Adelaide Festival Centre (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Adelaide Festival Centre?
What makes it 76% Kids-Friendly: Kids can enjoy DreamBIG shows, Festival Plaza water jets and child tickets, but they must stay seated and quiet during most performances. Children’s Artspace closed until 2026, so indoor hands-on play is limited; plan around seasonal programs.
This place may be temporarily closed. Please check official sources before visiting.
Positives:
- Free Water Play Area: Kids can splash at no cost in Festival Plaza’s water jets and misters.
- On-site Parenting Rooms: Quiet feeding rooms and baby-change stations are available in key venues.
- Scenic Riverside Location: Offers open spaces and an art walk for all ages.
Challenges:
- Water Play Closure in Winter: The water jets may be turned off during cooler months; check before planning.
- Artspace Under Upgrade: Children’s Artspace is closed until early 2026; schedules may change.
- Ticketed Shows Sell Out: Popular family performances can sell out; book at least two weeks in advance.
What is Adelaide Festival Centre?
- A major performing arts complex on the banks of the River Torrens, housing Festival Theatre, Dunstan Playhouse and Space Theatre
- A purpose-built cultural hub combining performance venues, art gallery spaces and an outdoor amphitheatre, distinguished by its white, sculptural clover-leaf architecture
- Australia's first dedicated festival centre, opened in 1973 to anchor the Adelaide Festival of Arts and support year-round artistic endeavours
What is so special about Adelaide Festival Centre for with kids?
- Interactive water play in Festival Plaza delights kids.
- Hands-on art workshops at Children’s Artspace (reopens early 2026).
- Family-friendly shows during DreamBIG and school holidays.
- Scenic riverbank walk with artist plaques and open lawns.
- Complimentary parenting rooms and changing facilities throughout.
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A visit lasting 3 to 4 hours is enough for a family with kids to explore key highlights without overwhelming younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Adelaide Festival Centre
Festival Plaza Water Play:
Non-slip pavers with bubbling jets and misting features that kids can splash in.
Tip: Bring towels and a change of clothes; shoes will get wet.
Children’s Artspace:
Hands-on art exhibitions and workshops for ages 5–12 (check for reopen in early 2026).
Tip: Confirm opening dates on the Centre’s website before your visit.
Family Shows & Workshops:
Seasonal children’s performances and art workshops during DreamBIG and school holidays.
Tip: Book tickets early on the Centre’s website and check age recommendations.
Riverbank Promenade Walk:
Riverside path with plaques honoring Australian artists and open lawns for kids to roam.
Tip: Combine with a picnic on nearby lawns; use the pram-friendly pathways.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Adelaide Festival Centre
- Visit Early Afternoon: Arrive around 2 PM when the Plaza is less crowded and galleries are quieter.
- Combine Free and Paid: Start with free exhibitions before heading to a paid show to maximize value.
- Bring Own Snacks: Pack a picnic for the riverbank to save on café prices and enjoy outdoor dining.
Reviews of Adelaide Festival Centre
Win B
OzAsia and Lucky Dumpling market were the highlight of our Adelaide trip! Lots of food to choose from. Super cozy feel, and borderline nostalgic! Lots of comfy seats to relax and unwind while eating. Asian art displays are cute. Lights surrounding the grounds are warm and inviting. Photos dont do justice what our eyes was able to see. So imagine, these are way better in real life. Cant wait for...
kyle Hemi (Chewy)
Yeh nah had an unreal adventure. It’s a really nice theatre and the acoustics were on point. Loved the drapes and carpet
Michael Chapman
Happy hour was ace! The fish and chips was the tastiest I've ever had. 😋🇦🇺👍
rick adl
I love this place. It's an iconic structure. The atmosphere there is always relaxed. The staff is friendly. You get to see top-class theatre shows. The surroundings are amazing too, the torrens River, Adelaide Oval. I go there almost every month or sometimes twice a month. They have an ozasia festival too once a year. Where you get to see great artists, great shows. Festival Centre runs so many pr...
Emmy Silvius
What a lovely place to visit alongside the river Torrens and away from the hustle and bustle of traffic just a street away. I very much enjoyed my first visit here to see the musical Sister Act in the Festival Theatre. Beautiful theatre and great atmosphere.
When is the best time to visit Adelaide Festival Centre (Adelaide, Australia)?
The water jets run mainly in warmer months; check ahead if visiting in winter. Festival programs change by season—view the Centre’s online calendar before you go.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult show tickets (2) | AUD 80 |
| Child show tickets (2) | AUD 40 |
| Café snacks & drinks | AUD 30 |
| Public transport day pass (family) | AUD 20 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 170 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Adelaide Festival Centre
Address: King William Rd, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
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About Adelaide Festival Centre
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