Adelaide's next act: Why this South Australia capital is worth a visit

Adelaide, South Australia’s capital and the country’s fifth-largest city, is shedding its former reputation for being on the sidelines, according to a recent return visit. The writer notes that after nearly 20 years away, the city felt “like seeing it for the first time,” with new momentum supported by recognition from CNN, Afar and Frommer’s as a top destination for 2026. Local tour operator Katina Vangopoulos, 36, says the city is “way cooler” now and highlights areas such as Chinatown food, East End wine bars and Rundle Mall’s pedestrian-only shopping corridor. Changes include a >50,000-seat overhaul of Adelaide Oval, relaxed licensing for small bars, the Art Deco speakeasy Maybe Mae and Street Art Explosion murals. Festival culture remains central, including Mad March events like Fringe (Feb. 19–March 21, 2026) and WOMADelaide at Botanic Park.