SA’s Maslin Beach.
Source: News Limited
Original article hereWhiile our more obvious attractions like The Central Market, the Botanic Garden and the Art Gallery receive their rightful praise, there’s a lot going on that’s hidden to all but a few. So, here is a list of our most underrated attractions.
(For contrast, you might to read Ali Clarke's most overrated Adelaide icons)
It’s clearly one of the most beautiful beaches in South Australia but its history of being the country’s first nude beach means it’s largely ignored by many.
Clearly the fear of seeing a stray willy or boob is enough to ensure most families’ beach balls and bathers are saved for other sandy reaches. But considering the nudie rudies are at the far, far, far end of the beach, there’s an awful lot of spectacular sand going to waste unnecessarily by those of a more puritan bent.
The East End and South West corners of the city
Formerly home to vacant shops and homeless shelters respectively, both areas have undergone a transformation in recent times, sprouting boutique cafes, wine bars, florists and clothing stores that are eclectic and buzzing.
Michael and Margie Andrewartha in the The Tasting Room in the new East End Cellars. Picture: Keryn Stevens
Source: News Corp Australia
Our public art
When I drive or walk around the city I’m normally there to either get from A to B, or from B to A, so I very rarely look up or around.
That was until I picked up a copy of the Public Art Walking Guide from the Adelaide City Council, which highlights 108 different pieces of art spread throughout the city, from glass and rock sculptures to gold-leaf bees.
While it might not be all to your taste, it sure beats looking at boring buildings and ugly kerbs.
Some of SA’s best-known public art - the Rundle Mall pigs.
Source: News Limited
Bonython Park
Normally when heading to Port Road from the city one’s attention is taking by the massive line up at West End’s charity water fountain, but next time just turn your head to the right.
Of course you won’t actually see anything amazing, but take note of the entry points to the wonderful Bonython Park.
This is without a doubt the best place for your children to get close to (but don’t pat) the police greys, learn to ride bikes and scooters at the safety school complete with lights and roundabouts, and run them ragged making dams, using the flying fox or trying to stay upright in the giant hamster wheel.
Ethan and Rohan Keates play in Bonython Park playground. Picture: Simon Cross
Source: News Limited
Our country shows
Step right up! Step right up! Lots of people wanted to mention individual shows, so I’ve grouped them all together, because while the Royal Adelaide Show is the supposed big one, many people love the smaller country fairs. The fact that many of them are so close to our CBD and suburbia makes it pretty unique to Adelaide.
Country shows are great - no bull.
Source: News Limited
Linear Park
A lot of people do nothing but bag our Torrens River as little more than a muddy creek, but you cannot fault the Linear Parklands as a pretty special Adelaide experience.
Of course, once you ride from Athlestone to the beach like I did once, you have to have a lift organised because our trams aren’t equipped to carry bikes and my legs weren’t equipped to make the return journey.
Hugh Skelly on one of the BMX jumps he and a group of mates built along a mountain bike trail at Linear Park.
Source: News Limited
Honourable mentions need to go to the McLaren Vale region with places like The Star of Greece, Bella Cosa – where you can sample sangria while painting your own masterpiece, or Russell’s at Willunga.
Also, many lamented more hasn’t been done to capitalise on the beautiful buildings and heritage areas of Port Adelaide.
So now, what have I missed?
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