5 alternative ways to enjoy Mad March in Adelaide

It’s this time of year that Adelaide really comes alive. With Fringe, the Adelaide Festival, WOMADelaide and Clipsal 500 in the mix, the city is truly buzzing.

But what if you need a break from the hustle and bustle? Or something to do beyond the busy CBD?

Here are 5 alternative ideas to keep you entertained and help you unwind in some of South Australia’s special natural and historic places:

1. Visit a park during Parks Week

A huge selection of free activities are being held in national parks and reserves across the country from March 5 to 13 to celebrate Parks Week. There’s guided snorkelling tours at Encounter Marine Park, a morning pilates session at the stunning Mount Remarkable National Park, fun for the kids with a junior ranger challenge at Para Wirra Recreation Park, and Belair National Park’s 125^th anniversary celebrations. Be sure to check out the full list of events.

2. Plan your autumn garden makeover

Whether you’re a green thumb or a total newbie, there’s a lot to be said about getting out in the garden. It’s a great way to unwind, enjoy the fresh air and get back in touch with nature. The cooler months from autumn to winter are the perfect time for planting, so start the groundwork now and plan your garden makeover. Think about the look and feel you’re going for, and if a native garden is up your alley, consider a trip to the State Flora experts at Belair or Murray Bridge for some planning advice. They specialise in waterwise South Australian species that will bring colour, butterflies, birds and insects to your garden and grow a range of plants perfect for our state’s unique climate and soil conditions.

3. Take in the tunes at Gaol Blues Festival

Chill out to the cool sounds of Blues music at the historic Adelaide Gaol in its 175^th anniversary year at Gaol Blues Fest on March 20. The day features a collection of local blues artists, culinary delights with a Southern United States flavour, and a selection of local craft beer, cider and wines. You can relax and take in the tunes or explore the mysterious corridors, cells and walls of the old gaol. Get your tickets online.

4. Head out to Shepherd’s Hill Park Adventure Day

If you’re the active type, head out to Shepherd’s Hill Recreation Park just 12 kilometres south of the CBD for a taste of bike riding, archery or guided dog walks as part of the park’s Adventure Day on March 20. Shepherd’s Hill is Nature Play South Australia’s ‘Park of the Month’ and to celebrate, you can check out the recently upgraded bike trails, the special jumps bowl, and the designated kids zone, or take part in a nature tour of the endangered Grey box grassy woodland. Plus, there’s a sausage sizzle and ice cream– what’s not to like?

5. Catch a Fringe show in the Adelaide Botanic Garden

OK, so this doesn’t get you out of town, but if you’re after a perfect blend of festival fever and nature, head to the Adelaide Botanic Garden for a Fringe Show. Lead yourself up the garden path – and indulge your senses – as you head to the show.There’s something for all ages, at the moment you can catch the magical fairy tale of Otanical for the kids or The Bunker Trilogy: Morgana, Agamemnon and Macbeth for adults.

Header image courtesy of Jason Tyndall, Nature Play SA.