensory area, and an all important cafe area for the parentals!

The multi-level indoor playground features a vibrant circus themed, multi-storey maze, some inflatable equipment, ride on cars, a mini ball pit and small climbing structure.

The staff are super friendly and there are plenty of healthy food options for littles and bigs!

7 Siegersdorf Rd, Nuriootpa

Visit Impact Kids World Barossa

Mainly Music

Babies, toddlers, pre-schoolers and parents will be treated to music and story, activity and interaction, structured and unstructured fun at Mainly Music. Weekly sessions are full of songs and rhymes, actions and movement, designed to engage you and your child.

Not only will your little one be delighted by the one-to-one attention you give, but you’ll love the way they respond and develop. The structured 30 minute music session will be followed by 30-60 minutes of eat/play/chat.

Snacks and refreshments will be served, followed by a time of unstructured play while you get the chance to connect with other parents and care givers with similar aged kids!

The team behind Mainly Music also run Mainly Play sessions with a focus on learning through play.

Find a Mainly Music group near you

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We’re lucky that the indoor play centres and play cafes Adelaide has to offer are plentiful and super high quality. From climbing walls, to trampolines, to huge indoor inflatable playgrounds – Adelaide has a lot of indoor activity centres to choose from! We’ve put together a comprehensive listing so you can find exactly what you’re after!

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36 awesome things to do in Adelaide with kids

Adelaide is something of a wonderland for kids and families. It has one-of-a-kind family-friendly attractions and colourful year-round events.

Once upon a time, the words ‘hip’ and ‘Adelaide’ would never have been used in the same sentence. Yet, today the South Australian  capital is a vibrant hub filled with culture, natural beauty and adventure to wow all ages.

Known as the City of Churches, the South Australian capital oozes European charm with interesting architecture, wide boulevards and pretty parks, including the lush Adelaide Botanic Gardens and Adelaide Park Lands, a sprawling expanse of gardens, ovals, green spaces, and sporting and play areas.

Eat up a storm at the impressive Adelaide Central Market and take the 20-minute drive to the Adelaide Hills where more than 60 wineries await. Grab your towels and sunscreen for a trip to one of the city’s fantastic beaches, including popular Glenelg, where you can take a dip, swim with dolphins and more.

If you prefer your animal encounters on the drier side, a visit to Adelaide Zoo or a safari at open-range Monarto Zoo, about 50 minutes from the city, might be more your family’s speed.

There are so many cool things to do in Adelaide with kids, no matter your interests, you will be spoilt for choice.

1. Art Gallery of South Australia

You can spend hours wandering through the Art Gallery of South Australia, home to 47, 000 works of art (and counting). For kids, there is The Studio – a hands-on activity space where they can draw, paint, weave, sculpt and more.

There is also Start at the Gallery – a family fun day h eld on the first Sunday of every month. Creative kids will love the art activities, tours, live performances and entertainment based around current exhibitions.  The best part? Both of these art-tastic experiences are completely free.

2. Adelaide Oval

Adelaide Oval lies in the heart of the city and seats well over 50,000 people. It is hailed as one of the world’s prettiest cricket grounds and a historical landmark in its own right. The oval has hosted sporting matches since 1871.

If possible, catch an AFL football, soccer or cricket game; the experience will be legendary to say the least. If timing isn’t on your side, or tackle the RoofClimb or go behind closed doors with Adelaide Oval Tours and venture into the inner sanctum of the stadium, hear remarkable stories and learn a bit of history.

Cricket aficionados rejoice; the stadium is also home to the Bradman Collection, a bronze statue of the ‘the Don’ mid-swing and an interactive museum where you can play against the legend himself.

3. Adelaide’s best festivals

If you’re visiting in February or March, you can’t go past the iconic Adelaide Fringe Festival. The largest arts festival in Australia stretches all the way to Mount Gambier and has endless fun for families. Expect eclectic events like theatre, cabaret, comedy, circus and music performances, plus visual arts and workshops. 

In March, you can also attend WOMADelaide, an annual four-day festival of music, arts and dance held in the Adelaide Botanic Gardens.

4. Tandanya Arts Centre

Tandanya is the oldest Aboriginal-owned and -operated arts centre in Australia, with almost three decades under its belt. Catch a cultural presentation of the didgeridoo before exploring the four galleries.

5. Hahndorf

Discover the unique pleasures of Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement, Hahndorf. The boulevards are infused with old-world colonial charm, from the sandstone buildings and colourful greenery to the kitsch bakeries and restaurants. Entertainment for the kids comes in the form of traditional lolly and toy shops, a fairy garden and 3 Wishes Candle Barn – where they can create their own candle to take home. Needless to say, sightseeing families can easily spend an entire day here exploring the quirky gift shops, smallgoods outlets and nearby wineries.

6. Museum of Discovery (MOD)

Inspire the kids at this future-focused museum at the University of South Australia. MOD offers dynamic exhibitions that blend science, art and innovation. With seven purpose-built gallery spaces, a cafe and lecture theatre, this interactive space is completely free. STEM-loving kids will be in their element, discovering how research shapes our understanding of the world. While most of the activites are aimed at teens aged 15 and older, little ones will have a great time with a little guidance. Just be sure to check which exhibits are on as some may contain adult content. 

7. Bowerbird Bazaar

Head to Adelaide Showgrounds to discover the best Australian designers and makers at the twice-annual Bowerbird Bazaar . Be sure to check out Chook Shed Designs, with their adorable fabric children’s toys, and Suki McMaster for whimsical giftware and baby products. Entry is free for kids ages 12 and under, and tickets are available online. 

8. Moseley Square

This lively square links the main street of Glenelg to the beach. Stroll through interesting boutiques, or enjoy a scrumptious seaside meal. The Moseley Bar & Kitchen has a great kids’ menu, and loads of delicious options for parents.  Or enjoy coffee and handmade pastries, cakes and pies at Banjo’s Bakery Cafe. Families can also check out the Bay Discovery Centre to learn more about Adelaide’s history and coastline.

9. The Escape Hunt Experience

Calling all family detectives! If you love doing challenging things as a family, solving mysteries and consider yourself a ‘super sleuth’, then The Escape Hunt Experience is just what you’re after!

10. The Beachhouse

The Beachhouse is a family entertainment complex with waterslides, dodgem cars, bumper boats, a carousel, mini-golf, games and more for keeping the whole family entertained.  This family favourite is suitable for both sunny and rainy days.

11. Carrick Hill

Gifted to the South Australian community by Sir Edward and Lady Ursula Hayward, this historic 1930s home is worth a visit. On the grounds, you’ll find fabulous picnic areas, stunning formal gardens, a bushland area, a cafe and marquee. There is also a children’s storybook trail, set on a shaded, sandy path. Designed to inspire kids’ imaginations, the walk features a Hobbit House, Quidditch Tree and an assortment of figurines from classic British stories.

12. South Australian Museum

Museums play an important role in nurturing curiosity and fostering learning for kids. Five floors of interesting exhibits sure to educate and excite. The SA Museum boasts the most comprehensive collection of First Nations’ cultural material in the world, plus an interactive Discovery Centre.

Kids can also take part in ‘The Shadow Initiation’ – an exciting museum experience like no other. Part escape room, part scavenger hunt, part behind-the-scenes tour, this game will see little explorers race against the clock to complete over 40 puzzles.

Foodie fun in Adelaide

13. haigh’s chocolate factory tour.

Did someone say chocolate? Tour the Haigh’s Chocolate Factory to see confectioners create and hand finish premium chocolate. Best of all? There are special choccie tastings while on the tour. Yum!

14. Lenswood Orchard

There’s nothing like a fresh, crispy apple. At Lenswood Farm, just over half an hour from Adelaide, you can pick your own. Experience the simple joy of gathering their own produce on this family-friendly farm complete with outdoor games, tractors, coffee and food. Entry is $5 for adults and $2 for children, with ages five and under free. You’ll need to bring your own bags as the orchard is committed to reducing unnecessary waste. 

15. A foodie tour at Adelaide Central Market

The Adelaide Central Market is an eclectic mix of sights, smells and tastes that has had tourists flocking for over 145 years. From seafood to olive oil to cheese, the food hub presents an array of local, fresh produce and an ethnic melting pot of gastronomic selections just waiting to take your tastebuds on a heavenly ride. A single visit doesn’t allow much time to visit all of the 80-plus stalls, but with Central Market Tours you can get a nibble of what’s on offer. Little foodies-in-the-making can also expand their palates with free samples from the multitude of family-owned businesses – so be sure to come hungry!

16. St Louis House of Fine Ice Cream & Dessert

A visit to Glenelg is not complete without a trip to the St Louis House of Fine Ice Cream & Dessert . Colossal milkshakes, hot chocolate, cinnamon churros, popcorn waffles, brownie crepes… the treats will simply dazzle and serve as the perfect fix for any sweet tooth. (Expect to leave with your entourage on a massive sugar high!)

17. Head to Adelaide Hills

The Adelaide Hills Kids’ Food Trail is a great way to introduce kids to producers to learn about where their food comes from and the processes involved – the summer Cherry Trail is a particular favourite. There are a fantastic selection of kid-friendly wineries in the region. Barristers Block Wines is a hotspot for wine-loving families with delicious tasting platters, acres of manicured gardens and giant sandpit. The kids’ menu and farm animals are sure to be a hit. 

18. Beerenberg Family Farm

Half an hour outside of Adelaide’s CBD, just outside of Hahndorf, you’ll find the Beerenberg Family Farm . From November to April each year, your family can hunt for sweet, juicy strawberries from the farm’s sprawling patch. 

To fill hungry tummies, the on-site cafe offers seasonal local produce and farm-made ice-cream. At the farm shop, you can purchase the full range of jams, sauces and condiments with unique flavours found only at the farm.

Animal encounters

19. cleland wildlife park.

An alternative to Adelaide Zoo is Cleland Wildlife Park, a short 30-minute drive from the city, Cleland Wildlife Park comprises 35 hectares of native bushland where animals roam freely… and they love visitors, so be sure to get your feeding hands ready and keep your eyes peeled for Skippy.

20. Adelaide Zoo

Home to over 3000 animals, the Adelaide Zoo is a guaranteed hit with the kids who will love the opportunity to hold a creepy critter, feed a giraffe, try their hand at being a keeper for the day or pack their pyjamas for a zoo sleepover. Although the giant pandas, Wang Wang and Fu Ni, reign as the zoo’s star attractions and the only giant pandas in Oz, there is also a children’s zoo, multiple feeding sessions, a river cruise on board the Popeye, walk-through aviaries and a nocturnal house.

21. Dolphin Sanctuary Mangroves Tour

Kids over the age of eight can explore one of Adelaide’s most secret spots on this 90-minute kayaking tour .  Just 30 minutes from the CBD, the mangrove lined creeks of Garden Island are home to a fascinating array of marine life, birds and the Port River Dolphins. When these friendly creatures come out to play it is a truly unforgettable experience.

22. Monarto Zoo

Monarto Zoo is a thrilling concept combining an open-range zoo with a natural wilderness sanctuary, working toward the conservation of wildlife and nature.

Outdoor adventures in Adelaide

23. be a beach bum.

With an expansive coastline and Mediterranean climate, the beaches surrounding Adelaide are a waterbaby’s dream year round. Most are in proximity to the city centre, making it easy and convenient to hop from one sandy white shore to the next. They even serve as prime picnic and sunset-viewing spots during the cooler seasons. Brighton Beach and Moana Beach are both popular picks for families.

24. Glenelg Beach

This seaside suburb is a playground for both kids and adults, with a bustling jetty, countless restaurants and postcard-perfect waves to splash about in – don’t forget to order gelato and watch the epic sunset.

Head down to Holdfast Shores for a magnificent sunset or join one of the daily dolphin sailing tours that circuit the bay. For kids nine years and older, don your snorkels and get in the water with these magnificent mammals with Temptation Sailing .

25. Granite Island Recreation Park

Granite Island and the horse-drawn tram offer a wonderful opportunity to get away from it all and enjoy amazing eco-experiences and fine dining. Just over an hour from Adelaide CBD, this small island off the coast of Victor Harbour is a great place to visit. Take the horse-drawn tram across to the island to enjoy sunny bushwalking trails and wildlife viewing.

The one-hour Kai­ki Walk is a great way to see the area, perfect for families with children and prams. Visit between May and October to spot migrating south­ern right whales, or take a dusk tour to see Granite Island’s fairy penguins. Enjoy morning tea, lunch or afternoon snacks at the waterfront Island Cafe. 

26. Cleland National Park

Enjoy lunch among beautiful gum trees at Cleland Conservation Park, keeping your eyes peeled for echidnas, bandicoots, kangaroos and koalas. Or take on the serene Waterfall Gully hike, with panoramic views from the top of Mt Lofty.  Utopia Restaurant is the perfect hiking pit stop, sitting right at the bottom of the falls. Added bonus? There are free-to-use gas barbecues scattered around the grounds at the entrance.

27. Wittunga Botanic Gardens

The 13-hectare botanical garden is a hidden oasis for families in Adelaide. Wittunga Botanic Gardens’ nature play area will be an instant hit with cubbies, log balance beams, a basket swing and musical installation. Immerse your family in nature and local Kaurna heritage in the dry billabong, filled with reeds, rocks and pebbles. Little ones will love wandering through the butterfly gardens, with plants chosen to attract these fluttering friends.

28. Mount Lofty Adventure Hub

Swing, climb and zipline your way through this insanely thrilling adventure course. Mount Lofty Adventure Hub is one of the most beautiful adventure parks in South Australia, just 20 minutes from Adelaide. Daring families will love SA’s longest zip-line, as well as the three-person mega swing. Just don’t be surprised if the kids are buzzing until bedtime. 

29. Bike riding

For a mix of sun, sand and speed, hire a bike for free with BikeSA and cycle the River Torrens Linear Park Trail all the way from the Mount Lofty Ranges to Henley Beach. This beach is a local favourite with a great family-friendly atmosphere and main square home to cafes, pubs and alfresco eateries.

30. Woodhouse Activity Centre

Head to picturesque Picadilly in the Adelaide Hills for an incredible adventure experience. Nestled in native bushland, Woodhouse offers a nature-focused classic camp experience that kids will love. Think ninja-warrior style obstacle courses, bouldering challenges, disc golf and a giant split-level maze. You’ll spend your day whizzing down tube slides and enjoying the great outdoors with orienteering and wetlands walks. For an unforgettable family experience, spend the night camping on the grounds. There’s also a range of unique accommodation options ranging from the Old Woodhouse Manor to family-friendly cabins.

31. Morialta Conservation Park

Morialta Conservation Park is one of Adelaide’s most popular parks. If you are interested in chasing waterfalls and checking out the dramatic Morialta Gorge, tackle the easy-going 1.7-kilometre First Falls Walk.

Where: Morialta Conservation Park is 10 kilometres northeast of city centre

32. Captain Jolley’s Paddle Boats

The River Torrens is Adelaide’s main waterway. What better way to get active and explore it than on a two-person paddle boat? Captain Jolley’s Paddle Boats are available for hire for $20 per 30-minute session. The river is calm and life jackets are included, making this a suitable, and enjoyable, experience for kids.

33. Go green

Adelaide Park Lands is a sprawling expanse of gardens, ovals, green spaces, sporting and play areas. Bonython Park is another epic space with a flying fox, water play, sand pit and a wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round. It also boasts two playgrounds, a boating lake, a kiosk and barbecues for a perfect day in the sun. The area is home to the Pityarilla Activity Hub, offering spaces for families to play, connect and relax. Kids will go wild for the interactive water play that see them working together to weave a flow of water through rock and sand paths. There are also cubby houses inspired by Aboriginal Wurlies, climbing frames and stepping stones to explore. 

Adelaide Botanic Garden is also worthy of an extended visit with the giant lilies and succulents particular favourites. Visit Cobbler Creek Recreation Park to play in grassy woodland connected by 17km of shared-use trails.

34. TreeClimb Adelaide

Bring your sense of adventure along to Australia’s first inner-city aerial adventure park. TreeClimb Adelaide will have you and your family suspended high above parklands in the CBD as you take on eight courses and over 70 obstacles. While adults aren’t allowed on the three children’s courses, they can provide support from the ground. Little climbers can progressively complete the courses, allowing them to challenge themselves. Older kids can enjoy two hours of high-flying fun as they tackle the Grand Course, complete with zip-lines and an exhilarating Tarzan swing.

35. West Beach Adventure Park

If your kids are adventurous types head to the Mega Adventure aerial park. It boasts 70 obstacles that will scare them happily silly as they climb, swing and crawl through a labyrinth of sky-high challenges. West Beach Adventure is a playground, but not as we know it. The multi-level aerial obstacle course’s 70 challenges include an 18-metre simulated freefall jump and a super-fast Giant Swing.

36. Glenelg to Seacliff coastal walk

This picturesque waterfront walk is a great way to see the sights of Adelaide’s coast. On the six-kilometre walk, you’ll pass scenic views, swimming beaches, jetties, alfresco dining, parks, sculptures and sites of aboriginal cultural significance. At a kid-friendly pace, the coastal walk should take around 1.5 hours, but be sure to take plenty of swimming and snack stops!

Where to stay in Adelaide

The Stamford Grand Adelaide Hotel at Glenelg is located right on the beach in the popular seaside suburb. There’s a rooftop pool and kid-friendly activities, plus kids eat free with the family getaway package. The Stamford is 20 minutes from the CBD.

Oaks Adelaide Horizons Suites offer spacious and stylish serviced apartment stays with a swimming pool and parking opposite Sky City Casino and the Adelaide Oval in the heart of the CBD.

BIG4 West Beach Parks ‘ brilliant beachfront location is minutes from Henley and Glenelg beaches. Along with camping and cabins, there’s a Splash Zone, jumping pillows, go-karts and more.

Marion Holiday Park boasts a 45-metre lagoon pool with a poolside bar and beer garden where parents can hang out while the water slides, jumping pillow and adventure park keep the kids busy. At night, bring the family together with a movie at the outdoor cinema. Marion Holiday Park is located just 12 kilometres from Adelaide city.

Mylor Farm is Adelaide’s ultimate family farm stay experience. Stay in beautifully-furnished stone cottages and pick produce from the on-site veggie and herb garden. You can also feed resident wildlife, search the surrounding woodland for wildflowers, or hide away in the secret garden with a tree fort.

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Glenelg, Adelaide, South Australia © South Australian Tourism Commission

Top things to do in Adelaide with kids

Make new family memories in the Festival City.

By Leah Dobihal

Accessible and exciting, Adelaide is ideal for families. Whether your kids like to laze on the beach or climb to new heights, you’ll find family fun for everyone in South Australia’s beautiful capital.

Here’s how to keep the kids entertained in Adelaide .

Find sky-high fun at Bounce

Where: 13-15 Fosters Road, Greenacres

Home to trampolines, rock climbing and obstacle courses, Bounce  has levelled up your ordinary play centre. Kids can hop between interconnected trampolines, take on Ninja Warrior-style challenges and scale rope walls. Don’t worry, there’s something for young ones, too, with a Kids Zone offering a little slice of the action.

Spark the wonder of wildlife

Adelaide Zoo, Adelaide, South Australia © Tourism Australia

Where: Adelaide and Cleland Conservation Park

If you have an animal lover on your hands, then you can’t miss Adelaide Zoo . In addition to the 2,500 resident animals, there are several wildlife encounters on offer. Why not meet a tree kangaroo or get up close to mischievous meerkats? For an open-range experience, head to Cleland Wildlife Park . Most of the animals here live openly within the habitat, so you can wander around with them.

Gather sweet strawberries at Beerenberg

Beerenberg Farm, Adelaide Hills, South Australia © Megan Crabb

Kids will love the festivities at Adelaide Fringe , held annually in February and March.

Where: Mount Barker Road, Hahndorf

Nothing is sweeter than a family day at the farm. Head out into the sunny strawberry patch at Beerenberg Farm and collect ripe fruit to take home with you (picking season runs from November to April). After you’re done picking, be sure to visit the farm shop; Beerenberg sells some of the country’s best jams, sauces and pickles.

See into the future at MOD. Museum

MOD., Adelaide, South Australia © MOD./ UniSA

Where: North Terrace, Adelaide

MOD. isn’t a museum of looking; it’s a museum of learning, playing and interacting. Here, you’ll find exhibitions all about futuristic science and technology, inspiring kids and adults alike to think bigger. While exhibitions are aimed at teens and young adults, even younger kids will enjoy exploring with a bit of guidance. Best of all, it’s free!

Tackle treetop obstacles

TreeClimb, Adelaide, South Australia © TreeClimb Adelaide

Where: Corner Greenhill Road and Unley Road, Adelaide

Situated right in Adelaide’s city centre, TreeClimb is both convenient and a ton of fun. More than 70 obstacles – ranging from suspended ladders to ziplines – are spread across increasingly challenging courses. Older kids can take on the Grand Course, while younger children over 100 centimetres (3 feet and 3 inches) will love the Kids Course.

6 hidden gems in Adelaide

Enjoy the sunshine at Glenelg

Where: Glenelg, Adelaide

The beach suburb of Glenelg is the perfect family outing. You can take a stroll along the pier before enjoying a swim in the low waves. To take your Glenelg adventure up a notch, book a dolphin cruise with Temptation Sailing . You can choose to watch from the catamaran or hop in the water for an up-close encounter with the wild dolphins .

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Best Things to do in Adelaide with Kids

There are so many top things to do in Adelaide with kids. Adelaide is a vibrant city, the CBD is well placed inside a collection of beautiful, established, and maintained parks and gardens. The River Torrens runs from the Adelaide Hills (where you will find some great wine!), along the edge of the CBD, all the way to Glenelg Beach, only a short 20 minute drive away.

So if you are wondering what things to do with kids in Adelaide, this post is for you! There are a variety of places to visit in Adelaide and in this post, I will highlight all the best Adelaide sightseeing as well how best to get around and a look at the best family accommodation Adelaide has to offer.

This post may contain compensated links. Please refer to my disclaimer here  for more information.

Page Contents

• 1.1.1 Adelaide Fringe Festival
• 1.1.2 WOMAdelaide
• 1.1.3 DreamBIG Children’s festival
• 1.2 Adelaide Zoo
• 1.3 A Day Trip to Glenelg
• 1.4 River Torrens Cruise
• 1.5 Adelaide Gaol
• 1.6 Haigh’s Chocolate Tour
• 1.7 Migration Museum
• 1.8 Adelaide Central Markets
• 1.9 Adelaide Oval Tour
• 1.10.1 Young Explorers Program
• 1.10.2 Discovery Centre
• 1.11 Adelaide Botanic Gardens
• 1.12 Art Gallery of SA
• 2 Adelaide Day Trips
• 3.1 Adelaide Riviera Hotel
• 3.2 Oaks Horizon
• 3.3 Majestic Hotel Adelaide
• 4 Getting to Adelaide
• 5.0.1 Want to save this information for later? 
• 5.0.2 Click on one of the images below and save it to Pinterest.

Adelaide Festivals

Adelaide has some of the biggest festivals in Australia, even some right in the CBD! If you are looking for the best things to do in Adelaide at night and things to do in Adelaide for free, festivals are great. Full of magic and wonder they are great for getting immersed in a vibe, especially if you are looking for things for kids to do in Adelaide. I have picked some family friendly festivals to focus on, so check these out to get a handle on what’s out there.

Adelaide Fringe Festival

The Adelaide Fringe festival is jam packed, the nations largest open-access arts festival, is internationally renowned. Open access, means that anyone can perform during the fringe festival, run over 31 days, with heaps of fun activities in Adelaide, the surrounding suburbs and some regional areas.

Looking for things to do in Adelaide for families? Children’s specific events, and magic shows are a plenty, described by organisers as mythical, magical and fantabulous, if you are looking for fun things to do in Adelaide for kids and you are in town during February and March, it is definitely worth checking out.

To find out what events are on you can use this easy search engine , just select more filters and suitability to locate all “G” rated events and details, for family friendly events. You will even find free things to do in Adelaide here.

WOMAdelaide

Held at the Botanic Gardens, Adelaide CBD, the WOMAdelaide festival is perfect if you are looking for family things to do in Adelaide. With daily free activities for kids, and free entry to under 12’s when accompanied by an adult, prices for 1 adult start at $155.

Described as a Global Village, WOMAdelaide is definitely on the list, of Adelaide experiences. Live music, international food, and street performances, along with other cool things to do in Adelaide, will excite and engage everyone.

From infants to grandparents, family activities Adelaide are overflowing at the WOMAdelaide festival. The Kidzone offers free activities Adelaide, including a “Nature Village” Playground, the “Kaurna Classroom” for Indigenous Culture, language and fun, and regular “Storytime” under the trees. These fun Adelaide activities are available daily during the festival.

DreamBIG Children’s festival

DreamBIG Children’s Festival is held every 2 years, primarily an arts festival for schools and, all children, it is bursting with family activities. It aims to make children a part of it’s imaginative and inspiring arts experiences. On the cheaper side of festival tickets, we are advised at the time of publishing they will range between $10 and $30.

The Big Family Weekend, a major festival event, boasts free activities for children of all ages, across the city. In 2019 over 25, 000 children and families attended this event, to DreamBig. The city is redesigned to engage and inspire, creation, Amazing kids activities are far and wide, check out some of the 2019 highlights here .

Adelaide Zoo

Bordering the Adelaide CBD, one of the must see Adelaide attractions is the Adelaide Zoo.  Not your everyday sightseeing in Adelaide, you will find a Sumatran Tiger, Hippopotamus, Common Wombat and, Giant Panda to name a few.

One of the great Adelaide attractions for families, the Adelaide Zoo has designed three levels of experiences to suit different needs and budgets, you may want to see as many animals as possible, or just see a couple of exotic creatures;

• Meander through the zoo’s generous 8 hectare space to view many of the 2500 animals, on an entry fee only.
• Take a free guided “Walkabout Tour” to visit with, and learn about each of the animals. Tours leave at scheduled times, click here to view a map and read more.
• Select an “Animal Experience” to get up close with and feed exotic animals. Giant Panda’s and Meerkat’s included, click here to book online tickets for the Giraffe Feed.

A free playground is also located near the café. Add the Zoo to your Adelaide itinerary for fun things to do in Adelaide for kids!

Location: Frome Rd, Adelaide SA 5000

Opening Hours: Daily from 9:30am to 5pm

Price: $42.50 for adults, $22.50 for children (4-14), kids under 4 go free and a family pass (2 adults and 2-3 children) is $107

A Day Trip to Glenelg

Glenelg is located 20 minutes outside of the city centre. You can drive, take a bus, or even ride the tram to Stop 17 Mosley Square. Looking for fun places to go in Adelaide with the kids? Glenelg is a hot spot for fun, the beach, wildlife, indoor and outdoor playgrounds and café’s and shopping spots, including Jetty Road and Mosley Square.

Myla and I just loved it here – it is so family-friendly. I think if I was ever to come back to Adelaide I would stay here in Glenelg and commute into the CBD.

If you are interested there are a range of tour opportunities where you can swim with the dolphins.   Click here for more information or to make a booking.

Click here for our detailed post about things to do in Glenelg.

River Torrens Cruise

Bordering the Adelaide CBD and flowing to the Indian Ocean at Glenelg, the River Torrens is one of the beautiful Adelaide sights. A great way to experience the River is by taking a cruise, you can view some of the Adelaide points of interest from the comfort of a boat.

Popeye on the Torrens Adelaide, offers daily cruises departing from Elder Park, with children under 3 travelling for free. The round trip takes around 45 minutes and includes commentary of the local landmarks. You can choose from:

• A Round Trip – $26 adults , children under 17 $17
• One Way from Elder Park to Zoo – $20 adults, $13 children under 17

Or hire a paddle boat, $20 for 30 mins.

Myla and I took the cruise up the Torrens, which was a lovely way to see the city. Adelaide really is a beautiful city with various parklands along the river.

Adelaide Gaol

For a unique glimpse into prison life, visit Adelaide Gaol, one of South Australia’s oldest public buildings.

The gaol operated from 1841 to 1988 and housed around 300,000 prisoners. Whilst exploring the original cell blocks, the hanging tower, yards and prisoner graves, you can learn about the various prisoners who once called the gaol home.

Perhaps an excursion for older children and if you are keen you can even book a ghost tour through the Adelaide Gaol – this tour is strictly for children over 12 years of age.  Click here for more information and / or to make a booking.

Location: 18 Gaol Rd, Thebarton SA 5031

Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am to 4 pm

Price: Adult $16.60 and Children (4-15) $10

Haigh’s Chocolate Tour

When you visit Adelaide, check out the Haigh’s Chocolate Factory! Family owned and operated, Haigh’s chocolates is an Adelaide must see for families. The Haigh Family have been making fine chocolates from the cocoa bean since 1915, and even run a free tour of the chocolate factory!

See a team of confectioners hand finish mouth watering chocolates, enjoy tastings and complimentary tea and coffee. We have visited quite a few chocolate factories and done a few tours in our time, and in view this is one of the better ones. It is just a small factory and through the viewing windows you have the opportunity to see so much.

There is plenty to taste along the way too – their chocolate is amazing!!

All the staff here are super friendly too – I guess who wouldn’t be working around chocolate all day!

Tours operate daily at the Visitor Centre, a 6 minute drive from the city centre.

Alternatively, take the free tram to the South Terrace stop and it’s a short 10 minute walk from there.

Bookings can be made via phone (08 8372 7070) at least a day before.

Location: 154 Greenhill Road, Parkside, South Australia

Opening Hours: Open Monday to Saturday from 9 am

Price: Free!

Planning a trip to South Australia?  Check out the Eyre Peninsula

Migration Museum

The Migration Museum is an interesting place to learn more about the people who have settled in South Australia since 1836 as well as the impact this had on the Indigenous South Australian people.  Displayed throughout the museum are a range of objects, documents, photographs, video material, costume and textiles which represent South Australia’s immigration and settlement history.

There are plenty of hands on activities for the kids including pull out drawers, computer interactives which bring stories to life and fascinating Detective Trails of discovery you can pursue through the exhibition galleries!

If you visit during the school holidays the museum offers some great activities for the kids.

Location: 82 Kintore Avenue, Adelaide

Opening Hours: Daily from 10 am to 5 pm

Adelaide Central Markets

Feast your eyes on the fresh and abundant fruit and vegetables, meat and poultry, seafood and cheeses, on offer at one of the top Adelaide tourist attractions, The Adelaide Central Market. Maybe not one of the free activities Adelaide has available, as you may walk out with your arms full!

The Market is free to enter and meander around, great for a hot or rainy day, it is the largest undercover market in the Southern Hemisphere. Something for everyone, popular cafes, bakeries, small goods and health foods also inhabit the market space.

This is a great place to wander around and have a meal. If you don’t travel light like we do, you might be tempted to buy quite a few goodies too!

The Market is open at the following times:

• Tuesday 7:00am – 5:30pm
• Wednesday and Thursday – 9:00 am – 5:30 pm
• Friday – 7:00am – 9:00pm
• Saturday – 7:00am – 3:00pm

It is possible to have a guided tour of the markets where you learn more about the markets and the local food industries whilst chatting to the producers.  During the tour you also have the opportunity to sample a variety of delicious food.  Click here for tour prices and / or to book a tour

Location: 44-60 Gouger St, Adelaide

Opening Hours: See above

Adelaide Oval Tour

Sports obsessed families will no doubt love to check out the Adelaide Oval and cricket fans will want to explore the Donald Bradman Collection. Join an Adelaide Oval tour where you will see behind the scenes of the sporting arena. Guests can visit a number of usually unaccessible areas and learn about the history of the oval and hear stories of sporting legends.

You can even climb the Adelaide Oval roof if you are that way incline – click here for information or to make a booking.

Learn more about Sir Donald Bradman, the greatest batsman in the history of cricket by viewing a collection of cricket memorabilia spanning from 1927 to 1977. You can watch footage of Bradman in action as well as test your own skills with the interactive museum.  You can view the collection daily and admission is free.

Location: War Memorial Dr, North Adelaide

Price: Tours are held daily and cost $28 per adult and $17 per child (5-15) (under 5s are free). 

Click here to make an online booking.

South Australian Museum

One of the most visited in Australia and definitely among the top 10 things to do in Adelaide. With five floors of exhibits covering fossils, mammals, Ancient Egypt, special exhibition spaces and more plus Aboriginal and Pacific Cultures collections, the SA Museum offers plenty for young and old.

With so many interactive hands on activities, Myla absolutely loved it here, she particularly loved checking out the various world mammals, learning about the various South Australian biodiversity and checking out the giant squid which spans across four floors dangling in an elevator shaft!

If you are wondering where to go in Adelaide during school holidays, try the Museum, with free school holiday programs attracting more than 5000 school kids each school holiday period. For kids younger than school age the museum has designed specific experiences, check out these cool programs to engage their senses.

Young Explorers Program

For kids aged 3-5, this interactive experience is facilitated by museum staff for free! Designed to engage the senses, the Young Explorers program is very popular, you can book your free ticket online here .

Discovery Centre

The Discovery Centre Team located on level 1, can help with any questions about exhibits or even specimens you bring in! Here you can see bees making honey, sure to keep little, and big kids busy for a while .

The Discovery Centre is open from 11 am-4 pm weekdays, and 11 am-3 pm weekends and public holidays. The Museum Café is open from 10 am daily, with plenty of local food and kids staples. 

Location: North Terrace, Adelaide

Adelaide Botanic Gardens

On the outskirts of the CBD you will find the Adelaide Botanic Gardens. With several different areas to explore including the First Creek Wetland, Garden of Health, SA Water Mediterranean Garden, International Rose Garden and the Australian Native Garden, there are plenty of opportunities to teach the kids all about various elements of the environment.

Take the kids to Little Sprouts Kitchen Garden where kids can learn more about where their food comes from. The area includes garden beds with fruit, vegetables, herbs, compost, worms and various workbenches. Stroll through the area or book in for a session with a qualified Kitchen Garden Educator. Click here for more information.

Opening Hours: Daily from 9 am to 7 pm

Art Gallery of SA

The Art Gallery of SA has various exhibitions and programs on throughout the year to ensure even the youngest child can appreciate art. Kids will love visiting the Studio, a hands on activity space that is changed regularly to reflect whatever exhibitions are on at the gallery. If you are around on the weekend check out their START at the Gallery program which is held on the first Sunday of each month. It’s completely free and is a great way to introduce visual arts to children.

Price: Free! Click here for more information about what is on offer for children at the Art Gallery.

Adelaide Day Trips

If you are feeling like a bit of a drive, or just want to explore the Adelaide area further, these Adelaide day trips detail some top places to visit near Adelaide.

The Ships Graveyard Maritime Heritage Trail : Spend time with the playful Port River Dolphins, and view sunken shipwrecks only 30 minutes from the Adelaide CBD. Paddling with the Dolphins.   Click here for tour prices and / or to make a booking

Barossa Valley: Enjoy the abundant green rolling hills and vineyard scenes, as you drive through one of the most famous wine producing regions of Australia. Click here for tour prices and / or to make a booking.  You can read our detailed post about visiting the Barossa with kids here.

Adelaide Hills, Hahndorf and Mount Lofty: Enjoy the views to the City and Coastline from Adelaide’s highest peak, the Mount Lofty Summit, and a light meal and beer tasting in the German town of Hahndorf. Hahndorf has the world’s largest Rocking Horse! Only 30 minutes from Adelaide. Click here for tour prices and / or to make a booking .   You can read our detailed post about visiting Hahndorf with kids here.

Victor Harbor: Immerse yourself in the natural environment of seals, sea lions, dolphins and whales at Victor Harbor. Take the horse drawn tram over to Granite Island or board the Cockle Train for a scenic journey to Goolwa. Reports advise to eat at the “Original Fish and Chip Shop” on Ocean Street while in town.  Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes from the Adelaide CBD.  Read our detailed post about Victor Harbor with kids here.

Mannum : Take in the scenery on the way to Mannum, nestled on the Murray River, then picnic and play for the day, just 1hr 15 minutes drive away.

Kangaroo Island: The scenery and wildlife seem endless just outside of Adelaide. On Kangaroo Island you can see seals on the shore, spot echindas and koalas, and awe at the Remarkable Rocks and Sea Birds. Click here for tour prices and / or make a booking

Cleland Wildlife Park: Learning programs for all ages, and animals to get up close with, the cost for a family entry is $60. Click here for tour prices and / or make a booking.

Click here to see a range of Adelaide day trips available and / or to make a booking.

Adelaide Accommodation: Where to Stay in Adelaide

Not sure where to stay in Adelaide? See below details of some great options for family friendly Adelaide accommodation, including some of the best Adelaide city apartments. 

UPDATE: We now have a full guide on the best Adelaide family accommodation on a budget.  Click here to check it out.

Adelaide Riviera Hotel

• Facilities include free WiFi and a laundry service;
• Family rooms include 1 double bed and 2 single beds, air conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities;
• 64% of people on TripAdvisor rate this hotel as excellent or very good and ;
• At the time of publishing the best rate was $155 per night for 2 adults and 2 children on Booking.com ;

  Click here to check prices and / or to make a booking for Adelaide Riviera Hotel

Oaks Horizon

• Facilities include WiFi, Parking and Laundry service;
• Family sized room, balcony, open plan living and kitchen, laundry facilities;
• 77% of people on TripAdvisor rate this hotel as excellent or very good and;
• At the time of publishing the best rate was $219 per night for 2 adults and 2 children was on Booking.com.

  Click here to check prices and / or to make a booking for Oaks Horizons  

Majestic Hotel Adelaide

• Facilities include free unlimited WiFi, roof garden and award winning onsite restaurant;
• 45sqm Majestic Suite, king size bed, balcony, double sofa bed in separate living area, kitchen, espresso machine and daily housekeeping;
• 92% of people on TripAdvisor rate this hotel as excellent or very good and;
• At the time of publishing the best rate was $294 per night for 2 adults and 2 children on booking.com.

    Click here to check prices and / or to make a booking for Majestic Hotel Adelaide

Getting to Adelaide

Adelaide is located in South Australia on the south coast of Australia. You can fly direct to Adelaide from various international destinations, or alternatively you can fly direct from most Australian capital cities.

To reach the Adelaide CBD from the airport you have various options including Metro Bus, taxi or shuttle bus. It is approximately 30 minutes from the Airport to the CBD.

In most cases for a family I would recommend a taxi or Uber. It will cost around $20 to $40 in a taxi or Uber and by the time you purchase various train or shuttle bus tickets for everyone in the family a taxi will be the cheaper option and more convenient.

Getting around Adelaide

There are several transport options for getting around the Adelaide CBD including Bus, Tram and Taxi’s. Here is a quick overview of the various modes of getting around Adelaide CBD and how to get to Glenelg:

Bus: There are various bus stops across the Adelaide CBD and North Adelaide. No need to pay for any buses though, you can easily get around with the free buses, operating from 7:15 am to 7:15 pm on weekdays and 8:15 am to 6:15 pm on weekends. The buses are great and the best way to get around the various tourist attractions. Find out more about free buses here  . I recommend printing off the free bus map and using these buses to get around to the various Adelaide attractions – that’s what we did and combined with the tram – this is an easy to get around the city.

Tram: The Tram runs from the Entertainment Centre, through Adelaide and out to Glenelg. Within the CBD the tram is free as well within Glenelg (just not free between the CBD and Glenelg).

Car: Plenty of taxi’s and Uber in the Adelaide CBD or if you have your own car you can drive. However like most Australian capital cities, parking can be very expensive within the Adelaide CBD for this reason I don’t recommend driving yourself around the city.

Walk:  Any place you want to go will be between 5 to 30 minutes walk away – so you can easily walk wherever you like within Adelaide CBD. Just a word of warning that in the Summer months it can get super hot and pretty unbearable to walk long distances.

Getting to Glenelg: Glenelg is located 20 minutes outside of the city centre. You can drive, take a bus or even ride the tram to Stop 17 at Mosley Square. Click here for tram and bus timetables and fares.  This website will also help you work out which is the best mode of transport to get you to where you are going.

To enjoy all the attractions around the Adelaide area, I recommend you hire a car. However as stated above it is not necessary to have a car whilst you explore the Adelaide CBD, so save your money and don’t hire your car until you plan on leaving the CBD or exploring the surrounding areas.

Headed to South Australia with the family?  Then perhaps you’re interested in our following articles:

• Best Adelaide Family Accommodation
• A Guide to Victor Harbor with Kids: Things to do & Where to Stay
• Family Friendly Accommodation in Victor Harbor
• A Guide on Hahndorf with Kids
• Best Places to Visit in South Australia with Kids
• A Guide to Visiting the Barossa with Kids
• Things to do in Glenelg with Kids
• Best Places to Stay in Glenelg with Kids

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38 of the Best Things to do in Adelaide with Kids | WITH PHOTOS!

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Adelaide in South Australia is a warm and vibrant family-friendly city with heaps for families to do with kids. In fact, there’s so many things to do in Adelaide with kids, we’ve broken it down into sections.

We have found the best kids activities in Adelaide, SA that will keep them entertained all day.

Let’s start by taking a look at the city.

A brief history of Adelaide

The Kaurna people, the original custodians of the land, named the city Tarntanya (red kangaroo place). In 1836, European free-settlers established Adelaide as the capital city of South Australia. Colonel William Light, the surveyor, undertook the task of surveying the city layout. His work resulted in a truly unique outcome—the world’s only city within a park. Even today, Adelaide maintains this distinction.

The city is designed for life, featuring wide, sweeping boulevards arranged in a grid format, bordered by the scenic banks of the River Torrens. Enveloping the cityscape are 900 hectares of lush, green parks known as the Park Lands. With a population of approximately 1.3 million people, Adelaide has evolved into a thriving and charismatic city.

Things to do with kids in Adelaide City

Head into the Adelaide CBD and surrounds for this fun kids activities in Adelaide.

1. Adelaide Zoo | Adelaide

Easily the number one city centre attraction for families is Adelaide Zoo. This beautiful zoo opened in 1883 and sits on 20 acres of attractively landscaped gardens on Frome Road in the city. It’s home to over 250 different native and exotic species including Australia’s only pandas, Wang Wang and Funi. There are big cats, zebras and hippopotamuses, giraffes, wolves and apes, and a fabulous children’s zoo where children can feed and pat quokkas, wallabies, guinea pigs and many other cute and cuddly favourites. There is often something happening at the zoo, especially during school holidays, and it’s just the perfect kids party venue in Adelaide too!

Suitable for all ages; entry fees apply. Cafes and souvenir shops on site.

You can buy tickets to the Adelaide Zoo here.

Find out more here: www.adelaidezoo.com.au

Address: Frome Rd, Adelaide

2. TreeClimb | Adelaide

TreeClimb Adelaide is an outdoor adventure in the heart of the city. As the only aerial adventure park in Adelaide, the whole family can be climbing through the treetops together on either the children’s course or the Grand Course 7 days a week. Highly trained staff crew will guide you or your children through the obstacles spread out over the course. Starting with the easy yellow course, children can move onto the more challenging course as their confidence grows. The Grand course also comes with 47 elevated obstacles across 4 difficulty levels.

Address: Cnr Greenhill Road &, Unley Rd, Adelaide

Get your TreeClimb tickets here.

3. South Australian Museum | Adelaide

The South Australian Museum can be found on North Terrace, part of a row of other impressive and historic buildings that includes the Art Gallery of South Australia and the State Library of South Australia . The South Australian Museum is one of the most visited in Australia and is a fascinating place for children to explore in air-conditioned comfort.

There are expansive displays of taxidermy – including some former Adelaide Zoo exhibits – Aboriginal artefacts, Egyptian mummies, dinosaurs, and giant sea creatures including an enormous giant squid that you can follow up the stairway over several floors! The delightful café is perfect for kids and has indoor and outdoor seating, but if you choose to sit outdoors we bet the kids won’t be able to resist rolling down the sloping lawn!

Suitable for all ages; FREE entry. Café and souvenir shop on site.

Find out more here: www.samuseum.sa.gov.au

Address: North Terrace, Adelaide

4. Migration Museum | Adelaide

The Migration Museum is a little gem of a place tucked away on Kintore Avenue, just behind the State Library. If your children are studying the history of migration, or just love history in general, there’s plenty to see here if you have an hour or two to spare. During Adelaide school holidays , the museum organises “Detective Trails” to challenge young minds, and there are heaps of discovery drawers and content scattered throughout the museum just waiting to be found.

Suitable for all ages; FREE entry.

Find out more here: migration.history.sa.gov.au/

Address: 82 Kintore Ave, Adelaide

5. Captain Jolleys Paddle Boats | Adelaide

The gently flowing River Torrens is the perfect place for a paddle in a pedalo. Captain Jolleys Paddle Boats are available to hire on weekends and during school holidays for a 30-minute self-guided tour. Located Elder Park.

Suitable for pre-schoolers (with adults) and older; hire fee applies.

Find out more here: www.captainjolleys.com.au

Address:  River Torrens, Elder Park, Adelaide

6. The Popeye | Adelaide

If you’d like someone else to do the hard work while cruising the River Torrens, take a trip on the beloved Popeye. The Popeye has been an Adelaide icon since 1935, meandering its way between Elder Park and Adelaide Zoo. The entire loop takes around 45 minutes with commentary along the way. You can hop-on and hop-off at either stop, and make your return trip later in the day if you choose. There are refreshments available to buy on board, or you could book on one of their special event cruises where food and beverages are included.

Suitable for all ages; costs apply. Refreshments available on board. Not available in winter.

Find out more here: thepopeye.com.au

Address: Elder Park, King William Road, Adelaide

7. Adelaide Gaol | Adelaide

Step back in time and walk the hallways and cells of South Australia’s first inmates. Experience what daily life in prison was really like. Adelaide Gaol operated from 1841 to 1988 and has been home to almost 300,000 prisoners, some of whom are said to still wander its hallways as ghostly apparitions. Nowadays, the gaol is a museum offering lead and self-guided tours, and fun school holiday activities.

Suitable for all ages; entry fees apply. Café on site.

Find out more here: www.adelaidegaol.sa.gov.au

Address: 18 Gaol Rd, Adelaide

8. Adelaide Botanic Gardens | Adelaide

Aside from beautifully landscaped gardens and extensive lawns for running around on and picnics, you might wonder what there is for kids to do in a Botanic Garden. Adelaide Botanic Gardens is a true gem, with meandering pathways and a variety of landscapes to explore, birds and wildlife to spot, and incredible historic buildings to visit. There are several glasshouses, including the Bicentennial Conservatory – the largest single span glasshouse in the Southern Hemisphere – and the beautiful North Lodge, which now houses a gift shop and displays.You can enter the gardens via entry points on North Terrace, Plane Tree Drive (great access and parking for Adelaide Zoo!), Hackney Road and From Road.

Suitable for all ages, FREE entry though parking fess apply if travelling by car. Shops, kiosks and cafés on site.

Find out more here: www.botanicgardens.sa.gov.au

Things to do in Adelaide with kids – North of the City

Port Adelaide was one of the major access ports for colonists arriving in South Australia for over 100 years. It shows in the number of transport museums there, all providing a great few hours entertainment – three are on the same street making an easy day out! Try these…

9. National Railway Museum | Port Adelaide

If your kids are fans of Thomas the Tank engine, take them to see some real steam trains and Port Adelaide’s National Railway Museum. There’s heaps for train and history fans to do here, including steam train rides (not everyday – check the schedule on their website), exhibitions, displays and presentations. You can even learn about Bob the Railway Dog.

Suitable for all ages; entry fees apply. Picnic tables and vending machines on site.

Find out more here: nrm.org.au

Address: 76 Lipson St, Port Adelaide

10. South Australian Aviation Museum | Port Adelaide

A visit to the South Australian Aviation Museum is a must for plane enthusiasts of all ages. Inside the hangar you will find a variety of intact planes; old and new, military, passenger and hobbyist, plus helicopters and even missiles! There are displays and exhibits and you can see planes under restoration. It’s not be missed as part of your ‘museum tour’ of Lipson Street.

Suitable for older children and adults; entry fees apply. Souvenir shop on site.

Find out more here: www.saam.org.au

Address:  66 Lipson St, Port Adelaide

11. South Australian Maritime Museum | Port Adelaide

The South Australian maritime Museum details the human history of life on the seas and rivers. Visitors can see how migrants lived aboard the migrant ships; how Port Adelaide became an important trade port; and the working conditions of the fishermen. There are interesting displays of ship wrecks and marine life and fascinating historical stories. The museum also hosts temporary visiting exhibitions and school holiday events.

Suitable for all ages; entry fees apply. Gift shop and café on site.

Find out more here: maritime.history.sa.gov.au

Address: 126 Lipson St, Port Adelaide

12. Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary | Garden Island

For animal lovers in your family the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary is not a specific destination, but an inlet of the Port Adelaide Harbour dedicated to the safety of the resident dolphins. From several locations around the harbour and Port Adelaide River, you may be able to see the dolphins swim and play. There are tour companies that hire kayaks to get out on the water to see the dolphins up close or visit the many wrecks there. Take a look at this dolphin kayaking option – it is our favourite! 😉

Suitable for all ages. Lots to do around the area.

If you would you like to swim with the dolphins near Adelaide we love this tour!

Find out more here: www.parks.sa.gov.au

Address: Garden Island Rd, Garden Island 

Things to do in Adelaide with kids – South of the City

A trip south of the city will take you through beautiful countryside into the Fleurieu Peninsular, where there are lots of attractions, small townships, and amazing scenery.

13. Victor Harbor and Granite Island

Victor Harbor is a popular destination because it ticks so many boxes. The stunning beach has golden sand and small waves, ideal for paddling, there are fantastic playgrounds, numerous eateries, mini golf, and venues to visit. On occasion when we have visited there have been camel rides available on the beach, but dates and times are random – it’s pot-luck if they’ll be there when you visit.

14. Horsedrawn Tram | Victor Harbor to Granite Island

This is a must-do activity if visiting Granite Island. The historic double-deck tram is pulled across the causeway by beautiful Clydesdale horses. You can walk across the causeway, but sitting atop the open top tram provides an unbeatable view of the harbour and island. You can buy a one-way ticket in either direction or book a return trip. It’s a wonderful experience and opportunity for kids to experience life at a different pace.

Suitable for all ages (limited stroller access); costs apply.

Address: Esplanade, Victor Harbor

15. Granite Island – Victor Harbor

Granite Island is a nature reserve home to many protected species including a population of Little Penguin. There’s a penguin information centre open to visitors, and guided tours to see them hunt for fish at dusk. On occasions when we have visited the island, we have also seen seals sunning themselves off the beach and playing in the water.

There is a path around the island to take in the spectacular views and spot whales during their migration season, but the pathway is steep and tricky in places so the full circuit is not suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. There is a café on the island and souvenir shop.

Suitable for: all ages can visit the island, the penguin centre, shop, cafe, and pathways facing the mainland, but other pathways around the island are steep are rocky.

16. South Australian Whale Centre | Victor Harbor

Back on the mainland at Victor Harbor, the South Australian Whale Centre provides an informative history of the area when Victor Harbor was a whaling port. The Centre includes a Kids Zone, displays, and lots for kids to do. You can also buy a special pass that includes entry to the centre PLUS a return trip to Granite Island on the horsedrawn tram.

Suitable for all ages; entry fees apply. Find out more here: www.sawhalecentre.com.au

Address: 2 Railway Terrace, Victor Harbor 

17. Urimbirra Wildlife Park | Victor Harbor

Urimbirra is an open-range wildlife park about 10-minutes drive out of Victor Harbor. Home to a wonderful mix of iconic Aussie natives and farm animals, children can happily spend a few hours here, and once inside all activities are free, including feeding the kangaroos, holding a snake and feeding a koala.

Suitable for all ages; entry costs apply. Souvenir shop and FREE gas barbecues on site for visitor use.

Find out more here: www.urimbirra.com.au

Address: Adelaide Rd, Victor Harbor

18. SteamRanger Heritage Railway | Goolwa

SteamRanger Heritage Railway operates a number of different heritage steam and diesel hauled tourist trains between Mt Barker in the Adelaide Hills, up over the crest of the southern Mt Lofty Ranges, down to Strathalbyn and on through the coastal holiday towns of Goolwa and Port Elliot to the tourist resort town of Victor Harbor. The Cockle Train travels between Goolwa and Victor Harbor – a picturesque journey taking around 30 minutes.

Suitable for all ages; fees apply.

Find out more here: www.steamrangerheritagerailway.org

Address: Goolwa Station, Goolwa

19. Jubilee Adventure Park | Port Noarlunga

You can’t miss this adventure playground as you drive through Port Noarlunga – it’s huge! There’s a giant wooden castle to climb, complete with towers, swings, slides, tunnels, balance challenges, activities for children with disabilities, BBQs, open space, toilet block and heaps of free parking.

It’s the perfect venue for kids to play before taking a stroll across to the sand dunes and beach of Port Noarlunga itself. Port Noarlunga beach is truly stunning, and the little township has pleasant shops to browse and places to eat.

Suitable for all ages; FREE activity.

Address: Saltfleet St, Port Noarlunga South

20. The Beach House | Glenelg

The Beach House is a fun park with heaps of indoor and outdoor attractions, including giant water slides, fairground rides, mini golf, miniature train rides, arcade games, water craft, and adventure playground spread over 4 levels. There is no cost to go in, but use of all rides and attractions is based on a “Tap Card”, where you decide how many credits to apply and play until they all run out.

Suitable for all ages; costs apply. Cafe on site.

Find out more here: thebeachouse.com.au

Address:  4 Colley Terrace, Glenelg

21. Mosely Square | Glenelg

Take a trip to Glenelg (you can get there by tram from the city) to discover a foreshore playground that is a hive of activity. At Glenelg you can walk down the pier, play on the beach, hire watercraft, or make the most of the adventure playground and fountains. Whilst at Glenelg, you can indulge in a little shopping along Jetty Road – a one-kilometer stretch of shops selling everything from artisan goods to souvenirs and meals.

Things to do in Adelaide with kids – Adelaide Hills

The Adelaide Hills region has some of the best driving scenery in South Australia, taking you through wineries and ancient forests with stunning views over the city.

22. Cleland Wildlife Park | Crafers

Cleland Wildlife Park has been a major tourist attraction in South Australia since 1967. It provides an immersive nature experience with the chance to get close to some of the state’s most iconic animals. At Cleland Wildlife Park you can have your photograph taken with a koala, and hand-feed the kangaroos and emus in the walk-through enclosure. You can even take part in a night walk or book in for breakfast with the birds!

The paths are pram-friendly and there are lots of places to set out your picnic, or you can enjoy some delicious food around the open fire in the cafe and gift shop. Open all year round except for Christmas Day and catastrophic fire danger days.

Find out more here: www.clelandwildlifepark.sa.gov.au/Home

Address: 365 Mount Lofty Summit Road, Crafers

23. The Big Rocking Horse & The Toy Factory | Gumeracha

Kids will love climbing to the viewing platform at the top of The Big Rocking Horse! The Big Rocking Horse at Gumeracha is Australia’s number one big Aussie icon, and has a fantastic cafe and hand-made wooden toy shop on site. There’s even a small wildlife park that you can walk through to feed the geese, swans, sheep and goats, peacocks, emus and wallabies. This really is an all-rounder tourist attraction offering miniature pony rides on weekends and school holidays.

Suitable for all ages. Entry to the toy shop and wildlife park is free, a small charge applies to climb The Big Rocking Horse. Cafe and picnic tables on site.

Find out more here: thetoyfactory.com.au

Address: 452 Torrens Valley Road, Gumeracha

24. Mount Lofty Summit | Adelaide

Mount Lofty is the highest point in the southern Mount Lofty Ranges. From the lookout you are treated to a spectacular panoramic view of the city and Adelaide plains, and there are lots of graded walking paths if you fancy a stroll through the bush.

The summit is also home to a restaurant and cafe, gift shop, and visitors’ information centre. You can drive right up to the summit or take public transport from the city. If visiting in winter, Mount Lofty Summit is often the first place to get snow!

Suitable for all ages. Entry is FREE though parking charges apply. Cafe on site.

Find out more here: Mount Lofty Summit

Address: Mount Lofty Summit Road, Adelaide

25. Morialta Conservation Park | Woodforde

If you love natural wonders, you’ll love Morialta Conservation Park, just 10km from Adelaide. Enjoy the rugged ridges, gully scenery and seasonal waterfalls that tumble over quartzite rockfaces after rain. The park is home to stunning walking trails, rock climbing facilities (experienced climbers only) and the Mukanthi playspace for children to explore.

For wildlife lovers, the park’s rock pools and creeks provide habitat for small reptiles, frogs and birds. Watch out for honeyeaters and thornbills among the woodlands that cover the hills.The paths are reasonably pram-friendly, being either packed gravel or bitumen, but some areas can be a little tricky to navigate.

FREE entry. Find out more here: Morialta Conservation Park

Address: Morialta Falls Rd, Woodforde

26. Hahndorf | Adelaide

Hahndorf is a small town in the Adelaide Hills founded by German migrants. The town has retained much of its settler charm and is a delightful place to visit and have lunch. There is a lovely adventure playground, interesting boutique shops, and don’t forget to stop by the fairy garden for a delicious cream tea!

27. Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary | Mylor

Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary is entirely surrounded by a feral-proof fence and offers a glimpse into what the Australian habitat would look like without cats or foxes. It’s even believed to be home to South Australia’s last remaining platypus on the mainland, which you may spot in the rockpool if you are quiet and patient enough.

The sanctuary is home to many Aussie natives, including rescued wildlife that live there in safety and in peace. You can see them on guided tours and animal encounters, or simply by strolling through the wonderful environment.

Suitable for all ages. Entry costs apply. Cafe on site.

Find out more here: Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary

Address: 47 Stock Road, Mylor

28. Belair National Park | Belair

Belair National Park is a place to picnic, play and explore. It’s South Australia’s oldest national park and home to the Old Government House, which is established as a museum that you can explore on the first and third Sunday of every month and public holidays.

The park is home to lakes, gardens, cycling paths, woodlands, lawns and an abundance of wildlife. There’s also a cafe and kiosk and an adventure playground for the kids to explore.

Suitable for all ages. Entry is free on foot or bike, but there is a fee for vehicle entry. Gold coin donation to tour Old Government House.

Find out more here: Belair National Park

Address: Upper Sturt Road, Belair

29. Monarto Safari Park | Monarto

A sister to Adelaide Zoo, Monarto Safari Park is a real safari adventure. Your entry includes a bus tour through the savannas and plains to see lions, African painted dogs, rhinos, and giraffes, with walking trails to visit other animals like the chimps, reptiles, porcupine and wallabies. You’ll need to be wearing comfortable shoes if you’re to visit them all and catch all the keeper talks! There’s a cafe and gift shop on site, and lots of interactive fun for the kids. If you are an animal lover and supporter of conservation you have to put Monarto Safari park on your to-do list – it’s awesome!

Suitable for all ages; entry fee applies. Cafe and picnic facilities on site.

Tip : Consider becoming an annual ‘zoo member’ for unlimited entry into Adelaide Zoo, Monarto Zoo, and several other zoos across Australia.

You can buy tickets to Monarto Zoo here.

Find out more here : Monarto Safari Park.

Address: 63 Monarto Rd, Monarto

Fantastic beaches near Adelaide

There are lots of wonderful beaches to visit along the Adelaide north-south stretch, and as they all face west they’re the perfect place to watch the sun go down. Here are some of our family favourites, but whichever beach you choose in Adelaide you are guaranteed glorious sand and a beautiful experience.

30. Semaphore Beach

Semaphore Beach has an olde-worlde charm of a bygone decade, with its vintage carousel and ferris wheel, mini golf course and water slide. There’s even an old steam train that puffs up and down the foreshore. You won’t be put off by high-rises – there aren’t any – but you’ll find plenty of quirky cafes and boutique shops.

31. Moana Beach

Living the Aussie lifestyle, Moana is one of the few beaches you can drive on to do a spot of fishing straight out of the back. Bear that in mind if going there with small children – cars can go to the left of the entry, so stay right if you are walking, playing and paddling with kids. There’s a great fish and chip shop that also sells delicious ice-cream to eat in their garden and watch the sun set.

32. Port Noarlunga Beach

Not far from Moana Beach is Port Noarlunga Beach. The beach is sheltered by a man-made reef and deemed safe for snorkeling, especially during patrolled times. This really is s stunning beach surrounded by natural sand hills, with a long jetty and rock pools to explore. And the Jubilee Playground we mentioned above is just across the road!

Places to eat in Adelaide

33. one sneaky cheetah | ridleyton .

If you’re craving a mouthwatering, traditional pizza, look no further than One Sneaky Cheetah (OSC). This no-frills pizzeria, nestled in a converted panel beating site, is the ultimate destination for pizza enthusiasts. OSC embraces spontaneity, so whether you’re daring enough to walk in (no bookings required) or prefer the convenience of takeaway, they’ve got you covered.

Check out the One Sneaky Cheetah website for more details.

Address: 243 South Rd, Ridleyton 

34. 8020BK Thai Fusion | Adelaide

Step into the vibrant culinary world of 8020BK Thai Fusion, an exhilarating restaurant that will take your taste buds on a thrilling adventure. With an active and energetic ambiance, this establishment is the epitome of modern Thai fusion cuisine. Each dish is a masterpiece, expertly combining traditional Thai flavors with innovative twists.

Check out the 8020BK Thai Fusion website for more information.

Address: 36 Blyth St, Adelaide

35. Osteria Oggi | Adelaide

Osteria Oggi stands out as one of Adelaide’s top Italian restaurants, thanks to its captivating interior. Immerse yourself in the ambiance as you dine beneath intricately carved arches in the underground cellar, or take a seat at the long, curved marble bar to experience the enchanting vibes of ‘dinner in Europe’. This beloved spot among locals is renowned for its delectable Italian menu, featuring delicate, handcrafted pasta dishes and succulent, slow-cooked meats that simply melt in your mouth (not to mention their impressive Italian wine list). And let’s not forget the delightful formaggio cart, rolled out for a tempting array of post-dinner treats.

Head to the Osteria Oggi website to find out more.

Address: 76 Pirie St, Adelaide 

Accommodation in Adelaide

36. grosvenor hotel | adelaide.

The historic 1918 Grosvenor Hotel Adelaide is ideally situated right across from the Adelaide Convention Center and The Parliament of South Australia. Guests can enjoy the comfort of air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV, immersing themselves in a truly active experience.

Grosvenor Hotel Adelaide is conveniently located within a 10-minute walk from both the city center and Adelaide Oval, offering easy access to the bustling heart of Adelaide. For those feeling lucky, Adelaide Casino is just a quick 2-minute stroll away. Nature enthusiasts can take a leisurely 20-minute walk to reach the Adelaide Zoo.

Inside the hotel, guests will find rooms adorned with modern furnishings, providing a stylish and comfortable retreat. Each room is equipped with a work desk and tea/coffee making facilities, catering to the needs of busy travelers. Moreover, free WiFi is available in all rooms and throughout the property, ensuring seamless connectivity for guests.

For more information, visit the Grosvenor Hote l website.

Address: 125 North Terrace, Adelaide 

37. Crowne Plaza Adelaide | Adelaide

Experience the extraordinary offerings of Crowne Plaza Adelaide, boasting Adelaide’s highest restaurant that provides breathtaking views. Indulge in the outdoor heated swimming pool, accompanied by a vibrant poolside bar and cocktail lounge, creating an atmosphere of relaxation and enjoyment.

Guests are treated to exceptional services and amenities, including a dedicated concierge service and a helpful tour desk. Stay connected with the complimentary WiFi available throughout the property. The hotel’s commitment to guest satisfaction is evident with a 24-hour front desk, convenient room service, and efficient currency exchange facilities.

Every room at Crowne Plaza Adelaide is thoughtfully designed to cater to your needs. Find a functional workspace at the desk, unwind with entertainment on the flat-screen TV, and enjoy the comfort of a private bathroom. The guest rooms feature air conditioning to ensure a pleasant stay, and a wardrobe to keep your belongings organized.

Check out the Crowne Plaza Adelaide website for more information.

Address: 27 Frome St, Adelaide

38. Stamford Grand Adelaide Hotel | Glenelg

Experience the prime location of Stamford Grand Adelaide, situated directly on the stunning Glenelg Beach. Immerse yourself in the active atmosphere of this beachside retreat, offering a fully equipped fitness center, an invigorating outdoor swimming pool, and an exciting gaming room featuring poker machines.

The grand rooms at Stamford Grand boast a chic and modern décor that perfectly complements the relaxed and stylish beachside culture of Glenelg. Each room is thoughtfully designed to create a comfortable and stylish haven for guests.

Conveniently positioned, Stamford Grand Adelaide is a mere 25 minutes’ drive from the heart of Adelaide and just 15 minutes’ drive from Adelaide Airport. The iconic Glenelg Tram, located right outside the hotel, provides easy access to Adelaide city center, Adelaide Oval, and Adelaide Entertainment Center, allowing you to explore the vibrant attractions with ease.

To find out more, take a look at the Stamford Grand Adelaide Hotel website.

Address: 2 Jetty Rd, Glenelg

Looking for more things to do in Adelaide with kids?

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• Adelaide rainy day activities for kids
• Things to do with teenagers in Adelaide
• Best camping options in Adelaide with kids
• Day trips from Adelaide with kids
• Strawberry picking with kids in Adelaide
• Dog friendly beaches and swimming holes in Adelaide

Kid friendly restaurants in Adelaide

• Kid friendly pubs in Adelaide
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• Best places to have a high tea with kids in Adelaide
• Buffets in Adelaide with kids
• Seafood buffets in Adelaide suitable for kids
• Best gluten free restaurants suitable for kids in Adelaide
• Sushi trains in Adelaide that kids love
• Vietnamese restaurants in Adelaide

Celebrating with kids in Adelaide?

• Birthday party venues in Adelaide for kids
• ANZAC Day commemorations in Adelaide
• Christmas lunch options for families in Adelaide
• The best Christmas lights in Adelaide
• Christmas markets in Adelaide
• Best places to eat on Australia Day with kids
• Celebrating Australia Day in Adelaide

Janine Mergler

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10 Best Things to Do with Kids in Adelaide

Introducing guest blogger Shannon from happylife Safari

The South Australian capital of Adelaide is the perfect blend of city, beach, and country. In fact, you can experience all of these things in one day.

Well connected by road or rail from other states, or arrive at Adelaide International Airport, check out some of the best things to experience with kids.

This post is part of our Explore My City series – come and visit cities around the world through the eyes of local parents

Best family-friendly things to do in adelaide, australia, 1. adelaide zoo.

As the only zoo that is part of a Royal Botanical Garden, the Adelaide Zoo has been open since.1883, the second oldest zoo in Australia. This stunning zoo houses five state heritage listed buildings and is a showcase of the amazing flora and fauna of South Australia and a wonderful day out for families.

Not only are there over 2500 animals but there is a large nature play and wooden playground. With plenty of lawns as well as tables to sit around the zoo, you are more than welcome to bring your own picnic and enjoy in one of the many open spaces. There is also a cafe and a restaurant within Adelaide Zoo if you prefer.

On arrival, make sure you check the schedule for the day, as there are plenty of zoo keeper talks and feedings with a variety of animals.

For an additional cost, the zoo also offers animal interactions. A zoo run by volunteers, Adelaide Zoo, is a not-for-profit conservation charity; some of the cost of these experiences goes towards animal conservation.

2. Central Market

Another SA icon, The Adelaide Central Market , opened in 1869, and has over 70 traders under one roof. This unique, fully enclosed market shows the best of Adelaide produce and is a melting pot of cuisines.

Get to the market early for some of the best coffee in town, paired with a fresh pastry, before taking in all the sounds, smells, and sometimes tastes! The Adelaide Central Market is a great start to the day with kids.

On Saturdays and during school holidays, there are fun activities for the little ones, like face painting and learning about healthy foods. The market also is part of Gouger Street, one of Adelaide’s restaurant hubs, so why not stay for lunch too?

3. Cleland Wildlife Park

Cleland Wildlife Park is the perfect way to start exploring the lush Adelaide Hills.

Located within the Cleland Conservation Park, only 20 minutes from the Adelaide CBD, you will see some unique wildlife that is only found in South Australia and can get up close to kangaroos and emus. You may even get the chance to cuddle a koala!

Surrounded by gum trees and showing off stunning views over the city and out to the ocean, bring a picnic and relax in nature in between learning about Australia’s wonderful creatures.

4. Adelaide Fringe Festival

While it may only happen for 31 nights every year, The Adelaide Fringe Festival is a must-do for anyone planning a trip to South Australia.

As the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest arts festival, artists, performers, and musicians from around the world showcase their talents in this end-of-summer festival.

With something for everyone, even special kids’ entertainment programs, the Adelaide Fringe Festival is the state’s highlight of the events calendar.

5. South Australian Whale Centre

This fun-filled interactive museum is located in Victor Harbour, an idyllic seaside town just over an hour’s drive from the Adelaide CBD.

With whale watching a popular activity on the Fleurieu Peninsula, the South Australian Whale Centre was opened in 1994 to educate the public about whale migration and ocean protection.

Check out a replica of the MY Steve Irwin; Sea Shepards flagship vessel. Visitors can see how the crew members lived and the equipment they use and learn about the work they did on the Steve Irwin and the projects currently underway. (At the time of writing this (August 2022) the South Australian Whale Centre is undergoing major renovations and is closed to the public).

While not a specific activity, the small town of Glenelg is a full day or two in itself. There is so much to do in this famous beachside location all year round.

Relax on the beach, or check out Jetty Road; the main street full of chain and boutique stores and all the cuisines you can think of! Grab some takeaway, relax on the foreshore lawns, or enjoy mini golf, dodgem cars, and arcade games at The Beachhouse.

If you are feeling more adventurous, you may even want to head out on the water in search of dolphins in one of the many cruising options available.

Glenelg is well connected to the Adelaide CBD by tram so you can go straight from the city to the beach within 40 minutes. Visitors to South Australia should even consider staying in this area – even if it is just for the number of dessert bars on offer!

7. The Big Rocking Horse and Toy Factory

Those who are from Australia or have visited before know that Australia loves its “big” things. The Big Rocking Horse is one of South Australia’s finest and a must-do to anyone visiting Adelaide and its surrounds.

Along with the Wooden Toy Factory , the Big Rocking Horse is more than just seeing another “big” thing.

Check out the wildlife park with wallabies, kangaroos, and peacocks, among others, or browse the wooden toys that are made on-site. But the coolest thing about visiting The Big Rocking Horse is that you can climb to the top! For just $2, you can see marvellous views from the top and receive a certificate for the climb.

8. Monarto Safari Park

The sister site to Adelaide Zoo, Monarto Safari Park , is an open-range zoo, only an hour’s drive from the CBD.

Spanning more than 1500 hectares, see over 500 animals in the volunteer-driven bus. Feel like you are on an African Safari as you safely get up close to lion, giraffe, and rhino. Monarto Safari park also offers safe walks to see some more of the tamer wildlife.

Like Adelaide Zoo, feel free to bring a picnic and set up at one of the tables near the playground or enjoy the on-site restaurant. While you are there, check out the Lion 360 experience (book ahead, and additional costs apply).

9. The Tour Down Under

The Tour Down Under is another major event that attracts visitors to Adelaide from all around the world.

Attending this event is the perfect way to see this amazing city and its surroundings. With a full family-friendly program covering six Adelaide regions, this major sporting event is not just about watching the race.

From street parties where the cyclists pass through to a major Tour Village set up in the middle of the CBD, this 9-day event is the perfect complement to an Adelaide summer family vacation.

10. Hahndorf

Another town to be added to the list, instead of just one experience, is Hahndorf . This German-settled town is located in the Adelaide Hills and offers great food, stunning scenery, and something for everyone, no matter what time of the year you visit.

Check out small galleries and old-fashioned stores, indulge in hearty and yummy German food or go strawberry picking at the famous Beerenberg farm. Adults will love trying local wines, while the kids will love locally made chocolate, sweets, and ice cream.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Adelaide With Kids

The great thing about the Top 10 things to do in Adelaide is that you can pair a couple of these experiences together for a great day out. So make sure you set aside a few days to visit the South Australian capital when you come to Australia.

I am Shannon. Aussie mum of 2, writer, traveller, coffee addict, and market enthusiast. As a family, we often get told, “we love following your travel adventures.” Or we get asked for recommendations about travelling. Since living in The Netherlands, I have finally found the time to start writing about those adventures and places we have been. That is how ‘happylife Safari’ was born.

BLOG | PINTEREST | INSTAGRAM

With thanks to Shannon for her contribution to our guest series. 

You may also like to read about the best of Melbourne with kids , or how about exploring between SA and Victoria? See this brilliant guide to the best of the Great Ocean Road With Kids .

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THE 10 BEST Family & Kid Activities in Adelaide

Things to do in adelaide with kids.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Adelaide Central Market

2. Adelaide Botanic Garden

3. Glenelg Tram

4. Adelaide Zoo

5. Adelaide Oval

6. South Australian Museum

7. Rundle Mall

8. Himeji Garden

9. Migration Museum

10. Adelaide Fringe Inc.

11. North Terrace

12. Adelaide Metro Free City Connector Bus and Tram

13. Botanic Park

14. Waterfall Gully

15. The Rundle Mall Pigs

16. Carrick Hill

17. Adelaide Arcade

18. Harbour Town Premium Outlets

19. National War Memorial, Adelaide

20. St Francis Xavier Cathedral

21. Paracombe Premium Perry

22. Chinatown

23. The Mall's Balls Statue

25. West Beach

26. Cleland Conservation Park

27. Bonython Park

28. Elder Park

29. Woodhouse Adventure Park

30. Veale Gardens

What travellers are saying

What to do in Adelaide with Kids: 37 Fun Activities

Last updated: May 15, 2024

This article may contain affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase after clicking on a link, I may receive a small commission.  Read the full disclaimer here .

Looking for what to do in Adelaide with kids? We’ve rounded up a list of awesome things to do with your kids in this vibrant city. From wildlife encounters at the zoo to adventures at amusement parks, Adelaide has it all.

So get ready for a memorable family adventure as we dive into the top attractions and hidden gems that will make your trip a memorable one. Let’s go explore Adelaide!

Feature image photo credit: South Australian Tourism Commission, Cleland Wildlife Park, Adelaide Hills

Have Questions? – Come and join the Facebook Group and ask any questions you may have about travel in South Australia . We can provide answers, make further suggestions and update you with the latest information. Click here to join now .

What to Do in Adelaide with Kids

Take a look at all these activities in Adelaide that your kids will love.

• Adelaide Zoo : Roam through the awe-inspiring Adelaide Zoo, where your little adventurers can marvel at the lions, giggle at Australia’s only pandas, and learn about the quirky behaviours of kangaroos. It’s an opportunity for them to connect with wildlife from all over the globe, and who knows, they might even discover their favourite animal mate!
• Cleland Wildlife Park : This is one of the coolest activities for kids in Adelaide! Step into the world of Aussie wildlife at Cleland Wildlife Park, where your kids can hand-feed kangaroos and wrap their arms around cuddly koalas for a great photo op. With a backdrop of eucalyptus trees and native fauna, this experience offers a unique chance to get up close to Australia’s iconic wildlife.
• Beach Day at Glenelg : Grab your beach towels and thongs and head to Glenelg, a paradise for sandcastle architects and wave-jumping enthusiasts. Let your kids dive into the refreshing waters of the Gulf St Vincent, then refuel with a classic fish and chips feast while soaking up the laid-back beach vibes. This is one of the best free things to do in Adelaide with kids
• Port River Cruise : Set sail on the Port River Cruise and embark on a watery journey where your kids can spot playful dolphins, historic shipwrecks, and learn about the region’s maritime history. It’s a unique way to connect with Adelaide’s coastal heritage.
• Mega Adventure Park : Watch your little adventurers transform into fearless explorers as they tackle zip lines, clamber up obstacle courses, and conquer tree climbs at Mega Adventure Park. With adrenaline-pumping challenges and breathtaking views, this place will turn their energy into endless smiles and high-flying laughter.
• South Australian Museum: Prepare for wonder at the South Australian Museum, where your curious kids can come face-to-face with ancient fossils, sparkling minerals, and interactive displays. From dinosaur skeletons to indigenous cultural treasures, this museum adventure promises both education and excitement.
• Adelaide Botanic Garden: Take the kids on a fun journey through the Adelaide Botanic Garden. It’s filled with meandering paths, vibrant blooms, and an awesome Amazon waterlily pond with huge lily pads. Your little ones can stretch their legs, explore hidden nooks, and feel like they’re in their own magical storybook.

• Bounce Inc.:  Let your mini trampoline enthusiasts defy gravity and bounce their hearts out at Bounce Inc. With gravity-defying antics, foam pits to dive into, and exhilarating wall-running challenges, this place guarantees a day of non-stop laughter and heart-pounding fun.
• Adelaide Gaol:  For your older kids, the Adelaide Gaol offers a peek into the city’s past. Walk through the chilling cells, hear the tales of historical figures, and let your kids imagine life as a prisoner in this hauntingly captivating space.
• Popeye Cruise :  Hop aboard the iconic Popeye for a leisurely cruise along the serene Torrens River. Your family can relax, enjoy the scenic views, and even bring a picnic to make it a truly charming experience.
• Hallett Cove Conservation Park:  Take your family on a coastal adventure in Hallett Cove Conservation Park, where boardwalks wind through stunning coastal landscapes, revealing ancient glacial formations and breathtaking views of the ocean. It’s a chance for your kids to explore nature’s wonders while learning about the earth’s fascinating history.
• Windmill Theatre:  Ignite your kids’ imaginations with Windmill Theatre’s captivating children’s theatre productions. From fun stories to interactive performances, these shows will transport your little ones to fantastical worlds, leaving them wide-eyed and inspired.

• Adelaide Central Market :  Treat your taste buds and let your kids experience a vibrant culinary journey at Adelaide Central Market. Sample mouthwatering goodies, from pastries to uncommon fruits, while immersing yourselves in the lively atmosphere of this foodie paradise.
• Art Gallery of South Australia:  Nurture your kids’ artistic spirits as they explore the Art Gallery of South Australia, where they can admire masterpieces from across the ages. From classical to contemporary, the gallery showcases an array of artworks that will spark their creativity and appreciation for the arts.
• Marion Outdoor Pool:  Dive into family fun at Marion Outdoor Pool, where your kids can make a splash on water slides, frolic in the splash park, and enjoy a refreshing swim on those hot Aussie days. It’s the perfect place to cool off and create cherished memories.
• Adelaide Oval Roof Climb :  Take your little adventurers to new heights with the Adelaide Oval Roof Climb, where they’ll ascend to the top of this iconic stadium and be treated to panoramic views of the city. With the wind in their hair and the cityscape at their feet, it’s an experience they won’t soon forget.
• St. Kilda Adventure Playground:  Unleash your kids’ energy at the St. Kilda Adventure Playground, where pirate ships, giant slides, and flying foxes await their exploration. This beachside playground promises hours of active play and endless opportunities for their imaginations to run wild. This is one of the best free things for kids in Adelaide.
• Hahndorf Farm Barn:  Immerse your family in the rural charm of Hahndorf Farm Barn, where your kids can feed friendly animals, take pony rides, and hop aboard a tractor adventure. It’s a hands-on farm experience that will have them grinning from ear to ear.
• Belair National Park:  Lace up your hiking shoes and set out on a family adventure in Belair National Park, where towering gum trees, tranquil waterfalls, and native wildlife await. The park’s picturesque trails offer a chance for your kids to connect with nature and breathe in the fresh Aussie air.

• Picnic at the Botanic Park:  Pack a picnic and let your kids roam free in the Botanic Park, where they can run, play ball games, and spot native birds among the greenery. It’s another oasis in the heart of the city, perfect for a relaxed family day out.
• Adelaide Planetarium:  Take your little stargazers on a journey through the cosmos at the Adelaide Planetarium. With captivating shows and astronomical displays, they’ll be mesmerised by the mysteries of the universe.
• Semaphore Steam Train:  All aboard the Semaphore Steam Train! Treat your kids to a charming ride along the coast on a vintage steam train, offering a delightful taste of nostalgia and scenic views.
• Adelaide Aquatic Centre:  Make a splash at the Adelaide Aquatic Centre, where your water-loving kids can enjoy thrilling water slides, relaxing pools, and a water play area designed just for the little ones.
• Migration Museum:  Immerse your family in the stories of migration at the Migration Museum. Through engaging exhibits and interactive displays, your kids will gain a deeper understanding of Australia’s diverse cultural heritage.
• Waterfall Gully:  Embark on a family hike to Waterfall Gully, a natural oasis where waterfalls await. The trail’s lush surroundings and refreshing cascade offer the perfect setting for a picturesque adventure. Beware though – the hike up to Mount Lofty can be tough.

• Adelaide Hills Horse Riding:  Saddle up for an unforgettable horseback adventure in the Adelaide Hills. Your kids can enjoy guided rides through picturesque landscapes, creating memories that’ll stay with them long after the ride ends.
• Wigley Reserve Playground:  Let your little ones unleash their energy at Wigley Reserve Playground, a coastal haven with climbing structures, swings, and sandpits. It’s the ideal spot for them to burn off some steam while enjoying the sea breeze.
• JamFactory:  Nurture your kids’ creativity at JamFactory, where they can explore contemporary craft and design through engaging workshops and exhibitions. From ceramics to glass art, this place will inspire their artistic aspirations.
• Para Wirra Recreation Park:  Venture into the wilderness of Para Wirra Recreation Park, where your family can indulge in bushwalking, wildlife spotting, and picnicking. With serene landscapes and abundant native flora and fauna, it’s a nature lover’s paradise.
• National Railway Museum:  All aboard for a historic adventure at the National Railway Museum. Your train enthusiasts can explore vintage locomotives, carriages, and interactive exhibits that showcase Australia’s rail history.
• Adelaide Arcade:  Dive into retail therapy and explore the enchanting Adelaide Arcade, where your kids can discover unique shops and boutiques, and maybe even spot a glimpse of the resident “ghost.”

• Holey Moley :  Tee up for a putt-putt extravaganza at Holey Moley, where mini-golf meets quirky themes. Your kids can challenge each other through imaginative courses that’ll have them giggling and aiming for that elusive hole-in-one.
• Treeclimb Adelaide :  Get ready to elevate your family fun at Treeclimb Adelaide! Let your little adventurers navigate high up in the treetops, conquering climbing challenges and taking in breathtaking views of the city.
• Semaphore Jetty:  Take a stroll on the historic Semaphore Jetty, where your kids can watch boats go by, try their hand at fishing, and enjoy the cool sea breeze. It’s a simple yet fun way to enjoy the coastal atmosphere.
• Monarto Safari Park :  Embark on a wild journey at Monarto Safari Park, where your family can get up close to majestic animals in their natural habitats. An awe-inspiring adventure awaits, perfect for sparking your kids’ curiosity about the animal kingdom.
• AFL Max:  Kick off an action-packed day at AFL Max, where your little athletes can enjoy trampoline lanes, tackling challenges, and footy-themed fun. It’s an active adventure that will have your family scoring big on fun!

Family Accommodation in Adelaide

Here are some suggestions for planning your family stay in Adelaide! From cozy hostels to family-friendly holiday parks, the options are as diverse as they are delightful.

Here’s a lineup of family accommodation that will make your stay even more memorable:

• Adelaide Central YHA : Nestled in the heart of the city, Adelaide Central YHA offers comfortable family rooms with modern amenities. The central location makes it a breeze to access key attractions, and the YHA vibe is sure to add a sense of camaraderie to your stay.
• Marion Holiday Park : If you’re looking for a resort-style experience, Marion Holiday Park has you covered. With a range of accommodation options including cabins and caravan sites, your family can enjoy heated pools, mini-golf, and even a water park for the little ones.
• Oaks Glenelg Plaza Pier Suites : Overlooking the stunning Glenelg Beach, these spacious suites offer a seaside retreat with self-contained amenities. Your family can relax on the balcony, take a dip in the indoor pool, and explore the vibrant Glenelg area.
• BIG4 West Beach Parks : Ideal for families, this holiday park offers a plethora of activities from a water park and jumping pillows to a go-kart track. With various accommodation options, including cabins and camping sites, you’ll find the perfect fit for your crew.
• iStay Precinct Adelaide : Located in the city centre, these fully-equipped apartments provide ample space for families to spread out. The indoor heated pool and spa add a touch of relaxation to your urban adventures.
• Adabco Boutique Hotel : This charming heritage-listed hotel combines elegance with comfort. Family-friendly rooms provide a cozy base after exploring Adelaide’s attractions, and the hotel’s unique character adds a special touch to your stay.
• Discovery Parks – Adelaide Beachfront : Enjoy direct beach access and breathtaking ocean views at this holiday park. With a variety of accommodation options, including cabins and caravan sites, your family can unwind by the sea and explore the nearby Semaphore area.
• Franklin Central Apartments : Perfectly positioned in the city, these serviced apartments are an excellent choice for families seeking convenience and comfort. The fully-equipped kitchens are a bonus for preparing meals on the go.
• Quality Apartments Adelaide Central : Enjoy modern comfort in the city at Quality Apartments Adelaide Central. Spacious apartments, a fully-equipped kitchen, and prime access to attractions make it your ideal home away from home.
• Quest Port Adelaide : Immerse in Port Adelaide’s history at Quest Port Adelaide. These character-filled serviced apartments offer a cozy haven near attractions, museums, and local gems for a memorable family stay.

There you have it, a diverse range of family accommodations in Adelaide that cater to your preferences and needs. Whether you’re after city vibes or coastal retreats, Adelaide’s got you covered for a fantastic family getaway!

Before you go…

Add to your trip and read these other things to do in Adelaide for kids Must Try South Australian Food and Drink Kayaking with Dolphins in Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary Best Adelaide Museums

Don’t forget to come on over and join the Facebook group for more South Australian inspiration and to get all your questions answered . Click here to join now .

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Josie Kelsh is South Australian, born and bred, living here for her whole life. Travelling all over the world has shown her exactly how amazing South Australia is to live and travel in and she uses her passion to show it to you the way a local sees it.

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THE 10 BEST Family & Kid Activities in Adelaide

Things to do in adelaide with kids.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Hidden Gems
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Adelaide Central Market

2. Adelaide Botanic Garden

3. Glenelg Tram

4. Adelaide Zoo

5. Adelaide Oval

6. South Australian Museum

7. Rundle Mall

8. Himeji Garden

9. Migration Museum

10. Adelaide Fringe Inc.

11. North Terrace

12. Adelaide Metro Free City Connector Bus and Tram

13. Botanic Park

14. Waterfall Gully

15. The Rundle Mall Pigs

16. Carrick Hill

17. Adelaide Arcade

18. Harbour Town Premium Outlets

19. National War Memorial, Adelaide

20. St Francis Xavier Cathedral

21. Paracombe Premium Perry

22. Chinatown

23. The Mall's Balls Statue

25. West Beach

26. Cleland Conservation Park

27. Bonython Park

28. Elder Park

29. Woodhouse Adventure Park

30. Veale Gardens

What travellers are saying

Things to do in Adelaide with kids

By: Author Janeece Keller

Posted on September 8, 2022

Ultimate guide to things to do in Adelaide with kids

The South Australian capital, often referred to as the “city of churches,” is famous for its grandeur, history and European charm. But Adelaide’s diverse activities and relaxed vibes also cement its place in the family-friendly category.  

With impressive architecture, wide boulevards, expansive parklands, colourful year-round festivals and al fresco dining options, there are loads of things to do in Adelaide with kids!

Start your exploration at Port Adelaide, which is jam-packed with family distractions. This includes the  National Railway Museum  as well as the wonderful  Maritime Museum . There’s also impossibly cheap Port River Cruises to spot dolphins.

Read more:  What to do in the Adelaide Hills with kids

Catch a cricket or AFL football match at Adelaide Oval, hailed as the world’s prettiest cricket ground. Or visit one of the city’s many cultural institutions such as the excellent  Art Gallery of South Australia,  which boats a free activity space for children. The  South Australian Museum  is another great indoor attraction. A flourishing arts scene sees the city play host to renowned events such as the Adelaide Festival of Arts, Fringe Festival and WOMADelaide.

Families will love exploring the city’s vast green spaces and gardens too. Get on your bikes for a ride along the River Torrens Linear Park Trail. The track travels from the Mount Lofty Ranges to the coastal suburb of Henley Beach. Pack your towels and head to one of the fantastic city beaches, such as the popular  Glenelg Beach . Here, visitors can swim with dolphins or, if they dare, take a dive tour with Great White Sharks.

If you prefer your animal interactions to be from a distance, a visit to  Adelaide Zoo  is a must. So is a safari at open range  Monarto Zoo , about 50 minutes from the city.

Top things to do in Adelaide

Things to do in adelaide with….

Adelaide is entirely encircled by parks. Dotted with playgrounds big and small, this makes it absolutely perfect for adventurous tots.

The Adelaide Park Lands offers gardens, ovals, great green spaces as well as a variety of sporting and play areas.  Civic Park has three shady play zones with a tower, climbing frame, rope swing and auditory play equipment. Castle-themed Jubilee Playground is one of the biggest and best playgrounds in Adelaide. It has with wooden equipment the kids will love to clamber on.

Bonython Park is an epic play space with a flying fox, water play, sand pit and a  wheelchair accessible  merry-go-round. The very cool Bush Magic, located alongside the Adelaide Aquatic Centre, is packed with accessible, interactive play elements.   And, along with handball courts, a basketball court and a  petanque piste , Tidlangga Park 9 even boasts a small fruit orchard so little ones can learn about food production.

For younger primary schoolers, Adelaide is all about the animals. Zoos and wildlife parks abound, so get busy creature-spotting!

Adelaide Zoo is home to more than 2500 animals and 250 exotic and native species. But its most beloved residents are its gorgeous giant pandas. Visit Wang Wang and Fu Ni, Australia’s only breeding pair of giant pandas.

Or head on a Safari at the incredible  Monarto Zoo , about a 50-minute drive from the city. The enormous open range wildlife park is home to animals from all over the world including lions, cheetahs, giraffe and more. Take the walking trails to wander around or the hop-on hop-off Zu-Loop shuttle.

Bring it back home at  Cleland Wildlife Park  in the Adelaide Hills. Here, kids can get up-close with free-roaming kangaroos, as well as koalas and reptiles.

See more Australian animals and birds again at  Gorge Wildlife Park . Located in Cudlee Creek, the park is about a 45-minute drive from Adelaide. When you visit Victor Harbor, take a penguin tour at the Granite Island Recreation and Nature Park. Watch the little penguins make their way to the burrows at dusk, after a day’s fishing.

To ‘zoo’ with a difference, get yourself kitted up with a torch and join a ranger on a 90-minute nocturnal walk. This is hosted at either Cleland or Warrawong wildlife parks. It’s all about spotting pairs of eyes glinting in the trees and undergrowth.

Adelaide’s  pretty city beaches  are some of the most family friendly in Australia.

Family-friendly Glenelg is perhaps the most famous of Adelaide’s beaches. The patrolled surf beach is accessible by tram from the city. Take a dip in the ocean, play in the sand and enjoy the cafes. Then, why not take a catamaran tour or swim with the colony of wild bottlenose dolphins that live nearby?  Temptation Sailing  operates dolphin-watching and dolphin swimming cruises from Marina Pier. Finish it off with an icecream and window shop from Moseley Square and Jetty Road.

At Brighton Beach, eat fish and chips on the beach, take a walk along the jetty and try stand-up paddle boarding in the calm waters.  Dog-friendly  Aldinga Beach is popular with families because of its safe swimming and gentle waves. There is also excellent snorkelling in the nearby marine park. 

And at historic Semaphore, with its beautifully preserved Art Deco buildings, you’ll find more than just a vast expanse of beautiful beach. There is a whole waterslide complex for the kids as well, plus a small fun fair with a Ferris wheel and historic carousel.

Had enough of a splash? Venture out to the Adelaide Hills for a day trip or weekender jam-packed with furry animals, horse rides and family-friendly wineries. Milk a cow, bottle-feed lambs or ride a tractor at Hahndorf Farm Barn. Then, climb the 710 metres to the top of Mount Lofty from Waterfall Gully, for some great views. The return trip takes about two hours, with a café at either end to refuel.

Read more:  Top 9 Adelaide Beaches for families

In search of a few thrills? They don’t call it Radelaide for nothing! At Eagle Mountain Bike Park, just 25 minutes from Adelaide, you’ll find 21 kilometres of epic mountain bike trails, a jumps park and extreme challenges.

If you’re seeking loftier thrills, take to the skies at the  West Beach Adventure Aerial Park . This one-of-a-kind playground is 26 metres in the sky, with a series of 70 aerial challenges to get the heart pumping. Scramble across aerial crossings, teeter on rope bridges, swing through the sky, and balance on an aerial surfboard. You can also play tennis, ride a bike or row a boat in mid-air.

If you’re seeking even more aerial feats, take on the  RoofClimb at Adelaide Oval.  This will see you clambering over the spectacular grandstands, 50 metres above the grounds. Or instead you can head to TreeClimb Adelaide, the first CBD aerial adventure park, to climb over 70 unique tree-top obstacles.

If you’d rather get your thrills at ground-level, head for Paintball Park which has a range of courses including tournament and themed bush scenarios.

Best time to visit Adelaide as a family

Adelaide enjoys a pleasant Mediterranean climate and in fact has the lowest rainfall of all the Australian capitals. The city enjoys mild winters and warm, dry summers. February is typically the hottest month of the year, and June the rainiest.

The best times for families to visit are Autumn, from March to May, and also Spring, from September through November. In spring, the city is awash with colour as flowers bloom in the city’s extensive parklands. March is festival season with Adelaide Festival of Arts and WOMADelaide setting the city abuzz. This, along with Australian  school holiday periods , is also the busiest time to visit. You’ll need to book well ahead to secure the best family friendly accommodation.

If you’re looking for a bargain, visit during the cooler winter months of June to August when you’ll find great accommodation deals and cheaper flights.

Family-friendly places to eat in Adelaide

If its been around for more than 40 years and is loved by celebrities and football teams alike, you can guarantee it is going to be good.  La Trattoria  is a family owned and run restaurant that was opened by the Parisi brothers in 1975. In fact, it is one of the oldest restaurants in Adelaide. They have perfected their pizza, pasta, veal, salads and also their gelati from old family recipes. La Trattoria has even been praised by names such as Jon Bon Jovi and Mick Jagger.

During your visit, be sure to eat your way through the incredible  Adelaide Central Market . This is undoubtedly the best spot to taste and see Adelaide’s bounty of fine produce, from farm-fresh fruit and vegetables to organic meats, artisan cheeses and seafood. During the school holidays the kids can even take one of the organised Big Market Adventures for Little Foodies Tours to learn more about where their food comes from.

For a feast of food trucks head to Victoria Square, or explore the best of Adelaide’s modern Australian cuisine on Peel Street.

South Australia’s Adelaide Hills Food Trail for Kids is another must for foodie families. This educational adventure introduces kids to producers to learn about where their food comes from and the processes involved in food production. Kids will also love the summer Cherry Trail that links the region’s orchards where they can pick plump ripe cherries straight from the tree.

Things to do for free in Adelaide

• Keith Urban got his start in this country town as did many other music legends, and the music festival that gave them their path to fame has plenty of free events to get the family singing and scooting along. Even if you visit outside the event, the Golden Guitar, standing 12 metres tall is worthy of a snap for the family photo album.
• With your dancing boots cast aside, Tamworth is also known as the National Equine Capital of Australia and there are a number of scenic drives to explore the region’s stunning landscape. 
• The Tamworth Regional Playground could take up a full day with its endless family fun environment. There’s slides, a giant hop scotch, sky walk, towers and picnic and BBQ areas.
• And for a small donation only, you can get up and close with Australian wildlife at the Tamworth Marsupial Park, which is run by a dedicated band of volunteers.

What’s on?

The best annual events for families in Adelaide

Feb/March – Adelaide Fringe

You’ll find family and kid friendly shows at Adelaide’s wild and wonderful Fringe festival.

March – Adelaide Festival

Australia’s premier Arts festival showcases theatre, world-class musicians, dance, writers and visual art.

March – WOMADelaide

Enjoy family friendly performances and workshops by the world’s best traditional and contemporary musicians, dancers and DJs.

May – DreamBig Children’s Festival

This arts festival for schools and families is the largest of its kind in the world.

May – South Australia History Festival

Enjoy hundreds of events such as talks to workshops exploring the local history.

June – Cabaret Festival

The largest festival of its kind in the world with major events at the Dunstan Playhouse, Festival Theatre, Her Majesty’s Theatre and Artspace.

September – Royal Adelaide Show

Experience animals, rides, food and entertainment as the country comes to the city.

October – OzAsia Festival

Australia’s biggest Asian arts festival.

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Janeece Keller is the founder and editor of Family Travel. She mostly travels with her husband and two young kids. She has a large blended family that lives in Australia and Europe. She has visited 52 countries and lived on 3 continents. From camping to luxury resorts Janeece tries to make sure her family has diverse holiday experiences each year. She is an avid hiker and ocean swimmer who loves good food, margaritas and heading off the beaten path.

A family guide to where to eat, stay and play in Adelaide

Carla Grossetti

Sub-Editor & Journalist

30 October 2023

Your go-to guide to Adelaide’s best places to eat, sleep and top things to do with kids.

EAT | STAY | PLAY

Where to eat in Adelaide with kids

The moseley igloos.

Tweens will especially love these cosy dining domes that pop up in winter at The Moseley Bar & Kitchen , which is located a stone’s throw from Glenelg Beach. The artfully curated igloos feature groovy chairs, blankets and throws arranged around a cosy fireplace that would look great on the ’gram. Invite the extended family to hibernate in a hired igloo (available for 2.5-hour-long sessions for up to eight people), which includes kiddie-friendly menu options such as ham and pineapple pizza.

Address: 11 Moseley Square, Glenelg SA 5045

A winter pop-up at The Moseley Bar & Kitchen.

Africola is a vibe. And it’s one that gastronomically inclined families will love. Dining in this loud and chaotic East End Adelaide restaurant, which was modelled on a South African shebeen (read: a once disreputable unlicensed drinking establishment), is as heart-warming as it is hectic. Keep the entire clan happy at the hatted restaurant with rounds of crisp chicken skin ‘tea sandwiches’, peri peri chicken, whole roasted cauliflower, house-made hummus and flatbreads.

Address: 4 East TCE Adelaide, SA 5000

Keep the entire clan happy at the hatted restaurant with rounds of crisp chicken skin ‘tea sandwiches’.

Parkside Hotel

Parents who declare dinner tables to be a device-free zone will love the double-sided kids’ menu at Bob & Olive’s Garden at the Parkside Hotel , which includes a colouring sheet and is delivered with a set of pencils. The renovated hotel, originally built in 1858, has indoor and outdoor areas and includes an enclosed all-weather kids’ play area replete with a cubby house. All kids’ meals are $15 and include a colossal ice-cream sundae.

Address: 142 Glen Osmond Rd, Parkside SA 5063

Parkside Hotel is a great family dining spot.

Spaghetti Island

Change down a few gears and into holiday mode at this quirky spaghetti temple that caters to families with young children particularly well. Kiddies are welcome to make a racket in the butter-yellow dining room at Spaghetti Island , especially when the pasta arrives in spectacular fashion atop a three-tiered party platter. Choose between 12 different pastas including spaghetti crab, ham, cheese and peas, and bikini Bolognese (made with lean chicken and turkey).

Address: 138 Gouger St, Adelaide SA 5006

Dig in at Spaghetti Island.

Hop on the train to Hove bound for Beach Bum where you will find a menu that offers an amalgam of Japanese, Hawaiian and Mexican cuisines. Choose between pork belly tacos with Tabasco mayo, chicken katsu, Mexican beach balls, pineapple pork ribs and poke bowls. Adults will appreciate the shaved-ice cocktails and the fact kids under 12 eat free on Sundays at the beachside restaurant, which is near to an Insta-famous 200-metre-long jetty.

Address: 406 Brighton Rd, Hove SA 5048

Fun fusion food at Beach Bum.

Cancun Cowboys

In the northern suburb of Holden Hill, a quick 20 minutes from the CBD, Tex-Mex favourite Cancun Cowboys has the kind of menu that kids love to love, with piled high nachos, tacos, loaded fries, sloppy joes and mac and cheese all making an appearance. You will love the relaxed vibe of it all, the frozen margaritas and the pièce de résistance fact that kids eat for free on Sundays at lunch and dinner.

Address: 550 North East Rd, Holden Hill SA 5088

Kids eat for free on Sunday’s at Cancun Cowboys.

This former tram barn in the inner-city suburb of Thebarton has been transformed into an airy and bright cafe with a sprawling green lawn that is perfect for little ones to run themselves to a standstill on. The all-day menu is filled with perfect breakfast-brunch-lunch options, with an extra column of share plates, and a dedicated kids’ menu. Dishes utilise fresh local produce, with lots of gluten free, dairy free, vegetarian and vegan options.

Address: 38 Winwood St, Thebarton SA 5031

Once a former tram barn, now a fresh and fun cafe.

Tony Tomatoes

Lauro Siliquini and Enzo Verdino are the duo behind Spaghetti Island. And their cult following also extends to Italian eateries Ruby Red Flamingo, Coccobello, L’Italy and Tony Tomatoes . Pizza devotees will love Tony Tomatoes, which wows little people and their parents with options such as the Tony Pepperoni and the classic Margherita.

Address: 155-157 O’Connell Street, North Adelaide SA 5006

From the owners of Spaghetti Island comes Tony Tomatoes, a haven for pizza devotees.

The Original Pancake Kitchen

It pays to have a hot pancake spot in your list of commendable eateries. And now that The Original Pancake Kitchen has four outlets around Adelaide, the call for pancakes at this institution should probably be considered compulsory when visiting the SA capital. Prime your palate for a good time with rounds of pillowy Hedgehog pancakes smothered in chocolate fudge or Mozzarella pancakes with fried eggs and ham.

Adelaide Central Market

Adelaide Central Market , established in 1869, consistently rates as one of the Top Things to Do in Adelaide. Roll up to Stall 12 at the colourful market to find Decadent Donuts where drool-worthy options include the Berry Sinful, topped with fresh raspberries, or the Dusty Queen with cinnamon and fresh orange. Parents should order the Coffee Coffee Yum Yum doughnuts to go with that cappuccino.

Address: 44-60 Gouger St, Adelaide SA 5000

And for a special treat, check out OMG Decadent Donuts at Adelaide Central Market.

Where to stay in Adelaide with kids

Avani adelaide residences.

With a heated lap pool with access to barbecues and lounges, a gym, steam room and sauna, a private cinema, a library and even a golf simulator, there’s nothing you won’t love about this centrally located property. When booking a two-bedroom suite make sure you tell them you have little ones in tow and they will arrive to free colouring books, kids’ movies and TV channels.

Stay at Avani Adelaide Residences.

Pullman Adelaide

The luxe Pullman brand’s flagship Adelaide property has plenty to entice including its central location, a 13.5-metre indoor lap pool, Salt Restaurant serving up the best SA produce (you’ll love the local wine list at dinner, the kids will love the five-stack pancakes at breakfast), and handy interconnecting rooms ensuring plenty of space.

Stay at the Pullman Adelaide

Holiday Inn Express Adelaide City Centre

The Holiday Inn brand is always a popular choice for families and this centrally located property confirms why with its interconnecting rooms, complimentary daily Express Start breakfast in its on-site restaurant, free wi-fi, a 24-hour gym and handy laundry facilities. The rooms are light and practical with cribs available for tiny travellers.

Practical facilities for a fuss-free stay in Adelaide.

Ibis Adelaide

If the sleek and bright interiors complete with original works by local artists like graffiti practitioner Ghostpatrol, the interconnecting rooms, the spot-on location backing onto Rundle Mall and the handily casual ibis Kitchen restaurant don’t win you over the value for money will. Rooms here start at $185 per night.

Stay at the ibis Hotel in Adelaide.

Crowne Plaza Adelaide

The stylish Crowne Plaza Adelaide begins on level 10 of the sleek building it is housed in, so impressive views come free of charge. There’s a heated infinity pool, its restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and, most intriguingly, dessert, and its bright and colourful twin deluxe and premium rooms can accommodate a family of four.

Stay at the Crowne Plaza Adelaide.

Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets

The neighbourhood-focused Hotel Indigo’s first Aussie hotel is set close to the city’s historic food markets, so you will never go hungry (plus a rooftop raw food bar serves up fresh produce). As well as fun nods to Adelaide in the interior design, you’ll find interconnecting rooms, free wi-fi and an outdoor pool.

Hotel Indigo is located close to Adelaide’s famous food markets.

iStay Precinct Adelaide

Each of iStay Precinct Adelaide’s one- and two-bedroom inner-city apartments offers full kitchen and laundry facilities, open-plan living, private balconies with sweeping city views, free wi-fi and Foxtel, with access to facilities including a heated pool (with pretty great views), spa and steam room.

What to do in Adelaide with kids

Festivals and events.

Illuminate Adelaide

16 July – 1 August

SA’s new major winter festival takes over Adelaide’s city streets, laneways and architecture in a blend of innovation, music, art, light and tech. It offers a range of family-friendly and free events including City Lights, a light trail of over 40 projections, installations and immersive experiences. And don’t miss your chance to see Van Gogh Alive or step into Adelaide Zoo, where Light Creatures presents animal-inspired illuminations and large-scale lanterns – from giant pandas to towering giraffes.

Sky Castle by Eness. (Illuminate Adelaide)

Being Different Together, Migration Museum

Part of Illuminate Adelaide’s program of free events, Being Different Together at the Migration Museum is an Interfaith Childhoods exhibition led by artist Anna Hickey-Moody. It presents artwork by children, many of whom are first-generation migrants and refugees, that explores their family history and stories, and invites visitors to engage with activities including an animation workshop.

Free entry for the Big Different Together exhibition at the Migration Museum.

Wonders: From The South Australian Museum

Until 8 August

Beyond the five floors of the South Australian Museum lies a vast collection of more than four million objects, many of which have never been on public display before. This landmark exhibition cracks the lid by bringing together 165 of these objects to commemorate its 165th birthday in June, including a fragment of Mars that fell to Earth in Egypt in 1911 and giant sloth bones that were found in Argentina in 1787. It’s like taking a step into a giant encyclopaedia.

Hit up the free entry at the South Australian Museum to see the Wonders exhibition.

Wonders: It’s Complicated: Mod.

Until November

It’s Complicated is an exhibition on complexity staged at UniSA’s futuristic MOD. museum that explores the dynamic interconnectedness of all things using fun and engaging case studies. Learn about Operation Cat Drop, for example: the bizarre episode in history that saw the World Health Organization parachute live cats into Borneo in the 1950s after its bid to combat a malaria outbreak had unintended outcomes. Satisfy your own curiosity by heading along.

Located at UniSA’s MOD. Museum, It’s Complicated is a free exhibition exploring the interconnectedness of all things.

Dates for the diary:

• 24-26 June, Bluey’s Big Play – The Stage Show , Her Majesty’s Theatre
• 24-25 July, Willunga Almond Blossom Festival , Willunga
• 21 October – 7 November, Ozasia Festival, Various venues
• Plan ahead: Adelaide’s serious festival credentials mean kids are well and truly covered with Dreambig Children’s Festival , held every two years in May; mark your calendars for 2023.

Take a day trip

Find vintage paddle steamers, woolly Alpacas and breathtaking wilderness an arm’s reach from Adelaide.

1. Port Willunga

Just under an hour from Adelaide on the Fleurieu Peninsula , the beach at Port Willunga is one of the most beloved stretches of sand on this part of the coast. It’s easy to see why, with its wide girth, golden cliffs and the sort of powder-soft sand that squeaks when you walk on it. Plan to spend the morning in the water before heading to the Star of Greece for lunch (make a booking before you leave the city as it’s very popular) to take in the amazing views and eat delicious food (there’s a children’s menu). And if you have time, make sure to visit the historic village of Aldinga nearby.

Less than an hour’s drive away from Adelaide, Port Willunga is the perfect day trip destination.

2. McLaren Vale

McLaren Vale’s lush green landscape, bordered with pristine beaches and coastline, is famed for the quality of the grapes that have made it one of the most celebrated wine regions in the world. You’ll find a host of family-friendly wineries to eat, drink and be merry at, but the coolest is definitely Down the Rabbit Hole, with a vintage double-decker bus for a cellar door and wandering alpacas.

Take a day trip to McLaren Vale.

An easy 75-minute drive from the city, the town of Mannum sits on the banks of the lower Murray River, the most celebrated waterway in the country. The first paddle steamer was launched in these parts in 1853, and you can learn all about it along with the history of the town from that point on at the Mannum Dock Museum. The highlight of your visit will be taking a trip down the Murray River on the historic paddle steamer, PW Mayflower.

Only 75-minutes from the city, visit Mannum for a unique piece of history.

4. Hahndorf

The tree-lined main street of this historic town, settled by German migrants back in the 1800s, is literally lined with a butcher, a baker and a candlestick-maker, enhancing its charming quality. Spend your day here browsing the shops (special mention goes to the enchanting Fairy Garden), picking strawberries (November to April) at Beerenberg Family Farm and petting the animals at Hahndorf Farm Barn.

Head to Germany without the long flights and expensive costs. Hahndorf is one of a kind.

5. Kangaroo Island

Even after the fires that ravaged it during our Black Summer, a visit to Kangaroo Island still offers up an experience so unique and breathtaking that you are going to want to invest the time it takes to get here – just under three hours from Adelaide including the ferry ride across. Once on the island, head to Flinders Chase National Park, and keep your eyes peeled along the way for koalas and kangaroos, of course.

6. Monarto Safari Park

A few ticks under an hour from the CBD and you can be communing with lions, giraffes and chimpanzees at Monarto Safari Park , one of the largest open-range zoos in the world. With more than 500 animals and over 1500 hectares to cover, you definitely need to allow for a full day of fun here.

Read more family travel tips on the Ultimate parents’ guide to our amazing Aussie cities.

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Thanks Carla you leave nothing to the imagination it is so informative and exciting you make me want to see all of our beautiful country Australia

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Adelaide with Kids: 11 Places Put on Your List

Adelaide is bursting with family friendly activities that will keep kids entertained for hours. Through all the excitement, they will build life skills, use their imagination and learn new things along the way. Today South Australia local Tia Cole shares 11 places you can enjoy Adelaide with kids.

Hahndorf Farm Barn

Story book trail, escape hunt, south australian museum, art gallery of south australia, the beachouse, west beach adventure course, adelaide fringe, cleland wildlife park (aka cleland conservation park), captain jolley’s paddle boats, even more options for entertaining kids in adelaide, best times to visit adelaide with kids.

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Younger kids will love Hahndorf Farm Barn where everyone is encouraged to have hands on farm experience. There are also fun, informative animal talks throughout the day, including a reptile show.

You and the kids will create some special memories, including:

• Milking a cow
• Hold baby chicks
• Bottle feed lambs
• Go for pony rides
• Ride a tractor

With hours of animal encounters on offer, it is a good idea to bring a picnic to enjoy out in the paddock where there are both open and undercover picnic areas and BBQ stations for hire. There is also a kiosk where you can enjoy nice refreshments.

Be mindful that with all the farm animals, feed and muddy ground, the little ones may want to wear gumboots and clothes you don’t mind getting a little dirty on their fun farm adventure.

Where : 2282 Mount Barker Road Hahndorf,

Your little ones will create magical childhood memories at South Australia’s Story Book Garden, which is free to wander. On your arrival you will be amazed by the grand manor and the enchanting formal gardens that surround.

Along the sandy parkland walk, you will weave through ponds and trees where classic children’s tales are bought to life within the natural world.

Younger children will let their imaginations run wild as they discover hidden treasures from fantasy stories, including:

• Three Billy Goats Gruff
• Harry Potter (Quidditch Tree)
• The Secret Garden
• The Jungle Book
• The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe

The bathroom is located 1km down the path at Carrick Hill Café which serves lunch along with mouth-watering sweets for you and the family to enjoy after your fairy-tale adventure. Alternatively you can pack a picnic to enjoy surrounded by the magic of the gardens.

Where : 46 Carrick Hill Drive, Springfield,

Head into Adelaide’s City Centre along Rundle Mall and step into a world of mystery at Escape Hunt . With 4 different escape scenarios to choose from, it’s a perfect wet weather choice. Whether you are lost ‘Down the Rabbit Hole’ or trying to escape the ‘Great White Killer’, the plots and difficulty ratings will help to decide which escape room is best for the whole family.

With up to 6 people from ages 7+, the family will have to use their team bonding skills to decipher the clues, solve the mystery and escape before the 60 minute timer is up. This thrilling experience will allow the kids to have a blast while tapping into their problem solving, communication, and cooperation skills.

Where: Level 3, 133 Rundle Mall, Adelaide,

Within the cultural precinct of the Adelaide Park Lands, kids will be enlivened as they learn about the world and build life skills through stimulating exhibits and interactive activities at the South Australian Museum .

The museum hosts a 1hr mysterious game, the Shadow Initiation game, which has 40+ puzzles to solve to win and unlock museum secrets. It is age appropriate for those 7+ and requires a booking.

You can check their website to see what the current exhibitions are. A good time to visit is during the school holidays where there are always family friendly events that the children will love.

All levels are accessible by the lifts and the parent room is located on the ground floor along with lockers. Outside in the picnic area is the Coffee Caravan to fulfil your caffeine and lunch needs during week days.

Where : North Terrace, Adelaide

Continue the visual adventure around the corner on North Terrace at the Art Gallery of South Australia . The kids can get creative in The Studio where they can draw, paint, weave, sculpt and more. The Studio theme changes to compliment the current gallery exhibition so each visit is unlike the last.

On the first Sunday of each month from 11am-3pm is Start at the Gallery , a family friendly, free event where children aged 3-12 will be introduced to art through activities, tours, live performances and entertainment. Bookings aren’t required. Just show up and enjoy.

The Art Galley Café is situated outside with a lovely enclosed grass area for the children to run around and play in the sun. The menu has a number of healthy options and also caters to many dietary needs.

General entry is free however fees may apply for exhibitions.

Where : North Terrace Adelaide

Keep the younger kids entertained at this family friendly amusement park. At Beachhouse you can easily spend a few hours here with 5 levels of entertainment including an arcade, a train ride around the western styled mini golf course, the play castle which is perfect for children under 6, and more.

There are change rooms so the whole family can splash around with some water play on the bumper boats which are protected with big rubber rings and there are 3 water slides which are open during weekends, school holidays and most public holidays.

Tip: Bookings are essential in school holidays

Different package deals are available for easy tap and play, so you only pay for the activities you want. The deals come with a fun band which is rechargeable, valid for 18 months and on top of that, there is no entry fee.

Need to know: There are minimum height restrictions for some rides, which are 100cm and 120cm. Lockers are available to keep your valuables, towels and a change of clothes. All levels are accessible via the lift and there are showers and a parent room available.

The café serves hot food, treats, and alcoholic beverages for the adults to enjoy while the kids run wild.

Where : 4 Colley Terrace, Glenelg

The whole family will get the adrenaline pumping at the West Beach Adventure Course. Adults and older kids can face 70 aerial obstacles to conquer at their own pace on the grand course, call on courage for the 18m Vertical Drop and have a blast on the 3 person Mega Swing, which is much more exhilarating than your average flying fox. There is also a kids’ Course for the little ones.

The café is conveniently positioned next to the kids’ Course so you can cheer them on. You can also admire the stunning view of the adventure course from the Sky Walk, which is accessible by 83 stairs. There is no spectator fee if you want to just come and watch the kids.

There is no age limit however, for safety precautions the weight limits are 20kg – 128kg and height restrictions are 90cm for the kids course and for those 120cm – 140cm must be accompanied by and adult on the Mega Climb .

Unless the weather is deemed unsafe, the park runs rain or shine, so wear enclosed shoes, sunscreen and comfortable sports wear that cover your shoulders and you aren’t afraid to get dirty.

Online bookings are recommended and are essential during school holidays. The park is open every day during school holidays and on public holidays other than Christmas.

Where: 4 Hamra Ave, West Beach

A day trip to Strathalbyn is a fun family day out.

Adelaide City is host to the renowned family friendly event, Adelaide Fringe, which exhibits vibrant performances that include comedy, theatre, circus, cabaret, music, visual arts, workshops and more, along with pop-up stores and mouth-watering food trucks with world-wide cuisines.

The event itself is free to enter but shows require pre-booked tickets. Finding a carpark around this time can be difficult so we recommend arriving early and be weary that you may have to walk a couple blocks. Visit Adelaide Fringe to plan your visit.

South Australia is home to many wildlife parks including the Cleland Wildlife Park in the Adelaide Hills. Spend a couple of hours here to discover the wildlife at your own leisure and feed Australian animals along the way.

Tip: Book a keeper talk in advance so you don’t miss out on up-close animal interactions with echidnas, butterflies and more friendly creatures.

20 minutes from Adelaide CBD, the park is only closed on Christmas Day and during extreme fire warnings. Parking is free and the toilets are located by the café along with a parent’s room. There are BBQ facilities and picnic tables out in the greenery. Prams are also available for hire. If you don’t have a vehicle, you can join a day tour .

Where: 365 Mount Lofty Summit Road, Crafers (Adelaide Hills)

Get active with a mini river cruise on the most significant river in Adelaide Plains, the River Torrens/Karrawirra Parri. For 30 minutes, you will have a unique view of the beauty within the South Australian Capital as you flow past Adelaide Oval, pedalling down the river which dissects the city centre.

They have two sizes of boats available. The yellow pedal powered boats can seat 2 people with a little one in the middle and life jackets are provided. They also have blue boats that can seat 2 adults and 2 kids. Don’t forget your sunscreen.

Where: You board in Elder Park

Continue relaxing within this stunning park by the River Torrens for a family picnic, a leisurely stroll, or depending when you visit, the park hosts many free community events such as the Ozasia Moon Lantern Festival.

There are public toilets nearby the park on King William Road and if you can’t find street parking, the Festival Carpark is only a 3-minute walk.

Where: King William Rd, Adelaide

If you have exhausted the options try some of these:

• Adelaide Botanic gardens
• Port Adelaide – street art and museums
• Older kids might enjoy Adelaide Central Market
• Climbing the Adelaide Oval roof
• Teens will love the Jimmy C Street Art Tour
• Check out the Port Adelaide Dolphins or take a swim with them .
• Treeclimb Adelaide
• Fairy Garden
• Open Range Zoo

It is always a good time to have a family fun day out, especially during school holidays but generally the best times for family outdoor adventures are during the Spring and Autumn months. Note that June is typically the wettest month in South Australia.

Tia is always looking for her next adventure. She loves taking her cheeky pup, Skylah, for a nature walk and showing her son different ways to experience the world. When Tia isn’t out and about, you can find her enjoying a vanilla latte in one hand and typing away on her laptop with the other.

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Ultimate Adelaide: 10 fun things to see and do with kids of all ages

Adelaide tips from a local: Though I no longer live there, it is still my home town. Here are 10 tips for fun (and cheap) things to see and do in Adelaide with kids of all ages.

Adelaide is my home town. While I haven’t lived in South Australia for nearly 20 years, we still visit regularly and have family there. Each visit, there are a number of things that we try and take Miss M to see and do. So we thought we’d share our top 10 things to see and do in Adelaide with kids.

More than 70% of South Australians live in Adelaide and its surrounding suburbs. And it’s easy to see why. The central business district (CBD) is completely circled by parklands. It is home to major, internationally renowned festivals. You can swim with dolphins, stroll along white sandy beaches or hold a koala just 20 minutes from the city centre. And don’t forget the many wineries at your doorstep. But what is there to do in the CBD? And what is there to do and see in Adelaide WITH KIDS?

Where to stay

A brief history of adelaide, when to visit.

• Adelaide's geography

Where to eat

What to see and do in adelaide with kids, 1. stroll in the himeji garden, 2. savour the adelaide central market, 3. feast in chinatown, 4. admire victoria square, the mall balls, adelaide arcade, the war memorial, mortlock library, the art gallery of south australia, festival plaza, adelaide oval, paddleboats, 8. visit the animals at adelaide zoo, 9. relax in the botanic gardens, 10. hit a playground, lots of things to see and do on your visit to adelaide with kids.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read our full  disclosure  for more information. 

While I was researching this post (well, the little research I did do as a local), I realised just how many posts claim to be about what to see and do in Adelaide with kids and without, and then suggest things that are not even in the city. Common suggestions are the Barossa Valley or Kangaroo Island , which is a 2-hour drive and 45-minute ferry away from the city centre!

When we say “Things to see and do in Adelaide with kids” we mean “Things to do and see in the CBD and the Adelaide Parklands with kids”. I will explain what the Parklands are in a moment.

We will get to the other things too. We’ll be sharing a number of posts in the next few weeks on things to see and do around Adelaide with kids. There is so much to see and do – wildlife parks and zoos, winery tours, beautiful natural landscapes, wonderful beaches and Kangaroo Island. You can even visit wineries with kids!

Adelaide itself is great to use as a base for your travels, but there are kid-friendly things to see and do in the city, too, and most of them are free!

When we visit Adelaide, we stay with family, so we really do not have any hotels or other accommodation to recommend.

If you are planning a visit to Adelaide with kids, you can stay within the Parklands or in one of the suburbs just outside the Parklands. Unless you will have access to a car, make sure your accommodation is near public transport (while improvements have been made, Adelaide is still not known for its extensive and efficient public transport network).

If you are visiting Adelaide with kids or even travelling solo, I would avoid accommodation on Hindley Street (it is known for being loud and not all that safe at night) and around Whitmore Square (known for its homeless shelters, though the Adelaide Central Mosque is also close by).

We recommend booking.com.

Note: In light of COVID-19, booking.com has added additional features on their property pages, including food safety, social distancing, safety features and cleaning.

While we’re looking at bookings, and with travelling as it is at the moment, you might want to consider travel insurance. Try AXA Travel Insurance for a quote.

Adelaide is the capital city of the state of South Australia. It was named in honour of Queen Adelaide (consort to King William IV), who was otherwise known as Adelheid of Saxe-Meiningen. When Miss M was born, we actually considered using Adelaide as her middle name because of the Australian and German connections.

In contrast to all other Australian states, South Australia was a free-settled British colony. No convicts! This helped the state thrive. Until the post-war era, Adelaide was Australia’s third-largest city. It is now fifth.

South Australia was the first state in Australia to grant voting rights to Aborigines (in 1895, later revoked) and was one of the first places in the world to give women the right to vote (in 1894, second only to New Zealand). It was also the very first place in the world to allow women to run for parliament.

Due to its diversity of faiths, Adelaide has also become known as the “City of Churches”. This came in handy when playing the 1812 Overture by Tchaikovsky. Until recently, the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra played a free concert in Elder Park, overlooking the River Torrens, at the end of each Summer. The finale was always the 1812 Overture, complete with cannons (fireworks over the river) and church bells ringing out from the nearby churches.

South Australia is known as the Festival State because of its many festivals. It is even on the State’s number plates.

March Madness is about to start. In Adelaide, that means the Adelaide Fringe and the Adelaide Festival are both running until mid-March, with art installations, comedy programs, acrobatics, dance, the Writers Festival all over the city. Much of it is free and very fun! WOMADeldaide, the world music festival, is on in March, too.

In January, the Tour Down Under , Australia’s version of the Tour de France, uses Adelaide as a base. There’s a film festival, a history festival, a cabaret festival and various food and wine festivals, too. Make sure you find out what is going to be one when you’re in town!

Adelaide’s geography

Adelaide lies on the Adelaide plains between the Gulf of St Vincent in the west and the Mount Lofty Ranges in the east. This means there are lovely views over the city and to the gulf waters beyond from the top of Mount Lofty, and you always get beautiful sunsets over the water.

The capital is located on the banks of the River Torrens, in an area originally inhabited by the Kaurna people. In the Kaurna language (pronounce Garna), the area is knowns as Tarndanyangga, or place of the red kangaroo.

Adelaide is a planned capital, much like Philadelphia. Colonel William Light, the Surveyor-General of the new Province of South Australia, set out the city in a grid layout. The is North Terrace to the north, South Terrace to the south, West Terrace on the west and, yes, East Terrace to the east, though it is the only one that is not a single straight street.

There is a statue of Colonel Light on Montefiori Hill in North Adelaide overlooking the city that he planned. While it might be nice to see “Light’s Vision”, it is not that exciting. We don’t recommend going to see it when you visit Adelaide with kids unless it really interests you.

Adelaide’s layout makes it very easy to find your way. In the centre of the city is Victoria Square. Running north to south (around/ through Victoria Square) is King William Street. There are four other squares within the grid (none of which really warrant a visit).

Streets in the city run from east to west and are named after prominent pioneers or those who made a significant contribution to the state. When the streets hit King William Street, the names change – King William would not allow a street bearing the name of a commoner to cross any street named after him.

Most of the prominent buildings are situated on North Terrace, though this is not where our suggested tour will start.

Adelaide is also surrounded by a ring of parks, known as the Parklands. Imagine New York’s Central Park spread around the city From Victoria Square to the outer edge of the parklands is one mile – at least to the west. Many major sporting grounds and facilities are located in the Parklands.

Some of these areas are mentioned in more detail below, but the best places to find food in Adelaide with kids (and for kids) are:

• The Adelaide market, for fresh produce, cheese, breakfast and light lunches
• Chinatown for a range of Asian and Australian dishes for lunch or dinner
• Rundle Mall, during shopping hours, for food courts with ty
• Rundle Street, at all hours, for a wide variety of cuisines (including ice cream).

I’ve tried to put our “What to see and do in Adelaide with kid”-tour in a logical order. Whether that order works for you will depend on where you are starting and finishing your day in Adelaide.

Not all things will be fun for kids of all ages. Where possible, I have added alternatives or made suggestions as to age appropriateness.

Himeji in Japan is a sister city of the City of Adelaide. The Himeji Garden is a traditional Japanese garden that combines two classic styles, the senzui (lake and mountain garden), and the kare senzui (dry garden, with rocks and stones). It contains all traditional elements of a Japanese garden, such as a gatehouse, lanterns, lake, deer scarer and teahouse. Start your tour of Adelaide with kids with a peaceful stroll around the garden.

You can find the Himeji Garden at the corner of South Terrace and Glen Osmond Road. Entry is free. The gate opens at 8 a.m. each day.

Alternatively, if you decide to go to the Marshmallow playground or the Adelaide Tree Climb (see below), the Himeji Garden is just around the corner.

On market days (Tuesday-Sunday), go to the Adelaide Central Market, which is popular with both locals and tourists alike.

To get there, walk to Halifax Street to take the free bus or walk to King William Road and take the free tram.

Stroll through the market and take in the atmosphere. Buy some supplies for your picnic in the Botanic Gardens or the Zoo later.

If you are looking to support businesses affected by recent bushfires, try the Kangaroo Island stall. It sells around 450 products from 50 producers based on the Island. Around half of the Island burnt in December 2019 and January 2020.

If you are there on Tuesdays at midday with a little one (aged 2 to 5), try the free Market Minis program, which helps kids understand more about the food they eat. Sessions take approximately 20 minutes and use seasonal fruit and vegetables. Grab a coffee and hang around and watch.

For coffee, we recommend Cafe Zuma on Gouger Street. They also do fantastic eggs florentine.

Stroll through the market and over to Chinatown.

Adelaide’s Chinatown is not as big or impressive as Chinatown in Melbourne . However, it is not short on diverse and delicious cuisine – Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, Thai, Malaysian, Indian…

Check out the gates a the entrance on Gouger and Grote Street and marvel at the lanterns and maze of shops and restaurants.

If you are looking to get some food, try BBQ City, our family’s current favourite. It is light on decorations (has almost none), is fast (rushed), staff aren’t chatty (they are borderline rude) and it is quite simple, but the food is delicious.

Walk (back) to Victoria Square in the centre of the city. In the local Kaurna language, it is called Tarntanyangga.

There are a number of buildings of interest that overlook the square- though most you won’t want (or be allowed) to go into: the Supreme Court, the Post Office, the old Town Hall and St Francis Xavier Cathedral. Check out the statue of Queen Victoria and the Three Rivers Fountain in the square.

Depending on when you are visiting Adelaide with kids, there might even be something happening in the square. It is where Adelaide’s Christmas tree stands and the Tour Village for the Tour Down Under is located.

5. See the Malls Balls: Rundle Mall

Adelaide’s got balls. Literally. Go see them next.

Walk or catch the free tram down King William Road and get off at Rundle Mall.

Rundle Mall is a pedestrian street mall that was opened in 1976 and is closed to traffic. The mall is home to the local flagship staws of many large Australian and international retailers, as well as a number of arcades (with food courts, if you are looking for easy lunch for picky eaters).

Rundle Mall is also home to the pigs.

As you walk from King William Street, one of the first things you will see is Oliver, Augusta, Horatio and Truffles, four large bronze pigs. Their names are often used as questions at quiz nights. Little kids will love them: take photos of your kids on and next to the pigs, then continue down the Mall.

Rundle Mall has just gotten a brand new sculpture – The Pigeon by Paul Sloan. I haven’t seen it yet, but it looks fun.

The Mall’s Balls, officially known as The Spheres, is a four-metre tall sculpture of two large stainless steel sphere balanced on top of one another by artist Bert Flugelman. If an Adelaidean says they will “meet you at the balls”, this is where they mean.

From the Balls it is just a hop, skip and a jump to the Fountain (from the 1800s) and the Adelaide Arcade.

This gorgeous and iconic arcade was first opened in 1885, was the largest in the southern hemisphere and really evidences the grandeur and elegance of a bygone era. It is built in the Italian style of architecture with two domes, one at each end and is the only building in Adelaide still to have them.

The double story arcade has 100 shops, most of which provide health and beauty services, sell accessories (hats!) or jewellery, or sell speciality products such as buttons, coins or books. It is also a great place to go shopping for some original souvenirs and stop for a coffee.

About halfway down the Arcade is the entrance to Gays Arcade. This has nothing to do with sexual identification but is named after Mr Patrick Gay, a cabinet maker and upholsterer, who had the arcade built to house his new furniture emporium. His original premises stood where the Adelaide Arcade now stands.

The Adelaide Arcade and Gays Arcade are allegedly home to six ghosts, including that of Mr Francis Cluney, a former caretaker of the Arcade. He met a rather tragic and gruesome end in 1887 when he became entangled in the engine used to power the lighting. He now haunts the arcade, moving things around. Sometimes you can hear his footsteps…

There is a free Museum of things associated with and found in the arcade, and a free walking tour which highlights some of the original aspects of the building. You might even see evidence of the ghosts.

6. Get cultural on North Terrace

Once you’ve seen enough of Rundle Mall, duck down Gawler Place and through to North Terrace. The large department stores (Myer and David Jones) also open onto North Terrace.

We have a number of free North Terrace suggestions for your tour of Adelaide with kids:

The War Memorial is worth a quick look to see how Adelaide’s compares to some others you might have seen. Interestingly, South Australia was the first state to decide to erect a memorial to WWI. However, a fire caused all the designs submitted for the design competition to be lost before the competition could be judged. The need for a second design competition delayed plans somewhat.

I love old libraries . It may have been a while since I have been in, but the State Library is still one of my favourites. Check out the Mortlock wing. It is just gorgeous!

I will always think of whales when I visit this museum as various whale skeletons were always the first thing you saw when you entered.

The Museum underwent a huge renovation in the late 1990s and now has some prominent permanent and temporary exhibits. The Australian Aboriginal Cultures Collection with around 30,000 objects is a must for anyone who wants to learn about these local cultures.

I also really lie the Antarctica exhibition, with a focus on the expeditions of South Australian Sir Douglas Mawson, who used to be on the Australian $100 note.

Of course, our little dinosaur aficionado likes the fossils and the megafauna.

Like the London Natural History Museum , entry to the museum is free and they even provide free tours daily at 11 a.m. daily, as well as at 1.30 p.m. on weekends. There is no need to book, just meet the guide in the foyer for your free one hour tour. The museum shop has a great range of gifts and souvenirs.

The Museum will soon be split, creating a new gallery for Aboriginal art and culture that will be housed at the old Royal Adelaide Hospital site (further down North Terrace). The Museum’s collection will be joined by works currently held by the Library, the Art Gallery and Tandanya National Aboriginal Cultural Institute. It is scheduled to open in 2023.

Although younger children are unlikely to appreciate going to an art gallery, I would be remiss if I did not include the Art Gallery of South Australia in this list of things to do in Adelaide with kids.

Entry to the Gallery is free, although a fee may apply to some temporary exhibits. The building is a lovely combination of old and new and the fish gates by Catherine Truman are worth a look.

For an unusual souvenir of your visit to Adelaide with kids, find the art vending machine in the sculpture courtyard and get your own Crochet your character kit.

7. Stroll in Elder Park

Stroll back along North Terrace to the other side of King William Street and Elder Park.

Take a walk through Festival Plaza, admire the work done on the revamp and let your kids climb on some of the ‘shapes’. The State Government has spent millions on it!

Festival Plaza borders Elder Park, named after the Elder family, who in 1882 generously donated the funds to have the rotunda built. Elder Park is still the sight of many community events, such as Carols by Candlelight or the Oz Asia Moon Lantern Festival.

If you are or your child is a fan of cricket, football or tennis, take the new Riverbank Footbridge over the River Torrens to Adelaide Oval. Tours run daily (except match days) and include the heritage-listed scoreboard.

For an additional fee, you can take the Cricket tour, which includes a curated tour of the Bradman Collection, a souvenir lanyard and a souvenir cricket ball. The Bradman Collection brings together the personal collection of cricket memorabilia of Sir Donald Bradman, which is now housed at the oval.

If your kids are older and are looking for an adrenalin rush, try the Adelaide Oval Roof Climb. Peter and my brothers highly recommend it! Climbers must be at least eight years old. Climbs cost from $75 (child climb day) to $124 (adult climb night), including safety equipment. You must wear closed, rubber-soled shoes, such as sneakers for the climb.

For a more relaxing afternoon in Adelaide with kids, walk back over the Riverbank Footbridge and take the Popeye to the Zoo. Popeye is the name of the blue and white boat that launches from near Elder Park.

A day at the Zoo starting with a trip on the Popeye is a quintessential part of any Adelaide childhood. Buy your tickets online or at the landing – you can buy your Zoo entry ticket at the same time.

Now they even offer afternoon tea tours or gin tours on the Popeye. This is definitely something I want to try. Unfortunately, minimum numbers apply (10 for the afternoon tea).

Alternatively (or additionally), hire a paddleboat and take it for a ride on the river. A 30-minute tour costs $20; the price includes life jackets for children.

We like a good zoo (such as Burgers Zoo or Hellabrunn ) so it should come as no surprise that the Adelaide Zoo is on our list of suggestions for things to do and see in Adelaide with kids. It is one of Adelaide’s most iconic attractions.

This was boosted by two pandas, Wang Wang and Fu Ni, on loan from China. Since they have lived at the Zoo, busloads of tourists have made their way to the Zoo from their cruise ships just to see the pandas.

The Zoo is the second oldest zoo in Australia and is home to more than 250 species of animals (a little less than the Berlin Zoo ). Our favourite animals are the primates and hippos, and the quokkas in the petting zoo that may even get close enough to pat.

Miss M’s other favourites are the dinosaurs: for the second time (that I know of), lifesized dinosaurs were ‘hidden’ around the zoo during school holidays. Our little dinosaur aficionado loved it.

The Zoo also has a great playground, which makes it an ideal place to spend an afternoon in Adelaide with kids (pre-teens). It includes climbing structures, water play features, a creek and aerial walkways. Miss M wanted to spend hours here, even when she was sick with the flu.

Watch out for the flying foxes! A colony of grey-headed flying foxes nestles in the pine trees near the zoo entrance. At sunset, when they leave to go hunting for food, you might mistake them for a flock of loud, rowdy birds.

The Adelaide Botanic Gardens and Botanic Park stretch from the zoo to North Terrace and all the way to the outer rim of the Parklands.

First opened in 1857, the 124-acre Botanic Gardens offer eight gardens (Garden of Health, Little Sprouts Kitchen Garden, the International Rose Garden, the Economic Garden, the Mediterranean Garden, the Australian Native Garden, the Cactus and Succulent Garden and the Dahlia Garden), the First Creek Wetland and the Australian forest. You do not need to see it all! Architecturally, the Bicentennial Conservatory and the newly re-opened Palm House are both very interesting and very different.

Our favourites are the Amazon Waterlily Pavilion and the Museum of Economic Botany, which opened in 1881. The latter is the last of its kind in the world has a fascinating and looks at the various plants, their uses and their importance in our lives. Entry is free and the building is gorgeous, too.

We love the fact that the Botanic Gardens are so peaceful although you are in the middle of the city. If you grabbed some snacks at the market, why not find a favourite place and have a picnic lunch or dinner? Bring a blanket if you can.

In Summer, moonlight cinemas are held in the gardens in the evening. Check the website for details.

If you are looking for things to see and do without kids, or with older kids, you might also want to do some wine tasting at the National Wine Centre, on the edge of the Botanic Gardens (North Terrace side). Check the website for their program.

Have your kids not had enough of the playground at the zoo? Are ‘playgrounds’ less interesting now that they are older?

The Adelaide Parklands are home to numerous unique play spaces. Take your pick!

• Bonython playspace, near the Adelaide Gaol. It includes water play and a nearby road safety centre.
• Glover playspace in King Rodney Park (East Terrace): the angles on the houses make it feel like you are in a Sr Seuss book. Also has in-ground trampolines.
• Princess Elizabeth playspace (South Terrace near West Terrace): perfect for princesses and knights, this one has a castle, loop slides and inground trampolines.
• Rymill Park: great for cheeky monkeys who like to climb.
• Glover playspace (South Terrace near Pultney Street): known for the caterpillar tunnels an, spinning swings and flying foxes.
• Marshmallow playspace, Pityarilla (Glen Osmond Road near South Terrace): has a water play area, a large climbing area, swings and a bag slide.

The Marshmallow playspace is also very close to the Himeji Gardens and Adelaide Tree Climb , which is perfect for more adventurous kids.

Adelaide Tree Climb describes itself as an aerial adventure park. It has seven elevated treetop courses with zip lines and 70 obstacles. It reminded me of the zipline tours in the Otways.

There is even a course with three difficulty levels for smaller kids: minimum height is 100 cm. Tickets cost $29 for the Children’s Course and $39 ($35 concession) for the longer and more challenging Grand Course.

There are so many things to see and do in Adelaide with kids that you can easily spend a day seeing the city itself! Take these 10 tips from a local – moi – and see the things that suit your kids (and you) the best and enjoy! And we haven’t even gotten to the myriad of activities outside of the city centre yet!

Ever been to Australia? Did you spend a day in Adelaide with kids?

What do you want to see what will your kids enjoy the most.

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10 Things To Do In Adelaide With Kids

Adelaide is the capital city of South Australia. It is located in a beautiful area near the eastern shore of Gulf St. Vincent by the Mount Lofty Ranges. It is home to about one million citizens but is a calm and quiet city. The local landscape is gorgeous and, with a Mediterranean climate, it makes for a great vacation spot. The city is separated into two areas; Adelaide and North Adelaide which is located on the other side of the River Torrens . Adelaide is known as Australia's festival and wine capital which proves that, although the city is peaceful, it can also be lively.

Adelaide remains a popular travel location for couples, adventurous individuals and even families. If you are one of the latter who are traveling with children then you will need to do some research to find family friendly activities that will keep the kids entertained. Remember you can stow the family's backpacks and large bags in a baggage locker in Adelaide to lighten the load on your day out.

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Visit the Adelaide Zoo

One of the most popular activities for the whole family is to spend a day at the zoo. The Adelaide Zoo is located just a short walk away from the city centre so it is easy to get to. Out of the total 1,800 animal species that call the zoo home, about 300 of them are exotic.

Common favorites are Wang Wang and Fu Ni, who are the only two Giant Pandas in the entire Southern Hemisphere. If you want to make the most of your experience you should visit during feeding time when the zookeepers make their rounds around the various enclosures. If you follow them you can learn about the animals both as a species and as individual creatures, and learn about their origins and where they came from.

Try the Local Cuisine at the Adelaide Central Market

The Adelaide Central Market has been around for over 145 years now and is a popular spot for locals and tourists to buy fresh produce and food. In total there are more than 80 different stalls selling delicious meals and ingredients, so you can spend hours browsing them all. If you don't want to miss out on anything you should follow the Central Market Tour.

You and the kids can try everything from seafood to local cheeses, meats, fresh fruits, vegetables and more. It is the perfect activity for everyone and kids who have adventurous palates will have a great time snacking on all of the delicious food.

Get Active at TreeClimb

The whole family can have a blast in the outdoor adventure park of TreeClimb. It is the only nature based and aerial park in the city so you won't find anything else like it in Adelaide. You can test yourself on seven unique climbing courses that bring you around the Kurrangga Park. Some of them also have zip lines!

As a bonus, this activity serves as a history lesson since there are signs explaining the history of the city all around the park. If you get hungry on the adventure courses, you can stop for a break to eat in the on-site cafes before going back to climbing in the trees.

Cool Off at the Beachouse

The Beachouse is a great place for a fun family day in Adelaide. It is a huge indoor water park with a swimming pool and fun water slides suitable for people of all ages. Try the Dual Slide if you are visiting with small kids, or let the older children take a spin on the Speed Slide. A great ride that everyone can enjoy is the Raft Slide.

Aside from water slides, the park offers more tame water play areas and activities to keep you dry. Take the family on a kiddy train, play arcade games, enjoy a mini golf course, bumper boats, play castles, dodgem cars and a merry-go-round that is 120 years old but still running. The Beachouse has a restaurant on-site in case you or the kids get hungry from all of the playing.

Go Hiking in the Adelaide Hills

The surrounding landscape of Adelaide is gorgeous, and there are many greenspaces and public parks for you to explore. The Adelaide Hills is one of the areas that offer kid friendly trails suitable for people of all ages. It can be fun to get active as a family, and hiking in these scenic areas is one of the best things to do in Adelaide with kids.

One of the most popular paths to follow is the Adelaide Hills Kids' Food Trail. They can teach you a bit about the local cuisine, where the food comes from, and the processes involved in making them. A common favorite is the Summer Cherry Trail.

Stop by the Adelaide Oval

The Adelaide Oval is located right in the center of the city and is a huge stadium that can hold up to 50,000 people. It has been hosting games from different sports since 1871 and has earned a title as one of Adelaide's historical landmarks.

We recommend seeing if there are any cricket, soccer or football games going on during your time in Adelaide, but even if there are not you can still enjoy some fun activities at the Oval. Sign up for one of the Adelaide Oval Tours or take on the RoofClimb. Inside the building, there is also an interactive museum and all cricket fans will be excited to see the Bradman Collection.

Take a Day Trip to Cleland Wildlife Park

All animal lovers will have a great time visiting one of the city's best Australian wildlife parks which lets you interact with the animals. The Cleland Conservation Park is home to over 130 different species and many of them can be petted or fed by you.

Many families say that this was one of their favorite activities since the kids really enjoy interacting with the Australian animals. It is just a twenty minute drive away from central Adelaide so grab a taxi or tram ride and go feed the kangaroos! If you want another great park you can visit the Gorge Wildlife Park which offers a similar experience.

Try the Shadow Initiation in the South Australian Museum

The South Australian Museum is somewhere that you should visit during your stay in Adelaide, but an event that the kids are sure to enjoy is the Shadow Initiation. They will get the opportunity to learn all about The Secret Order of Quill and Compass which is a historical secret society that has been around for hundreds of years now.

This activity is a digital game that keeps kids engaged and entertained while the parents can enjoy all of the amazing exhibits in the museum. Children will need to spot hidden objects and complete secret challenges and in total there are 40 tasks for them to complete. You only get an hour once the timer starts so see how many you can complete as a family!

Spend Time at the Local Beaches

While you are in Adelaide you definitely have to spend time at one of the lovely beaches. There are several for you to choose from and all of them are great choices. We recommend you take a trip to the gorgeous Glenelg Beach or even Henley Beach. Grab some street food first, and have a picnic!

Adelaide's West Beach is also a must-visit spot as it has over 70 multi-level aerial courses, a huge swing and a simulated freefall jump from 18 meters high. If you are visiting during the summer you can splash around in the waves or suntan on the shore, and even in the colder months, these areas are perfect for having a picnic and getting some fresh air and ocean views by the coast. If you are lucky you might even spot dolphins and other aquatic life.

Check Out the National Railway Museum

Both adults and kids can enjoy an afternoon at the National Railway Museum and there are lots of fun things to do here. Learn about the trains and how they have impacted the local history of the city, and even interact with and see the locomotives up close.

Aside from the interesting displays, this establishment offers free train rides around the building and ghost tours if you are brave enough. Don't miss out on your chance to make family memories in the railway museum!

What are the best family activities in Adelaide?

Things to do in adelaide with younger kids.

The zoo is always one of the best kid friendly activities to attend in any city, and the one in Adelaide is excellent. Young kids will have a great time seeing all of the animals that have come from around the world.

The National Railway Museum is another top choice for fun kids' things to do in Adelaide, because who doesn't love trains? Young children are sure to enjoy this activity, and seeing the trains up close and learning about how they work can be an unforgettable experience.

If your kids haven't had enough at the Adelaide Zoo you can stop by the Cleland Wildlife Park . The animals here are all native to Australia so the children can learn about the local wildlife while having fun. It is even more exciting that you can interact with the creatures, which makes it a favorite activity for most families.

Things to do in Adelaide with older kids

The Adelaide Oval is an interesting activity that all kids and grown-ups can enjoy, but younger children might get bored watching a game or while on the tour. However, older kids that enjoy sports will have a blast!

If you choose the right paths in Adelaide Hills they will not be too difficult and can be done by people of all ages. However, toddlers and young kids might have a harder time walking through the pathways and won't get as much out of the experience compared to older children.

TreeClimb is a great place to be active and with the Kids Course, even children can have fun. However, small children might not be able to participate or will not have access to as many of the attractions as older kids can, like the Grand Course which is reserved for bigger kids.

Free things to do in Adelaide with kids

There is so much to do at the Beachouse and you might be surprised to learn that entry is completely free. Keep in mind that it might be busier than usual on school holidays and weekends, but since you don't have to pay to get in there is no reason to not go check it out.

Shadow Initiation in the South Australian Museum in Adelaide offers free entry every day that they are open. This means that you can come to visit at any time and play the Shadow Initiation game as often as you want! Be aware that you might want to reserve spots in advance in case the museum gets busy.

Being a coastal city, Adelaide has lots of lovely beaches for you to enjoy. Since many, if not all, of them are public you won't have to pay to get in. Grab a beach towel, some sunscreen, a water bottle and a bathing suit then head to the local beaches to suntan, make sandcastles or spot wild dolphins off the shore.

A Family Holiday in the South Australian Capital

Taking vacations and spending quality time as a family is important, and if you have chosen Adelaide as your travel destination then you will have an excellent time. The city has a certain European charm and you can find something fun for everyone to enjoy.

It won't be hard to find family friendly accommodation and activities suitable for kids, whether you want to spend time outside at the Adelaide Botanic Garden or take a stroll by Port Adelaide . As for indoor activities, you can visit an art gallery or museum, shop for souvenirs , go watch a sports game or see if there are any upcoming events in the theaters and cinemas.

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21 Free Things to Do in Adelaide with Kids

Are you looking for something free to do with kids in Adelaide?

Traveling with kids can be expensive, but thankfully, there are lots of fun and free things to do in Adelaide.

Whether you want to spend a few hours in a museum, tour a chocolate factory, or explore the botanic gardens, there are plenty of options for places to take kids in Adelaide for free.

You can even get around Adelaide on public transportation for free!

Some items on this list are better for older kids and teens while others are fun for all ages.

Keep reading to find the best free things to do in Adelaide with kids.

Free Indoor Things to Do with Kids in Adelaide

#1 australian space discovery centre.

While the open hours of the Australian Space Discovery Centre vary, it is always free to enter.

This museum is self-guided and visitors can stay as long as they want, so long as it is within the open hours. Many of the exhibits are hands-on.

Workshops take place throughout the day. We learned about the Space Station that is located right there inside the museum, answered trivia about space, and learned about Australia’s connection to space.

Don’t miss the Plants in Space exhibit off the lobby.

#2 South Australian Museum

Open daily from 10 am until 5 pm, the South Australian Museum has 5 floors of exhibits, most of which are free to enter.

The museum focuses on South Australia’s history as well as natural history. Much of the museum is interactive.

A shop and cafe are located at the South Australian Museum.

#3 Haigh’s Chocolate Factory Tour

Haigh’s Chocolate Shop has many locations around Adelaide, and their factory offers free tours , though you must sign up in advance.

The factory is open for guided tours from Mondays to Saturdays and lasts about 30 minutes.

If you can’t sign up for a guided tour, self-guided tours are available. We took the self-guided tour, and the kids loved watching the factory workers making chocolate. Some staff were extra friendly and walked up to the window to show the kids what they were working on.

#4 State Library of South Australia

Check out the events, workshops, and permanent exhibits at the State Library of South Australia, all of which are free.

The State Library of South Australia has plenty of family-friendly events . Check to see if you need to sign up or can walk in without a booking.

#5 Art Gallery of South Australia

General entry into the Art Gallery of South Australia is free, though there may be a charge for certain exhibits.

The museum is open daily, except for Christmas Day, from 10 am until 5 pm. A shop and cafe are located inside the museum.

As it is an art museum, and not interactive, this museum is best for older kids and teens.

#6 Start at the Gallery at Art Gallery of South Australia

Start at the Gallery is a free program for kids ages 3-12 that runs on the 1st Sunday of each month.

Start at the Gallery opens at 10:30 am and registration must be done that day in person. Activities include kid-friendly tours, art workshops, yoga classes, and storytime.

50+ Things to Do in Adelaide with Kids

MOD is a museum in Adelaide that is focused on the future. Entry is free and the museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 am until 5 pm.

Designed for those 15+, MOD may be interesting for a younger audience, but they must be guided through.

#8 Migration Museum

Open daily from 10 am until 5 pm, Adelaide’s Migration Museum has free entry.

The Migration Museum has exhibits about immigration. Some of their exhibits and events have a fee to enter.

#9 Adelaide Central Market

Kids can get their faces painted for free each Saturday at Adelaide Central Market .

Be sure to check out their school holiday programming for free workshops and events.

#10 Libraries

We love visiting our local libraries and we often visit the library while on holiday.

Libraries are always free and they welcome everyone, not just locals. Oftentimes, libraries have games, puzzles, and other things for kids to do in addition to books.

Plus, they offer air-conditioning on hot days.

Find the best Adelaide library children’s area for your visit.

#11 Ride on the Free Adelaide Metro City Connector Bus and Tram

The inner city loop is free as is a ride to the outer northern area of Adelaide. Find out which bus and tram to catch and explore Adelaide for free.

Free Outdoor Things to Do with Kids in Adelaide

#12 adelaide botanic gardens.

Adelaide Botanic Gardens is always free to enter.

While the hours vary depending on the day and time of year, the gardens are generally open during daylight hours. For specific dates, check here .

#13 Glenelg Beach

While you do have to pay for the train if you do not have your own transportation, Glenelg Beach is very close to Adelaide City and has plenty of free fun things to do for kids.

In addition to the beach and its calm water, there is a playground located right on the beach.

Near the train, and the entrance to the beach, is a splash pad that kids can play in before or after their day at the beach.

Things to Do with Kids in Adelaide at Night

#14 Storybook Trail

In Carrick Hill Parklands is Storybook Trail, which is free and open daily.

Storybook Trail includes items from children’s books including:

• Three Billy Goats Gruff
• The Secret Garden
• The Jungle Book
• The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
• Charlotte’s Web

#15 Hart’s Mill

Hart’s Mill in Port Adelaide has a playground and lots of places to explore with kids along the waterfront.

#16 Wilfred Taylor Reserve

Head to Wilfred Taylor Reserve for a fun day at the playground and walking on the nature trails. Wilfred Taylor Reserve is a great place for a family picnic.

Trains run on the 2nd and 4th Sunday of each month for a small fee.

#17 Check out the Street Art

Lots of street art has popped up around Adelaide. Find your favorites and take a tour!

#18 Mount Lofty Lookout and Botanic Gardens

You can drive up Mount Lofty to check out the view, and you can explore the Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens for free with kids.

Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens opens at 8:30 am daily througout the year and closes at 4 pm on week days and between 4 pm and 7 pm on weekends.

There is a large viewing area at the Mount Lofty Lookout.

#19 Wittunga Botanic and Butterfly Garden

The Wittunga Botanic and Butterfly Garden opens at 8:30 am daily and is always free to enter.

The gardens are wheelchair accessible.

A playground is located at the Wittunga Botanic Gardens and Butterfly Garden and there is a lake with ducks and turtles.

#20 Play on a Playground

Adelaide has lots of amazing playgrounds that offer free fun for kids.

Our kids didn’t want to leave Thorndon Park Reserve Playground and I get it! Not only does it have a cute design, but there is so much for kids to do including a flying fox, water play area, trampolines, and a swing set up like a carosaul.

Find the best playground in Adelaide for your kids.

#21 Play at a Splash Pad

Another fun place for kids to play for free is at a splash pad. Adelaide has plenty of splash pad options for hot summer days.

Free Things to Do with Kids in Adelaide Wrap-Up

We were pleased with the amount of free things to do with kids in Adelaide during our holiday in South Australia.

Of course, it is very easy to spend money on vacation, and that is true for Adelaide, but there are plenty of free options that are kid-friendly.

In addition to many playgrounds and splash pads, multiple botanic gardens are always free to enter.

For those who would rather be inside, Adelaide has free entry to many museums including the kid-friendly Australian Space Discovery Centre.

Not only are many museums free to enter, they also have free family-friendly workshops and events throughout the year, especially during the school holidays.

Lanie is the owner and author of Make More Adventures, a family travel blog that helps families make the most of their holidays. Lanie is an American living in Australia with her husband and 2 kids who love to travel almost as much as she does. When she is not traveling, working on her blog, or planning her next vacation, Lanie is watching Bravo, reading, or working with kids.

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Adelaide Central Market

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Are you looking for the best things to do with your kids in Adelaide? Look no further! This blog post will provide you with a comprehensive guide of all the great activities, attractions and experiences available for families to enjoy. From indoor play centres to outdoor parks and zoos, discover the top spots in Adelaide that will keep your children entertained while they have fun. So if you’re ready for a memorable day out with your kids, read on to find out what amazing activities are awaiting them in this beautiful city.

Adelaide Central Market is a great place for families to explore and have fun. Located in the heart of the city, this iconic marketplace offers a range of fresh produce, international foods, snacks, and other items. Kids can explore this vibrant and colourful market while trying out different types of food. They can enjoy a variety of treats such as sweet cakes and gourmet chocolates. There are also activities such as cooking classes and workshops aimed at children that will help them learn about where their food comes from and how to prepare it correctly. With its vibrant atmosphere, Adelaide Central Market is an ideal spot for families to spend quality time together while having fun.

Adelaide Botanic Garden is a great spot for families to explore in Adelaide! With plenty of green spaces, lush gardens, and interesting plants to discover, there is something for everyone here. Kids can learn about different species of plants and animals, as well as their habitats. They can also wander through the various trails winding throughout the garden, taking in the sights and sounds of nature. There are also interactive exhibits on offer where children can learn more about the environment and the importance of conservation. With plenty of fun activities suitable for all ages, Adelaide Botanic Garden is a great spot to visit with kids – they’ll love exploring the gardens and discovering new things!

Adelaide’s Glenelg Tram is a great way to explore the city with kids. Take a step back in time and enjoy a leisurely ride on the only remaining tram line in South Australia . Operating since 1873, this historic tram line runs around Adelaide’s picturesque bayside suburbs of Glenelg and Moseley Square. Enjoy spectacular views of the coast as you travel along the track. During your journey, keep an eye out for dolphins which can often be seen playing in the waters below! The Glenelg Tram also stops at some popular attractions such as Adelaide Aquatic Centre and Adelaide Zoo making it perfect for families looking to experience all that South Australia has to offer.

Adelaide Oval is one of the most popular attractions for families in Adelaide. This iconic location offers an array of activities and entertainment for kids, from cricket matches to interactive tours. Kids can see the field, where their favourite teams play, or explore the museum to learn about the history of Australian sports. The oval also has a fantastic playground that is perfect for letting off extra energy! There are plenty of picnic spots around the grounds as well, making it a great spot to enjoy a family lunch. A visit to Adelaide Oval is sure to be an unforgettable experience for kids and adults alike.

Adelaide Zoo is one of the most popular attractions for families in Adelaide, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for kids. Located just 5 km from the city centre, it is home to an array of native Australian wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, platypus and more. With over 1,800 animals onsite, your kids will love learning about these fascinating creatures and exploring their habitats. The zoo also offers interactive activities for children such as feeding sessions with the animals and educational programs designed to teach them about conservation and sustainability. Kids can get up close to some of Australia’s most endangered species in the amazing walk-through enclosures or take a ride on the miniature train to really explore the zoo grounds. Adelaide Zoo is sure to offer a fun day out that all the family can enjoy!

Adelaide’s South Australian Museum is a great place for kids to get up close and personal with the past. With its interactive exhibitions, galleries, and hands-on activities, kids can explore creatures from millions of years ago to modern-day mammals. With over 500,000 items in its collections, there’s something for everyone from expert paleontologists to budding young naturalists. Kids can also join in on daily events such as educational talks and demonstrations that let them learn about the museum’s exhibits in a fun way. And for those looking for more hands-on learning, the museum also offers special programs and workshops tailored to kids that allow them to become real scientists by conducting experiments and experimenting with the technology used in research. Whether it’s an hour or a whole day spent at the South Australian Museum, kids will leave with knowledge they wouldn’t have had otherwise – plus a newfound appreciation of our planet’s history!

Adelaide’s Rundle Mall is a great place to take kids for an enjoyable day out. It is considered the city’s premier shopping district, featuring hundreds of retailers and eateries ready to welcome visitors. For families with children, there are plenty of fun activities that can be enjoyed within the mall’s expansive grounds. Kids will love browsing the specialty stores, taking in the vibrant street performers, or exploring the interactive exhibits at South Australian History Museum. For those looking for some outdoor fun, there is an amazing adventure playground located nearby in Hindmarsh Square with lots of swings and slides to explore. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants located in and around Rundle Mall that offer kid-friendly menus suitable for all ages. No matter what kind of day you’re planning for your family, Rundle Mall provides something enjoyable for everyone!

Adelaide Metro Free City Connector Bus and Tram is a great way to explore Adelaide with kids. Not only is it free and convenient, but the system also provides a fun and educational way to travel around the city. Kids will love being able to get on and off at different stops, learning about each area of Adelaide as they go. The trams are wheelchair accessible and provide comfortable seating for the whole family. With frequent stops at popular attractions like museums, galleries, and parks, kids can explore new places while travelling in style. Plus, there’s no need to worry about parking or traffic—the bus and tram system takes care of all that for you!

Adelaide’s Himeji Garden is a must-see destination for families looking to explore the city with their children. Located in the south of Adelaide, this beautiful Japanese-style garden features lush landscaping and tranquil ponds that are adored by kids and adults alike. Visitors can feed the carp in the pond, stroll through the garden and admire its vibrant colours and fragrant flowers, or explore the charming teahouse. Kids will also love playing in the adventure playground, featuring swings, slides, tunnels, mazes and climbing frames. Himeji Garden offers a unique cultural experience for visitors of all ages – a perfect way to get your little ones excited about learning more about other cultures and nature!

North Terrace in Adelaide is a great destination for families looking to explore and learn. In this vibrant part of the city, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Kids can take part in interactive activities at the South Australian Museum and Art Gallery of South Australia, while parents can take in the stunning architecture and gardens. Kids will love exploring the vast array of sculptures adorning the wide boulevard and getting up close with native wildlife at Adelaide Zoo. With its expansive lawns, North Terrace is also a fantastic place to have a picnic with the family or just kick back on the grass and relax. And when it’s time for refreshments, there are plenty of cafes and ice cream stalls nearby to satisfy any sweet tooth!

Adelaide’s Botanic Park is the perfect destination for a day out with the kids. This stunning park is home to over 8,000 species of plants and trees, offering a gorgeous landscape for families to explore. Visitors can take guided walks and learn about the local flora and fauna, as well as visit the many interactive attractions including the zoo, botanical gardens and aviary. On top of this, there are plenty of play areas for kids to enjoy with swings and slides, picnic spots and even an amphitheatre. For an unforgettable family experience in Adelaide, make sure you visit Botanic Park!

Adelaide’s iconic Rundle Mall Pigs is a fun and unique attraction for kids of all ages. Located in the heart of the city, these adorable bronze sculptures adorn the entrance to the shopping district. Kids will love taking a photo with the statues and learning about their history. The three pigs were designed by artist Marguerite Derrico as part of an art installation in 1977 and have since become beloved symbols of Adelaide’s culture. Kids can also explore nearby shops and cafes while they’re at Rundle Mall, making it an ideal attraction for a family outing.

The Migration Museum in Adelaide is a great place to take the kids for an educational and entertaining day out. Located on Kintore Avenue, the museum offers interactive exhibits that explore Australia’s history of migration and settlement. Kids can learn about what life was like for migrants through hands-on activities such as dressing up in traditional clothing, playing musical instruments from around the world, or creating their own artwork inspired by different cultures. The museum also has a range of fun family events throughout the year, such as performances and story-telling sessions. With so much to see and do, your kids are sure to have an unforgettable experience at this unique attraction!

Adelaide’s Waterfall Gully is a great place to take the kids for a day out. Located within the picturesque Cleland Conservation Park, the area is filled with natural beauty and abundant wildlife. The path to the Waterfall Gully lookout is an easy stroll that even the youngest of children can manage, taking you through some stunning bushland before arriving at the viewing platform. But if you’re looking for something more adventurous, there are plenty of trails, ranging from short hikes to longer walks and bike rides. Keep your eyes open while exploring too as you may spot koalas, kangaroos and other native animals along the way!

Carrick Hill is a historic estate and stunning estate located in South Australia, just a short drive from Adelaide’s city centre. It’s the perfect destination for a family day out with kids, with plenty of spectacular gardens to explore and fun activities to enjoy. Kids will love discovering the beautifully landscaped grounds, strolling around the lake and spotting kangaroos in their natural habitat. There are also plenty of educational opportunities on offer, including interactive exhibitions and art workshops designed specifically for children. Take part in an enlightening guided tour around the house and learn about its fascinating history before taking some time out to relax at the café. Carrick Hill is a fantastic place to visit with kids as it combines outdoor exploration with an appreciation for history and art.

Adelaide Arcade is a great spot to take the kids in Adelaide! Located at the city’s heart, this historical arcade offers a unique and exciting experience for children and adults alike. The buzzing atmosphere of the arcade creates a vibrant and fun setting, with plenty to do. Kids can play classic pinball machines, try their hand at penny-slot machines or explore the fascinating collection of antique toys from yesteryear. They can also indulge in some sweet treats from one of the many candy stores that adorn the interior corridors. With its interactive displays, stimulating attractions and nostalgic atmosphere, Adelaide Arcade provides a memorable experience that kids won’t forget!

Adelaide Fringe is an exciting and engaging way to explore the vibrant city of Adelaide with your family. It is a festival that celebrates art and creativity, featuring performances from local, national and international artists in venues all over the city. Every year, thousands of people flock to Adelaide for this event which features music, theatre, comedy and more! Whether you are looking for something fun for your kids or just want to soak up some culture on your trip to Adelaide – there’s something at the Fringe that will delight everyone in the family. From street performers entertaining crowds downtown to world-renowned musicians playing their latest hits – get ready for an unforgettable experience when you attend the Adelaide Fringe!

Adelaide’s National War Memorial is the perfect place to take kids for a memorable day out. Located in the heart of the city, the memorial is dedicated to those who have served Australia during times of conflict. Not only does it provide a great educational opportunity, allowing children to learn more about our country’s history, but it also offers plenty of activities that will keep them entertained. Kids can explore interactive exhibits like the Hall of Memory and The Heirloom Collection, where they can view military memorabilia and artifacts collected over time. They can also listen to stories told by guides at various interpretive sites around the memorial or take part in special events such as guided tours and art workshops. With so much to see and do, the National War Memorial is sure to be an unforgettable experience for your kids!

Adelaide, South Australia is home to a family-friendly experience that any kid will love! Paracombe Premium Perry is a fun, educational cider-tasting and production facility near Adelaide’s city centre. From the moment you arrive at this popular destination, your kids will be entertained with interactive displays and tastings in the Cider House. Here they can learn about the process of making cider and explore the different flavours and varieties available. Kids can also take part in special activities like pressing their own apple juice or helping with filling barrels in the barrel room. There’s even a petting zoo where they can get up close to some of Australia’s native wildlife! Afterwards, grab a tasty snack from the cafe or pick up a souvenir from one of their gift shops – all in all, Paracombe Premium Perry is sure to provide your family with an unforgettable day out in Adelaide!

Adelaide is home to St Francis Xavier Cathedral, an iconic and picturesque Catholic church located in the heart of the city. This stunning structure has been drawing visitors since its construction in 1879 and is a popular spot for families to visit when exploring Adelaide with kids. While admiring the grandeur of the cathedral from the outside, children can explore the grounds, learn about the history of Catholicism in Australia, and marvel at the intricate architecture and stained glass windows adorning its interior. A visit here is sure to provide educational opportunities as well as memories that will last a lifetime.

The Adelaide Showground Farmers’ Market is the perfect destination for families looking for a fun and educational experience in Adelaide. This vibrant weekly market offers fresh and local produce from around the region, giving kids a hands-on experience with where their food comes from. Not only can they learn about the value of locally produced food, but they can also sample some delicious products straight from the farmer’s stall. There are also plenty of entertainment options available throughout the day, including live music and performances from local artists, as well as children’s activities such as face painting and treasure hunts. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder why this vibrant farmers’ market has become a popular destination for families with children of all ages.

Adelaide’s The Mall’s Balls Statue is a fun and family-friendly attraction in the city. Located on North Terrace, near the South Australian Museum, the giant stainless steel sculpture of four reflective spheres is an iconic part of the Adelaide skyline. Made from 8,000 individually polished stainless steel balls suspended from a granite base, it offers a unique playground experience for kids. Perfect for climbing and exploring, your kids will be entertained for hours by this amazing installation. Whether it’s rolling down the spheres or pretending to be trapped inside one of them, The Mall’s Balls Statue provides learning opportunities as well as hours of imaginative fun and play. Plus, its close proximity to other attractions means that you can make a day out of your visit to The Mall’s Balls Statue!

Adelaide’s Bonython Park is a great place to take the kids for an exciting and educational day out. Located within walking distance of the city, this park offers plenty of activities and attractions to keep the whole family entertained. Kids can explore and play in the large open green spaces, while there are also playgrounds, an animal nursery and a splash pad with water features. A miniature railway runs through the park too, which is always popular with young children. There’s also a range of picnic areas where families can enjoy food together as well as barbecue facilities available. For those looking for something more educational, there’s always the South Australian Museum – located conveniently nearby – which hosts interactive exhibitions about zoology, geology, anthropology and history among other topics that kids will find both fun and informative.

Adelaide’s Chinatown is a vibrant cultural centre that offers plenty of fun and educational activities for kids. With its colourful architecture, special events, and unique shops and restaurants, it’s a great spot to explore with the family. Here you’ll find an array of activities perfect for kids, such as game centres, movie theatres, and karaoke bars. The area also hosts regular festivals throughout the year like Chinese New Year or Moon Lantern Festival. Kids can learn about Chinese culture, try traditional snacks and delicacies like dumplings or mooncakes, or even take part in dragon boat races! It’s a great place to get your kids excited about different cultures around the world – all while having lots of fun together!

Woodhouse Activity Centre is an exciting indoor play centre in Adelaide that offers kids the chance to explore, learn, and have fun all under one roof. Featuring a variety of different interactive play areas and activities, this family-friendly establishment provides an ideal day out for kids of all ages. From trampolines and foam pits to climbing walls and slides, there’s something for everyone here. Kids can even take part in arts & crafts activities or enjoy some delicious snacks at the cafe. With staff on hand to assist with any queries, Woodhouse Activity Centre is the perfect place for parents to relax while their children are entertained and having a great time!

West Beach in Adelaide is a great spot for kids and the whole family to enjoy. With a beautiful sandy beach stretching out along the coast, it provides the perfect opportunity to have some fun in the sun. The calm waters make it great for swimming, and you can even rent stand-up paddle boards if you’re feeling adventurous. There are plenty of other activities here too; from beach volleyball courts to playgrounds and picnic areas, there’s something for everyone in the family. West Beach also hosts a range of events throughout the year, like outdoor cinema screenings and live music concerts, so there’s always something new to experience here. Overall, West Beach is a wonderful destination for families looking to relax and have some quality time together by the seaside in Adelaide.

Elder Park is a great destination for families in Adelaide, located along the River Torrens. It is full of activities to keep your kids entertained, from interactive play areas and water fountains that are perfect for splashing around in on hot summer days, to a wildlife sanctuary where children can meet and feed birds, lizards and turtles. Other attractions include walking trails with stunning views of the city skyline and botanical gardens filled with native plants. For those looking for something more educational, Elder Park also features an Indigenous Cultural Centre full of fascinating artefacts as well as a library that hosts workshops and talks about Aboriginal culture. With all these fun activities, you can be sure your kids will have an unforgettable experience at Elder Park!

Victoria Square/ Tarntanyangga in Adelaide is a must-see destination for families with children. Situated in the heart of the city, this vibrant square offers a range of activities and experiences that will entertain and educate kids of all ages. During summer, there are daily water feature displays, interactive art installations and performances from local musicians. In addition, the square also boasts several outdoor games for children including giant chess, mini golf and hopscotch. For those seeking an educational experience, there are guided tours teaching about local Aboriginal culture along with interactive arts workshops. With so much to do and explore, Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga is sure to keep your kids entertained while they learn about their city’s history and culture!

Adelaide is home to many wonderful attractions for children, and The Parade Norwood is one of the best. It’s a great area offering plenty of fun activities for kids of all ages, from small toddlers to older children. The Parade features a park with a mini train ride, electric cars, swings, slides, and even mini golf. Kids can also enjoy the splash pad, trampolines and play pools with plenty of water fountains to explore. Not only does The Parade provide an exciting day out for families but it also serves as a great learning experience with interactive exhibits that teach little ones about science and nature. With so much to do and see at The Parade Norwood, it’s no wonder why this delightful destination is a hit among Adelaide’s families.

Cleland Conservation Park is an absolute must-see for families visiting Adelaide with kids. Located on the slopes of Mount Lofty, it offers visitors a unique opportunity to connect with nature as they explore its lush bushlands, enjoy wildlife encounters, and take in stunning views of the city. Kids will love the chance to spot native Australian animals including kangaroos, koalas, wallabies, echidnas and various bird species. There’s also a great range of activities to keep them entertained including guided walks, hands-on environmental education programs and interactive displays. Plus there are cafes and picnic spots so you can refuel after a day exploring!

Adelaide is the perfect place to take your kids for a memorable day out! From Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga, with its stunning location and interactive art installations, to The Parade Norwood where you can enjoy mini train rides, electric cars and plenty of playground activities. And let’s not forget Cleland Conservation Park which offers visitors an opportunity to explore lush bushlands and spot native animals in their natural habitat. Whether you want indoor or outdoor fun, Adelaide has something for everyone. So why wait? Start planning your next family adventure today!

Luke is a real explorer who loves nothing more than hitting the road and discovering new places. He’s big into learning about different cultures, and he’s always got his eye out for the next adventure.

On top of that, Luke is a massive nature buff. He loves to be outdoors, whether that’s hiking up a mountain or chilling in a local park. There’s just something about being in the open air that really makes him happy.

As for his personality, Luke’s a super friendly guy who’s always ready to meet new people. He loves a good laugh and is all about having a great time, wherever he is.

With all his travels and love for nature, Luke’s got heaps of stories to share. Whether you’re up for a chat about different cultures, need some tips for your next outdoor adventure, or just want to have a laugh, Luke’s your guy.

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Adelaide with kids

What to do in Adelaide with kids? Adelaide is located on the coast in southern Australia. Although the city may not be as well known to families with kids, you can easily spend a few days in Adelaide entertaining the family. The city has several fun children’s activities you can do here. The city is also known for its many parks and many festivals held in the city. In this blog, we list the best children’s activities in Adelaide for you.

Table of contents

Best travel time Adelaide with kids

You can visit the city of Adelaide with kids year-round. Adelaide has a mild climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Throughout the year, Adelaide doesn’t get that much rain, so you don’t really have a rainy season either. The best travel time is from October through April, as it is summer in Adelaide and temperatures are above 20 degrees most of the day. A great time to visit the city as it is also possible to go swimming with kids, for example.

Transportation to and in Adelaide

Adelaide is nicknamed the 20-minute city because public transportation is so well organized. Basically, you should be able to get anywhere in the city within 20 minutes. You can reach many places in the city by subway. For many families with kids, Adelaide is the starting point to explore Australia’s outback and to visit tourist sites like Uluru and Darwin from Adelaide.

They then rent a car or an RV for this tour. If you want to rent a car in Australia, we always recommend the rental cars from Sunny Cars. You pay one price and that includes everything in terms of insurance for the car. For more information on renting a car in Australia, take a look here.

Children’s activities Adelaide

#1 adelaide zoo.

You can take kids to the zoo in Adelaide. The Adelaide Zoo is located in the middle of the city, and its biggest attraction is the panda bear. In addition to this panda bear, you also have several large African animals to view such as the giraffe, lion, zebra, hippopotamus and different types of monkeys. Of course, typical Australian animals are also represented in this zoo.

Another thing to do at the Adelaide Zoo with kids is the section where kids can feed animals. You can buy some food for 2 Australian dollars and feed different animals with it. These are mostly the familiar petting zoo animals. The zoo also has a playground and an interactive area for kids. You can easily spend an entire morning or afternoon at this zoo with the kids.

Another place to go in Adelaide with kids to see animals is the Cleland Wildlife Park. This park is located just outside the center of Adelaide about 20 minutes away by car. Here you will find mostly Australian animals such as kangaroos, wallabies, emus, wombats and koalas, several of which also roam freely throughout the park. Also at this park you can buy a bag of food and feed the animals in the park. Kids can also get close to the animals here and pet kangaroos, for example.

#2 The Beachhouse

A fun place in Adelaide with lots to do for kids is The Beachhouse. This park is located slightly outside the city center on the waterfront and you reach the park in about 15 minutes by car. You can buy a 70, 100 or 120-minute unlimited pass here, where you can do all the activities at The Beachhouse during that time. You can also buy individual credits for the games and attractions in the park.

First, you have a water park located at The Beachhouse with several slides. Keep in mind that kids must be at least 100 cm and 120 cm for the various slides in this water park. In addition, you can play miniature golf with kids at The Beachhouse. The Beachhouse also has several attractions for young kids such as the bumper cars, a carousel, bumper boats and an electric train.

In addition, it is also possible to play various Arcade games at The Beachhouse. There is also an indoor playground for young kids. The Beachhouse is a great activity for a morning or an afternoon and also an excellent activity if the weather in Adelaide is cooler, for example. For more information on opening hours, different tickets and all activities, take a look at The Beachhouse website.

#3 Treeclimb Adelaide

You can also go climbing in Adelaide with kids. The Treeclimb Adelaide climbing park is located right in the city center, and you have courses for kids as well as adults here. Kids can climb on this course if they are taller than 100 cm. Parents cannot climb this course, but can of course walk with the kids.

A kid’s course session lasts 80 minutes and this time includes instruction from a supervisor and putting on climbing gear. You have 3 different courses for kids with a total of 21 different obstacles.

If your kids are taller than 135 cm, they can also climb the adult course here. So at this course you can go climbing with your kids. You have 5 different courses here with a total of 52 different obstacles. In total, a session here lasts 120 minutes. We always find it a fun activity to do with our daughter. Especially also because you can be nice and active with the whole family.

Another climbing park you can visit in Adelaide with kids is West Beach Adventure. This is located slightly outside the city about 15 minutes away by car. Here, kids as young as 120 cm can go climbing as high as 18 meters under adult supervision, and you can also do other spectacular things like the MegaJump and Giant Swing. So this park is especially suitable for slightly older kids who want to go climbing with their parents.

#4 MOD Museum

If you and your kids also enjoy visiting a museum in Adelaide, the MOD Museum is a fun option. Located right in the center of the city, this museum is an interactive museum on science, art and innovation. You have here on 2 floors, several rooms all with a certain theme.

The museum does cater to older kids 15 years old and up. Younger kids are certainly welcome, but some experiments may be too difficult for them. Please note that the museum is closed on Mondays and Sundays and also during certain vacation periods. You can have a great 2 hours of fun here with kids.

Another museum you can visit in Adelaide with kids is South Australia Museum. This is a museum that has free admission and is located right in the center of the city. You’ll find lots of information about Australia’s history, Aborigines and nature. You also have a collection of stuffed animals here that you can check out, and at the entrance, take a moment to see which departments you as a family find interesting and which ones you want to visit.

#5 Belair National Park

As we mentioned in the introduction to this blog, Adelaide is known for its many parks surrounding the city. Belair National Park is one of these parks and this park is located just outside the city about 15 minutes away by car. You can do several short walks here with kids of less than an hour. For example, at the Wilyawa Track hike, you can walk to a waterfall, among other things, in less than an hour.

Belair National Park is also home to Belair Adventure Playground. This is a huge nature playground, where kids can enjoy playing in nature. They have different playground equipment here made of natural materials. For example, here you have several wooden houses, where the kids can play and also several climbing devices. So a cool budget activity in Adelaide!

Other children’s activities Adelaide

You can do several other things in Adelaide besides the children’s activities mentioned above. We briefly list the other children’s activities in Adelaide below.

#6 Bounce Inc : the trampoline parks of Bounce Inc. are located throughout Australia and also in Adelaide, kids can go jumping on trampolines and climbing on Bounce’s climbing equipment. You can buy several tickets to the park here, and usually one ticket to such a park for an hour (or 2) is more than enough. This is also a great place to go with kids when the weather is not so good in Adelaide.

#7 The Popeye Cruise : You can also go on a cruise in Adelaide with the family. You can book a 45-minute cruise on the Torrens River and you will sail through the city center. That way, you can see the city from the water in a relaxing way.

#8 Adelaide Aquatic Center: if you are looking for a place to go swimming with kids, this is a nice option. They have 3 different pools here as well as a sauna and steam room. The Leisure pool is especially fun to visit with kids. This pool also has several slides for the kids. This pool is also not that deep, making it suitable for young kids as well.

#9 Woodhouse adventure Park : this is another park, where kids can enjoy playing outdoors. Woodhouse adventure Park is a 25-minute drive from the center of Adelaide, and your options here include a climbing area, a labyrinth, a large ramp you can go down in a tire and an indoor climbing wall, where you can boulder with kids.

#10 Elder Park : this is a fun city park on the river that you can visit with kids. Popeye’s cruises also start here, so these two activities are great to combine. The park is clean and also has enough grassy areas to go on picnics with kids. They also have pedal boats in the park that you can rent.

#11 Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary : in the north of the city (20 minutes away by car) you can go to this tourist attraction with kids. Here you take a kayak out on the water and can see dolphins up close. Because they are wild animals and they are not fixed, you just have no guarantee that you will definitely see them.

#12 Adelaide Botanical Garden : you can also escape the hustle and bustle of the city in Adelaide by visiting the city’s botanical gardens. You can take a walk through these gardens here, and you have free admission to the gardens.

#13 Glenelg Beach : you can also go to the beach in Adelaide with kids. Glenelg beach is a large beach, so you will always have room on this beach with kids. You also have several carnival rides near the beach (including a Ferris wheel) and you can play a game of miniature golf. There are also several parlors where you can buy ice cream with kids.

#14 Pityarilla (Park 19) : this is another park in downtown Adelaide and in this park you have a nice playground located (Pityarilla Activity HUB). Kids can play on a variety of equipment made from natural materials in this nature playground. There is also an area where kids can play with water. A nice play place to go to for an hour.

#15 Morialta Conservation Park : this is another nature park in the Adelaide area. You can hike to various waterfalls here, and the park also has a playground for kids. It is even possible to spot koalas in the wild here.

Family-friendly restaurant Adelaide

You can eat out in Adelaide with kids just fine. Adelaide has several nice family-friendly restaurants. We list some of these fun family-friendly restaurants in Adelaide below.

Peter Rabbit Cafe : This family-friendly restaurant is located in the middle of town and you can enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner outside in the cafe’s garden. It does have a bit of the feel of a beach club and there is a relaxed atmosphere in this hip restaurant. You can eat a variety of egg dishes here, as well as a burger with fries. They also have a variety of fruit smoothies here.

The Hot Pot Guy : This restaurant is also located right in the center of Adelaide and you can eat Asian food here. They have an indoor playground with a large ball pit at this restaurant, where kids can play.

Belair Hotel : this is another family-friendly restaurant in Adelaide with a large play area for kids at the restaurant. This space is next to the restaurant and is filled with beanbags, toys and games. They also have a children’s menu at this restaurant and on Monday nights kids eat here for free.

Beerenberg Farm : this is a strawberry farm, where kids can pick strawberries and it is also possible to have a bite to eat here with the family. You can also have a nice ice cream here with kids.

Family-friendly hotel Adelaide

You can stay in Adelaide with kids just fine. You have plenty of family-friendly hotels in the city where you can stay with the family. We list the top rated family-friendly hotels here, and we do so for different price ranges. Click on the blue link for more information about the respective hotel.

Budget hotel : YHA Adelaide Central

Mid-range hotel : Mayfair Hotel

Luxury hotel : Oaks Adelaide Hoirzons Suites

If the above family-friendly hotels in Adelaide don’t include a good option, check out the full list of family-friendly accommodations in Adelaide .

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