Stuck on where to take the kids these school holidays? Getting sick of the usual kid-friendly city spots?
…. why not try something a little different?
Just 20 minutes from the CBD, Port Adelaide and Semaphore offer a treasure trove of activities perfect for families!
Whether your little ones are budding adventurers, art lovers, future historians, or foodies in the making, we’ve rounded up the best family-friendly picks for a full day of exploring. We’ve planned it by what you like, to make life just that little bit easier.
You’ll find eat and drink recommendations at the bottom.
HERITAGE AND HISTORY
Experience life on water at the South Australian Maritime Museum
Let imaginations set sail at the South Australian Maritime Museum, where kids can climb aboard a historic tugboat, marvel at deep-sea diving suits, and uncover tales of shipwrecks and explorers. Housed in the 1854 Bond Store, this three-storey treasure trove is packed with interactive displays that bring South Australia’s maritime legacy to life.
The museum is just a short stroll from other family-favourites like the Railway and Aviation Museums, making it a great first stop on a full day of discovery.
Where: 126 Lipson Street, Port Adelaide,
The Museum is a short walk from the Port Dock train station and local bus stops.
When: Every day, 10am – 5pm
Tickets: Children (5-15): $9.00 Infants (U5): Free Concession: $17.00 Adult: $22.50 Family: $55.00 (2 adults, up to 3 children) Family Concession: $43.50 (2 adults, up to 3 children)
For the school holiday program, click here.
To book, click here.
Set sail on a floating time capsule with the Archie Badenoch River Tour
All aboard the MV Archie Badenoch, a restored WWII-era police boat that now ferries families on heritage tours along the Port River. It’s history with a sea breeze – stories of shipwrecks, harbour life, and wartime secrets shared as you cruise through one of Adelaide’s most fascinating working waterways.
The tour departs from McLaren Wharf and offers a rare look at the Port from the water.
Where: Departs McLaren Wharf, Mundy St, Port Adelaide SA
When: Sunday 13 & 27 July, 11.00am & 12.30pm, Sunday 10 & 24 August, 11.00am & 12.30pm
Tickets: Adult: $33.50, Concession: $28.00, Child: $19.50
Included in your ticket is same-day admission to the South Australian Maritime Museum
To book, click here, call 08 8151 3260, or email [email protected]
Explore the National Railway Museum
Climb aboard steam engines, explore historic carriages, and ride a miniature train through the heart of Australia’s largest undercover railway museum. With more than 100 exhibits and plenty of hands-on fun, the National Railway Museum is perfect for kids who love things that go.
Whether they’re pretending to be a train conductor or just marvelling at the sheer size of the locomotives, this is one museum where history comes to life with a whistle and a puff of steam.
Where: 76 Lipson Street, Port Adelaide
When: Every day, 10am – 4:30pm
Tickets: From $12.00 to $44.00 Family admission (two adults and up to three children) – $44 Adults – $19 Concession – $12
All admissions include unlimited rides on the miniature train
To book, click here.
Reach new heights at the SA Aviation Museum
Got a high-flyer in the family? Let imaginations soar at the South Australian Aviation Museum, where kids can climb into real fighter jet cockpits and get up close to the only Ironbird F-35A on public display in the world.
Where: 16 Bedford Street, Port Adelaide
When: Every day, 10am–4pm
FREE
Venture onto the historic Clipper Ship
For the little sailors in your crew, step aboard the historic Clipper Ship City of Adelaide. Built in 1864, this legendary passenger vessel once carried immigrants across oceans. Now docked in Port Adelaide, the ship offers a hands-on glimpse into life at sea with fascinating stories and historic detail.
Where: Dock 2, Honey Street, Port Adelaide
When: Every day, 10am–3pm
Tickets: From $20
For more info on the Clipper Ship, click here.
ART AND CULTURE
Stroll the Wonderwalls street art trail
Swap screens for spray cans (figuratively) with a walk along Port Adelaide’s Wonderwalls Trail, a larger-than-life outdoor art gallery. With over 80 murals from renowned international and local artists, it’s the ultimate scavenger hunt for colour, creativity, and hidden laneway gems.
Download the Visit Port Adelaide app or pick up a trail map from the Visitor Centre, and make your own path through the boldest corners of the Port.
Where: Start at the Port Adelaide Visitor Information Centre, 66 Commercial Rd, Port Adelaide
How: Download the Visit Port Adelaide app or pick up a map from the Visitor Centre.
Connect and Create at Yitpi Yartapuultiku, the new Aboriginal Cultural Centre
Newly opened and deeply rooted in Kaurna Country, Yitpi Yartapuultiku is a place for community, culture, and connection. Kids can get hands-on with activities led by Aboriginal custodians, from immersive learning to storytelling and art.
Explore exhibitions, self-guided cultural trails, artworks, and a curated retail space featuring authentic Aboriginal products.
Where: 1300 Old Port Rd, Port Adelaide. The site is on the corner of Old Port Rd and Bower Rd and is located just 2 km northwest of the Port Adelaide town centre.
When: Monday to Friday 10am – 4pm, Saturday & Sunday 10am – 2pm
For more info and specific programs, click here.
NATURE AND ADVENTURE
Meet Port Adelaide’s wildest locals at the Dolphin Sanctuary
Slip into a kayak or settle in on shore for a glimpse of one of Adelaide’s most magical creatures. The Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary is home to a pod of resident bottlenose dolphins, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot them feeding, playing or gliding just metres from the banks.
Surrounded by mangroves, birdlife and coastal serenity, it’s a peaceful and wild escape where nature takes the lead. No booking needed for land-based dolphin spotting, but kayak tours are available for those keen to get on the water.
When: Daily
For more info, click here.
FREE, Kayak hire available through local providers
Cruise the water by bike or foot on the Port River Trail
Grab a free hire bike from the Port Visitor Centre and hit the Port River coastal trail, a scenic loop perfect for families. Hugging the waterfront and winding past heritage buildings, mangrove boardwalks and parks, this leisurely trail offers fresh air, freedom, and a fun way to burn off school holiday energy.
It’s pram-friendly, picnic-perfect and filled with detour options, from playgrounds to wildlife spotting.
Bike Hire: Port Adelaide Visitor Centre, 66 Commercial Road, Port Adelaide
When: Every day, 10am-5pm
FREE BIKE HIRE AVAILABLE WITH ID
MARKETS AT THE MILL
Held every third Sunday of the month, Markets at the Mill is a free-entry, family-friendly market that packs in more than 90 stalls, slime-making activities, food trucks, and live music—all set against the charming backdrop of historic Harts Mill.
It’s the ultimate chill-and-explore combo for parents, with plenty of sensory fun and open space for kids.
Where: 9a Mundy St, Port Adelaide
Next market: Sunday 20 July, 10am–3pm
FREE ENTRY + 100+ ON-SITE PARKS
EATS AND DRINKS
Port Adelaide’s food scene is bursting with flavour, from smoky American BBQ to authentic Mexican tacos and hidden cafes brewing top-notch coffee. Here’s a quick taste of the local favourites.
Low & Slow American BBQ
Serving up finger-lickin’, Southern-style smoked meats from a food truck-turned-restaurant. You’ll find brisket, pork shoulder, tater tots, and mac ’n’ cheese.
Where: 17 Commercial Rd, Port Adelaide
When: Open every day for dinner, lunch on Saturday
La Popular Taqueria
Authentic Mexican tacos made the traditional way with handmade tortillas, vibrant fillings, and zesty salsas. Vegan and vegetarian options are available.
Where: 226 St Vincent St, Port Adelaide
When: Tuesday to Saturday for dinner, Saturday for lunch
Banksia Tree Cafe
A wholesome, locally loved spot known for seasonal produce and nourishing meals.
Where: 147 St Vincent St, Port Adelaide
When: Open for lunch every day
Mayfair Bakery
A Port Adelaide staple offering traditional pastries, baked goods, and sweet treats with old-school charm.
Where: 156 St Vincent St, Port Adelaide
When: Sunday to Friday until 4pm
Port Admiral Hotel
Historic pub meets modern gastropub vibes with hearty meals and a community feel.
Where: 55 Commercial Rd, Port Adelaide
When: Lunch and dinner every day
Lighthouse Wharf Hotel
Waterfront views, pub classics, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Where: 1 Commercial Rd, Port Adelaide
When: From 10:30am every day
