Places worth discovering

Things to Do

Find attractions, experiences and places to visit. Events remain the best way to see what is happening on a particular date.

Looking for a dated event? Explore Events

670 places

Explore local places

Dead Mans Pass — Image credit: Town of Gawler

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Dead Man's Pass / Yarnpana

Discover the beauty of Dead Man's Pass/ Yarnpana Reserve in Gawler, a tranquil spot perfect for walking, picnics, and soaking up nature. The reserve also carries deep cultural significance—its Kaurna name, Yarnpana (meaning "purple ochre"), recognises the site as a place where the Kaurna people once gathered ochre for ceremonial use. The origin of the name 'Dead Man's Pass' (also known early in the history of South Australia as Para Pass and perhaps Murray Pass) has long been the subject of debate. In early colonial times, a 'pass' was a ford across a watercourse for bullock teams and horse transport. Colonel William Light is known to have visited the area as early as December 1837 and he used the campsite at Para Pass while exploring the Barossa region, and in his quest to find a passage through the Mount Lofty Ranges to the River Murray. A large red gum is believed to be the tree in which the 'dead man' was interred or found. There are four accounts of the finding of the dead man any one of which could be true. The place of the burial to this day retains the name of Dead Man's Pass.

Gawler South SA

2.9 km away

Stories Worn With Pride — Image credit: Town of Gawler

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Grit and Grace: Gawler Women in Wartime Exhibition

Discover the remarkable stories of women whose strength, skill and determination shaped life in Gawler and beyond from the First World War through to the Vietnam War. The new Heritage Gallery exhibition Grit and Grace, explores how women served as nurses at home and overseas, supported loved ones through wartime hardship, kept families clothed through ingenuity and thrift, and stepped into industrial and technical roles during times of national need. From hospital wards and field hospitals to knitting circles, factory floors and hidden wartime bunkers, their contributions were vital, yet often unseen. Through local stories, objects and lived experiences, this exhibition highlights how ordinary acts of work and care carried extraordinary impact. Join them to reflect on resilience, service and the enduring legacy of women's labour in the shared history.

Gawler SA

4.2 km away

St Georges Anglican Church

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Church Hill State Heritage Walking Tour

The Church Hill area contains the core of Colonel Light's 1839 Gawler town plan. Due to its historical significance and the overall state of preservation, this area was declared a State Heritage Area on 7 June 1985, the third such heritage area in South Australia. As you experience the true heritage of Gawler, the attractions will be highlighted unfolding you why the area is called Church Hill. A wide array of dwellings and outbuildings reflect grand to humble circumstances of people who created the area during the 19th century. Original slate and bluestone kerbs, historic fire hydrants and many other treasurer of yesteryear will be revealed. Collect a brochure from the Gawler Visitor Information Centre, 43 High Street Gawler East. Approximately 2.4kms and 90 minutes.

Gawler East SA

4.4 km away

Gawler Town Drive — Image credit: Town of Gawler

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Gawler Self Driving Tour

Gawler is unique in character, a destination molded from being the first country town in South Australia into its present form, gifted with a natural river corridor and significant built environments. The Gawler Self Drive Tour will take you on a journey where you will appreciate the degree that Gawler contributed towards the development of our state, marvel at its merging of old with new and be envious of our town lifestyle offerings. Follow route 10 signs departing from the Gawler Visitor Information Centre Car Park. Pick up a brochure from the Centre to enhance the drive.

Gawler East SA

4.4 km away

Gawler Community Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Gawler Community Gallery

Founded in 2006, the Gawler Community Gallery showcases the best of South Australian art in a bright, modern space. With exhibitions changing every six weeks and free entry, there's always something new to enjoy. From established artists to emerging talent, plus workshops and unique handcrafted pieces in their gift shop, the gallery offers a relaxed and inspiring place to explore local creativity. Visit them in historic Gawler, just a short drive from the Barossa.

Gawler East SA

4.4 km away

Gawler Clock Tower — Image credit: Town of Gawler

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Gawler Historic Main Street Walking Tour

Take a self-guided walking tour along Gawler's historic Main Street and learn the fascinating history of the area. Gawler's Historic Main Street reflects colonel William Lights vision; to create a settlement that could prosper on the banks of the north and south Para Rivers, bounded by rolling hills and within close proximity to Adelaide. Today you can witness the remarkable eras from the historical buildings that line Gawler's Main Street. The attractive setting, coupled with major roles in the mining and agricultural booms of the 1860s, 70s and 80s saw Gawler blossom into a town of broad streets, peaceful parklands and distinctive architecture. As the walk unfolds you will gain an appreciation of the achievements that our ancestors accomplished in times of challenging environmental and social harshness. An interactive map is available online, please follow the website URL to view the full map.

Gawler SA

4.5 km away

Pioneer Park — Image credit: Town of Gawler

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Pioneer Park

Pioneer Park was not always the beautiful open space that it is today. It was the site of Gawler's first cemetery. The land was allocated for the town's public cemetery on the original plan by Colonel William Light. The first recorded burial was two-year old Ellen Fielding on 10 January 1847. The land was used for burials until 1870; graves were dug in all part of the cemetery, many having headstones and iron railing fences. A total of 271 people, a large number of them children, were interred in this cemetery. Health issues prompted the closure of the cemetery in 2870. The McKinlay Memorial was erected at the entrance to the old cemetery in 1875. Headstones were moved and can be seen at the entrance to the Gawler Cemetery in Willaston. A stone cairn has been erected in the park with the names of the people who were buried in the old cemetery. Features the historical Pioneer Park Rotunda and a sculpture serves as the town's war memorial in the in the north-west corner of the park. The Town of Gawler and the RSL commissioned renowned artist, Robert Hannaford AM in 2017 to design and develop the Memorial.

Gawler SA

4.5 km away

Clonlea Park Skate Park — Image credit: Town of Gawler

Natural Attractions

Clonlea Reserve Skate Park

A Skater kids delight! This skate park is surrounded by a magnificent collection of massive rocks, cleverly positioned timber and tree-stumps, winding pathways, challenging stepping-stones and lovely lookouts. This location is a magnet for visiting families for a stretch the legs and playtime for keen skaters or tiny tot bike riders! The pathways have been designed to cater for bike-riding toddlers, not just catering for the needs of teenagers. Adults will also appreciate the stroll and exploration of the many grottos hidden in the surrounding native vegetation and how water run-off has been cleverly designed, controlled and contained to form attractive rock-pools. While on your stroll, look for the cleverly designed, positioned and sculptured native birds and animals in the trees above the paths. The skate park is probably one of the best positioned parks; when considering the ambience provided by the surrounding North Para River and its natural environment. The skating area design has already been scored highly by discerning skaters. Public barbeques, and good parking facilities adjacent, and public toilets are available. For added security CCTV is in operation in the Skate Park area.

Willaston SA

5.0 km away

Little Rockets Munno Para

Amusement and Theme Parks

Little Rockets Play Café Munno Para

Little Rockets Play Café Munno Para is a massive indoor paradise for children of all ages conveniently located in Munno Para, one of Adelaide’s booming northern suburbs. The scale of this enormous play centre will amaze you and your kids with every inch of space used to create an affordable all-day of fun. Little Rockets Play café Munno Para is fully air-conditioned with easy parking and has a Café on site with its own Little Rockets unique blend of coffee made by professional baristas. The café also offers healthy options and delicious meals for children and parents a like, meaning you can simply sit back and enjoy the fun!

Adelaide SA

6.3 km away

Walking trails — Image credit: Weekend Notes

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Barossa Goldfield Trail

Explore the rich history of the Barossa Goldfields area on one of the three loop trails. Gold was first discovered in the area in 1868, and evidence of the following rush remains visible today. All trails are signposted with stories of mining techniques, local geology, and the people who once called this area home. The Victoria Hill circuit is the shortest loop, just 1.4 kilometers long and takes about one hour to complete. The next loop is the Phoenix circuit. At 4.8 kilometers long, it takes two hours and includes part of the Victoria Hill circuit. The longest loop is the Lady Pearce circuit. This walk is 5.8 kilometers, takes approximately 3 hours and includes parts of the other two circuits. Please note that fossicking and the collecting of rocks are not permitted. At the Goldfields trailhead on the corner of Goldfields Road and Allendale Road, Bowden's Cottage Museum is open most Tuesday mornings and the third Sunday of each month. The Barossa Goldfields Historical Society host an annual re-enactment Day at Bowden's Cottage on the fourth Sunday in September where visitors can pan for gold, see mining displays, learn about local history, experience blacksmithing demonstrations, and enjoy Billy tea and damper.

Cockatoo Valley SA

8.1 km away

Harvest Green Park Playground

Parks and Gardens

Harvest Green Park Playground

Harvest Green Park Playground is a vibrant community destination designed for families, visitors and local residents to enjoy the outdoors. The playground offers a fun and engaging space for children of all ages to play, explore and stay active in a safe and welcoming environment. Surrounded by expansive grassed areas, the park provides plenty of room for informal games, picnics and relaxation. Visitors can make use of the shaded shelter and comfortable seating areas, making it easy to spend extended time at the park while supervising children or catching up with family and friends. For added convenience, Harvest Green Park Playground features public toilets, car parking and BBQ facilities, creating the perfect setting for social gatherings, celebrations and casual weekend outings. Whether you're planning a family picnic, a community get-together or simply looking for a place to unwind, the park offers a range of amenities to enhance your visit. Combining play, recreation and comfort, Harvest Green Park Playground is an ideal outdoor destination where families and friends can connect, relax and enjoy quality time together in a beautiful open-air setting. Facilities: Playground, public toilets, car parking, BBQ facilities, shelter, seating, picnic areas and open grassed spaces.

Roseworthy SA

8.9 km away

Sandy Creek's signature par 3. — Image credit: Sandy Creek Golf Club Barossa Valley

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Sandy Creek Golf Club

Established in 1904, Sandy Creek Golf Club is located in the world famous Barossa Valley wine region, just 60 minutes from the Adelaide central business district. The picturesque 18-hole, par 72 course (6030 metres) provides the complete golfing experience, with superbly manicured greens, lush fairways and several holes featuring well positioned water hazards and bunkers. The course is situated on gently undulating land with extensive views over the Barossa Valley from many parts of the course. Flowering gums and other native trees and shrubs provide a home for a large variety of birds and the many kangaroos which can be seen relaxing on and off the fairways. Sandy Creek recently featured in Golf Australia Magazine's "100 Fun Aussie Courses to Play for $50 or less". The Club has significant practice facilities including a 320m driving range, practice bunker and practice chipping and putting greens, plus a fleet of modern electric carts. The Clubhouse and extensive deck area overlooks the course and provide the perfect setting to relax after your round and enjoy a selection of local Barossa wines, beers and cider. Sandy Creek Golf Club warmly welcomes visitors.

Sandy Creek SA

9.6 km away

A man and woman stand with their dog at a trailhead signage, reading information about the park. — Image credit: Department for Environment and Water

Natural Attractions

Para Wirra Conservation Park

With its extensive grassy areas, relaxing lakeside, and beautiful bush setting, Para Wirra Conservation Park is a well-loved gathering place for family and friends. This is a perfect park for immersing yourself in nature – for walking, picnicking, and observing native animal life. The park is also home to the Barossa Goldfields, where you can discover the ruins and the history of a once thriving mining operation. There are over 100 species of birds living in the park, including the cheeky emus you’ll see patrolling the picnic grounds. You can see kangaroos grazing at dawn and dusk, and on a warm day bearded dragons and sleepy lizards bask in the sunshine. If you’re in luck you might also spot a short-beaked echidna, a shy creature whose diggings can be found throughout the park.

Adelaide SA

10 km away

The beautiful Barossa Reservoir Reserve — Image credit: SA Water

Natural Attractions

Barossa Reservoir Reserve

Enjoy, explore, preserve Barossa Reservoir Reserve Home to the Whispering Wall, Barossa Reservoir is a popular tourist destination north of Adelaide, and just an hour's drive from the city centre. The reservoir is close to Williamstown and Gawler, just south of the Barossa Valley, making it a great day trip from Adelaide. Pack a picnic and think of a secret to whisper. Free car parking and toilet facilities are also available. Open 8.30am - 5pm (standard time), 8.30am - 6pm (daylight saving time). Closed on Total Fire Ban Days and for operational activity (gates will be closed).

Williamstown SA

11 km away

The Whispering Wall is known for its unusual acoustic phenomenon — Image credit: SA Water

Natural Attractions

Whispering Wall at Barossa Reservoir Reserve

Built between 1899 and 1903 the Whispering Wall is part of the dam wall located in the Barossa Reservoir Reserve and is known for its unique acoustic effects. Words whispered at one side can be clearly heard at the other, more than 100 metres away. Barossa Reservoir Reserve is a popular tourist destination north of Adelaide, and just an hour's drive from the city centre. The reservoir is close to Williamstown and Gawler, just south of the Barossa Valley, making it a great day trip from Adelaide. Pack a picnic and think of a secret to whisper! Free car parking and toilet facilities are also available. Open 8.30am - 5pm (standard time), 8.30am - 6pm (daylight saving time). Closed on Total Fire Ban Days and for operational activity (gates will be closed).

Williamstown SA

11 km away

Sandy Creek Conservation Park — Image credit: DEW

Natural Attractions

Sandy Creek Conservation Park

Sandy Creek Conservation Park is surrounded by farmland, vineyards and deep sand mining pits. Established on gently undulating sand dunes with occasional creeks, the park conserves some of the last remaining vegetation of the sandy soil lowlands of the Barossa Valley. Spring is the best time to view the wildflowers. The park lies on the edge of the land of the Permangk people, Kaurna people (south) and Ngadjuri people (north). Several walking trails through the native pine and pink gum allow you to explore the park. Look out for the wildlife such as western grey kangaroos grazing on the grasslands in the early morning and at dusk. The richness and diversity of the park's birdlife makes it particularly significant for naturalists and birdwatchers. However, bird populations are in decline due to the changing habitat.

Sandy Creek SA

12 km away

Aerial view of Little Para Reservoir Reserve — Image credit: SA Water

Natural Attractions

Little Para Reservoir Reserve

Enjoy, explore, preserve Little Para Reservoir Reserve Little Para Reservoir is South Australia's youngest reservoir, situated north of Adelaide alongside the suburbs of Greenwith and Golden Grove, providing an opportunity for adventure, family fun and environmental preservation. This beautiful natural reserve offers almost four kilometres of trails with two picnic areas, making it a welcome stop for local bike riders, runners and walkers. A scenic lookout provides the perfect way to relax and take in the reservoir and dam wall. The facilities at Little Para Reservoir Reserve are designed to add value for the local community, building on existing recreational opportunities in adjoining public land and nearby green spaces.. While people from other areas are welcome to enjoy the low-key facilities at Little Para, we encourage you instead to visit other nearby reservoirs reserves that cater for higher visitor numbers and offer a greater range of activities, such as Hope Valley Reservoir Reserve, and the Warren and South Para Reservoirs reserves which form part of the Southern Barossa Reservoirs network . Open 7.30am - 5pm (standard time), 7.30am - 8pm (daylight saving time). Closed on Total Fire Ban Days and for operational activity (gates will be closed). To prepare for your visit, please check the conditions of access here: www.reservoirs.sa.gov.au/conditions-of-entry.

Adelaide SA

12 km away

1837 Barossa Art Trail

Galleries, Museums and Collections

1837 Barossa Art Trail

Name a more iconic duo than art and wine. The magnificent winery 1837 Barossa has managed to combine the two and provide the ultimate experience for visitors that are looking to add a little culture to their winery adventures. The spectacular art trail offers a dozen modern art sculptures that have been commissioned from international artists making the collection the latest addition to the tourism offering of the Barossa. The modern art trail is free of charge and accessible during the opening hours of the 1837Barossa winery from 10am, Wednesdays to Sundays. The walking trail starts at the entrance of the 1837 Barossa estate, passes the 1837 Barossa Restaurant, the Barossa Colonel Light Monument, the iconic Barossa Manor and finishes at the 1837 Barossa Pavilion at the rear of the estate. Take a tour of the illustrious and magnificent grounds of the winery as you wine and dine, the perfect recipe for a Summer visit. The center piece is a 12m long "Welcome to the Barossa" sculpture which is a new landmark photo-point for all Barossa visitors. The pinnacle of the 1837 Barossa art trail is the sculpture "Wings of Barossa"; A a monumental sculpture with 2 angels wings. The sculpture is only complete when a person takes the 3 steps and poses between the wings as an angel.

Lyndoch SA

13 km away

Barossa Colonel Light Monument — Image credit: 1837 Barossa Pty Ltd

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Barossa Colonel Light Monument

The Barossa Colonel Light Monument is life-size bronze statue of Colonel Light on horseback and commemorates the birthplace of the world-famous Barossa Valley. Colonel William Light, founder of Adelaide and 1st Surveyor-General of South Australia, traversed the grounds of the monument on 13th December 1837, when exploring the north-east of Adelaide. On this historic occasion, he named our town Lyndoch and the surrounding hills Barossa. He bestowed on this area the name of his friend Lord Lynedoch, famous Lieutenant-General and glorious victor of the Battle of Barrosa in the Peninsula Wars of 1811 in Spain in which Light participated as a young officer. William Light recorded in his diary on December 13th 1837 “at length, about 5 p.m., we came to a beautiful valley which I named after my much esteemed friend, Lord Lynedoch”. On this same journey, Light consequently bestowed on the entire range the name of the victorious grounds of the battle of Barrosa in Spain. The weight of the monument bronze and its marble pedestal is more than eight tons. The weight of the marble pedestal is 7 tons. It is the largest monument in South Australia commemorating the outstanding achievements of Colonel William Light. The monument was commissioned and unveiled by the Lyndoch & District Historical Society. The monument is open to the public seven days a week.

Lyndoch SA

13 km away

Barossa Manor — Image credit: 1837 Barossa Pty Ltd

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Barossa Manor

The Barossa Manor is a landmark of South Australia. Its iconic architecture follows the Victorian Neoclassical period. The three Flemish gables on the main facade have decorative trim and an equilateral triangle which was used in the ancient Greek civilizations as the delta glyph and is symbolic of a doorway. The thought was that the combination of polarities would provide a new opening. The hand-forged iron entrance gate was crafted to mirror the central gable of the Barossa Manor. Flemish gables were a notable feature of the Renaissance architecture, which spread to northern Europe arriving in Britain during the latter part of the 16th century. Later Flemish gables with flowing curves became absorbed into early South Australian architecture, such as the Quorn Railway station, which first opened in 1879. The elaborate semicircle leading to the entrance gate symbolizes the rays of the rising sun. During midsummer the morning sun is aligned with the main entrance gate forming one geometrical line towards the front of the Barossa Manor. The plan of semicircle was based on the work of William Light, who designed Adelaide's characteristic geometrical shapes, pattern and parks. It was "Light's vision" to create an urban form which complemented nature, done with conscious purpose. The Barossa Manor is located adjacent to the Barossa Col Light Monument and can be photographed during 5 days a week

Lyndoch SA

13 km away

1837 Barossa - Welcome to the Barossa — Image credit: 1837 Barossa - Welcome to the Barossa

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Welcome to the Barossa Sign

A must photo opportunity in the Barossa Valley. Picture yourself in front of the giant 12m long "Welcome to the Barossa" sign. A great spot to take group photos at this Barossa landmark proving that you have been in the wine capital of Australia. The attraction is conveniently located at Yaldara Dr in Lyndoch, just in front of the 1837 Barossa winery. Visiting this modern sign is free of charge. It is accessible every day. The large letters on the "Welcome to the Barossa" sculpture tell the story of the Barossa beginning with the aboriginal history, the naming of the Barossa in 1837, planting of the first vines up to the modern history with its globally renowned wines. Each painting on the letters represents a part of the history of the Barossa B: The history of Indigenous Australians A: The naming of the Barossa by Colonel Light in 1837 R: Planting of the first wines in the Barossa O: Winemaking tradition of the European settlers S: Barossa wines become world famous S: Barossa becomes the food capital of Australia A: The famous festivals of the Barossa

Lyndoch SA

13 km away

Barossa Chateau Artist in Residence

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Barossa Chateau Artist in Residence

At the Barossa Chateau, they love all sorts of Art. They even have their very own Artist in Residence Gallery which is available daily to visit for free. Make sure to come in and ask the lovely staff for directions to the artwork! While you are here admiring art, consider visiting the Art and Antiques Gallery.

Lyndoch SA

14 km away

Barossa Chateau Queens Rose Garden

Parks and Gardens

Barossa Chateau Queens Rose Garden

In 2000, the rose garden project began, an ambitious plan devised and carried through by one of the Barossa's well-known Barons, Hermann Thumm, culminating in the official visit and opening of the garden by HM Queen Elizabeth II in 2002. Take the time to smell the roses and walk through their gardens.

Lyndoch SA

14 km away

Aerial view of South Para Reservoir Reserve — Image credit: SA Water

Natural Attractions

South Para Reservoir Reserve

Enjoy, explore, preserve South Para Reservoir Reserve South Para is the second largest reservoir in South Australia and the surrounding reserve is home to a range of adventure activities. Just minutes drive or a leisurely 30 minute nature walk from Williamstown in the southern Barossa Valley, this reservoir reserve is for outdoor enthusiasts keen to explore a rugged environment. You can explore the network of trails through the beautiful reservoir surrounds and now linking to Warren Reservoir Reserve and Williamstown in your hiking boots or on your mountain bike. Pack a picnic and make the most of water views deep into the reserve. There is also kayaking/canoeing and fishing along the shore or from your kayak. Free car parking and toilet facilities are also available. Open 7.30am - 5pm (standard time), 7.30am - 8pm (daylight saving time). Closed on Total Fire Ban Days and for operational activity (gates will be closed).

Williamstown SA

14 km away

What is happening now?

Search dated events, markets, live music, sport and community activities.

Planning by place?

Use Things to Do for attractions and experiences that are not tied to one event date.