Thorndon Park Reserve (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Thorndon Park Reserve?
What makes it 87% Baby-Friendly: Smooth pram paths, shaded tables, baby-change toilets and weekend kiosk suit infants; lack of private nursing room and busy peak times drop the score slightly.
Positives:
- Pram-friendly paths: All main loops are sealed and gently graded for strollers.
- Baby-change facilities: Free change tables in public toilets and an accessible adult change table with hoist available.
- Free entry: All walking trails, playground, museum, and BBQ facilities are free to use.
Challenges:
- No private nursing room: No dedicated nursing room—nursing discreetly under pavilions or trees recommended.
- Limited kiosk hours: Rotary-run kiosk open only on weekends—plan ahead for weekdays.
- First-come BBQ shelters: Shelters and tables are unreserved on a first-come basis—arrive early on busy days.
What is Thorndon Park Reserve?
- A 30-hectare municipal reserve in Adelaide’s north-eastern suburb of Paradise, centered on the heritage Thorndon Park Reservoir and adjoining wetlands
- A council-managed conservation area preserving native riparian vegetation, waterbird habitats and early 20th-century dam infrastructure
- A multi-use public landscape comprising sealed walking loops, a bird-themed playground and picnic shelters alongside heritage waterworks
What is so special about Thorndon Park Reserve for with baby?
- Sealed loops and wetlands paths designed for smooth pram access
- Multiple shaded picnic tables beside toilets and water fountains
- Weekend kiosk for last-minute baby supplies and snacks
- Heritage museum offers a quiet, cool break space
- Free electric BBQs and baby-change facilities throughout
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time for a gentle pram loop, picnic, and short museum break with a baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Thorndon Park Reserve
Pram-Friendly Walks:
Follow the sealed 1.45 km loop path for smooth stroller access around the reservoir and wetlands.
Tip: Take breaks on shaded benches near water fountains.
Baby-Friendly Picnic Spots:
Choose a picnic table under shade sails close to toilets for easy diaper changes and feeds.
Tip: Pack a blanket to extend play space on the lawn.
Kiosk Visit for Supplies:
Buy warm milk, snacks, or ice creams at the Rotary-run kiosk on weekends.
Tip: Check opening times on weekends to avoid disappointment.
Quiet Museum Break:
Step into the small heritage museum for a cool, sheltered space when your baby needs calm.
Tip: Use this time for a diaper change at the accessible changing table inside.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Thorndon Park Reserve
- Download facility map: Get a park map from the kiosk or online to locate toilets, fountains, and playground quickly.
- Use water bottle taps: Carry refillable bottles to use free bottle taps near picnic areas.
- Borrow MLAK key: If you need the hoist outside kiosk hours, borrow the MLAK from the kiosk or call council.
Reviews of Thorndon Park Reserve
Pat Chung
I think this Thorndon Park Reserve is probably the best playground in Adelaide, except the St Kilda one which must be very nice too but a bit too far for me. The upgrading had been completed for about 3 years and was opened since December 2022. This playground is huge, with a giant heron slide, flying fox, swings, sand and water play zone (water equipment still workable), half-basketball court, t...
Cobbion
Thorndon park is a brilliant park great for walking, running, playing and everything else. Great views especially for a city. A few downsides are dogs aren't allowed and the paths near the lake are very dirty with duck feces. But apart from those downsides it is a great place with good bathrooms and brilliant play equipment. There are plenty of fish in the lakes but fishing is not allowed there ar...
Gaurangi Anand
Perfect place for a family picnic, lots to keep kids busy, ample parking and accessible for wheel chairs and prams. The park has enough shaded areas for a sunny afternoon and the presence of the water body makes it stand out!
Vicki Smith
Great playground area for kids of all ages. Lovely walk around the lake. Clean amenities and BBQ areas
Muhammad Sajid Naqvi
Thordan Park Reserve is one of the finest parks in Adelaide, offering a perfect blend of nature, recreation, and relaxation. This beautiful park features a unique bird-themed playground, which is a favorite among children, providing an engaging environment for them to explore and play. The park is well-maintained with clean, accessible toilets and several BBQ and picnic areas, making it an ideal s...
When is the best time to visit Thorndon Park Reserve (Adelaide, Australia)?
In summer, arrive early to avoid midday heat and ensure shade. Fire-ban days disable electric BBQs—check local alerts. In winter, cold mornings warm quickly by midday by the reservoir.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Electric BBQ use | AUD 0 |
| Kiosk snacks and drinks | AUD 10 |
| Total Estimated | AUD 10 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Thorndon Park Reserve
Address: Hamilton Terrace, Paradise SA 5075, Australia
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Thorndon Park Reserve (Adelaide)?
About Thorndon Park Reserve
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+61 8 8366 922210 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇦🇺 Australia, with baby
🇺🇸 United States, with baby
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, with baby
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities