Adelaide
Adelaide is home to more than two-thirds of the State’s population. It has a 30km (18.6-mile) stretch of attractive coastline with excellent white sandy beaches. The best view of Adelaide and the surrounding countryside can be had from Mount Lofty, to the east of the city. Adelaide is a spacious city surrounded by parkland, golf courses and the botanical and zoological gardens. The city itself has a European atmosphere, primarily because of the large German and southern European minorities. The streets are filled with cafes (especially lively Rundle Street), European-style churches, art galleries and antique shops. Adelaide also has a vibrant nightlife along Rundle and Gouger Streets. One of the key attractions in the city is the Festival Centre complex in the parkland overlooking the Torrens River. It houses an excellent theatre company, and boasts a concert hall, two theatres, a restaurant and an amphitheatre. Another very popular attraction is the Central Market between Grote and Gouger streets. In March of even-numbered years, the world-renowned Adelaide Bank Festival of Arts is held, featuring everything from jazz to classical theatre and ballet, along with a diverse Edinburgh-style Fringe Festival (see Social Profile section). The South Australian Museum has the largest collection of Aboriginal artefacts in the world as well as a huge exhibition of Melanesian art and New Guinean wildlife. There is also a new permanent exhibition on the Antarctic Explorer, Sir Douglas Mawson. The National Wine Centre, featuring exhibitions, a tasting gallery and restaurant, opened in 2001 in the Botanic Gardens. Tandanya – National Aboriginal Cultural Institute offers a rounded view of Australia’s indigenous culture. The swimming and skating on Glenelg Beach are popular Adelaide activities.
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