Dock at port

Ahoy! It’s time to take the family on a Port Adelaide adventure…

This old maritime hub still holds strong ties to its fascinating history while making way for the next generation of explorers. There’s so much waiting for you in Port Adelaide, so let’s dive in!

Chart your voyage
On the Port River, just 25 minutes from Adelaide, you’ll find quaint cobbled laneways bursting with character and beautifully preserved warehouses. Old meets new with a resurgence of gentrification in the area — from trendy cafes to lively breweries and aquatic activities.

Breakfast of champions
Nothing fuels a family adventure like a good brekky and Port Adelaide has plenty of options to satisfy every appetite.
The Banksia Tree Cafe offers locally sourced, sustainable eats with plenty of kid-friendly options. For a room with a view, indulge yourself at Pancakes at The Port — a family-owned eatery perched on the waterfront.

Landlubbers
Bellies full, it’s time to uncover Port Adelaide’s rich heritage. Start at the South Australian Maritime Museum, where kids can explore shipwrecks, climb aboard old vessels and learn about the voyages of seafarers and migrants.
Or hire a free bike from the Visitor Centre for an easy ride to the historic Clipper Ship — an 1864 vessel saved from destruction in Scotland.
For railfans, the National Railway Museum is a must-visit! Brush up on Australia’s railway history and ride a working miniature train. If flying is more your thing, step back in time at the South Australian Aviation Museum and get interactive with their aircraft display.
Ghost Crime Tours run every Saturday night around some of the spookiest streets in The Port. There’s also a selfguided Port Adelaide Heritage Walk for the faint-hearted, where you’ll discover grand 19th-century buildings, old pubs and a range of eclectic street art.

Down the hatch
After a busy morning, head to Pirate Life Brewing, where adults can enjoy a craft beer while kids dig into a delicious burger or pizza. The relaxed atmosphere and open space make it delightfully family friendly — even doggies are welcome!
Our gluten-free friends will be pleased with the extensive menu at the Port Admiral Hotel, where every dish is served 100 percent gluten free. They cater to a broad range of dietary needs, so don’t hesitate to order up.
The Lighthouse Wharf Hotel, known for its fresh seafood and friendly service, is a great alternative to take in views of the river over lunch. On a sunny day, BYO picnic lunch at Hart’s Mill Playground and don’t forget to keep an eye out for dolphins passing by!

Overboard
One of the best ways to get friendly with the famous Port River dolphins is to get out for a paddle with Dolphin Sanctuary Kayak Tours or Adventure Kayaking SA. You can wade through the 10,000-yearold mangrove forest as dolphins frolic alongside you! This activity is one for the whole family, as you don’t need any kayaking experience and you’ll be guided the whole way.
For a different perspective of the river, hop aboard a comfortable, undercover vessel with Port River Cruises. These boat tours offer a chance to learn about the area’s maritime history and enjoy some dolphin spotting without getting wet!

Even keel
After an action-packed afternoon, it’s time to slow down and enjoy some of Port Adelaide’s nearby coastal beauty. Just a short drive away are Semaphore and Largs Bay beaches, where kids can splash in the shallows, build sandcastles and play in the playgrounds.
Then wrap up your perfect day with a sunset stroll along the jetty.

Ships in the night
If you’re staying for dinner, Port Adelaide has fantastic family-friendly dining options! Low & Slow American BBQ is a hit with kids and adults alike, serving up mouth-watering smoked meats, mac ‘n’ cheese and southern-style sides. While you’re there, it would be a sin not to take home a bottle of their signature Classic Texan Special BBQ Sauce.
La Popular Taqueria serves up fresh, authentic Mexican food that honours the spirit of the ‘taco holy trinity’ — a handmade tortilla, a homemade filling and a vibrant salsa. Sí sí!

Long haul
With so much to see and do, why not turn your day trip into a weekend escape? Stay at the family-friendly apartments at the Quest Port Adelaide, or camp at the nearby Discovery Park in Semaphore, where the beach is your backyard.
For accommodation with a nod to the heritage of The Port, the iconic Largs Pier Hotel is a haven for weary sailors.

Port Adelaide is a treasure trove of history, gastronomy, wildlife and seaside adventure just waiting for your family to navigate!

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