Things to do in Adelaide this summer

Head to the beach

South Australia has some amazing beaches that rival the best in the country. Everything from regional delights in the Fleurieu Peninsula to the cosmopolitan offerings at Glenelg, Brighton and Henley. Be sure to cover up with long sleeves, sunscreen and a hat, then sit, back and relax, or take to the water to splash around and cool off.

Go for a walk

A stroll in the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, Wittunga Botanic Gardens, or Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens – each with its own lush green landscape – can offer you a peaceful respite from the hot city streets. Sit for a moment in the shaded cool and enjoy the natural surroundings, perhaps even with a picnic lunch or morning coffee.

North Terrace culture

Visiting some of our cultural institutions is a great way to get out of the summer heat and learn about our unique Australian history. Located on North Terrace, you can enjoy free entry to the South Australian Museum and the Art Gallery of South Australia. A little further down the road, adjacent to the Morphett Street Bridge, is the University of South Australia's MOD, a futuristic museum of discovery. Always changing, this relative newcomer is squarely aimed at those aged between 15-25, though people outside of this range will also enjoy it.

Visit a cellar door or explore a winery

South Australia is well known for its beautiful wineries, and over the past few years we have built up a justified reputation as a location for quality breweries and distilleries as well. Either regionally, or closer to the city, you can find plenty of places where you can relax and enjoy a beverage that has been locally produced.

Enjoy a picnic

Adelaide’s parklands offer a fantastic location to meet for a picnic with friends. Head to the Adelaide Central Market first to stock up on fresh cheeses, charcuterie and summer fruits and then pull up a piece of grass and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city.

Hang out by the Torrens

The River Torrens has plenty of options for activities to enjoy nearby during the summer months. Follow the river through the city as you take to the walking or bike trails or spend some time on the water itself in a paddleboat or kayak.

Visit a playground

For those with young children, a playground can be the perfect place to visit on a summer’s day to keep the kids happy and entertained. Many of Adelaide’s favourites include water play areas, such as Marshmallow Park/Pityarilla Activity Hub on Glen Osmond Road, and Quentin Kenihan/Rymill Park Accessible Playground in the middle of Adelaide. Tusmore Park, Tusmore has a wading pool that is available for the public to use at any time. The park received an upgrade in March 2022, and the pool area is now fully fenced and new attractions have been added.

Visit Festival Plaza

If the temperature gets a little too warm, visit the Festival Plaza fountain for a splash around. Kids and adults alike love the interaction of the water play features – with misting and pooling water that is mesmerising to watch.

Enjoy the festivities

Locals know that the warmer months are when Adelaide really comes alive and we very much live up to our “Festival State” nickname. It’s events galore with the Adelaide 500, The Adelaide Fringe and Festival, and WOMAD all on offer during the warmer months. Even if you haven’t bought tickets to see anything, spending time in the city allows you to soak up the atmosphere of these premium festivals.

Whatever your interests, Adelaide in the summer months is a wonderful place to be. Take advantage of what our great city has to offer and enjoy the natural beauty, spectacular events and outstanding facilities right here on our doorstep.