The Best Hidden Gems in Adelaide Hiding in Plain Sight

Adelaide may not be the biggest city but it's always got little delights tucked up its sleeve, ready for the grand reveal when you least expect it.

Whether you’re tired of hitting the same spots week in, week out; have a friend visiting who you want to show the lesser-known side of Adelaide to, or perhaps you've planned a first date and are keen to blow them away; the best-hidden gems in Adelaide are well worth making a part of your plan. 

Topiary at Newman’s Nursery

Sitting inside Newman’s Nursery, Topiary is a local produce-driven, waste-free, environmentally friendly and innovative dining experience.

From fresh breakfast options including local free-range eggs,  and market fruits to their forager's tasting menu and frequently changing small plates, you’re guaranteed to fall in love with the food and sustainable ethos here. 

Newman’s Nursery, 1361 North East Road, Tea Tree Gully

The Mill

With a vision for a thriving and prosperous arts culture in South Australia, The Mill is a small but mighty leading arts organisation for a dose of all things art and culture in Adelaide. 

Since 2013, The Mill has grown to encompass studios, creative industry offices, and working spaces and the Angas Street studio is home to over 60 artists, makers, and designers at any one time. Supporting more than 1000 artists through its broader programs each year, The Mill’s multidisciplinary space combines galleries, a performing arts space, a photography studio, a tools workshop and shared meeting facilities. 

154 Angas Street, Adelaide 

Mister Sunshine's

This retro-inspired cafe has been deeply loved by locals in the known since 2016. Serves up Stevie (both Nicks and Wonder) alongside eggs and coffee in a space that oozes vintage charm, Mister Sunshines radiates its signature warmth with retro tables, green tiling, and an impressive vinyl collection.

On the all-day breakfast and lunch menu, standout dishes include breakfast gnocchi, shakshuka, Mediterranean couscous salad, and decadent French toast. In a rush? Grab a coffee and one of their homemade muffins to go. 

35 George Street, Thebarton

K1 Cellar Door

Considering this is listed as one of Australia’s top 10 cellar door experiences, this may not be considered such a ‘hidden’ secret – though it is hidden out of the way, with beautiful views overlooking the vineyard and tranquil lake.

Booking at K1 Cellar Door is essential to ensure you’re not disappointed. An unmissable experience, you will be blown away by the magical Adelaide Hills destination, with an incredible Lakehouse that looks like something out of a movie. 

159 Tynan Road, Kuitpo

Push Pin Boutique

This is one of the cutest vintage clothing stores in Adelaide - and if you haven't visited it, this is your sign to do so! Specialising in beautiful vintage dresses and accessories from the 1950s, it's a warm and light-filled space brimming with fashionable excellence. Push Pin Boutique is a chiffon-fuelled treat for those who love to wear a little bit of history. 

8 Compton Street, Adelaide 

Canoe the Coorong

Enjoy a blissful time cruising down the Coorong River with Canoe the Coorong Tours. Opt for a romantic sunset tour as you paddle down the Murray Mouth, a full-day all-inclusive tour or an overnight camp. You can even make a holiday out of it with a four-day expedition that covers almost 100 km of river and terrain.

Lot 99 Mundoo Channel Drive, Coorong

Silent Noise

Offering one of the most wonderfully laidback cellar door experiences around in McLaren Vale, Silent Noise at Kangarilla Road Winery has exceptional wine, a friendly dog (his name is Dave), and breathtaking views across rolling hills, where you may spot a hoppity kangaroo or two.

Open for business every day of the week, it’s the ultimate spot to spend quality time, enjoying a tasting inside or some BYO nibbles outside. Bottoms up!

44 Hamilton Road, McLaren Flat

Mount Osmond Reserve

Escape to The Hills and wander through lush greens and forests before finding yourself on top of the world (well, on top of Adelaide at least), with a stunning view over the city and the suburban sprawl. With various paths available at Mount Osmond Reserve, choose from 2.2km trails up to an 11km loop through beautiful pine and eucalypt forest.

City of Burnside, Mount Osmond Reserve

Maybe Mae

The definition of a hidden gem is when you cannot see the door and you have to know exactly where to push to gain entry. Maybe Mae is a stunning little hideaway, tucked below Bread & Bone on buzzing Peel Street. Take a seat in one of their dimly lit booths and be transported back to the 1920s with their art deco styling and expertly crafted cocktails and mocktails. 

15 Peel Street, Adelaide

Himeji Garden

Full of fascinating features of profound religious significance to Japanese culture, discover an enchantingly quiet refuge in the serene Himeji Garden. Lose yourself in one of Adelaide's hidden gems in the parklands at South Terrace. Explore the beautiful and peaceful garden and surroundings, including the lake and mountain garden. Side note – it’s free entry.

Corner of Glen Osmond Road and South Terrace, Adelaide

Garden Island Ships' Graveyard Maritime Heritage Trail

This trail offers kayakers and small boat enthusiasts a chance to explore the shallow waters around Garden Island, discovering the final resting place of 25 wrecks - a varied group of dredges, barges, pontoons and ferries, as well as sailing ships and steamers.

These abandoned wrecks represent a unique collection of vessels that worked South Australian waters during an era when the maritime industry dominated transport, trade and employment. It's a fun and uniquely Adelaidean experience. 

Port Adelaide

Did the best-hidden gems in Adelaide inspire you to explore more of beautiful South Australia? Check out our guide to the best wineries in Adelaide Hills, or plan your next couples staycay or girls' weekend with our round-up of Adelaide's best luxury accommodation.