Business Trip to Adelaide? Here's What to See During Your Downtime

Meta Title:Business Trip to Adelaide? Here's What to See During Your Downtime
Meta Description: Discover the ultimate business traveller's guide to Adelaide CBD – packed with insider tips on cultural attractions, top dining spots, fitness options, and how to blend work and leisure in South Australia's vibrant capital.

Business Trip to Adelaide? Here's What to See During Your Downtime

Got a business trip planned to Adelaide? Lucky you! This vibrant city centre packs a serious punch when it comes to mixing work and play. Whether you've got an hour between meetings or a free afternoon to explore, we've got you covered with the best ways to make the most of your time in the Adelaide CBD.

Cultural and Historical Attractions in Adelaide CBD

Art Gallery of South Australia (AGSA)

Free to enter and conveniently located on the city’s North Terrace, AGSA houses an impressive collection of Australian and international art. The rotating exhibitions ensure there's always something new to discover, making it the perfect place to explore between meetings.

Local Tip: Don't miss the Indigenous art collection, which offers amazing insights into Australia's cultural heritage.

Adelaide Oval: More Than Just a Sporting Venue

If you're looking for something uniquely Adelaide, you can't go past the Adelaide Oval. This isn't just a cricket ground, it's a piece of South Australian history wrapped in modern architectural brilliance.

The RoofClimb experience is perfect for thrill-seekers with a couple of hours to spare – imagine taking in city views from 50 metres above the oval!

Back on the ground, the regular tours offer an intimate look at the venue's rich sporting history. Cricket and AFL fans will love hearing stories about legendary matches, while architecture buffs will appreciate seeing the careful restoration efforts up close and personal.

For cricket fans, the Bradman Collection at Adelaide Oval is a must-see. This free exhibition showcases the personal memorabilia of Sir Donald Bradman, including trophies, bats, and interactive exhibits that celebrate his legendary career and connection to Adelaide. 

National Wine Centre of Australia: A Liquid History Lesson

Wine buff? You're in the right city! The National Wine Centre offers an exploration of Australia's wine-making heritage. Located on the edge of the Adelaide Botanic Gardens, this centre is a must-visit for anyone wanting to understand the soul of Australian wine culture.

With the world's largest wine tasting experience and interactive exhibits, it's perfect for a quick educational visit, impressing international clients, or simply indulging your inner wine enthusiast during a break from meetings.

Best Places for Business Meetings and Lunches

Peel Street: A Culinary and Business Hub

Peel Street has transformed from a quiet laneway to the epicentre of Adelaide's dining scene. If you want to impress clients or treat your team, this is your go-to destination. The narrow street is packed with restaurants that showcase the best of modern Australian cuisine, blending international flavours with local ingredients.

From sleek cafes perfect for morning meetings to sophisticated restaurants ideal for long business lunches, you'll find a venue to suit every professional occasion.

Local Tip: The iconic Peel St. Restaurant. stands out for its fresh, simple dishes and exceptional service. 

Bank Street: Heritage Meets Modern Dining

Bank Street tells a story of Adelaide's evolution. These heritage buildings now house some of the city's most innovative eateries, creating a perfect blend of historical charm and contemporary cuisine.

It’s an ideal location for those business lunches where you want to showcase Adelaide's unique character, with the street's architecture offering a conversation starter in itself. Imagine discussing your next big deal surrounded by buildings that have witnessed over a century of South Australian business history.

Local Tip: Bank Street Social is an intimate underground bar that serves up a great selection of local beers and wines with fresh pizza and plenty of tasty small eats.

Leigh Street: Casual Networking Paradise

Need a casual spot for a coffee catch-up? Leigh Street is your answer. This cobblestone laneway feels like a slice of Europe dropped into the heart of Adelaide. With its array of cafes, wine bars, and small restaurants, it's perfect for less formal catch-ups.

‘Ideal for those beautiful Adelaide days when you want to escape the office.’

The European vibe adds a touch of sophistication without feeling stuffy. It's the kind of place where you can unwind and have a relaxed conversation. Many of the venues offer outdoor seating, making it ideal for those beautiful Adelaide days when you want to escape the office.

Top Restaurant Recommendations

Gresham Place Gems

Hidden away in one of Adelaide's character-filled laneways, the restaurants in Gresham Place specialise in long lunches and dinners.

The precinct's restaurants are known for their innovative menus that showcase South Australian produce, with several venues offering degustation options. Favourites include La Buvette Drinkery, Dinos, and Part Time Lover.

Local Tip: Book ahead! Reservations are recommended due to high demand from local business crowds, particularly during peak lunch hours.

Casino Dining

SkyCity isn't just for gaming, the venue's multiple dining options range from casual lunches to formal fine dining experiences, each maintaining the highest standards of service and cuisine.

Favourites include the award-winning Madame Hanoi, The Kitchen, iTL & the iconic SOL Rooftop. On Thursdays, they even offer a special ‘Culinary Excursion’ where you can experience four courses with drink pairings from each of the above venues. 

Convention Centre Precinct

The restaurants around the Convention Centre offer flexible dining options from quick business breakfasts to elaborate corporate functions. They also happen to boast some of the best scenery in Adelaide, with spectacular views of the River Torrens.

Favourites include: Home Ground, Malt Shovel Tap House, and Riverside Restaurant.

Top Spots to Unwind After Work

Rooftop Bars: Adelaide's Best Sunset Experiences

Adelaide's rooftop bar scene is a hidden gem that most visitors miss. Among the incredible drink lists and happy hours, these venues are your ticket to experiencing the city's most stunning views, transforming your post-work wind-down into a memorable experience.

Local Tip: For a chill vibe with premium river views, head to the famous 2KW. 

Riverside Venues: Unwind by the Torrens

The River Torrens transforms the city's atmosphere after work hours. These riverside venues offer a perfect blend of relaxation and local flavour. You'll find everything from craft beer bars to wine lounges that capture the essence of South Australian hospitality.

During warmer months, many venues offer outdoor seating where you can watch the sunset reflect off the river. The walking paths along the Torrens are also perfect for a quick pre-dinner stroll, helping you shake off the day's stress and get some fresh air.

Heritage Pubs: A Taste of Local Character

Want something uniquely Adelaide? The city's historic pubs offer character-filled spaces where you can enjoy a local craft beer or South Australian wine. Local favourites like the Lion Hotel or the Earl of Leicester are like living museums of Adelaide’s rich social history.

Local Tip: While many know Coopers as South Australia’s OG craft beer, keep an eye out for some other homegrown heroes on tap including Prancing Pony and Pirate Life.

Quick Fitness and Wellness Options

Hotel Gyms and Nearby Fitness Centres

Staying at The Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide? Our well-equipped gym means no excuses for missing your workout, while the pool, sauna and spa help you round out your self-care routine.

Away from the hotel, gym franchises like Fitness First offer 24/7 access with casual passes available to non-members, while EFM Health Clubs have plenty of flexible options perfect for business travellers.

Outdoor Options

Golf Courses

Early morning tee time anyone? Adelaide's golf courses are surprisingly accessible from the CBD. North Adelaide Golf Course is particularly convenient, offering stunning city views while you get your morning exercise.

Some top picks include:

• North Adelaide Golf Course: Just 5 minutes from the CBD

• Grange Golf Club: Slightly further out, but worth the trip

• Adelaide Shores Golf Course: Coastal views to die for

Parks and Running Routes

The city's layout is perfect for runners. The River Torrens Linear Park Trail is a scenic 7.5km loop perfect for morning runs or evening walks, while the Botanic Gardens provide peaceful walking paths for when you need to clear your head between meetings.

Top running routes:

• River Torrens Trail: Scenic and well-maintained

• Adelaide Parklands: Circular route with varied terrain

• Victoria Park: Inner-city green space with multiple track options

Where to Stay: Business-Friendly Hotels in Adelaide CBD

Location is everything for business travellers. With our central CBD location, The Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide offers easy access to the city’s key corporate offices, transport hubs, and main cultural attractions. With modern rooms, spacious workstations, and meeting and conference facilities, the hotel has everything you need for your next ‘bleisure’ trip. 

Most major hotels in the CBD understand the unique schedules of corporate guests, providing fast internet, quiet work spaces, early brekkie options and late-night room service. 

Quick Day Trips for Business Travellers with Spare Time

Wine Tours in Iconic Wine Regions

Nothing says leisure quite like wine, and fortunately, Adelaide has some of the best in the world! For a quick taste, book a half-day tour to the Adelaide Hills wineries, just 20 minutes from the CBD.

For a longer excursion, plan a visit to the Barossa Valley. With plenty of tour options to choose from, many operators offer flexible timings to accommodate busy schedules.

Take a Dip at Glenelg Beach

Need some vitamin sea? Jump on the tram (it's a straight shot from the CBD) to Glenelg Beach. Perfect for a morning swim or an evening stroll to clear your head after a day of meetings. The jetty area offers great cafes and casual dining options.

Hit the Hiking Trails

For the nature lovers, the Mount Lofty hiking trails offer a great way to explore Adelaide’s wild surroundings. The Waterfall Gully to Mount Lofty Summit trail is challenging but rewarding, offering breathtaking views of Adelaide and the surrounding landscape.

Transportation and Getting Around Adelaide CBD

Getting around Adelaide CBD is a breeze! The free City Connector bus and tram services cover all major business areas. The city's grid layout makes it wonderfully walkable, and there's always Uber or taxis if you're running late.

Transport tips:

• Take the free City Connector buses

• Get a Metrocard for tram and wider bus travel

• Ask our concierge team about hiring a bike

Embracing the "Bleisure" Trend in Adelaide

Bleisure travel (mixing business with leisure) is booming, and Adelaide CBD is perfectly set up for it. With its compact size and easy transport options, you can pack a lot of sightseeing into your downtime.

Plus, with many of Adelaide's major festivals like WOMADelaide and Adelaide Fringe Festival happening during peak business seasons, there’s plenty of reasons to turn your next business trip into a full-blown adventure.

Whether you're extending your stay for the weekend or just looking to make the most of a few days in town, click here to book your stay with The Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide and enjoy access to all that this great city has to offer.

Last updated: November 2024 – Don't forget to check current opening hours and booking requirements, especially for popular restaurants and tours.