Families & Kids

Looking for a family day out in the Adelaide Hills that won’t break the bank? From giant rocking horses and wildlife parks, to miniature railways and skate parks, the Adelaide Hills has it covered. And no matter what their age, you’re sure to find something to amuse the kids.

Little ones will enjoy the Hahndorf Farm Barn - they'll get to experience life on the farm and learn about native and farm animals. The 18-metre high Giant Rocking Horse at Gumeracha is another favourite and you can climb to the top or check out the handmade wooden toys in the factory. There's also a cafe for mum and dad.

At Littlehampton's Platform One, kids can take a ride on the miniature railway and meet some of the farm animals. Or head for family favourite Cleland Wildlife Park, where kids (and grown-ups) can handle a koala, picnic amid kangaroos or burn some energy on a bushwalk. Cleland also runs excellent school holiday programs. If the family's fit and you're ready for a challenge, take the hike up to Mount Lofty Summit and soak in the stunning panoramic views. Another wildlife option is the Gorge Wildlife Park, where children can view and feed Australia's largest collection of animals and birds.

Book your child's next birthday gathering at Ponies Love Parties at Littlehampton or relive your childhood at Fairyland Village in Lobethal winding your way through bushland past live displays of all the favourite fairytales.

Everyone will love Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary. On one of their guided tours you'll see long-nosed potoroos, southern brown bandicoots, red-necked wallabies and, maybe, a platypus. There's also a cafe serving meals and coffee.

At Birdwood, the National Motor Museum has a huge collection of motor vehicles dating back to the early 1900s, and its Holden Pavilion hosts major exhibitions. Or give horse-riding a try at Inglewood's Templewood Riding School.

Also at Woodside, Melba's Chocolate Factory will keep the kids amused for hours. They can learn all about the old-fashioned way of making chocolate and lollies, watch the chocolate-makers at work and stock up on sweets for the journey home!

From June to November, you can catch a ride on Steamranger – a vintage steam train that travels from Mount Barker to Goolwa, Victor Harbor and Strathalbyn, and back. And, if the weather’s not kind, head for the new Wallis Cinema Complex at Mount Barker, which screens all the latest releases.

Picnic Spots in the Adelaide Hills

There's no better family day out than a picnic, and the Adelaide Hills has plenty of spots that fit the bill.

The Mount Lofty Botanic Garden has several good locations, including some by the lake, and because it's a whopping 97 hectares, there's plenty of room for everyone.

Kuitpo and Mount Crawford Forests are also good options and have the added bonus of walking and cycling trails.

At Mount Barker, Keith Stephenson Park has children's play equipment and the State's largest skate park, or try a linear walk through Laratinga Wetlands.

There are also pleasant picnic spots and reserves in most Hills towns.