What to do and see in Adelaide, South Australia: The Best Museums

The David Roche Foundation was established in 1999 by the late Mr David J Roche AM (1930-2013) to be the recipient and custodian of the exceptional collection of antiques, paintings and objets d’art accumulated by him over his lifetime and to be preserved for future generations. The magnificent pieces contained in the collection, particularly those from past centuries, are presented in an opulent manner, reminiscent of how David lived in Fermoy House. Over a lifetime, David Roche assembled one of the greatest private decorative arts collections in Australia. It was his wish that the collection and his home be made available to the public in his beloved hometown of Adelaide. The adjoining gallery building houses changing exhibitions which display aspects of the collection. Guided Tour of Fermoy House (includes entry into the exhibition) - $20 Full Price/$17 Concession Price Not suitable for under 12's Exhibition Entry Only - Price varies per exhibition

A must-see in the city of Adelaide not only because it holds one of Australia's finest art collections, but also because it offers a variety of activities for all ages.

Established in 1986 and built on the site of the former Adelaide Destitute Asylum, the Migration Museum was the first museum dedicated to the social history of migration in Australia. The Museum works towards the preservation, understanding and enjoyment of South Australia’s diverse cultures. It is a place to discover the many identities of the people of South Australia through the stories of individuals and communities. Its nine galleries, which include permanent and changing displays, trace the history and culture of Aboriginal peoples in Australia prior to colonisation, the history and impact of immigration from the nineteenth century onward, as well as the history of the site. The Museum is just a short walk down Kintore Avenue from North Terrace and is easily accessible by public transport. All of the Museum's galleries have disabled access. Entry to the Museum is free, with an optional gold coin donation. Tour groups are welcome but must book in advance. Members of the public can book a guided tour of the Migration Museum with a minimum of ten people per booking and a cost of $10 per person, concession rate $5 per person.

The South Australian Museum has been committed to making Australia’s natural and cultural heritage accessible, engaging and fun for over 150 years. It is a place where families can learn and grow together. Today the Museum is one of the most visited museums in Australia and holds collections of national and international significance, including the world's most comprehensive collection of Australian Aboriginal cultural material. It is a leader in remote and regional community engagement, and in Australian Aboriginal heritage and scientific research.

Ayers House Museum is a unique landmark and destination, the last grand mansion from the nineteenth century in the city that is publicly accessible and one which boasts some of the finest architecture and painted decoration in Australia. The museum provides an immersive experience of life in Victorian-era Adelaide with particular reference to the life and times of Sir Henry Ayers, five times Premier of South Australia, who built, furnished and decorated his family home to the highest standard. We present an active program of public events, exhibitions and special interest programming at Ayers House Museum.

Experience what life was like behind bars for the prisoners who once called the Adelaide Gaol their home. Ghost tours can only be booked through one of our private Commercial Tour Operators. Please visit our website for details. Adelaide Gaol was open for business from 1841 to 1988, the Gaol was one of Australia's longest continuously operational prison facilities. Over those gruelling 147 years, the Gaol housed some of the state's most notorious and dangerous criminals. Almost 300,000 prisoners whiled away some time at His (or Her) Majesty's pleasure, and 45 unfortunates were executed within its walls - including the only woman to be executed in South Australia. Step back in time and walk the hallways and cells of South Australia's first inmates.