Adelaide featured as one of The New York Times worldwide destinations to visit in 2015 – the only Australian city listed. Of course, this only confirms what many South Australians already know – that with its magnificent beaches, wine regions and bustling city centre, Adelaide is where it’s all happening. While temperatures can soar in summer, the cooler months of spring are the perfect time to stroll around the North Terrace and embrace the culture on offer in the coolest part of the city.
North Terrace
Take a walk through this charming district to delight in the city’s architecture, most of which is derived from British roots. It is littered with cultural gems to fill your day and you’ll leave having learned something new. The best way to explore North Terrace is by taking a guided walking tour, which can be arranged at the South Australian Visitor Centre.
Art Gallery of South Australia
With some 38,000 pieces of art on display, finding something you like shouldn’t be too difficult. There are several exhibitions currently on show, including:
- Rembrandt and the Etching Revival
- Bill Viola: Selected works
- Geoffrey Brown.
Entry to the gallery is free, although there may be charges for some exhibitions. You can download the mobile web app or hire a free iPod from the tour desk.
State Library of South Australia
Whatever you need to know about South Australia, you will find it here. Perhaps you want to search for family members or check convict logs to dig out the petty criminals in your family history? Or if you’re a cricket fan, then you shouldn’t go past the collection of Bradman memorabilia.
Museum of Economic Botany
This museum doesn’t just catalogue plants but also details the history of how plants were used to make everyday objects, which we now couldn’t be without. From cloth to cosmetics, food to fashion, we simply can’t live without plants.
Of course, if you’re visiting Adelaide from out of town, you’ll be looking for somewhere to stay – as one day simply isn’t enough. No matter how much you’re looking to spend, you’ll find something to suit your budget and tastes. Here are some suggestions:
Hotel Metro
If you don’t mind sharing a bathroom, then you can keep your accommodation costs down. Don’t worry – this doesn’t mean you have to stay in a backpackers ‘hotel’. The Metropolitan Hotel is clean and centrally located, with single rooms costing around $70 per night and queen rooms, $90. Rooms are air-conditioned and have TVs and a small fridge.
Adelaide Serviced Accommodation
If you’re staying a little longer in the city and don’t want to be eating out every night, then a serviced apartment is a good option. From $140 per night, Adelaide Serviced Accommodation offers apartments and townhouses to suit your travelling party. Free off-street parking is available and will help keep costs down for those driving to the city.
Adelaide Hotel
The InterContinental will make it difficult for you to see much of the city, as you simply won’t want to leave the comfort of your room. Sitting right on the banks of the River Torrens, and with a stunning roof-top pool, you’ll be forgiven for forgetting the city is right at your doorstep. Accommodation costs around $200 for a king bed river view room so not too expensive as a special splurge.
