Top 10 Things to Do in The Riverland - South Australia

Top 10 Things to Do in The Riverland - South Australia

The Riverland region of South Australia is a place where life slows to the gentle rhythm of the River Murray. Stretching along Australia’s longest river, this fertile region is known for its peaceful river landscapes, historic towns, family-friendly attractions, striking art, and excellent food and wine. From floating houseboat holidays and riverfront walks to quirky restaurants, wetlands, and dramatic cliff views, the Riverland offers something for every kind of traveller. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend escape or exploring on a longer road trip, these are some of the best things to do in the Riverland.

Visit Banrock Station Wine & Wetland Centre

The Banrock Station Wine and Wetland Centre is one of the Riverland’s most iconic stops, perfectly blending wine, nature, and sustainability. Located just outside Kingston on Murray, Banrock Station is open daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Wander along the peaceful wetland walking trails, where boardwalks wind through lagoons and bird-filled habitats, or relax on the spacious deck overlooking the wetlands. It’s the ideal spot to enjoy morning tea, lunch, or a wine tasting featuring local Riverland wines. Before you leave, browse the gift shop stocked with local produce and souvenirs.

Discover Monash Adventure Park

Monash Adventure Park is a must-visit for families and one of the most popular attractions in the Riverland. Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm with free entry, this award-winning playground is packed with imaginative and adventurous play spaces.

Kids will love the leaning towers, giant slides, flying foxes, water play areas, wave bridges, and large maze, while parents will appreciate the shaded picnic areas, BBQ facilities, and clean amenities. It’s a fantastic place to burn off energy and enjoy a fun-filled day outdoors.

Eat at the Mallee Fowl Restaurant

For a truly unique dining experience, make time to visit the Mallee Fowl Restaurant, located on 24 acres of bushland just five kilometres from Berri. This quirky, Australian-themed restaurant is famous for its hearty country-style meals, including excellent steaks, and an impressive selection of South Australian wines.

The restaurant is also a destination in itself, featuring an eclectic collection of Australian memorabilia and native animals. As the Riverland’s longest-running restaurant and a former winner of Australia’s best-themed restaurant, the Mallee Fowl is a memorable stop that blends great food with local character.

Enjoy the River Murray

The heart of the Riverland is the River Murray, and there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy it. Hire a houseboat for a slow-paced holiday on the water, cast a line and try your luck catching a Murray cod, or paddle along the river in a kayak or canoe.

There are countless spots along the riverbanks for picnics, camping, and relaxing by the water, making it easy to connect with nature and soak up the peaceful Riverland lifestyle.

Step Back in Time at Loxton Historic Village

The Loxton Historic Village offers a fascinating glimpse into early river life and settlement. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, the village features more than 45 fully furnished historic buildings and sites.

Explore the blacksmith’s workshop, train station, school, church, bakery, and general store, each brought to life with recorded stories that share the region’s rich past. It’s an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

Discover Riverland Silo Art

The Riverland is also home to impressive large-scale public art, with silo art installations at Paringa near Renmark and in Waikerie.

The Paringa silos, painted by Jack Fran and Sam Brooks, feature four interconnected images linked by soaring pelicans — a powerful tribute to the river and its birdlife.

In Waikerie, artists Jimmy Dvate and Garry Duncan spent 16 weeks and nearly 500 litres of paint creating Healthy River, Healthy Community. The artwork showcases local flora and fauna, including a giant yabby, the endangered regent parrot, and the rain moth.

Wander at Wilabalangaloo Reserve

For striking natural scenery, head to Wilabalangaloo Reserve, where a 1.5-kilometre riverside walking trail leads past towering ochre-coloured sandstone cliffs rising up to 30 metres above the river. Continue along the track to reach a lookout with sweeping views over the River Murray — a perfect spot for photos and quiet reflection, especially in the cooler parts of the day.

Enjoy Sunset at Lake Bonney

One of the most beautiful places to watch the sun go down in the Riverland is Lake Bonney, near Barmera. The eastern shore of the lake offers incredible sunset views, with fiery skies reflected in calm waters framed by majestic river red gums. It’s a peaceful spot for evening walks, photography, or simply sitting back and enjoying the changing colours of the landscape.

Stop and Smell the Roses at Ruston’s Rose Garden

Located in Renmark, Ruston’s Rose Garden is one of the largest private rose gardens in the Southern Hemisphere and proudly holds the title of Australia’s National Rose Collection. With more than 4,000 rose varieties on display, visitors are welcome to wander the garden and enjoy the colours and fragrances throughout the year. The garden is open daily during daylight hours and is a lovely, tranquil stop while exploring the region.

Enjoy Riverfront Walks in Riverland Towns

The towns of Berri, Loxton, Renmark, and Waikerie all feature scenic riverfront walking paths that make the most of their riverside settings. These easy walks are perfect for stretching your legs, enjoying the views, and discovering local cafés, playgrounds, and picnic spots along the way. Each town has its own character, but all share the same relaxed pace and connection to the river that defines the Riverland.

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