At Enhanced Lifestyles, we’re all about lifestyle – it’s in the name, after all! We’re an NDIS provider based in Adelaide, so we know how much time and effort it can take to find activities that are local, accessible, and enjoyable. To help you plan your next day out, we thought we’d save you some time by compiling a list of the most awesome and accessible activities in Adelaide!
If you’re not an Adelaidean and instead reside in the Riverland or Limestone Coast region, stay tuned for a guide to your local areas.
12 awesome and accessible activities in Adelaide
1. South Australian Museum
Details
Where: North Terrace, Adelaide. Right next door to the Art Gallery and State Library.
When: Daily 10:00am-5:00pm
Cost: Free entry, though tickets for some exhibitions and events will cost.
About the South Australian Museum
Chronicling some of the most fascinating parts of our planet’s history across five jam-packed floors, the South Australian Museum is not to be missed. With collections from human history, geology, animals, biology, and palaeontology, there’s something to appeal to everyone’s unique interests.
The museum is centrally located, right near the train station and ample bus stops. It’s also super close to a lot of other great and accessible attractions, like the zoo (#3 on this list) and MOD. (#5 on this list), so a visit to the museum could form part of the most perfect day out!
Accessibility features
The South Australian Museum has done a lot of great work to ensure everyone can enjoy visiting. They accept Companion Cards, granting free entry to your carer or Lifestyle Attendant.
You can hire wheelchairs from the museum, or recharge your electric mobility scooter or wheelchair in the foyer. For people living with hearing impairment or deafness, Auslan interpreted tours are provided for selected exhibits. There is also a hearing loop in the Pacific Cultures Gallery. People living with vision impairment or blindness can access audio tours and tactile elements around the museum.
Sensory-friendly events are held outside of opening hours, offering reduced sound and light. You can find out when a sensory-friendly event is coming up by emailing education@samuseum.sa.gov.au and asking to be put on the mailing list.
In addition, you’ll find an accessible car park, accessible toilets, and two lift locations on site. Assistance dogs are welcome!
2. Virtual Reality Adelaide
Details
Where: 207 Grenfell Street, Adelaide
When: Monday-Thursday 11:00am-5:00pm; Friday 11:00am-10:00pm; Saturday 10:00am-10:00pm; Sunday 10:00am-6:00pm
Cost: NDIS session – $40; other activities vary in price
About Virtual Reality Adelaide
Virtual reality (VR) technology gets more and more impressive every day!
With a range of VR experiences, including escape rooms, Virtual Reality Adelaide is a must for the gamers and tech enthusiasts. Their long list of games include simulators, exploration epics, and shooters – and popular franchises like Half-Life and Fruit Ninja. Plenty of them are suitable for all ages, too.
Plus, they’re an NDIS provider, offering specialised NDIS sessions for $40.
Accessibility features
Virtual Reality Adelaide is an NDIS provider and is listed as being fully accessible.
3. Adelaide Zoo
Details
Where: Frome Road, Adelaide
When: Daily 9:30am-5:00pm
Cost: Adult – $42.50; concession – $31.00; children older than four – $22.50
About the Adelaide Zoo
Ah, the Adelaide Zoo! Arguably one of the best attractions in the state. There’s nothing quite like spending the day watching a range of fascinating creatures go about their lives in specially designed habitats.
While you’re exploring, be sure to catch the daily keeper talks, animal feeds, and shows for an extra memorable visit. They even offer guided tours if you’d prefer that over a self-guided trip around the zoo.
Accessibility features
Adelaide Zoo accept Companion Cards from any state, they have ample ramps and railings to help everyone get around, plus accessible toilets and plenty of shaded rest areas. For those with sensory sensitivities, the Relaxed Zoo program ensures human noise is reduced every Monday and Wednesday afternoon from 3:00pm-4:30pm. Relaxed Zoo also runs on Saturday mornings, though only once every three months.
The best part of visiting the Adelaide Zoo? Why, the meerkats of course!
4. National Motor Museum
Details
Where: Shannon Street, Birdwood
When: Daily 10:00am-5:00pm
Cost: Adult – $22.50; concession – $17.00; children older than five – $9.00
About the National Motor Museum
If you thought the National Motor Museum was just a collection of cars, think again! Here, revheads and history fans alike can take a trip back in time to discover the people and motor vehicles that shaped Australia. In a vast country like ours, the importance of vehicles in connecting communities and growing economies cannot be overstated.
The museum shop stocks locally-made motoring memorabilia, including cool vintage-style artwork. If arcade games are more your thing, they have plenty of car-related activities to enjoy, too.
Accessibility features
The only parts of the museum that are not accessible for wheelchair users is the Solid Ground and 1920’s Garage exhibits – these are external buildings where access is gained via stairs. With accessible bathrooms and learning spaces, as well as accessible parking, the National Motor Museum is well worth a stop!
5. MOD.
Details
Where: MOD. is in the UniSA Bradley Building (Purruna Wardli) on North Terrace, adjacent to the Morphett Street Bridge, in front of the City West tram stop, opposite the Lion Arts Factory.
When: Tuesday-Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm
Cost: Free entry
About MOD.
MOD. describes itself as a “futuristic museum of discovery”. We think that sounds pretty cool! Their award-winning exhibitions are aimed at a younger demographic, though that’s not to say everyone can’t get lost in the wonder of the ideas presented.
With a CBD location and free entry, you can’t go wrong. Plus, there’s plenty to do nearby, making MOD. a worthwhile part of a day out in our city.
Accessibility features
MOD. is fully accessible for wheelchair users and has accessible toilets. They also have a multi-access suite complete with two lockable rooms, providing a safe and quiet place for those who may need to tend to a medical condition or sensory overload.
People who are blind or who have low vision can benefit from tactile markers, audio description of visual elements, and transcripts of any text on display.
There’s a bunch of information to help you plan your visit here.
6. Seacliff Beach
Details
Where: Seacliff Beach, mat is rolled out in front of the Seacliff Pub
When: Every weekend and public holiday from 1:00pm-5:00pm
Cost: Free
About Seacliff Beach
Did you know Seacliff Beach was the first in South Australia to introduce a beach access mat? The local Surf Life Saving Club roll out the mat, which extends from the wheelchair ramp right to the water’s edge, to make sure everyone can enjoy a trip to the seaside.
The mat is suitable for all kinds of mobility equipment, including walkers, canes, strollers, and wheelchairs.
An afternoon at the beach, anyone?
Accessibility features
Pretty much what we said above, though the Surf Life Saving Club also hire out beach wheelchairs, which you must pre-book. There’s also one accessible park and an accessible changeroom.
7. National Wine Centre
Details
Where: Corner of Hackney Road and Botanic Road, Adelaide
When: Monday-Thursday 8:30am-5:00pm; Friday 8:30am-8:00pm; Saturday 9:00am-6:00pm; Sunday 9:00am-5:00pm.
Cost: Free entry! Tastings and tours do cost, though prices vary.
About the National Wine Centre
Wine and cheese. Name a more iconic duo… I’ll wait.
With over 120 wines and a selection of local cheeses, the National Wine Centre of Australia is a must-see for those with an appreciation of the finer things in life. The building itself is stunning, as are its surrounds: it’s nestled right next to the Adelaide Botanic Garden, which is up next on our list!
They also hold exhibits, so perhaps you can time your visit to coincide with a fascinating photography or art display.
Accessibility features
The National Wine Centre is fully wheelchair friendly and compliant with accessible facility regulations. They have two dedicated accessible parks for people with permits.
8. Adelaide Botanic Garden
Details
Where: Entrances are on North Terrace, Plane Tree Drive, Hackney Road and Frome Road.
When: Every day, including public holidays! Opening and closing times vary depending on the month, so be sure to check the list here.
Cost: Free entry. Most attractions within are free as well.
About the Adelaide Botanic Garden
Set on 50 hectares of stunning parkland, the Adelaide Botanic Garden features carefully curated collections of plants, majestic passageways, and some beautiful buildings. You’re bound to discover something new each time you visit, and sometimes you’ll be lucky enough to catch some live music at the cafe.
If you need another excuse to go, check out our blog about the connection between nature exposure and mental health. A trip to the Adelaide Botanic Gardens could be just what you need.
Accessibility features
The Hackney Road entrance is the only one that is not accessible. The paths around the park are all pavement or bitumen, the food and drink services have ramps, and accessible toilets are available at various points around the park. Wheelchairs are available for hire, though they must be booked in advance. Plan your visit here.
Stunning scenery awaits in the heart of the city.
9. D’Arenberg Cube
Details
Where: 58 Osborn Rd, McLaren Vale
When: Daily, 10:30am-4:30pm
Cost: $20 entry. Activities cost extra. Companion Cards are accepted.
About the D’Arenberg Cube
Despite being somewhat of a McLaren Vale institution, the D’Arenberg Cube isn’t just for wine lovers (though it makes for the perfect day out if you do!). In addition to a cellar door, this five-storey Rubik’s Cube-esque creation also features a tasting room, a Singaporean restaurant, a museum, an art gallery, and some of the best views in the region.
Pro tip: during busy tourism seasons, D’Arenberg Cube often reaches capacity. Prepare for a wait, or contact the team to book admission in advance.
Accessibility features
Plenty – just check out this comprehensive rundown of all the ways D’Arenberg has embraced accessibility! A fully paved entrance, accessible (and beautifully decorated) bathrooms, and a lift that stops at all levels.
10. Melba’s Chocolates & Confectionery Factory
Details
Where: 22 Henry Street, Woodside
When: Daily, 9:00am-4:30pm
Cost: Free entry, but you’d be hard pressed to leave without something from the shop!
About Melba’s Chocolates & Confectionery Factory
If you’ve got a sweet tooth or two, you’re surely no stranger to Melba’s. Live out your Willy Wonka dreams and take a tour of the factory, where you can watch the fascinating and surprisingly complex production process behind your favourite treats. Be sure to stop by the shop afterwards to satisfy the inevitable chocolate cravings!
If Woodside is a little too far to travel, you might be delighted to hear that Melba’s will be opening a second site in Angaston, in the Barossa Valley. The Angaston location is expected to open in March 2024.
Accessibility features
Melba’s operate out of a historic building but have completed extensive renovations to make the most of its accessibility potential. They offer accessible parking, ramps, wide aisles, spacious seating areas, and accessible toilets.
Just try and keep me away from Melba’s!
11. Port River cruise
Details
Where: 1 McLaren Wharf, Port Adelaide
When: Depends on the cruise – some are daily, some are seasonal
Cost: Depends on the cruise – ranges from $55 for children to $88 for adults without concession; Companion Card tickets are $30.
About the Port River Dolphin Cruise
Dolphins! Ship graveyards! Birdwatching! Oh my!
Cruise along the Port River on a spacious vessel, learning about the rich maritime history of the region. You’ll visit the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary and learn about the playful pod that live there. You might even see some, though dolphins are wild creatures and their presence is unpredictable.
The crew will also take you to the Ship Graveyard, where around 50 sunken vessels are hidden amongst a spectacular 10,000 year-old mangrove forest. Tour groups can get close to five of these ships!
Accessibility features
We’ve based this information on Port River Cruises. They have mobility aids and wheelchair ramps that can be brought out on request at the time of booking. Other operators exist, but not all of them offer accessibility features on their vessels, so it’s worth checking with them directly before you book.
12. Barossa Farmers Market
Details
Where: Angaston Road and Stockwell Road, Angaston
When: Saturdays, 7:30am-11:30am
Cost: no entry fee. Products will range in cost.
About the Barossa Farmers Market
OK, OK, so this one isn’t exactly in Adelaide, but the drive up to the Barossa has never been easier for city slickers thanks to the Northern Connector and the Northern Expressway. Plus, the drive itself has some spectacular scenery (especially if you go through Tanunda via Gomersal Road!).
The Barossa Farmers Market operates every Saturday morning from 7:30am until 11:30am, giving you plenty of time to get there even if you’re not an early riser. can you try and buy an array of local produce, meats, dairy, breads, beverages, and sweet treats and artisanal goods. For the green thumbs, there are plants and flowers for sale.
Accessibility features
With accessible toilets, ample parking, and room to move around inside the massive shed, we think the Barossa Farmers Market is a great pick for foodies.
Gaze in wonder at the Barossa’s lush, sprawling hills on your way to the farmers market!
—
Phew! OK, that took quite a while!
What do you think of the list? Is there something we missed? Let us know at marketing@enhancedlifestyles.com.au so we can share your top recommendations with our customers.
If you’re looking for support to get out and enjoy the best that South Australia has to offer, check out our community supports page.
