Wine bars
Adelaide has a well deserved reputation as the wine capital of Australia, so as you might expect there's no shortage of places where you can sample the most delicious reds, whites, and rosés.
Exuding old school European elegance, The Apothecary 1878 is poles apart from the raucous, sticky-floored nightspots that Hindley Street is infamous for. Here, you can sip your way through a wine list that takes in both Australian favorites as well as wines from across France, Spain and other traditional regions. You can even buy wine on site to take home with you.
118 Hindley Street, Adelaide SA 5000.
Nightclubs
There's no getting away from it: loud, hectic Hindley Street is the party district of Adelaide. This thoroughfare and its surrounding area is where to come if you want to strut down red carpet entrances, knock back the shots and let your hair down. It also features one of the largest clubs in the land.
HQ
Right around the corner from Hindley Street, HQ is a vast mega-club which no party animal can ignore when in Adelaide. Constantly packed to the rafters with party-goers, it features different dance areas pumping out everything from house to RnB. Brash and brazen, it's great fun if you can keep your energy up.
1 North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000.
Cocktail bars
Adelaide isn't just about big clubs and pubs. The trend for modern, cutting edge cocktails has well and truly taken hold here, with underground establishments serving up unique potions amid decadent decor. The Collins Bar
Slap bang in the heart of the city, on sprawling Victoria Square, the Collins is named after the classic family of Collins cocktails. That said, it doesn't just rely on old favorites. Here you can guzzle innovative and extravagant Tiki-style drinks as well as speakeasy-style booze served in delicate tea cups, all within a refined, retro setting.
233 Victoria Square, Adelaide SA 5000.
Live music
There's always a band to catch in Adelaide, whether you're staying in the centre of the city or a little further afield. While big modern auditoriums are available, look closer and you can also seek out classic establishments with real personality.
Originally founded as a flour factory back in the early 20th century, Fowler's Live has long since reinvented itself as a major live music venue. Expect all genres of music to be played here, from earnest singer-songwriters to devil-may-care rock 'n' roll.
68 North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5000.
It opened in 1928, and one glance around the Thebarton will remind you that it's a historical mecca of music. Ornate balconies overlook the stage where stars have performed for almost a century – expect to see major international bands, hip hop artists and shoegazing indie crooners all grace this Adelaide landmark.
112 Henley Beach Road, Torrensville SA 5031.
