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 garden 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. Check out the State Library, Wine Centre, or Adelaide Festival Plaza while you’re in the area.

Catch a movie under the stars

Available in Adelaide until 16 February 2025 in Botanic Park, Adelaide’s Moonlight Cinema is a must-try experience for the summer holidays. Catch a new or old film, including some Christmas classics, under the stars. If you’re feeling special, you can book a ‘Gold Grass’ ticket (their version of Gold Class) with premium seating and waiter service.

Visit the Adelaide Central Market and 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 put down a picnic rug and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city.

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.

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 Santos Tour Down Under, 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.

Health Partners is the Official Health Partner of the 2025 Santos Tour Down Under, being held from 17-26 January 2025. As a trusted partner in health, we’re excited to support this legendary South Australian event that inspires thousands to be active and enjoy our great state. There’ll be plenty of kid-friendly giveaways and activities, including the Health Partners Family Day Ride on Saturday 18 January, where kids and adults can ride together in Adelaide’s East End.

Find out more about where you can find us over the 10 day event >