Victoria Square

There’s no charge to visit Victoria Square, and you don’t need a guide to soak up the sun or admire the fountains. Many travelers pass by en route to nearby sights such as Adelaide Central Market or Adelaide Town Hall or ride through on the tram. Alternatively, join an Adelaide city tour, whether on foot, by bus, or in a small group, or enjoy a dedicated history walking tour of the local area, which boasts some fascinating heritage buildings.

• Victoria Square will be of most interest to people watchers.

• There are 24-hour public restrooms on the square, with baby-changing facilities.

• Victoria Square and events it hosts are wheelchair-accessible.

Victoria Square sits right in the center of downtown Adelaide, about half a mile (1 kilometer) south of Adelaide Railway Station. Transport options include the Glenelg Tram, which is free within central Adelaide, while the free City Connector buses—98A, 98C, 99A, and 99C—link to a range of interesting sights.

The fountains in Victoria Square can be particularly magical at night, especially during the Christmas season, when the illuminations are at their most elaborate. For people watching, visit during the working week around 1pm. Look out for open-air performances of jazz, opera, and more during summer.

From Toronto to Belfast, from Christchurch to Perth, many English-speaking cities boast a Victoria Square, in honor of the long-reigning British queen who gave her name to the Victorian era. Adelaide’s founder, William Light, named Victoria Square for her when she was only a princess, shortly before she took the throne.