Budget-friendly things to do during the break
You are on the brink of a well-deserved break, remember what the idea of relaxing feels like? No more assignments, deadlines, or late-night study sessions! The best part is that Adelaide has heaps of budget-friendly activities. Everything feels more enjoyable when it's low-cost and free from the guilt of overspending.
Outdoors
Hike Waterfall Gully to Mt Lofty Summit
Bring your besties together to conquer the scenic hike from Waterfall Gully to Mt Lofty Summit. The hike will take two and a half hours and is eight kilometers long. If you’re not feeling super sporty, starting at Mt Lofty Summit has more downhill walking challenges than climbing uphill. For a map and details, visit the Trail Hiking Australia website.
One of two new suspension bridges linking the iconic coastal walk from Marino through to Hallett Cove. Image courtesy localcouncils.com.au
Hallett Cove Boardwalk (Marion Coastal Walking Trail)
Explore beautiful clifftops and beaches along the Marino to Hallett Cove boardwalk. Take a stroll across the two new suspension bridges that connect Marino and Hallett Cove. There are places to stop along the way including cafes and toilets, however, the trail is 5 km one way, so plan to take the morning or afternoon to complete the trail. To get to a starting point, jump on the train to Marino Station, or if driving is more your thing there are several carparks along the way. View the map and plan your trip on the Walking SA website.
Camping
Adventure awaits at the beautiful Deep Creek National Park on the Fleurieu Peninsula. The Park is a great place to spend a day or weekend walking in the bush and spotting kangaroos, echidnas, and hundreds of birds. Choose from 15 walking trails including clifftop views to the ocean. You'll need to book a campsite in advance if you plan to stay overnight. Camping fees range from $25.50 to $37.50 per night. Book a camping site and research your itinerary on the National Parks and Wildlife Service website.
Adelaide Botanic Garden – Chihuly
Chill out in the Botanic Garden and marvel at iconic glass sculptures by Dale Chihuly. The exhibition has a free outdoor display open during the day, with 15 large sculptures over two kilometers of pathways. The night time exhibition costs $20-$25 where you can watch how sunset changes the lighting effects on the sculptures and explore an additional collection of Chihuly’s works. To make a booking for the night time exhibition, visit the Botanic Gardens website.
Pick your own …
November to April is the perfect time to find a patch and pick your very own fruits.
Catch a bus to Beerenberg Farm in Hahndorf to pick strawberries and purchase your pickings for $12.50 /kg. Plan a day trip to the Fleurieu Peninsula and book a time to strawberry pick at Harvest the Fleurieu, near Mount Compass on the way to Victor Harbor.
Why not try picking apples and cherries at Lenswood Pick Your Own orchards? There’s eight different varieties of apples you can try at the Lenswood orchard. Chill out at the cherry farm in Birdwood and try locally made ice cream. The orchards will re-open in December, so check the website At Lenswood for details.
Places to eat
Sit Lo
Snack on handmade bao buns for $7 each. Ride or die foodies can try the foot-long-sized bahn mi from $16-$18. Read the menu and order online via the Sit Lo website. Locations: 30 Bank Street, Adelaide, UniSA West Campus, Barbara Hanrahan Building, Shop 2/11 Waymouth St, Adelaide
Burgertec
The burgers are bespoke at Burgertec. I can’t go past $7 cheeseburger Tuesdays with their delish BTEC sauce. When you're feeling hangry the Erry’thang burger is piled high with a variety of meats, fresh salad, and sauces — truly a moment to enjoy the freedom of dining alone. To find your nearest store, visit the Burgertec website.
Two Bit Villains
It’s a crime how good these vegan burgers are — and a steal at $15 or under! I’m lovin’ the Mackin Sleaze crumbed Mac & Cheese for the study hunger pangs. Try a handcrafted soda while people-watching from the restaurant in Adelaide Arcade. To find their daylight opening times and reserve a table, visit the Two Bit Villains website.
Live Music
The magic of live music on a summer’s evening is waiting for you. Plan your night on the town with friends to support local talent at Nola, The Lion Hotel and The Stag. Got a craving for global underground sounds, swing by Casablabla to hear their resident DJs.