Things to do with children

Welcome to our extensive guide on the best activities for families in Adelaide, where every experience is an adventure waiting to be discovered by you and your little ones. Adelaide, known for its vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes, offers many activities catering to families, especially young children. From toddlers to preschoolers, this city is a playground for exploration, learning, and unforgettable family bonding moments.

In this guide, we dive into five delightful categories – Nature and Outdoor Exploration, Educational and Developmental Fun, Creative, Artistic, and Imagination, Animal Encounters and Physical Activities, and Family Bonding Experiences. Each category is packed with handpicked activities that are age-appropriate and enriching and enjoyable for the entire family. Whether you're a local or visiting Adelaide for the first time, our curated list will help you easily navigate the city's child-friendly attractions.

Join us as we uncover the best of Adelaide for young families, ensuring your time spent here is filled with joy, laughter, and a whole lot of fun. Let's make those precious early years even more memorable with adventures your children will cherish forever.

Nature and Outdoor Exploration

Adelaide's natural beauty and diverse landscapes offer a fantastic playground for young children to explore and learn. The 'Nature and Outdoor Exploration' category is specially curated for families who love to immerse themselves in the great outdoors and engage with the natural world. These activities are perfect for sparking young imaginations and encouraging a sense of wonder in the environment.

Adelaide Botanic Gardens

• Age Guideline: Ideal for all ages, especially enjoyable for toddlers and preschoolers who can explore the open and interactive spaces and gardens.
• Description: The Adelaide Botanic Gardens offers 50 acres of plant collections and educational trails in the city centre. It's particularly engaging for young audiences, featuring the Little Sprouts Kitchen Garden, where toddlers can interact safely and learn. The gardens are open daily and offer free admission, making it a stroller-friendly and budget-conscious option for families. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing family picnic and leisurely strolls, allowing both parents and children to enjoy the beauty of nature in a tranquil setting.
• Highlight: Check out the seasonal fruits and vegetables, and the Bicentennial Conservatory's rainforest displays.

Cleland Wildlife Park

• Age Guideline: Best suited for children aged 2 and above, offering hands-on animal encounters and open spaces ideal for toddlers and preschoolers.
• Description: Cleland Wildlife Park presents an immersive experience with Australian wildlife in a natural bushland setting. Here, young children have the unique opportunity to hand-feed kangaroos, hold a koala, and meet a diverse range of native animals. The park's design encourages interactive learning and exploration, making it an ideal family destination. Open daily, Cleland Wildlife Park provides a spacious and safe environment where children can connect with nature and wildlife. It’s a great choice for a day of educational fun and outdoor adventure.
• Highlight: Don’t miss the interactive feeding experiences and the butterfly enclosure, offering close-up wildlife encounters that will delight young children.

Himeji Garden

• Age Guideline: Suitable for all ages, but best appreciated by children aged 3 and above who can enjoy the calm atmosphere and the visual appeal of the garden's layout.
• Description: Himeji Garden, nestled in Adelaide's cityscape, offers a serene and beautifully crafted Japanese garden experience. This tranquil space is perfect for families seeking a peaceful retreat where young children can explore traditional landscapes and be intrigued by features like the koi pond and ornamental bridges. Open daily, the garden is a wonderful spot for quiet walks and introduces young minds to Japanese gardens' elegant and intricate design. Its calm environment is ideal for families looking to balance more active adventures with moments of peaceful reflection.
• Highlight: Explore the zen garden for a unique experience of Japanese aesthetics, offering a serene backdrop for family relaxation and gentle exploration.

Educational and Developmental Fun

Adelaide is rich in opportunities that combine education with entertainment, making learning an enjoyable experience for young children. The 'Educational and Developmental Fun' category is designed to capture the curiosity of toddlers and preschoolers, offering venues where play and learning go hand in hand. Whether exploring history, discovering local culture, or engaging in interactive learning, these activities are tailored to stimulate young minds and encourage developmental growth. Perfect for inquisitive young learners, these experiences provide a foundation for lifelong curiosity and knowledge.

South Australian Museum

• Age Guideline: Ideal for children aged 3 and above, particularly engaging for curious preschoolers.
• Description: The South Australian Museum, located on North Terrace, offers a world of natural history and cultural exhibits. Its interactive displays, including the Giant Squid Gallery and the Aboriginal Cultures Gallery, are specifically designed to captivate young minds. Open daily with free admission, it's a perfect educational outing for families, offering insights into Australia's rich heritage and natural wonders.
• Highlight: The Pacific Cultures and Megafauna galleries offer fascinating glimpses into ancient worlds and cultures.

Adelaide Central Market

• Age Guideline: Suitable for all ages, with lively sights and sounds that are especially appealing to preschoolers.
• Description: As a bustling hub of culture and cuisine, Adelaide Central Market provides a sensory feast for children in the city centre. It's a place where they can learn about diverse foods, colours, and cultures. Regular tastings and interactive food demonstrations make it an ideal spot for little ones to develop their taste buds and learn about healthy eating.
• Highlight: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and try some of the local produce for a true taste of Adelaide.

City Library

• Age Guideline: Great for all ages, particularly toddlers and preschoolers with dedicated children's areas.
• Description: Adelaide's City Library, situated in Rundle Mall, is more than just a library; it's a community space bustling with creativity and learning opportunities. With a vast collection of children's books and regular storytelling sessions, the library is a sanctuary for young imaginations. It provides a quiet yet stimulating environment for children to explore the world of books and interactive learning.
• Highlight: Don't miss the children’s book readings and craft activities, which are perfect for sparking creativity in young minds.

Creative, Artistic, and Imagination

In Adelaide, the blend of creativity, art, and imagination opens up a world of wonder for young children. The 'Creative, Artistic, and Imagination' category is especially designed for families to explore the more whimsical and imaginative side of learning. These activities are perfect for nurturing creativity and artistic appreciation in toddlers and preschoolers, offering them a canvas to paint their dreams and explore their burgeoning imaginations. From interactive art galleries to enchanting music concerts and magical gardens, these experiences will surely spark joy and inspiration in young hearts and minds.

Art Gallery of South Australia

• Age Guideline: Suitable for all ages, particularly engaging for children aged 3 and above.
• Description: The Art Gallery of South Australia, situated on North Terrace, is a treasure trove of artistic wonders that appeal to children's senses and creativity. With its diverse collection and special children’s programs, the gallery provides an interactive environment where young minds can engage with art. The Studio, offering creative art sessions for kids, is a highlight, ensuring an enriching and hands-on experience.
• Highlight: Participate in the family-friendly guided tours for an engaging and educational art journey.

Adelaide Symphony Orchestra’s KinderConcerts

• Age Guideline: Ideal for preschoolers and young school-aged children.
• Description: The Adelaide Symphony Orchestra’s KinderConcerts are a magical musical experience designed specifically for young children. These concerts introduce kids to the world of classical music in an engaging and interactive way. Held at various locations, these performances often include opportunities for children to meet the musicians and learn about different instruments.
• Highlight: The interactive elements of the concerts make them a delightful way for children to discover the joy of music.

The Fairy Garden at Hahndorf

• Age Guideline: Perfect for toddlers and preschoolers.
• Description: Located in the charming Adelaide Hills town of Hahndorf, The Fairy Garden is a whimsical destination that captures the essence of childhood wonder. This enchanting garden and shop are filled with fairy-themed displays and offer workshops for creating your own fairy garden. It's an ideal spot for sparking imagination and creativity in young children.
• Highlight: Engage in fairy garden-making workshops and explore the delightful array of whimsical displays.

Animal Encounters and Physical Activities

Adelaide provides numerous opportunities for children to connect with animals and engage in physical activities, making it a perfect destination for active and curious young minds. The 'Animal Encounters and Physical Activities' category combines the excitement of wildlife interaction with the joy of physical play, ideal for toddlers and preschoolers. These experiences entertain and educate children about the natural world, fostering a sense of wonder and respect for wildlife. From up-close animal encounters at zoos and wildlife parks to fun-filled activities at beaches and play areas, these adventures promise a day full of laughter and learning.

Adelaide Zoo

• Age Guideline: Best suited for children of all ages, particularly engaging for toddlers and preschoolers.
• Description: Adelaide Zoo offers a captivating experience with various animals in a well-maintained environment. Located on Frome Road, it's the second oldest zoo in Australia and provides interactive opportunities such as feeding giraffes or meeting pandas. The Variety Children’s Zoo and Nature’s Playground add extra fun, making it a memorable visit for the entire family.
• Highlight: Unique behind-the-scenes animal experiences and daily keeper talks are not to be missed.

Gorge Wildlife Park

• Age Guideline: Suitable for all ages, especially appealing to children aged 2 and above.
• Description: Situated in Cudlee Creek, Gorge Wildlife Park is an exciting destination where children can interact closely with Australian and exotic animals. The park allows visitors to cuddle a koala and hand-feed kangaroos, offering an immersive experience in a natural setting. It's an excellent choice for a family day, combining wildlife encounters with educational insights.
• Highlight: The park's open and interactive environment, where children can safely meet various animals.

Semaphore Beach and Foreshore

• Age Guideline: Ideal for all ages, with activities and play areas suitable for toddlers and preschoolers.
• Description: Semaphore Beach and Foreshore, a family-friendly beach area, offers more than just a day at the beach. It includes a playground, carousel, and mini-train rides along the foreshore, making it a hub of activity for young children. The beach's safe swimming areas and sand play make it a perfect spot for water and outdoor fun.
• Highlight: The vintage carousel and mini-train provide little ones a unique touch of amusement.

Family Bonding Experiences

Adelaide is a city where family comes first, offering various activities perfect for spending quality time together. The 'Family Bonding Experiences' category is about creating lasting memories with activities parents and children can enjoy together. From scenic cruises to playful adventures at the beach and expansive playgrounds, these experiences are designed to strengthen family bonds and provide fun for all ages. Whether it's a leisurely day out in nature or an exciting adventure, these activities ensure that every family member has a wonderful time.

Beerenberg Farm Strawberry Picking

• Age Guideline: Enjoyable for all ages, perfect for families with young children.
• Description: During November to April, enjoy a perfect day out, breathing in fresh air while walking through the strawberry patch hunting to find that perfect, juicy, sweet strawberry. Located in Hahndorf, the Beerenberg Farm has become an institution, with additional activities like tastings of their famous jams, chutneys and relishes to try and experience. If you’re feeling more peckish, the Farm Cafe has a variety of suitable options for families.
• Highlight: The experience of seeing how food, such as strawberries, are grown and farmed before they end up in the shop or on their plate is a great educational experience for children while also being fun with a hands-on harvesting activity.

The Beachouse at Glenelg

• Age Guideline: Ideal for children of all ages, with attractions for toddlers to teenagers.
• Description: Located at Glenelg, The Beachouse is an entertainment hub with fun-packed activities. It features waterslides, arcade games, mini-golf, and more, catering to children of all ages. This destination is perfect for families looking for an action-packed day. With attractions like the heated waterslides and historic carousel, it’s a place where family memories are made.
• Highlight: The variety of attractions, including the enclosed heated waterslides and mini-golf, ensures entertainment for every family member.

St. Kilda Adventure Playground

• Age Guideline: Suitable for all ages, with various play equipment for different age groups.
• Description: The St. Kilda Adventure Playground is a large and imaginative play area in the suburb of St. Kilda. It features unique structures like a life-size pirate ship and flying fox, making it a wonderland for children. This playground is a great location for families to engage in active play and explore together. It’s a destination where imaginations run wild, and children can enjoy physical activities in a safe environment.
• Highlight: The expansive play area, with its pirate ship and variety of equipment, offers endless fun and adventure for children.

Bringing the Adventure Home with Emali Early Learning Centres

As our exploration of Adelaide's child-friendly activities comes to a close, it's clear that the city offers a diverse range of experiences that align wonderfully with Emali's philosophy of learning through play and exploration. At Emali, we understand that every adventure, big or small, contributes significantly to a child's development, much like the activities highlighted in our guide.

Just as Adelaide's natural landscapes encourage outdoor exploration and its cultural hubs foster creativity and learning, Emali's approach is designed to nurture these values in a supportive and engaging environment. Our focus is on creating experiences that are not only fun but also instrumental in developing young minds. We believe in the power of interactive learning, imaginative play, and fostering strong family bonds - principles that are echoed in the activities and destinations we've shared.

We hope this guide inspires your family's next adventure in Adelaide and gives you a glimpse into how we at Emali approach early learning. Whether through outdoor adventures, creative arts, or educational fun, every experience is an opportunity for growth and joy. Let's continue to create a world of imagination and learning for our children, both in the vibrant city of Adelaide and within the nurturing spaces of Emali Early Learning Centres.