Awesome Adelaide (And the 11 Tourist Spots for Visitors)

Is Australia next on your to-visit list? We suggest taking a trip to Adelaide, the beautiful cosmopolitan city on the coast of Gulf St Vincent. Its cultural offering is spectacular, but that’s not all you can enjoy.

Adelaide is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Australia, and for a good reason. It’s an ideal mix of culture, fun, and nature. Not to mention that it’s a heaven for animal lovers, especially if you have time to visit nearby places.

Out of all the fantastic tourist spots in Adelaide, you’ll find in the following a list of 11 favorites. These are some of the attractions and places that you simply can’t afford to miss while in this sophisticated city.

1. Central Market

The best place to learn about local food and drinks is the Adelaide Central Market. And if you’re a fan of always lively places, the market is a perfect launching pad for exploring Adelaide. It’s where you can find fresh fruits and vegetables, delicious sweets, and then some.

And if you stop by on a Friday night, you can also enjoy live music. There are also workshops for kids, cooking lessons, and other exciting activities, depending on the season.

2. Glenelg Beach

A metropolis with a beach that’s only 25 minutes away sounds like a dream. And this is exactly what you get in Adelaide.

Glenelg Beach, one of the most famous in all of Australia, is easily accessible by tram and will amaze you with its awesome sunset. It’s perfect for photographers and romantic souls who want to enjoy a cup of coffee or cocktail in one of the cozy cafés along the beach.

3. Haigh’s Chocolate Store

Are you up for fine chocolates? If so, Haigh’s Chocolate Store is a logical stop on your route.

The factory is a family-owned business and is where the best South Australian sweets are born. The factory’s part of a host of Adelaide city tours, and it’s where you’ll learn all about the chocolate-making process.

Haigh’s selection includes more than 250 types of chocolates in all shapes and sizes imaginable. You might want to bring home at least one gift box as a souvenir.

4. North Terrace

Adelaide’s famous boulevard’s filled with historical sites and cultural monuments. And if you’re not sure where to start, this may be perfect. You’ll first see the Parliament House, undoubtedly the city’s most impressive building.

And as you continue the walk, you can visit the State Library of South Australia, various museums and galleries, and the University of Adelaide campus.

You may have to spend a whole day to fully take in these examples of splendid architecture.

5. Art Gallery of South Australia

As you walk down and explore North Terrace, make sure to stop by the Art Gallery of South Australia. Located in Adelaide’s primary cultural area, this Victorian building houses some superb art collections.

You’ll have a chance to see different kinds of artworks – from the colonial days to the contemporary. Whether you favor sculptures, paintings, or photography, you’ll find something to enjoy in this gallery.

6. The Adelaide Oval

There’s something for sports fans as well among the many tourist places in Adelaide. Whether it’s the cricket or soccer season, the famous Adelaide Oval is always packed.

Like in many European cities, the stadium is also a huge tourist attraction. It’s located in the Riverbank Precinct and can hold thousands of spectators. More than 16 sports competitions have taken place at this historic stadium.

7. Barossa Valley

As you know, Australia is one of the world’s major wine-producing countries. The Barossa Valley is the best-regarded wine region in South Australia and has a lot to offer all visitors.

Aside from the remarkable wines to try, you’ll find excellent food and even golf courses and cycling tracks. There are also a few galleries to visit for those who are into art.

If you have the time, you might want to consider spending a few days in this beautiful valley.

8. National Wine Centre

Speaking of Australian wines, the National Wine Centre isn’t off the beaten path and certainly worth a visit.

It’s the place to attend all types of wine events, including tastings and interactive wine discovery journeys. And if you’d like to learn more about wines a bit more, you should know the Centre is also an enology research institute.

9. Adelaide Zoo

One of the unavoidable tourist attractions in Adelaide, Australia is the Zoo. Close to 300 species of animals live here. You’ll catch a glimpse of everything, from local animals to the most exotic, including the southern hemisphere’s only couple of giant pandas.

A visit to the Adelaide Zoo is an excellent choice for families with kids. The tour can include interactive presentations and a petting zoo of farm animals. There’s also a unique vertical garden and a huge terrarium.

10. Botanic Garden

Off North Terrace Boulevard, the Adelaide Botanic Garden has a long history. It’s home to many medicinal plants, for starters. You’ll also find rainforest plants, Amazon water lilies, the oldest fig trees in Australia, and more.

The best thing about the Adelaide Botanic Garden? It’s open all year round and it doesn’t cost a dime! The guided tour is also free.

11. Cleland Wildlife Park

Who knew that a wildlife park could be only 20 minutes away from the city center? While in Adelaide, don’t forget to stop by the Cleland Conservation Park.

At the park, you can get your daily dose of kangaroos, emus, wallabies, and koalas. Not only can you see them up close, but you can also feed and cuddle them.

This park is among the most visited tourist places near Adelaide. It’s fantastic for photographers, as well as kids who want a souvenir photo of them cuddling a koala.

The 9 Reasons You Should Visit Daytona Beach

Whether it’s the need for speed or sandy beaches, Daytona Beach has it. This beach is a top tourist attraction that caters to thrill-seekers, kids, families, and birdwatchers alike.

There’s more than one reason to visit Daytona Beach. It’s not just about shopping, premium accommodations, and exciting cuisine – it goes beyond that. This place is home to many historic locations and businesses that offer unique experiences.

Check out some of the best places to relax, party, or educate yourself on history, art, and the sciences.

1.   Relax or Party at Daytona Beach

Among the top Daytona Beach attractions is the beach itself. The sandy shore stretches over 20 miles of prime beachfront real estate. Known as one of the best beaches in Florida, it’s an energetic scene for tourists and locals.

The beach hosts dozens of festivals each year, so there are plenty of opportunities to plan your visit. The boardwalk, known as the center of Daytona Beach, is famous for its restaurants and street performers. It’s where most of the restaurants and attractions are.

Those attractions include the Ferris wheel, go-kart tracks, and concert venues. Don’t forget to take in the scenery by walking the 1,000ft-long Daytona Pier. It’s another city landmark and a prime fishing spot.

2.   Visit the Daytona International Speedway

You can’t visit a historic location in the world of racing without checking out the Daytona International Speedway. It’s a place not just for racing fans but also for any sports enthusiast.

The speedway features premium amenities and a ton of history. It’s also home to the Motorsports Hall of Fame of America. The hall of fame catalogs racing that goes back to the early 1900s. And you’ll learn why this is the world’s first motorsports stadium. It’s a sight to see and an excellent location to learn about the history of racing.

Aim to book your visit in advance. That way, you can book a copilot experience with a NASCAR driver, or drive on the track yourself.

3.   Embark on an Equestrian Adventure

For those who prefer to go at one horsepower (literally), why not embark on an equestrian adventure? This is one of the most popular Daytona Beach attractions for families. Horseback riding on the beach is relaxing, especially given the excellent trainers and horses.

The trail also goes beyond the sandy beach, so you can take in some of the scenic woodlands scenery.

4.   Check Out the Jackie Robinson Ballpark

This landmark location is something you can do before taking in the Daytona Beach nightlife. Visit the stadium that hosted the first game with an African-American baseball player – it’s a must-see for any baseball fan.

Besides touring the stadium and taking in its rich history, you can also catch a game. And, when the Daytona Tortugas aren’t playing, the stadium sometimes hosts concerts.

5.   Visit the Museums

There’s more than one museum to see in Daytona Beach. You can check out the Museum of Arts & Sciences, the Museum of Photography, and even the Cici and Hyatt Brown Museum of Art.

The latter is an interesting attraction that houses over 2,000 works of art. It tells the story of Florida – a history that goes back to the days of the pioneers to the modern times – through the work of various artists. You’ll also be treated to a nice collection of pop-culture exhibits.

If you’re planning a school trip or a family vacation, there’s enough action for everyone.

Daytona Beach is home to not only sports and entertainment but also educational attractions. It’s rich in history and art that will satisfy anyone who wants to experience other things aside from the lively nightlife or beach activities.

6.   Tour the Chocolate Factory

Angell & Phelps is not Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. But it is a hot tourist attraction with its handmade chocolate confections. It’s also among the first woman-founded companies and still offers many of its products made using original recipes.

Touring the historic factory is free. It’s definitely a fun activity, especially if you have a sweet tooth. But even if you don’t, it’s still worth a visit to see one of the factories that had a massive impact on female entrepreneurship in America.

7. Take in the Scenery in the Tomoka State Park

If you’re willing to take a 20-minute drive up north, you can visit the Tomoka State Park. It covers 2,000 acres and runs along the Tomoka River.

Since 1945, tourists have flocked here to see the scenery or engage in various water activities, like kayaking and fishing. It’s also a great spot to visit if you’re a birdwatcher, considering the variety of species around like bald eagles.

The park also offers camping accommodations, provided that you get a permit first. It’s a good idea if you want to trek more nature trails.

8. Visit the Marine Science Center

Another great location for educational purposes is the Marine Science Center. It also doubles as a research and learning center and hosts a variety of species of underwater life.

This is the place that nurses back to health everything from sea turtles to injured birds. You can even interact with some of the “residents”, as many species are in touch-tanks. There is also a bird observation tower and a boardwalk trail for you to explore.

9. Look Down on the Beach

If you’re not scared of heights, here’s one of the coolest things to do when you visit Daytona Beach. HeliHogs helicopter rides offer an amazing perspective of the lively beach. It’s also one of the best ways to see as much as you can in a short amount of time.

The tours go further up north along the coastline. Seeing the waves crash and the dark blue ocean water from above is something everyone should experience at least once.

Fun for All Ages in the Sunshine State

Anyone that thinks Florida is for old people hasn’t visited Daytona Beach.

This is an amazing location for single people and entire families, especially given the range of activities and attractions available. There are reasonable accommodations for all budgets and has more than you can hope to see in just one holiday.

It hosts numerous festivals, offers fresh seafood, and an active nightlife. That and its impeccable beach make Daytona Beach a destination you don’t want to miss.

Going to the Gulf Shores – Check Out These 10 Things to Do in This Alabama Hot Spot

Traveling to the Heart of Dixie? There’s more to take in than just white sandy beaches and water activities.

Vacationing in Alabama can be a great idea. Especially if you plan on visiting the Gulf Shores and taking in the scenery, nightlife, and great Southern cuisine.

Take a look at some of the hottest tourist attractions to make sure you won’t miss a thing during your next trip.

1.   Visit the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo

Alabama’s Gulf Coast Zoo has over 500 exotic animals, like tigers, wolves, and a variety of reptiles. You can even interact with lemurs, kangaroos, and other animals in their natural habitats. And there’s also a varied selection of birds you can admire.

While the 25-acre zoo provides a home to a diverse group of wild animals, it also has a restaurant and various theme-park-style attractions. If you want, you may even visit the giraffe feeding station for a unique experience.

What’s even more impressive is how the zoo was rebuilt after the devastating hurricanes that hit Alabama in 2004 and 2005.

2. Take the Fort Morgan Road Trail

The Fort Morgan trail is a gorgeous sight, as it has the Mobile Bay on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. That means you can check out the coastal wildlife, vivid scenery, and the historic site at Fort Morgan while on foot.

Fort Morgan makes for an equally interesting sight. It was a strategic defense sea fort during the Battle of Mobile Bay in 1864, during the Spanish-American War, and both World Wars.

If you’re vacationing in your camper, the Fort Morgan RV Park puts you right on the trail. From there, you’re also close enough to visit the Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge – one of the coolest things to do in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

3. Rest, Explore, and Have Fun in Gulf State Park

Alabama Gulf State Park has over two miles of sandy beaches and one of the best fishing piers along the Gulf of Mexico. There are plenty of activities to partake in, including kayaking, cycling, fishing, hiking, and more.

The State Park offers a unique combination of powdery sands and scenic woodlands. This works great, whether you’re looking to relax or explore. There is an active nightlife as well, as it has restaurants that offer great seafood. You’ll also be treated to an excellent front-row seat to the Gulf Coast summer sunsets.

4. Take a Trip to Orange Beach

Orange Beach, Alabama is a must-see on your next vacation down south. It’s a very long stretch of sand that attracts people from all over the country.

There are many hotel chains and waterside restaurants where you can spend a great couple of days alone or with your family. But if you prefer nighttime activities, there are music venues that keep their doors open until late into the night. It’s a perfect spot if you want to start a night of partying while watching the sunset.

5. Have an Adventure on the Adventure Island

If you’re a theme park enthusiast, then the Adventure Island in Orange Beach might be the place to visit. It’s a theme park with tons of attractions and activities for couples and families, such as a Go-Kart track and Bumper Boats.

The Giant Volcano is sure to impress the younger audience, while the laser tag course can attract park visitors of any age.

6. Sample the Local Market

Whether you’re a seafood lover or not, the Gulf Shores Seafood Market is one place that you shouldn’t miss. Eating at the restaurants is one thing, but you might regret not sampling the varied selection at the market.

You can take a stroll through the market on your way back home to make sure you’ll be leaving with more than just memories. Bring home some fresh catches of the day, too.

7. Enjoy the Autumn Festivities

If you plan on visiting the Gulf Shores, Alabama has a lot to offer, especially in the fall. The first week of October hosts the John L. Borom Alabama Birdfest. It’s a hit among birdwatchers every year.

Not only that, but you can also take part in workshops, guided tours, dinner events, and many more activities. It’s also a great time of the year to experience the migration season.

8. Experience the Museum

You can’t go on a vacation in Alabama without going to the most important Gulf Shores attraction – The Gulf Shores Museum. It features both temporary and permanent exhibits you should definitely check out.

This is the best place to learn about the location’s importance during the Second World War. You can also learn about the first settlers in the region, which came in around the 19^th century.

9. Visit the Dog Park

The Gulf State Park is also home to the Dog Park at Lake Shelby. It’s a top tourist attraction, as well as a hotspot for dog trainers from the area.

The park offers benches, picnic tables, and an agility course. There’s also no need to worry about interactions because there are separate areas for small and large breeds. If you’re traveling to the Gulf Shores with man’s best friend, this destination should be on your list.

10. Sample the Local Crafts

If you like beer, you might enjoy a trip to the Big Beach Brewing Company. This Alabama microbrewery occupies a quiet lot in the Gulf Shores. It’s off the beaten path and features a great selection of local craft beer.

The owners also allow visitors to bring their own food, so you can spend a little more time here if you want.

Plan a Longer Trip

When visiting the Gulf Shores, you can get quickly overwhelmed by the stuff there is to see. After all, there are tons of activities for single travelers, couples, and entire families.

This southern spot offers some of the finest accommodations, fresh food, and loads of excitement.

Do take your time when taking a trip down south so you can experience a bit of everything. There’s more to see in this historic location than you have time for in a short vacation, so plan ahead.