Believe it or not, Australia is a gold mine, no, let’s make that an opal mine, for shopping. Known for delicious food, fashion, vintage or antique boutiques, the land down under won’t disappoint. More specifically, South Australia’s Adelaide won’t disappoint any shopaholic on the search for treasures, bargains and make-overs. Find out why Adelaide is a shopper’s dream-come-true by reading on.
For The Bargain Hunter
Harbour Town – Famous as Australia’s leading direct factory outlet chain, Harbour Town is a bargain hunter’s idea of heaven. Stores such as Bed, Bath & Table, Mimco, Blue Illusion and City Chic represent a tiny sample of what to expect among the numerous choices.
See local up-to-date special offers so you can budget and plan your shop.
image by Harbourtown Adelaide
Parkside – The ultra thrifty bargain hunter will love Parkside on Glen Osmond Road 15 minutes west of Adelaide near the airport. A plethora of factory outlets, seconds’ warehouses and clearance stores will keep you busy for hours. Have a rummage around in the Littlest Vintage store where there are one of a kind gems to be found.
Show Off Your Makeover
Rundle Mall – Rundle Mall, a shopping and entertainment complex, is the ideal place for a full make-over then going out to show it off. Currently celebrating the change of seasons this Autumn/Winter, experience the freshest fashions, beauty, lifestyle and food in the city of Adelaide. In such a large conglomerate of shops and beauty treatment facilities, how does one get started?
Get together with a small group of 6 to 8 and take an educational shopping tour where you’ll also see famous Beehive Corner, home to a sculpture affectionally called The Mall’s Balls. After learning your way around, check in with Rundle Mall’s very own image consultant, Tamara Nicole, for the best in personalised wardrobe help and advice.
Find it: In the Adelaide city centre between King William Street and Pulteney Street.
image by Rundle Mall
The Norwood Parade – For those who prefer trendy boutique shopping, The Norwood Parade is all about unique mix of national and international brands, lifestyle shopping, café culture and delicious meals in great restaurants. Basically whatever is trending day or night is found here.
Find it: A drive, ride or walk from the Adelaide CBD
Antiques And Opals
Antique Market – Anyone looking for vintage treasures, a bit of history or unexpected bargain will love Antique Market. Among other unique finds, vintage buttons or jewellery, old books, marbles, toys, glassware and more can be hauled out from among piles of lace, linens and clothing. Collectors of all things old, classic and historical love this place.
Find it: 32 Grote St, Adelaide
image by Antique Market
Opal Field Gems Mine & Museum – The Opal, from the red soil of the outback, is Australia’s national gemstone. Learn what makes the Australian Opals so special and check out the wide range of beautiful gifts and souvenirs. Every Aussie has opal jewellery and every visitor should take home a piece or two.
Find it: Next to this is an Aboriginal art gallery on King William Street
Latte And Lit Trail
Adelaide’s Pop-up Bookshop, in partnership with some of Adelaide’s best cafés, came up with the ‘Latte and Literature Trail.’ This truly wonderful combo of books & coffee will have you wandering the city in search of the next mind expanding story, delicious food and specialty coffee. It’s a must-do for anyone who loves this perfect combination of pleasures.
Find it: In the world-famous Adelaide Central Markets
image by Nick Patrick
Relax, Wine And Dine
The Grace Establishment – Grab yourself a schooner of the local South Australian beer and choose to eat in one of several alfresco diners located on The Parade.
Rundle, Gouger or Hindley Streets have plenty of locations for a relaxing glass of wine or specialty cocktail.
Redsalt – For true South Australian cuisine with the finest locally sourced ingredients, dine at Redsalt. Contemporary in design and overlooking views of Hindmarsh Square, Redsalt brings nuances of French and Italian cooking to local dishes. Locals love to go out for breakfast at Redsalt but a meal at any time of day is sure to be a palate pleaser.
Find it: Signature restaurant at the Crowne Plaza Adelaide in Hindmarsh Square.
InterContinental Adelaide Hotel – Since you can’t possibly shop everywhere in Adelaide in a day, stay the night or a few nights, at InterContinental Adelaide. Offering luxurious amenities and abundance of space, the central location is perfect for engaging in all the local activity around town.
Find it: Nearby attractions in the city centre of Adelaide.
Now that you’ve read all about what makes Adelaide a shopper’s dream-come-true, experience it for yourself. Like so many previous visitors, you’ll be planning your next trip before the first one is over.
About The Author
Freya is a coffeeholic freelance blogger, social media marketing specialist, graphic designer and award-winning photographer. When she’s not intriguing strangers with her stories, she’s most likely lifting something heavy in the gym, at the beach or out and about Sydney in search of the perfect coffee. Tweet tweet @freyacami.