Adelaide Botanic Gardens Tours and Activities

Adelaide Botanic Gardens
Adelaide Botanic Gardens
Adelaide Botanic Gardens
Adelaide Botanic Gardens featuring interior views
Adelaide Botanic Gardens


See how roses are tested for Australia’s climate while you return to nature in these historic gardens.

The sprawling Adelaide Botanic Garden flanks the northeast edge of the city. This extensive green space is made up of 48.5 hectares (120 acres) of landscaped parklands, glass houses and scientific research facilities. Founded in 1857, as envisioned by Adelaide’s original planner, Colonel William Light, the garden has a rich history of providing conservation, education and fascination.

Start your visit by entering from Plane Tree Drive and strolling down Murdoch Avenue, home to the oldest strip of Moreton Bay fig trees in Australia. When you get to the Kainka Wirra Main Lake at the end of the avenue, take a left to Schomburgk Pavilion to find the Visitor Information Centre, the garden shop and a café. Here you can decide the best way to see the rest of the park.

Take a free guided tour from the Visitor Information Centre or a self-guided tour using the MyParx app on your smartphone. And, of course, you can always simply wander around the garden and explore.

Make your way through the Madagascan plants inside the Palm House. This glass house, imported from Bremen, Germany, in 1875, is considered a feat of architecture. There are two other glass structures in the garden: the Amazon Waterlily Pavilion and the Bicentennial Conservatory, built to commemorate Australia’s bicentenary in 1988.

Stop to smell the roses at the International Rose Garden, and see what might be next for Australian rose enthusiasts at the National Rose Trial Garden. Here, roses from around the world are tested to see whether they can withstand Australia’s climate.

You’ll feel inspired after a day in the Adelaide Botanic Garden. Select from a range of seeds and books available in the garden shop to bring your inspiration home.

Entry to Adelaide Botanic Garden is free and opening hours are seasonal. Many of the exhibits are indoors, so dry weather isn’t essential for your visit. The gardens can be reached on foot from the city centre. Ticketed parking is available on Plane Tree Drive.

Plan a trip to see Adelaide Botanic Gardens

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Top Adelaide Botanic Gardens Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Holiday Inn Express Adelaide City Centre by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Adelaide City Centre by IHG

4 out of 5
30 Blyth Street, Adelaide, SA
Holiday Inn Express Adelaide City Centre by IHG
Stamford Plaza Adelaide

Stamford Plaza Adelaide

5 out of 5
150 North Terrace, Adelaide, SA
Stamford Plaza Adelaide
Mayfair Hotel

Mayfair Hotel

5 out of 5
45 King William Street, Adelaide, SA
Mayfair Hotel
Mantra Hindmarsh Square Adelaide

Mantra Hindmarsh Square Adelaide

4 out of 5
55 - 67 Hindmarsh Square, Adelaide, SA
Mantra Hindmarsh Square Adelaide
Majestic Roof Garden Hotel

Majestic Roof Garden Hotel

4.5 out of 5
55 Frome Street, Adelaide, SA
Majestic Roof Garden Hotel
Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide

Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide

4.5 out of 5
65 Hindley Street, Adelaide, SA
Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide
Crowne Plaza Adelaide by IHG

Crowne Plaza Adelaide by IHG

4.5 out of 5
27 FROME STREET, Adelaide, SA
Crowne Plaza Adelaide by IHG
Pullman Adelaide

Pullman Adelaide

5 out of 5
16 Hindmarsh Square, Adelaide, SA
Pullman Adelaide
Hilton Adelaide

Hilton Adelaide

5 out of 5
233 Victoria Square, Adelaide, SA
Hilton Adelaide
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Adelaide Botanic Gardens

Visit the Adelaide Botanic Gardens for a delightful blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Enjoy leisurely walks through stunning landscapes, explore vibrant festivals held throughout the year, and indulge in nearby shopping options. This oasis in the heart of the city offers regular events and showcases diverse plant species, making it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking relaxation and adventure in Adelaide's CBD.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is Rundle Mall, only 966m away, offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. Adelaide Central Market, 1.6km away, is perfect for local produce and goods. If you're up for a drive, check out Burnside Village Shopping Centre, 3.2km away, for a family-friendly experience.

Recreation

Experience the thrill of Adelaide Oval, where you can catch a game and soak up the vibrant sports atmosphere. For a family-friendly option, head to the Adelaide Aquatic Centre for swimming and relaxation. Enjoy a round of golf at North Adelaide Golf Course, surrounded by beautiful outdoor scenery.

Adventure

For an adrenaline rush, visit KartMania & Laser Force Skirmish Centre, located 8.0km from Adelaide Botanic Gardens, where you can enjoy thrilling go-kart racing. For a scenic hike, explore the River Torrens Linear Park Trailhead or the Crafers to Mt Lofty Trail, both 11.3km away, showcasing stunning outdoor views.

Nightlife

In Adelaide, the Adelaide Festival Centre offers a vibrant mix of entertainment and culture, just 1.3km away from the Botanic Gardens. For family fun, The Beachhouse, located 11.3km away, promises adventure, while Her Majesty's Theatre, 1.6km away, delights with its romantic atmosphere.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Adelaide Botanic Gardens

Whether you're seeking culture or a family-friendly experience, the Adelaide Botanic Gardens offers a delightful blend of urban parks and historic gardens to explore. Nearby, you'll find event venues and entertainment facilities that enhance your visit. With attractions like the Adelaide Botanic and its lush landscapes, there’s plenty to enjoy in and around this beautiful garden setting.

  • Adelaide Convention Centre: Located 1.4km from the Botanic Gardens, this modern venue hosts a variety of events and conferences. Its business vibe makes it a hub for professionals and visitors alike, offering a glimpse into Adelaide's thriving corporate scene.
  • University of Adelaide: Just 805m away, this historic university showcases stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. Wander through its beautiful grounds and immerse yourself in the academic atmosphere that has shaped many influential minds.
  • Adelaide Entertainment Centre: Situated 3.2km from the gardens, this vibrant arena is the go-to spot for family-friendly events and live performances. With its lively entertainment vibe, it promises a fun-filled experience for all ages.

Best time to go to Adelaide Botanic Gardens

The best time to visit Adelaide Botanic Gardens can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Adelaide Botanic Gardens falls in January, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). The coolest average temperature around Adelaide Botanic Gardens falls in July, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January71.4°F (21.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
February70.5°F (21.4°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
March67.5°F (19.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April63.1°F (17.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
May57.4°F (14.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
June53.2°F (11.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
July52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
August52.5°F (11.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
September55.4°F (13.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October59.5°F (15.3°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
November63.9°F (17.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverageAverage
December67.8°F (19.9°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Adelaide Botanic Gardens

To save money on your visit to the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, consider travelling between June and August when accommodation prices are lower. Aim to stay on a Monday for the best rates, as Saturday is typically the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to find cheap hotels and package deals that combine flights and activities for extra savings. Also, take advantage of the free activities within the gardens, and explore the area on foot or by using affordable public transport options to further cut costs during your trip.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Adelaide Botanic Gardens are June to August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Adelaide Botanic Gardens is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Adelaide Botanic Gardens is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Make the most of Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you’re after. To uncover the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your hotel stay at Adelaide Botanic Gardens with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.