The city was designed from the very beginning, with wide streets and numerous town squares, parks and wide open spaces.
Unlike its eastern city counterparts, convicts did not colonise Adelaide. Adelaide was first settled by Europeans in 1826, most of whom were British. Others included were German, Polish, Afghan, Chinese, Italian, Lebanese, Spanish and Scandinavians.
The city has preserved many of its original stone houses made by the original settlers as well as the more grand historic public buildings built during the Gold Rush years.
Parks and Gardens
The large green belt surrounding the centre of the city marks Adelaide as an unique city.
In the heart of the city and out into the suburbs, flows River Torrens that stretches for miles. Sealed cycling paths and hiking trails follow its course through gardens, parks, and natural bush.
Adelaide Botanic Garden, Mount Lofty Summit, Hallett Cove Conservation Park, Cleland Wildlife Park, and Belair National Park are among the many outstanding outdoor venues.
There are plenty of things to explore within easy reach of Adelaide as well. In the southern part of the Mount Lofty Ranges, there are the pretty Adelaide Hills, Kangaroo Island and the Fleurieu Peninsula.
The Art Gallery of South Australia holds one of Australia’s finest art collections, housed in a beautiful historic building, a fine example of Colonial architecture.
The collections are divided geographically into three main areas: Europea, Australia and Asian. Contemporary works are displayed alongside period painting and sculpture. The gallery also contains a wonderful collection of Aboriginal art.
Adelaide Tours
Go exploring the Kimberleys, take a wine tour of Barossa Region and go for a few days to the Flinders Ranges National Park.
The beautiful Adelaide Hills has many historic townships. There are many other tours, such as watching the Penguin Parade on Kangaroo Island that can be a real joy.
Adelaide Activities and Things to Do
In Adelaide there are Attractions & Tours to try, Creative Things to Do, Driving Experiences, Adventure and Extreme, Family Things to Do, Flying, Getaways, Activities for your Group, Outdoors, Pampering experiences, Water Activities, Wine & Dine.
Numerous hotels from the best chains are represented in Adelaide, as well as the chance to stay in luxurious heritage accommodation.
As well, other options include motels, youth and backpacker hostels, caravan parks and bed and breakfast places to stay to suit any budget.
Wining and Dining
South Australia produces most of Australia’s wine and Adelaide’s proximity to the Indian Ocean ensures the freshest of seafoods as well as its own fresh produce.
Italian settlers to Australia now make up the city’s largest non-Anglo cultural group, adding their distinctive styles of food preparation in the wide choices of fine cuisine available in the Adelaide area.