Best Things To Do This Winter in Adelaide

From exploring winter wonderlands, to indulging in hearty feasts, there’s so much to do in Adelaide this winter. 

Adelaide comes to life in winter with incredible restaurants, bars, cellar doors, festivals and a myriad of activities. Wondering how to spend winter in Adelaide? Let us draw you out of hibernation with our guide to the best things to do in Adelaide come the cooler weather.

WINTER WEATHER IN ADELAIDE

Winter in Adelaide is mild compared to the likes of Melbourne or Hobart. South Australia experiences cooler weather between from June to August, with Adelaide’s temperature in winter ranging from an average of 8 degrees Celsius in the chilly mornings and nights, to a comfortable 15 - 16C during the day. The season is marked by clear, crisp skies interspersed with occasional rainfall that brings the landscape to life - providing a lush backdrop for outdoor activities. Whether it's strolling through the vibrant Central Market, savouring a warm cup of coffee in one of Adelaide’s cosy cafes, or exploring the natural beauty of the Adelaide Hills and nearby wine regions, winter in South Australia has a unique charm.

1. GET CULTURED AT OUR ART GALLERIES AND MUSEUMS 

While we do get to enjoy a milder winter compared to most of the world, we aren’t immune to one predictable weather pattern – rain. Looking to escape the downpour? Head indoors and explore the galleries and museums that line Adelaide’s cultural boulevard, North Terrace. Kick off at the Art Gallery of South Australia, housing one of Australia’s best art collections and a range of exhibitions. Duck next door to the South Australian Museum, renowned for its world-class natural history and cultural collections. Next, head across the road and step into the future at the University of South Australia’s MOD, an innovative science and technology museum with quirky, ever-changing exhibitions displayed over two floors.

2. EXPLORE ADELAIDE’S BARS AND LANEWAYS 

Warm up at some of Adelaide’s best bars this winter. With small speak-easy style bars tucked away underground, swanky watering holes perched above the city skyline, laneways packed with cocktail lounges and quirky bars hidden behind unassuming walls, Adelaide's bar scene is booming. Sip your way around the laneways of Leigh St, Peel St and Gilbert Place or drink in the boozy goodness of Adelaide's East End. Our top spots for a tipple or two include Pink Moon Saloon, Leigh Street Wine Room, Maybe Mae, Udaberri, NOLA or Clever Little Tailor. For more bar inspiration, check out our guide to the best bars in Adelaide.

3. SNUGGLE UP IN A COSY WINTER HIDEAWAY 

Surrounded by orchards, vineyards, bushlands and a patchwork of rolling green hills, get your cottage-core fix with a stay at Ode to the Orchard. Less than an hour out of the city, deep within the Adelaide Hills, lies this idyllic Airbnb. Imagine snuggling up inside this cosy cottage next to a roaring fire and glass of wine in hand, while nestled in the quiet surrounds of nature. 

4. BASK IN A WINTER WONDERLAND IN THE ADELAIDE HILLS 

From waterfalls to wildlife, the cooler months are the perfect time to head for the Adelaide Hills and explore Mount Lofty Botanic Garden’s 97 hectares of lush, green paradise. With meandering paths through some of South Australia’s most beautiful and diverse plant-life, flowing streams and camellias in full bloom, you’ll be walking in a winter wonderland bursting with the colours of autumn. Best of all? All of this natural beauty is less than 30-minutes drive from Adelaide and makes for the perfect day trip from the city.

5. INDULGE IN A WINTER FEAST 

With delicious collaborations between internationally renowned chefs and an abundance of incredible South Australian produce, a winter in Adelaide is incomplete without dining at one of our award-winning restaurants. From African-inspired diners like Africola or fine-dining in historic cellar doors at Penfolds Magill Estate – loosen your belt buckle as you sample your way around the city with our guide to Adelaide's best restaurants.

6. INDULGE IN A SPA DAY 

Relaxation comes naturally when you check into Gatekeeper’s Day Spa, set high above the Piccadilly Valley, in the Adelaide Hills. Located within a historic cottage on the Mount Lofty Estate, this spa is an extension of Sequoia Luxury Lodge. Offering an enchanting wellness experience, select from a range of relaxing rituals or gentle beauty treatments. After a rejuvenating experience retire to the cottage garden for some extended time in heaven, or continue the relaxation with a night’s stay at Mount Lofty or Sequoia Lodge. 

7. DRINK RED WINE BY A ROARING FIRE

Be enticed out of hibernation and into some of South Australia’s cosiest cellar doors. Spend your day tasting award-winning wine and watch the rain and mist settle in over postcard perfect scenery, from the warmth of your fireside chair. Sip Clare Valley wine at Skillogalee by the crackle of a fire, warm up while sipping cool climate wines in the Adelaide Hills at Mt Lofty Ranges Vineyard or nestle in at Hentley Farm in the Barossa with a glass of shiraz in hand. Embrace the colder months by exploring the serene beauty and rustic elegance of South Australia's wine country. We’ll save you a spot by the fire. 

8. ILLUMINATE ADELAIDE 

Late nights and bright lights, winter in South Australia marks the return of Illuminate Adelaide. A city-wide spectacle, immerse yourself in the luminescent Adelaide Botanic Garden, enjoy a mulled wine by the fire at cozy pop-up bars, or discover captivating installations scattered across iconic city landmarks. Choose from a mix of free and ticketed events from local and international companies and enjoy a program of art, light, sound and imagination each winter. 

9. ADELAIDE CENTRAL MARKET TOUR 

Home to the largest undercover market in the Southern Hemisphere, the Adelaide Central Market is not just an excellent place to stock up on nibbles or stop for lunch—it's also a must-visit gourmet destination on the world map. Discover huge pans of paella, mountains of locally-made brie and even unique offerings like green ant gin, all within this bustling foodie hub. Wander the laneways or sign up for a market tour to fill both your tote bag and your tummy with the delights of the Adelaide Central Market.

10. TASTING AUSTRALIA 

Step beyond a standard food festival as Adelaide, Australia’s official wine capital, comes to life with Tasting Australia Presented by RAA Travel. Reward your curiosity and discover hole-in-the-wall bars, indulge in full-day degustation or board a plane for a unique regional dining experience like no other. Every winter in Adelaide, witness the magic when local legends are joined by some of Australia’s best talents, as South Australia transforms into a foodie haven. Hungry yet? With over 150 events across all 12 regions, prepare your palate and start planning. 

GET OUT THIS WINTER

Looking for more things to do this winter in Adelaide? The weather might have cooled down, but this winter our events calendar is hotter than ever. Check out our guide to the best events in winter in Adelaide.