Finally, springtime in Adelaide has arrived; the sunrays are beaming a little stronger and the pesky magpies are on the brink of swooping unsuspecting pedestrians, what a time to be alive. As we all emerge from hibernation, new experiences that don’t involve Netflix and chilling are high on to-do lists; so we’ve put together a list of the top five and hottest activities to do in Adelaide right now – whether that be for solo adventuring, unusual date ideas or fun for friends and families to enjoy together.
1. Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel: The Exhibition
Located upstairs in Rundle Place where the old Harris Scarfe site formerly perched in Adelaide city centre, is now the temporary home to the awe-inspiring Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel exhibition, and it is sure to tantalise your eyeballs. Considered one of art history’s greatest ever accomplishments, the exhibition sees The Creation of Adam, as well as representations of God, the prophets and all the angels of the heavens that Michelangelo painted on the walls and ceilings of the Sistine Chapel.
The enormous frescoes have been produced using high-definition photos and a unique photo-printing technique, allowing you to come face-to-face with Michelangelo’s magnificent work without having to jet across the country or across the world to Italy where 30,000 people line up to see the Sistine Chapel every day. Plus, take into account the informative signage and audio guides available and your Sistine Chapel visit is an even more awe-inspiring experience.
The global exhibition has already astounded visitors in Europe, North America and across Australia, so nab you tickets and find out more information here before the displays are packed up and shipped to Sydney on Sunday 9 October!
2. Let’s Roam’s Adelaide Adventure Downtown Scavenger Hunt
Join Let’s Roam, the #1 app-led scavenger hunt company, on a walk to all the best landmarks and hidden gems during this scavenger hunt! Along the way, you’ll have a chance to answer trivia questions and solve challenges. Work with your team or compete against them as you learn new facts and create memorable experiences. Slide into your walking shoes and put your thinking caps on for Let’s Roam’s scavenger hunt around Adelaide city. Grab your tickets and find out more information here.
3. Candlelight: A Tribute to Radiohead on Strings
First, there was Bowie, Pink Floyd and Talking Heads. And then, the 90s came round and Radiohead pushed the boundaries even further with their experimental approach to alternative rock. Since their first release, the English band has cemented their place as one of the greatest to ever do it. And now, their music is being given the Candlelight treatment in Adelaide for what’s bound to be one of the most anticipated concerts to date.
At the Adelaide Town Hall, hundreds of candles will light up the cathedral ceiling as Aquila performs Radiohead on violins, viola and cello. They will be joined by a drummer for the concert to add a bit of a kick to the dreamy ambience. From “Creep” on Pablo Honey to “Burn the Witch” on A Moon Shaped Pool as well as songs inclduing “Karma Police”, “Motion Picture Soundtrack” and “Nude” from albums in between, you’ll get to hear some of Radiohead’s most seminal songs on strings. Candles will flicker, the gothic arches will be lit up and the polished jarrah flooring will shine. Check out the full programme and secure your tickets here.
4. Seal Island Boat Tour from Victor Harbor
Depart from the Granite Island Causeway for an exhilarating 45-minute boat ride. Visit Seal Island to view Seals and Sea Lions as well as nesting seabirds. Then head towards Wright Island to hear the Whaling History of Encounter Bay and to search for Bottlenose Dolphins. Returning along Granite Island spectacular coastline to the causeway landing to complete the cruise.
Board your vessel – the ‘Big Duck’; a 37-foot (11.3-metre) Naiad Rigid Inflatable Boat, purpose built for Southern Ocean conditions. The vessel has full sun protection, comfortable seating for up to 2 passengers and has a toilet on board. There’s lots of space to move about the boat to view dolphins, seals and whales and the boat can run quietly on one engine. Book your tickets here.
5. Afternoon Half-Day Wine Tasting and Tour
Visit the renowned McLaren Vale wine region for wine tastings and more during a half-day tour from Adelaide, with a stop at the spectacular beachside locale of Glenelg on the way back. Travel with an experienced guide and small group to Chapel Hill Winery and Shingleback for two wonderful wine tastings, then have time to check out other wineries and boutiques in the McLaren Vale township or enjoy a stroll and grab a coffee. Stop in Glenelg to take a short beachside stroll along the Saint Vincent Gulf before returning to your hotel. This small-group tour, limited to twenty people, ensures a more personalized experience. Find out more information and nab your tickets here.
There you have it – the top five things to do and experience in Adelaide right now. Jot ’em down, save the date, and get out ‘n’ about; be a tourist in your own city this spring.