Autumn Leaves in Adelaide: Where to See the Best Colours

When Adelaide’s summer heat finally eases and cooler days settle in, the city and its surrounds burst into the brilliant colours of autumn.

Parks, gardens, and vineyards all burst into a glow of rich reds, golds, and oranges, creating some of the best spots to soak up the season.

Chasing autumn leaves in Adelaide is one of my favourite ways to slow down and enjoy the change, with so many beautiful places for a wander, all within a couple of hours of the city. 

Best Places to See Autumn Leaves in and Around Adelaide

From hill towns to city parks, there are numerous beautiful spots to explore as the trees put on their seasonal display.

Whether planning a quick day trip or a lazy afternoon stroll, this guide covers the best places in Adelaide to experience the beauty of autumn leaves.

Adelaide’s City Parks and Gardens

Adelaide Botanic Garden

Located right in Adelaide’s city centre, the Adelaide Botanic Garden provides one of the most accessible and vibrant autumn experiences in the city.

Spanning approximately 125 acres, the garden features a diverse array of rare and exotic deciduous trees that transform into beautiful shades of amber, red, and gold as autumn arrives.

Late March through April is the perfect time to visit, especially around the peaceful lake area, outside the Botanic Gardens restaurant, and along the paths near the impressive Morton Bay Fig.

These spots offer some of the best displays, ideal for strolls or quiet moments beneath the colourful canopies.

Families appreciate the gardens for their accessible paths and spacious lawns, perfect for picnics or letting kids run free.

It’s wheelchair-friendly, making it a relaxing place for everyone to enjoy the seasonal beauty.

Entry is free, and gates are open daily from sunrise until early evening. After a walk, the on-site café is a cosy spot to grab a hot drink and unwind.

For anyone looking for autumn beauty without heading to the hills, Adelaide Botanic Garden is easily the top choice. 

Himeji Garden

At the southern edge of Adelaide’s city centre, Himeji Garden is a peaceful pocket that feels like stepping into another world.

Small but beautifully designed, this Japanese garden comes alive in autumn as delicate maples turn brilliant shades of red and orange, creating a canopy of colour over the winding paths and stepping stones.

Entry is free during daylight hours, and it’s the perfect spot for a quiet wander.

Sitting by the koi pond, watching the leaves drift across the water, feels incredibly calming, especially with the soft sound of waterfalls in the background.

The teahouse pavilion and ornamental gates add to the serene atmosphere, making it a place where slowing down feels natural.

For the best experience, consider visiting on a weekday morning, which means fewer crowds and a more peaceful moment to enjoy the season’s change.

Being wheelchair accessible and dog-friendly, it’s a welcoming space for everyone.

Just nearby, Veale Gardens also puts on a small autumn show, so it’s easy to combine both for a gentle walk through the city’s quieter, leafier corners. 

Rymill Park / Murlawirrapurka

Rymill Park, known by its Kaurna name Murlawirrapurka, is one of the best spots in Adelaide’s city centre to catch the magic of autumn.

The park’s lake becomes a mirror for the season, reflecting bursts of orange, gold, and deep red from the trees along its edges.

Wandering toward the back right-hand corner reveals a beautiful carriageway lined with mature trees that light up in vibrant autumn colours by late April.

It’s an easy, flat walk that feels a world away from the busy streets just beyond the park.

With its blend of open lawns, leafy paths, and shady spots by the water, Rymill Park provides a peaceful escape without requiring a trip out of the city.

It’s perfect for a relaxed stroll, a quiet sit by the lake, or even a lazy picnic under the falling leaves.

City Parklands and River Torrens

Adelaide’s city parklands wrap around the CBD, creating a leafy belt that transforms with bursts of autumn colour each year.

One of the best ways to enjoy it is by following the River Torrens, starting at the Torrens Weir near the Par 3 Golf Course in Possum Park.

This area lights up in April, with golden hues reflecting off the water and ancient olive trees lining the path.

Walking west along the river is relaxing, passing open lawns brushed with autumn shades until reaching Bonython Park.

The park is dotted with massive gum trees and picnic spots, making it a great place to take a break under the crisp autumn sky.

Within the city itself, Frome Road stands out as one of Adelaide’s historic and most beautiful autumn streets.

Planted in 1902 to commemorate Arbor Day, its century-old London plane trees turn rich gold and bronze, forming a vibrant canopy overhead.

Walking down Frome Road toward the zoo feels like stepping through a golden tunnel.

Other city spots, such as Hindmarsh Square and Hurtle Square, are also worth visiting, where avenues of deciduous trees create carpets of crunchy leaves by late April.

All of these places are free to explore and easily accessible on foot or by bike.

Packing a picnic or picking up a takeaway coffee turns a simple urban walk into a perfect autumn escape. 

Hahndorf

Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German village, becomes truly special in autumn.

Just half an hour from Adelaide, this charming town feels like stepping into another world – one with cobblestone footpaths, German-style buildings, and beautiful, tree-lined streets.

Each April, those streets come alive with bright yellows, fiery reds, and warm bronze tones from elms and plane trees.

Driving into Hahndorf from the west via the Verdun road is my favourite way to arrive.

There’s a spectacular tunnel of golden leaves that welcomes visitors into the heart of the village, making it feel like something from a postcard.

Once parked, strolling along Main Street under canopies of colourful leaves is delightful – it’s easy to lose track of time here.

Besides its beauty, Hahndorf is great for exploring shops filled with handmade crafts, art galleries, bakeries offering fresh pretzels, and cosy Bavarian-style inns.

Even in early May, the trees often hold onto their brilliant colours, so visiting later in the season is still rewarding.

Just outside town, The Cedars, the historic home and studio of renowned artist Sir Hans Heysen, is another autumn highlight.

Set on 60 hectares, it features oak-lined paths and peaceful gardens filled with golden leaves.

Guided tours of Heysen’s house and studio are available from Tuesday to Sunday, giving insight into his life and inspiration.

A small fee applies, but even walking through the gardens alone is worth it for the peaceful setting.

Hahndorf does draw crowds during autumn, especially on weekends. Visiting mid-week means quieter streets and easier access to popular spots.

After exploring, there’s nothing better than tasting local cheese or enjoying a German beer at one of the town’s welcoming pubs – the perfect way to finish a colourful autumn day in the Hills.

We visited Hahndorf at the end of April, and the autumn leaves were already putting on a beautiful show.

Carrick Hill

Carrick Hill, tucked away in Springfield just 15 minutes south of Adelaide’s city centre, offers a beautiful mix of history and autumn charm.

The heritage estate is surrounded by manicured gardens, wide lawns, and rows of towering oaks and elms that burst into rich golden colours by late April.

The gardens are free to explore, and wandering the grounds feels like stepping into a different time.

Heritage rose beds and sculptures dot the lawns, and the orchard adds a peaceful, old-world touch.

For families, the Story Book Trail is a favourite, weaving through the woods with whimsical scenes, such as a life-size Hobbit house hidden among the trees.

The views across the city plains from Carrick Hill are stunning when framed by autumn leaves.

The onsite café is a great spot to enjoy a coffee or brunch while soaking up the colourful scenery.

The gardens are open Wednesday to Sunday, from 10 am to 4:30 pm, with easy paths leading from the car park into the estate grounds.

Touring inside the grand house itself does require a small entry fee, but spending time just in the gardens offers a perfect, relaxed autumn outing.

Belair National Park

Belair National Park, just 25 minutes from Adelaide’s city centre, is a classic spot for an autumn day out.

As Australia’s oldest national park, it blends native bushland with pockets of introduced deciduous trees that put on a lovely show once April rolls around.

Most of the park is filled with tall, evergreen gums, but hidden among the heritage areas and picnic spots are old oaks, elms, and plane trees that turn rich rusty orange and golden yellow.

Driving or cycling along Queens Jubilee Drive feels like gliding through an autumn tunnel, with giant oaks overhead dropping colourful leaves all around.

The old Government Farm and Old Police Station precincts are the places to find crunchy piles of yellow leaves – perfect if there are kids in tow wanting to jump into leaf piles.

Entry to the park is $13.50 per vehicle, though it’s free if you park outside and wander in on foot. Open daily from 8 am until sunset, Belair is ideal for hiking as the air gets cooler.

It’s common to spot koalas tucked into the gum trees, especially now when the thinning canopy makes them easier to see.

Plenty of picnic shelters and BBQ spots are dotted throughout the park, making it easy to pack a lunch and enjoy a relaxed meal surrounded by nature’s autumn colours.

Black Hill Conservation Park

Black Hill Conservation Park, situated northeast of Adelaide, is a peaceful place to catch a different side of autumn.

This rugged park is renowned for its native bushland, and while the autumn changes here are more subtle compared to those in the Hills, they still bring a quiet shift to the landscape.

Walking the trails, patches of golden and rusty tones appear among the eucalypts and native shrubs, adding a soft warmth to the views.

Some of the best trails climb up to rocky lookouts where the wide, open vistas over the Adelaide Plains feel even more special under the softer autumn light.

Black Hill’s natural, untamed beauty makes it perfect for a slow hike or a morning spent wandering without crowds.

It’s the kind of place where the focus is on peacefulness, with the bonus of spotting seasonal colour tucked into the rugged scenery. 

Thorndon Park

Thorndon Park, set in the eastern suburb of Paradise about 15 minutes from Adelaide’s city centre, is a relaxed spot to enjoy autumn close to home.

Originally a reservoir, it is now a landscaped park featuring a calm lake, easy walking trails, and numerous deciduous trees that put on a beautiful display by April.

The lakeside path is lined with trees glowing in orange, red, and yellow, making for an easy and peaceful stroll with plenty of spots to sit and take it all in.

The reflections of the autumn colours dancing on the lake’s surface add to the serenity.

Families love it here – there’s a playground and water feature for the kids, and adults can enjoy a casual picnic or a barbecue under the colourful canopy.

Entry is free, and with barbecues, toilets, and shaded picnic areas available, it’s a handy place for a slow afternoon surrounded by autumn’s finest colours. 

Brown Hill Creek

Brown Hill Creek, tucked away in Mitcham at the foot of the Adelaide Hills, offers a quiet and scenic place to enjoy autumn’s colours.

The area is mostly known for its towering gum trees, but come autumn, pockets of deciduous trees scattered along the creek line start to glow with warm shades of red, orange, and yellow.

It’s a peaceful spot for a slow drive, following the creek through a winding valley framed by changing leaves.

There are also picnic areas and short walking trails, making it easy to stretch your legs and enjoy the crisp air.

Brown Hill Creek feels less crowded than some other autumn destinations, making it a great choice for a laid-back afternoon surrounded by nature’s softer autumn palette.

Wittunga Botanic Garden

Wittunga Botanic Garden, nestled in Blackwood just 20 minutes south of Adelaide, is a serene spot to experience a quieter side of autumn.

This lesser-known garden mixes native plants with exotic species, and by autumn, bursts of red, orange, and yellow light up the lawns and pond areas.

The paths are gentle and easy to wander, making it a perfect spot for a short, relaxed walk under colourful canopies.

It’s not a huge garden, but that’s part of the charm – it feels personal and unhurried, with plenty of quiet corners to sit and soak in the atmosphere.

Entry is free, and the gardens are open daily, with gates usually closing around 4–5 pm during the autumn season.

Picnic tables are scattered around the lawns, so bringing lunch and enjoying it under the falling leaves is a great way to make the most of a visit.

Wittunga offers a serene, laid-back autumn experience that’s perfect for those seeking something a little more tranquil.

Adelaide Hills Region

Exploring the Piccadilly Valley and surrounding towns – Aldgate, Crafers, Bridgewater, Mylor, Uraidla, and Summertown – offers one of the best autumn experiences near Adelaide.

The winding roads lead through rolling vineyards and orchards that glow with gold, amber, and red hues, providing countless opportunities for stunning photos.

Mount Lofty Botanic Garden

Mount Lofty Botanic Garden is without a doubt Adelaide’s best spot to experience autumn in all its glory.

Just a quick 20-minute drive from the city, tucked away in Crafers, this sprawling garden spreads across nearly 100 hectares of hillside beauty.

With more than 100 different types of deciduous trees, including vibrant maples, oaks, ash, and liquidambars, the garden bursts into incredible shades of red, orange, and gold each April.

The Main Lake, easily reached from the lower entrance at Piccadilly’s Lambert Road, is especially stunning.

Here, the colourful trees reflect perfectly in the water, creating a magical double image that’s fantastic for photos.

Families love the pram-friendly paths around the lake, where kids can have fun playing in huge piles of crunchy autumn leaves.

Beyond the lake, there’s plenty more to explore, from lush fern gullies and the peaceful Duck Pond, to scenic lookouts offering panoramic views across Piccadilly Valley.

The trails are well-marked, but comfortable shoes are essential – even starting from the upper car park, there’s still a fair amount of walking involved.

The gardens sit higher up, making temperatures slightly cooler, so packing a jacket is always a good idea.

Entry to Mount Lofty Botanic Garden is free, with gates opening daily at 8:30 am.

Keep in mind that weekends in autumn can get extremely busy – it’s common for over 100,000 visitors to flock here during peak times.

To avoid the crowds, I recommend visiting mid-week or arriving as soon as the gates open.

Afterwards, treating yourself to a warming hot chocolate from the coffee truck (available on weekends) or stopping by a cosy bakery in a nearby village is the perfect end to your autumn adventure.

Cleland National Park

Cleland National Park, stretching across the Adelaide Hills, is a brilliant place to enjoy autumn if you love mixing native bushland with bursts of seasonal colour.

The park encompasses some of Adelaide’s most beloved spots, including Mount Lofty Summit and Waterfall Gully, offering hiking trails that change with the seasons.

Most of Cleland is covered in tall gums and rugged bush, but along the tracks and near the picnic areas, introduced deciduous trees add pops of orange, gold, and red.

Walking the trail from Waterfall Gully up to Mount Lofty in autumn feels even more special, with cooler air, crisp leaves underfoot, and occasional flashes of colour peeking through the native forest.

The views from Mount Lofty Summit are incredible any time of year, but there’s something about seeing the city framed by autumn colours that makes it worth the climb.

Whether going for a full hike, a short wander, or just stopping at a lookout, Cleland in autumn combines fresh air, natural beauty, and just a touch of seasonal magic. 

Stirling 

Stirling, in the heart of the Adelaide Hills, becomes a colourful autumn paradise each year.

Just a quick 20-minute trip from Adelaide, this friendly town offers a picturesque scene as liquidambar trees lining its main street burst into shades of fiery red, deep orange, and glowing gold.

By mid-April, the trees form a vibrant canopy, creating a picture-perfect tunnel of colour along Mt Barker Road – it’s one of my favourite spots for an autumn stroll.

A slow walk through Stirling feels welcoming, with plenty of cosy cafés, bookstores, and boutique shops along the way.

Stopping for a coffee or a hearty bowl of soup at the Organic Market & Café adds to the charm, especially on cooler days.

Photographers and families alike enjoy this blend of autumn beauty and village warmth.

The Stirling Market, held beneath these vibrant trees every fourth Sunday of April, is another autumn highlight.

The market brings together local crafts, fresh produce, and delicious treats, all set against a backdrop of falling leaves – it’s an atmosphere that’s hard to beat.

Aldgate and Crafers

Just minutes away, Aldgate also shines with its seasonal colours. Streets filled with maples and oaks create stunning golden and crimson scenes, especially around Stangate Garden.

This heritage garden is famous for its camellias, but transforms into an autumn wonderland as its ancient oaks shed layers of crisp, orange and yellow leaves onto the lawns.

On select Sundays from late April to early May, Stangate Garden opens its gates, inviting visitors to picnic amidst the peaceful, leafy surroundings.

These charming hillside villages feature streets lined with mature trees showing off vibrant autumn colours, perfect for strolls.

Cosy cafés tucked along leafy streets add warmth and a sense of relaxation.

Bridgewater

Bridgewater is a quaint town that feels peaceful and inviting during the autumn season.

The main street is lined with trees that turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a beautiful scene.

A highlight is the historic Old Bridgewater Mill, a picturesque watermill covered in ivy and framed by scarlet oak leaves.

A short stroll along Cox Creek reveals charming cottages and gardens blanketed with leaves.

Bridgewater’s Lakeside Park, just behind the mill, is ideal for picnics beneath maples, next to a small lake where ducks glide among fallen leaves.

Piccadilly Valley and Uraidla

Just 30 minutes from Adelaide, the drive from Crafers into Piccadilly Valley is often recommended as the ultimate autumn experience.

Starting along Piccadilly Road towards Uraidla, the scenery opens to a picturesque valley of vineyards, orchards, and market gardens, vividly coloured in shades of gold and orange each April.

Vineyards stretch across rolling hills, poplar trees line the roads, and the misty morning views are incredible.

Uraidla itself offers leafy streets dotted with vibrant deciduous trees, including the town’s special “Avenue of Honour” – a row of scarlet oaks commemorating WWI soldiers.

This little town has numerous spots to pull over for photographs and take in the scenery.

You can loop back via Swamp Road and Greenhill Road for a fresh view or continue driving toward Summertown and Norton Summit to see apple and cherry orchards displaying their autumn charm.

All roads here are public and free, making this a relaxing and flexible day out.

Summertown

Summertown completes the drive beautifully, known for roadside apple orchards that turn golden during autumn.

It’s a quiet spot to soak in the seasonal atmosphere and finish off a perfect autumn drive through Adelaide’s Hills.

Heysen Trail

The Heysen Trail, winding through the Adelaide Hills, is one of the best ways to experience autumn on foot.

Stretching for hundreds of kilometres, the sections closest to Adelaide offer beautiful day walks where the changing season comes to life.

In autumn, the forests and hills along the trail shift into warm shades of red, orange, and gold.

Walking beneath tall gums and past pockets of deciduous trees, the cooler air and crunch of fallen leaves underfoot make every step feel like part of the season.

Sections around Mount Lofty, Bridgewater, and Cleland are perfect for autumn hikes, with rolling hills and forest views that stretch out in every direction.

The Heysen Trail offers peaceful moments surrounded by nature’s colours, whether heading out for a long hike or just a short afternoon wander.

Adelaide Hills Wineries

The Adelaide Hills aren’t just about top-notch cool-climate wines – they’re one of the best places to soak in autumn colours too.

Once the grape harvest wraps up, the vineyards themselves take centre stage.

By mid to late April, the vine leaves turn buttery yellow, warm amber, and deep burgundy, depending on the grape variety, creating rolling carpets of colour across the hillsides.

Golding Wines in Lobethal is a favourite for me. Sitting among endless golden vine rows with a glass in hand feels like being dropped right into an autumn painting.

Golding even has the “Nido” – a whimsical nest-like lookout perched high on a hill, perfect for private tastings with panoramic vineyard views stretching as far as the eye can see.

In Lenswood, Mount Lofty Ranges Vineyard is another gem. Their restaurant overlooks long, terraced vine rows that spill down the valley.

Snagging an outdoor table, wrapping up in one of their cosy blankets, and sipping a glass of Pinot Noir while the vines glow orange in the late afternoon sun is hard to top.

Near Hahndorf, both Hahndorf Hill Winery and The Lane Vineyard offer beautiful settings, with vine-covered hills wrapping around the tasting decks.

Grazing on a cheese platter or savouring a wine flight while watching the sun sink behind golden grapevines is autumn at its finest.

Most cellar doors are open seven days a week, typically from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Tastings may incur a small fee, but exploring the gardens and enjoying the grounds is often free.

Some wineries, especially those based around old homesteads, have stunning maple and claret ash trees, adding even more bursts of colour near the cellar doors.

If wine’s not your thing, plenty of vineyards also offer coffee, light lunches, or simple snacks, so there’s still a reason to linger.

Just take it slow on the winding Hills roads – they’re beautiful but can be tricky with dappled sunlight and wet leaves. 

McLaren Vale

McLaren Vale, just 45 minutes south of Adelaide, brings a whole different kind of autumn magic where vineyards meet the sea.

As the wine harvest wraps up, the leaves across the region turn stunning shades of red, amber, and gold, creating a patchwork of colour stretching toward the coast.

Around Willunga and McLaren Vale, the landscape transforms into rolling hills blanketed in warm autumn hues.

Wineries like Angove offer beautiful panoramic views over the colourful vines, while a visit to the d’Arenberg Cube combines wine tasting with a quirky art experience, all set against a backdrop of glowing vineyard rows.

Taking a drive up Sellicks Hill Road is worth it for one of the best views – golden vineyards sloping gently down to the blue ocean beyond.

McLaren Vale makes it easy to combine a day of wine tasting with soaking in some of South Australia’s most stunning autumn scenery.

Morialta Conservation Park

Morialta Conservation Park, tucked into the northeast of Adelaide, is a rugged slice of nature that feels even more special in autumn.

Famous for its dramatic cliffs, narrow gorge, and three waterfalls, the park blends wild bushland with touches of seasonal colour as the weather cools.

Walking the trails, especially along the popular waterfall track, offers glimpses of golden tones mixed among the towering gums and native forest.

The cooler autumn air makes the hikes even more enjoyable, and the waterfalls often flow more strongly after early rains, adding to the atmosphere.

Whether heading to the First Falls lookout or tackling a longer loop, Morialta is a great place to mix a good walk with crisp air and subtle autumn beauty, all within easy reach of the city. 

Mount Barker

Mount Barker, one of the bigger towns in the Adelaide Hills, turns into a vibrant patchwork of colour during autumn.

Streets, parks, and open spaces come alive with trees dressed in shades of red, orange, and gold, making it an excellent spot for a laid-back walk or a slow afternoon picnic.

We drove past Flaxley Road in Mount Barker and spotted beautiful autumn trees and leaves along the way.

One of my favourite hidden gems near Mount Barker is the old railway tunnel between Mount Barker and Littlehampton.

From the twin tunnels at Littlehampton, a short walk up a grassy path leads to the old Mount Barker railway tunnel.

Surrounded by thick vegetation that glows in autumn, this spot feels like stepping into a secret world.

The railway line runs along Cameron Road, and although it’s mostly quiet, it’s still occasionally used by a Heritage SteamRanger, so it’s important to be careful around the tracks.

The mix of historic charm, leafy surroundings, and the soft autumn light makes this little adventure worth the detour.

Barossa Valley and Beyond

A little over an hour north of Adelaide, the Barossa Valley is not just a world-famous wine region – it’s also one of the best places to catch autumn’s full colour show.

By mid to late April, the valley becomes a patchwork of vibrant reds, burnt oranges, and golden vines, rolling across the hills and framing the stone cottages and cellar doors dotted through the countryside.

One of the best spots to take it all in is Mengler Hill Lookout near Angaston.

From up there, the valley spreads out like a quilt of autumn colours, with the late afternoon light making everything glow.

Just below the lookout, the Barossa Sculpture Park is another gem, with art pieces nestled among vivid trees – a great spot for a picnic or some photos.

Driving through the Barossa brings scene after scene of autumn magic. Seppeltsfield Road is iconic for its long line of date palms, but tucked inside the Seppeltsfield Winery estate is a hidden autumn treasure – the Elm Walk.

This avenue of century-old elms turns gold in autumn, creating a tunnel of colour that feels like stepping back in time. The estate is open daily, and wandering among the golden trees and historic buildings is free.

Chateau Tanunda in Tanunda also stands out. This grand 19th-century château is surrounded by gardens and a driveway lined with deciduous trees that blaze orange and red by late April, making a wine tasting there feel even more special.

Over in Lyndoch, the gardens at Lyndoch Hill combine autumn colours with late-blooming roses, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

For something more casual, Whistler Wines on Seppeltsfield Road is a boutique winery with sprawling lawns, picnic tables, and a family-friendly vibe.

In autumn, the surrounding vineyards light up with fiery colours, and if visiting around dusk, there’s a good chance of spotting kangaroos grazing nearby.

Bethany Reserve, near the little village of Bethany, is another quiet spot worth finding. A small creek, big trees turning red and orange, and vineyard views beyond make it a lovely place for a relaxed picnic.

Timing is everything in the Barossa. Harvest usually wraps up by mid-April, and the best colour change happens just after Easter.

Mornings are crisp, sometimes with a touch of mist hanging over the vines, and afternoons are sunny and mild – perfect weather for long winery lunches and slow drives through autumn landscapes.

Best Time to See Adelaide Autumn Leaves

Adelaide’s autumn colours usually start to show in late March, build through April, and linger into early May.

The Hills are the first to turn, often showing bright splashes of colour by early April, while the city trees usually hit their peak a little later in the month.

By May, most of the leaves have started to fall – it’s still beautiful, but you’ll find more colour underfoot than overhead.

Planning a trip around mid-April is the safest bet for catching the best displays at all the mentioned spots.

Some local gardens and tourism pages post weekly updates on the colour, which can be handy for timing a visit.

Every season’s a little different, depending on how warm or cool the lead-up has been, so it’s always good to check.

For 2025, the autumn leaves seem to be running a little late in some areas.

You can already see most of the colours starting to show in Hahndorf, but the Mount Barker area is still a bit behind.

If planning a trip this year, the first week of May might be an even better time to catch the autumn leaves at their best.

Adelaide in Autumn Tips 

Dress in layers and wear comfy shoes, because autumn days often start crisp and then warm up by the afternoon.

Spots in the Hills can be cooler and sometimes a bit damp underfoot with all the fallen leaves, so it’s good to be ready for anything.

If heading to Mount Lofty Botanic Garden or one of the popular town streets on a weekend, getting there early makes parking a whole lot easier.

Keeping a picnic blanket in the car is always a good idea, too – there’s every chance of finding a perfect patch of lawn covered in golden leaves just begging for a lazy stop.

The best way to enjoy Adelaide’s autumn is to slow down. Breathe in the fresh, woodsy air. Maybe even kick through a pile of crunchy leaves like a kid again.

And definitely bring a camera – whether it’s a grand avenue of gold or just a single red leaf floating on a pond, these moments are worth capturing. 

Understanding Autumn Colours 

The stunning colours of autumn around Adelaide happen thanks to a natural shift in the trees.

As the days get shorter and the temperatures cool, deciduous trees start winding down their food-making for the year.

The green chlorophyll in their leaves breaks down, letting the hidden colours underneath finally show through.

That’s how we get those incredible bursts of red, gold, and orange that make autumn feel so magical.

Some trees put on an especially good show each year. Japanese Maples are always a standout, with their delicate, lacey leaves glowing in fiery reds, oranges, and yellows.

Ginkgo Biloba trees are another favourite – their fan-shaped leaves turn the most incredible gold, lighting up parks and streets.

Liquidambars, also known as Sweet Gums, add deep reds, purples, and oranges with their star-shaped leaves scattered across the ground.

Other trees and shrubs join in as well, such as the Chinese Pistache, which showcases brilliant scarlet and crimson shades.

You’ll also spot bursts of colour from plants like the Purple Smoke Bush, Virginia Creeper, Fothergilla, and Witch Hazel, each bringing their touches to the season’s palette. 

Autumn Events and Festivals in Adelaide

Autumn in Adelaide isn’t just about the stunning foliage—it’s also a time to celebrate with vibrant festivals and events.

Here’s a look at some of the best festivals this time of year.

Adelaide Festival

The Adelaide Festival kicks off in early March and runs into the middle of the month, setting the pace for the season with world-class theatre, music, dance, and visual art.

The city feels alive during the festival, with warm evenings perfect for outdoor shows and late-night events tucked into laneways, gardens, and historic venues.

Big names and bold ideas take over the city, making it one of the best times to experience Adelaide’s creative side up close.

The energy is everywhere, from giant performances at iconic spots like Elder Park to smaller, unexpected moments popping up in outdoor spaces.

The best part is that it usually coincides with the Adelaide Fringe, transforming the entire city into a vibrant cultural hub.

Back-to-back shows, street performances, and buzzing pop-up bars make March feel like one long, colourful celebration.

WOMADelaide

WOMADelaide brings the rhythm of the world to Adelaide every March, just as the air starts to cool and autumn creeps in.

Set beneath the massive fig trees of Botanic Park, this four-day open-air festival blends international music, live art, and a laid-back picnic vibe that’s easy to get lost in.

There’s a bit of everything here – big headline acts, cultural workshops, and plenty of family-friendly spaces with hands-on activities for the little ones.

Food stalls line the park, dishing up everything from local favourites to global street eats, making it the kind of place where spending a whole afternoon grazing and listening to music feels just right.

Tasting Australia

Tasting Australia rolls in from late April to early May, right when the autumn colours are at their best.

It’s South Australia’s biggest celebration of food and drink, with events popping up all over Adelaide and into the regions.

Long lunches, fire-cooked feasts, wine tastings, and chef collaborations fill the calendar, each one showcasing the best local produce in the most delicious ways.

It’s a chance to taste autumn itself – earthy, rich, and full of stories – perfect for food lovers wanting to explore South Australia one flavour at a time.

The Wrap-Up

Autumn in Adelaide brings a kind of magic that’s hard to beat.

Whether it’s wandering under golden canopies in the Hills, picnicking by a quiet lake, or chasing fiery vineyard views, there’s no shortage of spots to slow down and soak it all in.

Finding the best autumn colours in Adelaide is about more than just ticking off locations – it’s about taking a breath, feeling the crunch of leaves underfoot, and letting the season work its charm.