Australia’s Best Playground as voted in 2023, the incredible bird themed playground has some of the most unique and wonderful equipment in South Australia. The kids will love climbing through the huge structures and this is one of those play spaces where you can easily spend the day.

Read all about this great spot here!

A giant Diprotodon (pre-historic wombat) is the star attraction at this playground down south, a nod to fossils of the extinct giant that was found in the area. Great fun to learn about and even better fun to climb.

Read all about it here!

Home to the world (well….SA at least) famous Bunyip, this attraction at Sturt River Reserve has scared kids for generations and delighted parents equally as much. The Bunyip is currently in really good condition and is primed to scare the shite out of anyone under the age of 10 and quite a few older than that. An all round ripper of a playground which is fully fenced, fully shaded and absolutely enormous. Don’t forget the pump tracks, rage cages (its a sport thing…not where you leave angry kids) and a fantastic skate park.

Read more about it here

Turtle Park Playground is the latest in Hickinbotham and Land SA’s housing developments vision to create playgrounds as the hub of these new communities. This one is suited for the younger kids under 6.

Read more about it here

One of 91������ý’s playground icons, the adventure playground is also home to the famous pirate ship which 91������ý kids have enjoyed for what seems like forever. Every kid has at some point, stood on that ship and looked out to sea and imagined they were sailing the seven seas looking for treasure. The playground itself is probably 91������ý’s biggest and maybe most famous. A bit of a trek out north but totally worth it and a rite of passage (along with schoolies and doing something stupid to end up on Sh*t91������ý) for all South Aussies.

For more on this fantastic spot click here

Located on the beautiful riverbanks of Mannum lies this fully fenced playground. Not only does this playground have a boat for your little ones to play on, you are right at the heart of the river bank where house boats dock and boats are at full force during the summer months. Our little ones even loved watching the ferry cross the river while they were playing. With toilets close by and a shade sail, this is the perfect playground to add to your road trip list.

For more on this fantastic spot click here

We love this huge plagryound at Clarence Gardens, which has so much to offer kids of all ages, least of all the pirate loving tikes who will gain their sea legs on the really cool pirate ship. The pirate ship here may be a bit smaller, but the playground is an absolute fave. It is basically 2 big playgrounds in one, with nature play, toddler age equipment plus climbing equipment that caters to the older kids

more info here

One of the biggest and best playgrounds in the deep south, the ‘wooden’ playground at Porties includes a huge wooden fort inspired throughout with boating themes, to give you the impression of being on a massive wooden boat. The kids will love running around and being fully fenced (the fort part….the other nature section isn’t sadly) you can let the kids run around knowing they (probably) can’t get out.

More pics and info here

The OG train playground, with the huge steam train being parked in this playground as long as I can remember (lets just say 30 odd years). Now massively renovated to include one of the best nature playgrounds in the state, the train remains (slightly modified for safety compared to years gone by) for kids to climb all over and imagine being an engineer!

All the pics and info here

Tolley Reserve, or Nuriootpa Train Playground is a large open space for kids of all ages and abilities. It makes the perfect stop on a day out at the Barossa Valley so that the kids can play and run off some energy! The full size old train has been there for years and is an icon in the area.

All the pics and info here

One of our fave regional playgrounds, this place is massive and suits all ages. Including a huge fully fenced (and shaded) playground for the younger crew, as well as a very high treetop climbing set up (it is really high!), add to that the Apex Express, a huge train full of space for the kids to climb on the explore.

More on this ripper here

Train fans this one is for you! That might even equally apply to the train enthusiast parents as well, because this one is a beauty! A fully fenced, humungous playspace in the heart of Tailem Bend, this one not only caters to train fans but includes a great range of play equipment for all ages. When we popped in for a visit, there were lots of local families enjoying what is obviously THE place to be for families in Tailem Bend.

Plan your day trip here

Jack Watkins Reserve, Kilburn has had a multi million dollar upgrade, and has officially opened in September 2025. Expect to find an incredibly creative TRAIN THEME here, with a lot of inclusive thought across some elements. The smaller kids will adore the train-themed fun, including train, carriages and ticket booths. There are facilities galore! With two sets of toilets, multiple water refill stations, BBQs, and more sheltered seating and tables than we’ve ever seen at a park!

 Find out more here

Do you have a Dinosaur loving kid? Greenslade Playground at Paradise is a lovely little spot with a really cool dinosaur that you (or the kids…but don’t let me stop you!) can climb all over and through a little dino-tunnel! How cool!

All the pics and info here

The Womat Waterhole playground also features a dinosaur dig sandpit where you can bring our your inner paleantologist and dig for dinosaur bones.

All the pics and info here

Maybe 91������ý’s premier nature playground, Morialta is a sensational spot for 91������ý families located in the eastern suburbs, which forms part of the larger conservation park (stunning family walks…more on those here!), a perfect day out at Morialta will have the kids running around and exploring the magnificent scenery and playing on all the wonderful play equipment which blends seamlessly into the environment….except the 3 storey tube slide…you can’t hide that!

Read more on this 91������ý fave here

An Adelaie icon for what feels like generations, St Kilda Adventure Playground has had a few upgrades over the years and is still a fabulous spot for a day out with the family. Plenty of space, all the facilities you would want and some incredible play equipment.

Read more on this 91������ý fave here.

This has always been a rather spectacular spot due to the beautiful scenery, nearby creeks (and awesome coffee shops around Mitcham), but after a massive redevelopment in about 2018, it is even more special now. Constructed using beautiful wooden materials of different shapes and sizes, the kids will feel like they have been transported to some sort of medieval kingdom with the highlight being the huge tower and tube slide (we know, not many tube slides in ye olde times but a bit of poetic licence here). This is the perfect playground picnic spot too, with so much grass and shade from the trees.

Just love this one and you can find out more here!

If you have a kid that has gone on any excursion to the city with kindy in the past few years, chances are they ate lunch here so the teachers could rest. A fully fenced sandpit with lots of water and play equipment, pack extra clothes for this one. Located on Glen Osmond Road in the city, it really is a fantastic playground and one of our faves for the little kids, with some great natural elements to climb on and interact with, plus some really cool standard playground equipment. If your kid loves to get messy, this is the park for them.

Read more here!

An ice cream themed playground by the beach? How good is this! So unique it really fits in its own category, this 2024 built playspace out at Largs Foreshore is your wildest dreams come true. Full of ice cream themed equipment, your kids will love it!

Read more here

Smokey Uppercuts is serving up next-level smoked meats and American BBQ, and it absolutely deserves the number one spot. We let Master 8 take charge of the order (bold move) and he went straight for the Smoked Sampler and we’re so glad he did.

The meats were tender, the beans full of flavour, and the coleslaw had just the right kick. Every bite was a winner.

There’s also a $16 kids feed on the menu for those with smaller appetites – but ours went big and loved every bite. A must-visit food stop at Illuminate 91������ý!

We stumbled on Treat Me 91������ý tucked near the SA Museum and couldn’t resist grabbing fluffy clouds of fairy floss, because is there anything more magical than being a kid, up late at night, wandering the city with your parents under a canopy of glowing lights, and eating sugar that melts instantly on your tongue?

It’s those little moments that turn Illuminate into pure childhood wonder. Watching the kids spin around with sticky fingers and big grins, fairy floss in hand, felt like the sweetest way to capture the joy of being out past bedtime in a city transformed by light.

With a slogan like “It ain’t easy being cheesy”, you already know you’re in for something seriously good. If cheese makes you smile (and let’s be real, who doesn’t love cheese?), then Cheesy Street is calling your name.

There’s just something comforting about a gooey, golden grilled cheese toastie and these guys absolutely nail it. The Philly Cheesesteak? So good. The Hot Chick? Big yes from us. And the Mac and Cheese toastie? Stop it. Just stop. It’s cheesy, crispy, and completely worth the calories!

Guaranteed to put smiles on faces. Kids and grown-ups alike.

Tucked just around the corner, this little dessert spot might be easy to miss but trust us, follow your nose and you’ll find the hot cinnamon donuts and mini Dutch pancakes stand. 

There’s just something about warm, sugary treats in the cold night air that hits so differently. The smell alone will pull you in, and once you’ve got that fresh, hot donut in your hand or a plate of fluffy pancakes drizzled in syrup… you’ll be so glad you stopped.

It’s the perfect way to end your Illuminate adventure (or, let’s be honest, fuel up for round two of light exploring).

YUM. Absolute crowd-pleaser.

Make a beeline for One Sneaky Cheetah, popping up with superb pizzas that we know and love in Basecamp this illuminate.

These guys serve up some of the fastest, tastiest, most authentic pizzas going around. Hot, crispy, loaded with flavour and perfect for sharing (or not!).

It’s casual, quick and absolutely hits the spot when the kids are starving. Plus, there’s something extra special, so not miss ordering a Cheetah Tail.

You’ll never accept sub par garlic bread again.

Pack your bags and check in to Crowne Plaza 91������ý, right in the middle of all the city fun! Snuggle into comfy rooms with floor-to-ceiling views, splash around in the heated outdoor pool (yep, even in winter!), and enjoy a delicious buffet breakfast before heading out on your city adventures.

You’ll be just a short walk from family-friendly favourites like Rundle Mall, the 91������ý Zoo, and Illuminate 91������ý. After a big day out, head up to Koomo for dinner with a view or treat yourselves to a sky-high kids’ high tea at Luna10.

With friendly service, spacious rooms, and everything you need right at your fingertips, Crowne Plaza 91������ý makes your winter weekend away with the kids easy, cosy, and full of fun.

And while you’re there, make your stay at Crowne Plaza 91������ý even more memorable by booking in for their high tea experience.

Head up, up, up to level 10 of 91������ý’s tallest building for a super special high tea at Koomo and Luna10! With awesome views over the city and a tower of tasty treats, it’s the perfect way to feel fancy while having fun.

You’ll get to try TEN different yummy goodies – think sweet surprises, savoury bites, and treats made from fresh South Aussie ingredients. Parents can enjoy a glass of bubbles or a fancy tea from Brackendale Tea Co. while kids sip on juice and pick their favourites from the high tea stand.

The hottest (and brightest) event in 91������ý this winter is of course Illuminate 91������ý.

This city-wide celebration of light, art, music, and technology transforms 91������ý into a glowing wonderland every July – and it’s a must-do for families! From giant interactive light installations and colourful projections on buildings, to immersive experiences and night-time adventures, there’s something to wow kids (and grown-ups) of all ages.

Rug up, grab a hot choc, and wander through the city streets as they come alive after dark. With many free outdoor experiences and ticketed events that are perfect for curious minds, Illuminate 91������ý is the ultimate winter night out with the kids.

Let the lights lead the way!

find out what’s on and where

Universal Kingdom: The Next Era has taken over 91������ý Zoo after dark — and it’s packed with prehistoric fun for dino-loving kids (and their grown-ups). Dash through the Raptor Run, meet the mighty puppet T. rex, dig for fossils, and explore a glowing dinosaur world like no other.

Thu 03 July – Sun 20 July 2025 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday only)

more info here

Looking for something new to do as a family this winter? Join the vibrant Paint and Palate Street Art Tour with Flamboyance Tours and see the CBD through fresh eyes (and tastebuds)!

We had a blast exploring with Katina, discovering stunning street art by 91������ý’s own Jimmy C and other talented local artists. But the fun doesn’t stop there, your family will love sampling delicious local treats and sweet surprises along the way!

Katina was great with the kids, really taking time to explain the meaning behind the art in a way they would understand.
Great for kids over 5 years (make sure they’re in comfy walking shoes though), this 2-hour tour runs Monday to Saturday at 2pm.

𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐊𝐢𝐝𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐀𝐝𝐞𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐧 𝐞𝐱𝐭𝐫𝐚 𝐬𝐰𝐞𝐞𝐭 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐞!

Book now for a colorful and tasty two hours:

Located on level one, Rundle Place you’ll find a whole lot of family fun!

Strike Bowling��– not your average tenpin bowling alley. From bowling to laser tag and karaoke to escape rooms, they’ve got the fun covered for everyone. Throw in a fully-equipped cocktail bar, gourmet kitchen offerings and parade of party packages into the equation and it’s your one-stop shop for the ultimate entertainment experience.

Hijinx Hotel��– an immersive interactive game experience. With 15 quick play challenge rooms, this where you come to play, not stay.

Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq��– It’s dazzling, it’s delightful, it’s a spectacle for (all) the ages! Archie Brothers Cirque Electriq is a real prize for your eyes – a kaleidoscopic circus of cocktails, arcade and ticket games that give old fun a new life!

And when it’s time to eat, you can’t go past the delicious food at Doughballs. One of our all time favourite family friendly restaurants with one of the best kids meal offerings in all of 91������ý. Read our full review here

more info here

The 91������ý Central Market is always a hive of activity and are a great place to explore piles of scrumptious fresh food from a variety of cultures. There’s loads for kids to learn, mountains of foods to choose from and plenty of activities to enjoy. Some of the activities include face painting, cooking demonstrations, small goods appreciation classes, live entertainment and more!

click here to find out what’s on and what not to miss