The striking Adelaide Town Hall stands tall on King William Street in the capital city's bustling center. Construction on the structure began in 1863 based on designs by Edmund Wright and Edward Wood. Upon its completion in 1866, the landmark was hailed as one of the "most important edifices" to be built in the city. The Adelaide Town Hall has been carefully preserved in the following years, and today, it retains its architectural glory. Modern modifications have only been applied to make the building more environmentally sound. A truly significant landmark, the town hall also serves as a premier event venue, offering several rooms and spaces to accommodate a variety of events.
Sliced into grassy chunks by King William Street and Grote Street, the ever-busy Victoria Square lies at the heart of Adelaide. In the center of the square, a statue of Queen Victoria casts an austere eye over the site's central fountain, built in 1963 to commemorate Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II's visit. The fountain symbolizes the three rivers from which Adelaide draws its water: Murray, Torrens, and Onkaparinga. The Reconciliation Plaza with Australian National Flag and Aboriginal Flag is another monument in the famous square. Dappled with administrative, corporate and commercial centers, the diamond shaped square of the city is indisputably its heartbeat. From luxury hotels to local markets, the square is abuzz with enthusiastic locals and tourists alike. Coming alive with thousand lights, the square is decorated with an 80 feet (24.5 meters) Christmas tree every year.
A bustling stretch of concrete in the heart of the city, the Rundle Street is not just any other street. Known as the 'cosmopolitan centre' of the city, this street is packed with eager pedestrians waiting to discover the various shopping and dining wonders that lie along the road. A great day to spend an afternoon, do plan a visit to the Rundle Street when in the city.
Perfect for a day out, the Adelaide Botanic Garden is a wonderful place for both a recreational and educational outing. The place is used by many organizations to host local events and private functions too. Inside the gardens are water sculptures, secluded garden spaces and plant conservatories. A great spot for family outings, learn about exotic species of plants and flowers.
Tucked at the base of the Adelaide Hills sits Carrick Hill, a heritage-listed estate featuring an imposing Elizabethan mansion and nearly 40 hectares (99 miles) of English gardens and native bush. Built between 1937 and 1939, Carrick Hill was originally home to local businessman Sir Edward Hayward. The estate's remarkable interior is marked by rich oak paneling, antique furniture, and priceless art. Carrick Hill is now treasured as one of the area's leading tourist attractions, and only 25 minutes from central Adelaide by bus, it's an easy day trip to plan. After a pleasant tour of the grounds and museum, visitors can enjoy snacks and refreshing drinks in the on-site cafe.
After 22 long weeks at sea, the tired old sailing ship, HMS Buffalo, finally dropped anchor in Holdfast Bay on 28 December 1836. Without further ado, Captain John Hindmarsh strode ashore, found himself a wizened old gum tree and read a proclamation establishing the free-settled colony of South Australia. The place where those historic first steps were taken has become Adelaide's vibrant seaside suburb of Glenelg. And despite the passage of over 160 years, Governor Hindmarsh's gum tree is still standing. Shored up and protected from the elements, it can be viewed night and day, free of charge.