North Adelaide: a leafier alternative to a night in the CBD

Adelaide – the cosmopolitan coastal capital of South Australia has so much to offer if you are planning a city break anytime soon. This city offers charm, history and beauty as well as space to breathe with its scenic parks and riverbank walks.

Placed just north of the CBD, North Adelaide is a trendy spot to base yourself for the weekend. Just outside the hustle and bustle of the CBD, and only minutes from an abundance of things to do and see, the best of Adelaide is right on your doorstep if you choose to stay here.

Things to do in North Adelaide

North Adelaide is primarily an exclusive and affluent residential part of the city, well known for its idyllic leafy tree-lined streets with stately heritage mansions and villas lining each side. There are also five residential colleges that have served the university students for almost a century. An excellent choice of restaurants, cafes and art galleries can be found in and around the popular O’Connell or Melbourne Streets, along with a wealth of lovely quirky boutiques and gift shops. Just close by is the historical landmark of St. Peters Cathedral. With its spectacular architecture, stain glass windows and wooden carvings, it definitely has to be seen.

The Adelaide Oval Sports Stadium located in the parklands between the city centre and North Adelaide is known as one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in Australia, with its modern architecture and contemporary stadium. It is primarily used for cricket but also hosts the footie, rugby, soccer and tennis as well as occasional concerts.

If you are in need of some entertainment for the children, North Adelaide is located wonderfully for a trip to Adelaide Zoo. The zoo is a not-for-profit conservation charity which aims to connect people with nature and works towards saving many species from extinction.

North Adelaide boasts so many beautifully lush parks, playgrounds and designated walks waiting to be explored. If you simply want to enjoy the great outdoors then hire a bike or simply take a scenic walk along the banks of the River Torrens and take advantage of one of the many picnic areas.

Dining Out in North Adelaide

You will be spoilt for choice when choosing a restaurant or cafe in North Adelaide. The Ruby Red Flamingo serves inventive rustic Italian food including its delicious homemade pasta. The many illustrations on the walls create quite a Bohemian feel to this lively restaurant. 

To take advantage of the beautiful views of the River Torrens then choose the Red Ochre Grill. This venue serves wonderful food on a floating pavilion where you can relax and take in the scenery. If its Asian food that you are craving then try the Gin Long Canteen which provides a bustling but cool vibe while enjoying their delicious updated Asian Classics. 

UR Caffe on Melbourne Street with its chilled hangout atmosphere is the perfect place to have a coffee, take a rest and watch the world go by.

Accommodation in North Adelaide

Currently offering $1 rooms for those with a Great State Voucher, the Adelaide Meridien Hotel & Apartments is a great place to stay in North Adelaide. Just a casual 12 minute stroll takes you straight to the trendy boutique shops, cafes and restaurants so you can sightsee to your hearts content before returning to the hotel to make use of the lovely outdoor pool and hot tub that are on offer.

Within the hotel you will also find the Angus & Co Bar and Grill which provides great food and steakhouse vibes in a relaxed atmosphere. Most rooms have balconies which look out towards the beautiful Adelaide Hills or alternatively over the charming streets of the city.

Head to Adelaide for a getaway? North Adelaide has so much to offer and is the ideal place to stay when taking advantage of the gems of the South Australian capital. Littered with restaurants from all over the world, sprinkled with trendy hangouts and embellished with gorgeous architecture and green parks, North Adelaide is the ideal spot for a relaxing getaway.

For more information regarding things to do in Adelaide, check out our Ultimate Guide to Adelaide and inspire your next city getaway.