Must-see bucket list from the local organising committee.
Discover Adelaide’s hidden gems and must-visit spots during ACEM 2024!
Best place for a bike ride or walk
1
Morialta - Three Falls Hike
A hike that visits all three of the waterfalls in Morialta Conservation Park.
7.3km, 3.5H Circuit.
2
Hallett Cove - board walk
Clifftop boardwalk along the rocky coastline. Be rewarded with restaurants at end to greet you!
5.1 km, 2H one way.
3
Mt Lofty - summit walk
Waterfall gully to Mt Lofty summit, a café on either end and views over Adelaide city.
7.8km, 3H return.
4
Bike along the Torrens
5
Walk Henley to Grange
Best family friendly activities
1
Adelaide TreeClimb
Australia’s first Inner City Aerial Adventure Park and TreeClimb’s first location!
Courses:
Kids: for 100cm+
Grand: for 135cm+
and a nets adventure for 2-10 years.
2
Henley Beach
Enjoy the boardwalk in this must-visit seaside paradise.
Surrounded by restaurants and centered around bustling Henley Square, make sure to hunt for some fish and chips and ice-cream!
3
Monarto Safari Park
The largest safari experience outside of Africa. Spanning more than 1,500 hectares and home to more than 50 species of exotic and native mammals, birds and reptiles, you can fit every major zoo in Australia inside the Park and still have land left over.
4
Adelaide Zoo
A zoo in the heart of Adelaide, and home to the only two giant pandas in the southern hemisphere. Not to mention there is a playground in the zoo.
5
Hahndorf Farm Barn
A unique combination of a children’s farmyard and a nature wildlife park.
Best playgrounds
1
St Kilda adventure playground
The St Kilda Adventure Playground is an impressive and award-winning recreational area.
It boasts a variety of attractions, including a massive castle complete with slides and a drawbridge, a thrilling bouncy boomerang, a flying fox, a pirate ship, and a large volcano featuring multiple slides.
This playground truly offers something for everyone!
2
Bonython Play space
Explore the playspace by climbing, swinging, and spinning.
Observe children's vivid imaginations in action as they engage with the water play options (remember to bring a change of clothes!).
For young cyclists, the SAPOL Learn-to-Ride School provides an ideal place to practice riding skills.
3
Thorndon Park Playground
Thorndon Park is an exceptionally accessible and inclusive park. A must-visit playspace, it offers amenities such as toilets, barbecues, and shaded areas.
Notably, the park features a historic reservoir and a newly constructed all-inclusive play area, making it a major attraction suitable for visitors of all ages and abilities.
4
Semaphore Playgrounds
Yes not 1 or 2 but 3 playgrounds along semaphore beach.
5
Adelaide Zoo
Did we mention there is a playground in the Adelaide zoo!
Best day trip destination
1
Hahndorf Village
Hahndorf, Australia's oldest surviving German settlement, exudes a distinct German flavor.
The bustling main street is lined with smallgoods outlets, bakeries, pubs, restaurants, and cafes. Don't miss the opportunity for strawberry picking as well!
2
Any of the wine regions
Adelaide’s wine regions are ideal for day trips. We recommend exploring Barossa, Clare, Adelaide Hills, and McLaren Vale. Each of these regions offers unique vineyards, picturesque landscapes, and delightful wine-tasting experiences!
3
Victor Harbor & surrounds
Seaside charm, coastal views, and history await in Victor Harbor, just an hour from Adelaide.
Explore sandy beaches, hike clifftops, and ride the iconic horse-drawn tram to Granite Island, home to a colony of little penguins!
4
Birdwood / Gumeracha
Explore Adelaide Hills' best produce, wineries, and attractions near historic Gumeracha, including the giant rocking horse, Bay to Birdwood, and Gorge Wildlife Park.
On the water
1
Coorong River cruise
Discover the Coorong’s wetlands, sand dunes, birdlife, and the rich Aboriginal and European history of the Murray Mouth and Coorong waterway on a Coorong river cruise!
2
Murray River cruise
The Murray River offers captivating cruises through ancient gorges, red gum forests, and historic ports. You’ll sail past towering stone cliffs, explore local vineyards, and enjoy nature trails.
3
Port River dolphin kayak tours
The Port River dolphin kayak tours offer an eco-friendly adventure in Adelaide’s Dolphin Sanctuary. Paddle through sheltered mangrove creeks, spot Port River Dolphins, and connect with local culture. It’s a family-friendly and environmentally sound experience!
4
Glenelg dolphin cruise
Swimming with dolphins in their natural habitat is an incredible experience that’ll leave lasting memories. At Glenelg, you’ll have the opportunity to swim and play with these highly intelligent creatures.
5
Beaches
Dip your toes in at one of our many beaches.
Best lunch spot
1
Central Market
The Adelaide Central Market is a bustling culinary haven where over 70 traders come together under one roof.
We recommend a visit to Cumbia, Le Souk and Let Them Eat!
2
Ballabootsa
Ballaboosta on Halifax Street in Adelaide CBD offers a fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors. Don’t miss their wood-fired dishes and homemade sweets.
3
Peter Rabbit
Peter Rabbit, a whimsical garden cafe in Adelaide’s west end, serves all-day brunch and lunch with a modern twist.
Make sure to try their locally roasted 1645 coffee!
4
Mr Sunshine's
Nestled in an inner industrial suburb, Mister Sunshine's is a bright spot with a groovy, hunter-gatherer decor. They serve fresh wholesome food, ethical coffee, and sweet treats in a happy space.
5
Bloom
Bloom in Thebarton offers all-day breakfast and lunch with locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy their cozy indoor space or lush garden pavilion. Open 7 days a week!
Best dinner
1
NOLA
NOLA bar and eatery draws inspiration from New Orleans.
Cajun and Creole cuisine take center stage utilising the best quality and fresh local produce.
2
Jolley's Boathouse
Jolley’s Boathouse, perched along the River Torrens, offers riverfront views creating an ideal setting for special occasions, anniversaries, or romantic moonlit evenings.
The menu features fresh seafood and creative modern Australian cuisine.
3
Gin Long Canteen
Gin Long Canteen, by the River Torrens in Adelaide, offers vibrant Southeast Asian dining.
Come for a night of Vietnamese, Thai, and Malaysian flavours complemented by delightful cocktails and local wines.
4
Tsubaki (Beulah Park)
Tsubaki, a Japanese fusion restaurant, blends traditional and contemporary Japanese techniques in every dish.
Its cozy, minimalist ambiance makes it perfect for romantic dinners or outings with friends!
5
Stem
Stem's menu features delicious food, including hot pizza from a custom-built wood oven and fresh hand-rolled pasta.
Complemented by an extensive wine and beer list, Stem is a must-visit dinner spot.
Fine dining
1
In town: Chianti
Chianti is a family-run Italian trattoria that offers exquisite cuisine. Cozy ambiance, elegant design, and friendly staff make it ideal for romantic dinners or even business meetings!
2
In town: Aurora
Aurora offers world-class dining. Whether a la carte or tasting menus, Aurora celebrates culinary excellence.
3
Further out: Penfolds
Penfolds Magill Estate Restaurant, situated at the spiritual home of Penfolds in Adelaide, offers contemporary fine dining.
With stunning views, exemplary service, and an extensive collection of Penfolds wines, it’s one of Australia’s finest food and wine experiences.
4
Further out: Mount Lofty
Mount Lofty Estate, nestled high above the picturesque Piccadilly Valley in the Adelaide Hills, offers unparalleled dining experiences.
5
Further out: Windy Point
Windy Point, just 15 minutes from Adelaide’s heart, offers breathtaking panoramic views through full-length 180° windows.
Featuring unique contemporary Australian dining experience, enjoy menus that change with the seasons!
Best cellar door
1
McLaren Vale
Discover the exquisite McLaren Vale wine region. Our top cellar door recommendations include Maxwell Wines, Hugh Hamilton, d’Arenberg, and the enchanting Down the Rabbit Hole.
2
The Adelaide Hills
Embark on an Adelaide Hills wine adventure. Our handpicked cellar doors include Deviation Road, The Lane, Mount Lofty Vineyard, and Vinteloper.
3
Clare Valley
Explore the Clare Valley wine region. Our recommendations include Pike, Sevenhill, Shut the Gate, and the exquisite Mt Horrocks Wines.
4
Barossa
Just an hour’s drive northeast of the Adelaide airport, you can quickly find yourself in the middle of one of the world’s most famous wine regions, Barossa!
We recommend Hentley Farm, Brothers at war, Turkey flat and Penfolds.
Pub classics
1
The Kentish
The Kentish, a beautiful historic old pub located in leafy Stanley Street, North Adelaide, offers an interesting wine list, a range of craft beers, and delicious pub food. Whether you’re enjoying front or back outdoor seating, it’s a welcoming spot for locals and visitors alike.
2
The Cremorne
The Cremorne is a relaxed pub with spacious lounge areas, booths, dry bars, and a large beer garden. The menu focuses on modern Australian cuisine, featuring seasonal local produce. Whether you’re after a casual meal or a refreshing drink, The Cremorne is a top choice!
3
Uraidla
The Uraidla Hotel is a newly renovated historical pub. It features a quirky café, bakery, and brewery, all part of The Uraidla Republic.
Their menu highlights locally sourced produce, including ample vegan and vegetarian options, while their outdoor areas provide picturesque views of the Hills region.
4
Palais Semaphore
The Palais Hotel in Semaphore has been an institution since 1922. This award-winning pub offers a relaxed beachside atmosphere.
Locally sourced produce features prominently on their extensive menu, making it an ideal spot for a long lunch or intimate dinner.
5
Coopers Alehouse
The Original Coopers Alehouse in Adelaide CBD showcases Coopers Brewery’s rich history with contemporary dining. As the sole bar featuring the FULL RANGE of Coopers beers on tap, it’s a beer lover’s paradise.
Their impressive wine and gin list showcases SA selections. With a 2.5m super screen for sports enthusiasts, all-day dining, and awesome food specials, it’s the perfect spot to gather with friends.
Brewery
1
Mismatch Brewery
Indulge in exclusive limited releases at Mismatch Brewing, where brewers have the rare opportunity to craft small-batch beers.
The in-house brewery produces some of the most exciting and experimental beers, plus a rooftop view that is perfect to enjoy them!
2
Pirate Life
Pirate Life Brewing's expansive and industrial-style venue boasts more than 20 beers on tap.
Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking for a good time, the hospitable crew at Pirate Life is amped to share the love. Cheers!
3
Big Shed
Big Shed Brewing is an independent craft brewery that produces a variety of craft beers, ciders, spirits, and hard beverages.
With a fun and creative approach to brewing, their beers are packed with love and flavour.
4
Little Bang
Little Bang Brewing Company is a local, independent brewery and tap room located in Stepney, just minutes from the Adelaide CBD.
They offer a delightful selection of amazing beers brewed on-site, all within full view of their tap room.
5
Bowden Brewing
Bowden Brewing offers a creative range of craft beers.
Their tap room provides a welcoming space to enjoy their brews, and their kitchen, Masa, serves up untraditional Mexican cuisine with locally sourced ingredients.
