Museums & History
Port Adelaide State Heritage Area
Port Adelaide is South Australia's first state heritage area and contains South Australia's most substantial and continuous group of colonial buildings. Many of these buildings were directly associated with Port Adelaide's function as the state's major port. The Port Adelaide state heritage area includes the commercial and administrative core of early Port Adelaide. It is situated between St Vincent Street and the waterfront (North Parade) and extends from Nelson Street on the west to Jubilee Street on the east.
The Port was the principal gateway to the colony for immigrants and supplies, developing rapidly as a shipping, transport and industrial hub. The historic government and commercial buildings are evidence of the Port's prosperity and importance during the mid and late 1800s. The heritage precinct contains more buildings of continuous historic character than anywhere else in South Australia. This group is an excellent example of colonial architecture that is rare in South Australia.
Museums
Museums in the Port - Special Offer
- Simply pick up a 'Museums in the Port' flyer at your first stop, get it stamped, and present it when you visit the next and subsequent museums, where you’ll get 25% off*.
- The participating museums, are:
* South Australian Maritime Museum
* South Australian Aviation Museum
* National Railway Museum
* Clipper Ship City of Adelaide
- The participating museums, are:
- The best part? You don't have to rush; explore these treasures at your own pace. This offer is valid for two months from your first visit, giving you ample time to savour the stories, history, and innovations waiting for you. All museums are open seven days a week (closed on Christmas Day), so you have the flexibility to choose the perfect day for your visit.
- *Please note that this offer is not applicable on special event days or in conjunction with any other discount at any of the four museums.
South Australian Maritime Museum
Located in the historic Port Adelaide precinct, the South Australian Maritime Museum preserves, explores and celebrates the human history of our oceans and rivers. Renowned for its innovative approach to maritime history and education, the Museum incorporates the historic Bond Store with three floors of exhibitions, the Port Adelaide Lighthouse from South Neptune Island, and the much-loved steam tug, Yelta.
National Railway Museum
Take a journey into railway history at the National Railway Museum, Australia's largest railway museum, with over 100 exhibits representing State, Commonwealth and private railway operators on the three major rail gauges used in Australia.
South Australian Aviation Museum
The Museum is a thriving place for aviation enthusiasts and historians. Visitors have a great variety of aircraft, engines, propellers, historic displays and memorabilia to view. Museum members are available for guided tours or to answer questions.
City of Adelaide Clipper Ship
The historic 1864 City of Adelaide Clipper Ship, the world's oldest clipper ship, is open for visitors daily through guided tours, suitable for all ages, including families. These tours offer insights into the social history of both passengers and crew, enriching the understanding of maritime travel during the late 19th century. Please note that the last entry into the ship is at 2:30pm, and access is via stairs.
Port Adelaide Historical Society Museum
The Port’s local community museum is located a few minutes from the centre of Port Adelaide and contains historic collections of Port Adelaide, Semaphore, LeFevre Peninsula and environs, including the maritime collection of Keith Leleu, which was commenced in 1962 to address the loss of all things maritime. It houses a wide collection of artefacts, published materials, books, photographs and models; arranged to interest all who love Port Adelaide and ships.
Open Sunday 2 pm–4 pm
Group bookings at other times can be made by contacting David on 0417 2020 66