Instead of hiding indoors when the colder weather arrives, embrace the world-class events, culture, entertainment, and food happening across Adelaide. Winter is when this city truly comes alive. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this is your ultimate guide to winter in South Australia.

In this article

Explore Museums and Galleries

Culture lovers will find the perfect winter activity among Adelaide’s array of museums and galleries. There’s plenty of art and history to be discovered within these world-class landmarks. Walk the North Terrace Cultural Boulevard to find the South Australian Museum, the home of unrivaled natural and cultural heritage. Or, head over to the Migration Museum to uncover the stories that shaped South Australia into the state it is today. A futuristic take on a museum can be found at MOD with captivating science, art and technology displays.  

If contemporary art is more your speed, we recommend heading toward the West End cultural precinct for the Samstag Museum of Art, Adelaide Contemporary Experimental, or Nexus Arts.

Empty stage in an Adelaide venue, ready for winter activities

Indoor Art and Culture Spaces

Sights beyond traditional museums include David Roche Gallery in North Adelaide. This gallery houses a private and extraordinary collection of decorative arts, paintings and sculptures that span centuries of European and British history. Stay in the loop to plan a visit around a special exhibition like the upcoming Monet and Matisse showcase that will take place at the Art Gallery of South Australia with works from van Gogh, Renoir, and Picasso.

The Art Gallery of South Australia, a grand building in Adelaide with columns, under a cloudy sky.

Ice Skating Experiences

Limited-time ice skating activities are offered around Adelaide during the winter months. Head to spots like Moseley Square at Glenelg where a festive rink is constructed, complete with toboggan runs and live music. Indoor skating can be found year-round at Adelaide’s IceArenA at Thebarton – a fun option for family skaters of all skill levels.

Iconic Winter Festivals

A major drawcard during Adelaide’s winter is the city’s flagship art event, Illuminate Adelaide. During the event, the CBD is lit up with immersive art and light installations across city streets and gardens. A night-time walk during the cold winter nights is a great opportunity to get out of the house. 

Additionally, a line-up of cultural events, like the Adelaide Cabaret festival, run through winter. Catch local and international performers across a range of intimate venues, plus many other festivities.

Illuminate Adelaide light installations creating a stunning winter display in the city

Winter Wine and Food Experiences

Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean everyone goes into hibernation. That’s especially true for Adelaide’s food and wine scene. Take a walk through Adelaide Central Market to collect seasonal produce, hot coffee, hearty meals, and other foodie favourites. Plus, the market provides a cosy shelter from the cold breeze. 

If you’re hoping to venture beyond the city, consider destinations like the Adelaide Hills – the host of the beloved Winter Reds events. Sip on premium, cool-climate red wines alongside live music and warm food.

Films at Boutique Cinemas

A staple favourite for a rainy or cold day is to watch a good movie. In Adelaide, a range of vintage and modern cinema venues offer the perfect place to do just that. Piccadilly Cinema in North Adelaide is an intimate, old-style boutique cinema with all the frills including in-seat dining. Another option is Palace Nova Eastend Cinema which screens indie films, as well as blockbusters and festival features.

The Piccadilly Cinema in North Adelaide showing a movie on its big screen to an audience.

Live Music and Nightlife

Adelaide has been dubbed Australia’s only UNESCO City of Music. That’s why you must head out to the city’s impressive range of music venues that come alive when the temperatures drop. Over 80 live music spots can be found around the city, offering everything from jazz and indie, to DJ sets and acoustic performances.