24 May 2023
8 FREE THINGS TO DO IN THE ADELAIDE HILLS
We know that the cost of living is high, but that shouldn’t mean you miss out on the fun things in life!
To keep the hounds away from the door, we’ve done the hard work and compiled a shortlist of the best free things to do in the Adelaide Hills. With something to keep the whole family entertained at no extra cost, you don't have to worry about the risk of repetitive strain injury from continually whipping out your wallet!
Read our awesome list of free things to do in the Adelaide Hills.
1. Historical Hahndorf
No trip to the Adelaide Hills would be complete without a stroll down Hahndorf Main Street.
Hahndorf oozes cosiness and feels like a quaint European fairytale come to life. The best part is that you can soak it all in without having to spend a cent. Hahndorf was the first German settlement in Australia, so if a bit of history and culture takes your fancy, look no further!
If you're looking to take a souvenir home, pop into the old-fashioned lolly shops down main street and treat yourself to some nostalgia - if you’re lucky, you'll spot some German dancing out the front of the old pubs.
2. Climb Mount Lofty or drive to Mt Osmond
This is an Adelaide classic.
Locals and visitors love a day out conquering the tallest peak in Adelaide boasting panoramic views of the city and coastline. There are a number of trails but the most popular is the walk down to Waterfall Gully where you can spot wildlife if you’re on the lookout.
Wear some enclosed shoes, bring some water and a hat and you’re set for an active outdoorsy day. Little legs might struggle up the hill, but everyone can enjoy the sunset from the summit. There’s a cafe up there too if you’re thirsty or you've worked up an appetite.
3. Mt Lofty Botanic Garden
Any visit to the Hills should be topped off with a meander around the lovely Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens.
Pack a picnic and you’ve got yourself a free family activity for anyone on a budget, and what’s better than watching the kids run around in the great outdoors? Autumn in the Adelaide Hills is a real treat, but any time of year is a delight!
4. Hike Morialta Falls
Another wonderful hike in the Adelaide Hills is Morialta Conservation Park.
There are a few routes you can take, which are signposted and marked along the tracks according to difficulty level. There are a few waterfalls and lookout points which make for a scenic hike no matter which route you choose and photo opportunities galore. Remember to keep your eyes peeled for the cutest wildlife!
5. Stirling Markets
The ever popular Stirling Markets are held once a month, making this quaint town come alive with vendors selling local produce, hot and cold drinks, home-baked goodies, oil, jams and snacks.
Take a walk through the market to experience the warmth of the local atmosphere and venture around town to get a taste of the what the Adelaide Hills has to offer.
6. Strathalbyn
A l;little further along the highway id the charming Hills town of Strathalbyn, where you’ll be greeted by heritage buildings, a stunning cathedral, boutique shops, and picturesque parklands on the banks of the River Angas.
On the third Sunday of every month, the Strathalbyn Markets are on from 8am - 2pm.
7. Beerenberg Farm
Ok this one’s not free, but not far away.
Take a walk through the strawberry fields at the iconic Beerenberg Farm. This is the ultimate wholesome family day out, and strawberry patch entry only costs $5/person or free for under 12s. You get box to put your harvest in and you only pay for what you take home ($11.95/kg).
