Attractions in Central Adelaide (Adelaide)

Adelaide Zoological Gardens

Established in 1883,Adelaide Zoological Gardens is the second oldest in Australia. Located adjacent to Torrens Lake and Botanic Park the zoo's lush mature gardens, heritage buildings and tranquil setting contribute to a delightful day's outing. The zoo's collection is diverse and continually changing and for the kids there are lawns to play on secret paths to explore and a children's zoo. You can dine at the "Lyrebird Cafe," stop for a snack at the kiosk, or simply bring a picnic lunch to enjoy under the canopy of a shady tree.

Adelaide Parklands

Planned by Light's Vision Statue in his vision for Adelaide, the parklands encircling the city centre remain the envy of many large cities around the world. Adelaide's diverse parklands lend the city its style. Made up of separate parks, gardens and sports grounds there is plenty for everyone; walking trails, cycle tracks, picnic areas and spots to watch the world go by. Alternatively you can play golf, football or attend the races. Many events and festivals, from Writers Week to the Adelaide International Horse Trials, are held in the park lands throughout the year.

St Francis Xavier's Cathedral

A visual treat, St Francis Xavier's Cathedral is the only catholic cathedral within Adelaide. The first Bishop of Adelaide is buried inside the church. The cathedral tower has the largest peal of bells in the state (13 in total) and the heaviest peal in all of Australia. Established in 1858 and subsequently heritage listed, a visit here will surely confirm humanity's reverence for the Lord.

Barossa Wine Train

This train journey is an easy way to enjoy the pleasures of the Barossa Valley and take in some of South Australia's scenic countryside. After a 90-minute journey the train arrives in the historic town of Tanunda. You may choose the "train only" option or book one of the company's excellent day, overnight or tailored valley packages. The Ultimate Barossa Day Tour Experience visits selected wineries for tastings, plus valley icons, such as Maggie Beer's Farm Shop and Angas Park Fruits. This tour includes a two-course winery lunch.

Parliament House

An awesome sight, the house of the South Australian Parliament was built in two stages-the western half which was finished in 1889 and the eastern half finished in 1936. The dark marble facade, with its ten tall columns, is a major feature of North Terrace. Visitors can take guided tours of the chambers at 10a and 2pm on weekdays and, for 60 days of the year, sit in on parliamentary debates. Sadly, the plush Members' Dining Room and the Premier's Office are off limits to the public. However, a "virtual" tour of both can be made via the Parliament's web site.

Art Gallery Of South Australia

Established in 1881 this historic and attractive building on leafy North Terrace holds one of the most extensive art collections in Australia. Rare and valuable pieces on a worldwide scale abound fine paintings by the masters, contemporary art and design, and sculpture. There are both regular and permanent exhibitions. Enjoy a coffee or light snack in the stylish cafe or peruse books of distinction highlighting all variety of artwork in the on-site book shop. Guided Tours are available.

Adelaide Sightseeing Tours

This friendly company is well established and operates a number of good value half and full day tours that suit tighter budgets. Tours depart from 38 King Street. From city explorations to the wine regions of the McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Visitor Centre (The) , Barossa Wine & Visitor Centre and Clare Valley , these trips incorporate specialist shops, museums, history arts and crafts and wildlife. There are also two and three day trips using four wheel drive vehicles and planes to cover the stunning Flinders Ranges, and Kangaroo Island.

Adelaide Oval Tours

Adelaide Oval & Museum Tours is one for die-hard cricket fans who either want to see where their teams have lost, or the place where Australians have excelled since 1871. A quite beautiful ground is the setting for introductions to the Sir Donald Bradman Stand and Room, the famous scoreboard, dressing room and Favell-Dansie Indoor Center. The museum houses memorabilia mainly for cricket but also for Australian rules football and other sports that have taken place at the ground. Limited access/tours for disabled. Call ahead for details.

Magistrates Court

Opened in 1851 as the State's Supreme Court, this dominating sandstone structure stands as one of the most historic public buildings in Adelaide. One of the biggest worries during its construction was the lack of quarry material at that time in South Australia. Expanded and altered several times, the Victoria Square building lost much of its original appearance, but has remained relatively unchanged since the 1930s. Highlights include the original 19th century courtroom and the massive columns guarding the front entrance. Visitors are welcome to wander around the court's public areas and sit in on cases.

Adelaide's Top Food and Wine Tours

These superb tours introduce you to the equivalent of "the kitchen" in the mixed cultures of Adelaide. The Central Market place is the real heart of the city. Over the years, multi-cultural cuisine has spread from here into nearby restaurants and local's homes. Stallholders and knowledgeable guides explain strange and wonderful spices and pickles, seafood and vegetables on a number of different tours. Also try a "Cook's tour of Asia" with recipes, or the wickedly indulgent "Progressive Dining tours" which take in everything from Korean Banquets to Parisian desserts.

South Australian Tourism Commission Travel Centre

A good first stop, the South Australian Tourism Commission Travel Centre is an information center and fully fledged travel agency. You will find a plethora of leaflets for guided tours, accommodation and trips, and tourism brochures for South Australia. Look for the Short Holidays and Bed & Breakfast accommodation booklets for inspiration. With over 1,200 tourism businesses registered, you will save time by asking for help. The staff can help with queries in a number of languages, including Italian, Japanese and Greek.

Tandanya

The only Aboriginal multi-arts complex in Australia, Tandanya was established with the aim of encouraging understanding through the Arts. A giant snake dot-painting adorns the footpath at the front of the building--which houses sculpture, murals, traditional and contemporary art works. Arrive at noon and you will hear the haunting sounds of the didgeridoo performed by one of the resident artists. Traditional dance, storytelling and didgeridoo performances can be arranged by appointment. An art and craft shop sells authentic Aboriginal works while the Tandanya cafe offers distinctive Australian "bush-tucker" food.