Things to do at night in Adelaide to experience the city like a local

Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, may be known for its laid-back and easy-going lifestyle, but its nightlife scene is anything but dull and sleepy. From quirky bars and trendy clubs to pumping live music venues and thrilling Adelaide Gaol ghost tours, there’s something to suit every taste and preference.

Bar hopping and pub crawls will always be a part of Adelaide's nightlife, but the city is not short of unique experiences like a trip to Adelaide Central Market, evening strolls, late nights at the Art Gallery, and playing mini golf with friends. Plus, Adelaide has a compact city center, making it easy to explore different neighborhoods and nightlife spots.

Join a walking tour - Adelaide's safe streets make late-night travel worry-free - or take public transportation to various restaurants, clubs, and Adelaide attractions. Its tram service runs until midnight, and it’s free to use around the CBD. If you want to go out after midnight, buses on Saturday nights are available from midnight to 6:00 a.m.

No matter what experience you seek, you’re sure to find fun things to do in Adelaide at night and welcoming places that will put you at ease. Leave your non-essentials in a Bounce luggage storage facility and bring only what you need for the night out. This way, you can explore Adelaide with ease and embrace spontaneous nighttime adventures.

What to do in Adelaide at night if you’re looking for…

A wholesome night out

Zoo Nights at Adelaide Zoo

Check Adelaide Zoo’s calendar if you’re in the city in summer because it often hosts special nights and stays open until late. Instead of closing its doors at 4 p.m., the last entry to the Zoo is at 8 p.m., making it one of the best family-friendly things to do at night in Adelaide.

They prepare events like a stunning digital installation called Voyage Installation, live music, and Silent Disco walking tours. Just wear headphones and groove to the rhythm of the 70s to 90s as you roam the zoo with a group. The Zoo Shop and eateries are also available during those evenings, so you can buy souvenirs and grab a bite to eat. For families that have been delaying a trip to the zoo because of work during the day, it’s a perfect opportunity to take your kids out and meet the animals.

Chihuly Nights

Another seasonal event you shouldn’t miss in Adelaide is the Chihuly Nights exhibition in the Adelaide Botanic Garden. When night falls, the atmosphere in the garden becomes thrilling as the vibrant glass sculptures are brilliantly illuminated. There’s also a separate exhibition inside the rainforest conservatory, where you’ll learn more about the artist, Dale Chihuly, with lots of informative storyboards and videos of the creative process.

The trail features fifteen installations and sculptures that perfectly blend with the garden’s natural elements. Go to the heart of the garden for live music and snacks from different caterers.

Pro tip: Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll do a lot of walking as you wander through the garden and store your heavy bags at a nearby Adelaide luggage storage facility so you can move freely.

An elevated night out

Night Lab at the South Australian Museum

The South Australian Museum is a renowned Adelaide attraction that holds world-class cultural and natural history collections. Unfortunately, you can’t just rock up at the museum after 5 p.m., but the good news is that it opens its doors for special events like Night Lab to allow you to explore the SA Museum in a fun, unconventional way after hours.

Night Lab at SA Museum is an adults-only evening, so anyone below 18 can’t enter. Expect science talks, live music, and presentations, as well as delicious food and drinks you can buy. You can participate in hands-on activities like art workshops or science experiments.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to dress up because prizes are waiting for the best dressed. Attend the event without luggage or oversized bags by storing them in a safe storage location.

RoofClimb Night

RoofClimb Night will definitely elevate your evening - literally. It’s one of the most thrilling things you can do in Adelaide at night, taking you 50 meters above the ground. Soak in the balmy nights of South Australia and marvel at the endless views.

Apart from the panoramic views and adrenaline rush, you’ll learn about the history of Adelaide Oval from an experienced and knowledgeable guide. They’ll also assist you to ensure you’re comfortable and feel safe throughout the climb. And there’s a chance to take photos to remind you of the experience.

Pro tip: The best time to come is before sunset, so you’ll be up here watching the glorious sky transform into a breathtaking canvas of color and the city skyline come to life.

A cozy night out

River Torrens Sightseeing Cruise

Did you have a long day at work? Perhaps, you’ve been out and about, visiting numerous Adelaide tourist attractions, and just want to unwind before you hit the sack. A leisurely evening cruise down the River Torrens is a great way to relax while admiring other city hotspots along the way like the Botanic Gardens, Adelaide Gaol, and the Adelaide Festival Centre.

You can choose an experience, from a half-hour high tea cruise to a wine and dessert tasting adventure and a sightseeing boat trip. Be sure to bring your camera and take plenty of photos while on the river. You’ll also hear from a qualified guide about the important role of Torrens River in the city of Adelaide.

Hennessy Rooftop Bar

If your idea of a laid-back night out is sitting in a sophisticated bar with premium champagne or a glass of fine South Australian wine in your hand, then you should head to Hennessy Rooftop Bar. It’s open daily, but the best time to come if you want to know what nightlife is like in this part of town is on a Friday or Saturday night when it’s open until midnight.

The indoor setting is classy and elegant yet retains its welcoming vibe, but you’d want to chill at the open-air venue. Perched on the high-end Mayfair Hotel, this rooftop bar offers views over King William Street, Rundle Mall, and the city skyline.

Pro tip: Hennessy Rooftop Bar has a sophisticated and smart dress code, so exercise gear, flip-flops, and hats are discouraged. Small bags are fine, but you wouldn’t want to drag a wheeled suitcase or luggage at the rooftop venue, so it’s best to store them with Bounce before you hit the bar.

Adelaide’s nightlife is so diverse with something to offer first-time visitors and seasoned night owls. If you’re planning a trip to South Australia’s capital, don’t hesitate to go out at night and see what’s in store for you. Book a Bounce luggage storage service in Adelaide so you can spend less time dealing with your stuff and more time savoring delicious food, touring, and dancing the night away.