Adelaide shines at night with its mix of small bars, rooftop lounges, and hidden laneway spots. For anyone visiting the city for the first time, a cocktail crawl is the perfect way to sample different moods in a single evening. Instead of spending hours in one location, you can taste Adelaide’s nightlife step by step, from riverside elegance to buzzing late-night energy. This itinerary highlights the best cocktail bars in Adelaide, also showcasing how many double as versatile event venues.
Begin with Elegance: The Atrium Lounge
The evening starts at The Atrium Lounge in the InterContinental Adelaide. Overlooking the River Torrens, this lounge offers a calm and polished atmosphere. Its menu features signature cocktails, premium spirits, and live music on selected nights. As part of a major hotel, the venue also hosts gatherings, which makes it one of the more flexible event venues in Adelaide. It’s an ideal place to begin, easing into the night with sophistication.
Peel and Leigh Streets: The Small-Bar Hub
Next, head towards Peel and Leigh streets, the most famous laneways for cocktail bars in Adelaide. Compact and lively, these streets make it easy to visit several stops without long walks.
- Maybe Mae: A hidden underground spot known for award-winning cocktails.
- Clever Little Tailor: Celebrated for its whisky collection and knowledgeable bartenders.
- Bank St Social: A social hub with cocktails, craft beer, and a dance floor.
This block offers plenty of variety for first-timers eager to sample different atmospheres.
Shift the Mood at Pink Moon Saloon
To change the pace, step into Pink Moon Saloon. Recognised for its playful timber design and colourful interiors, it delivers a unique setting. DJs often spin late into the night, complementing the inventive drinks menu. For anyone wanting to add energy to their crawl, this stop keeps the night lively.
Take in the View at Two Suns
Every good crawl needs a rooftop highlight. Two Suns, perched above Lady Burra Brewhouse, offers expansive city views and affordable cocktails. With its open-air setting and live music, the rooftop adds a different dimension compared to the laneway bars. It is also gaining popularity as one of the newer event venues in Adelaide, thanks to its size and atmosphere.
Finish with Style at Bar 1854
Close the evening at Bar 1854, a speakeasy-inspired venue above the Cremorne Hotel. The bar focuses on rare whiskies, Champagne, and crafted small plates. Its intimate setting suits smaller groups or anyone wanting to wind down after a busy night. The polished vibe makes it a refined final stop.
Conclusion
Adelaide’s nightlife is best experienced through variety. From the elegance of The Atrium Lounge to the energy of Peel Street, each stop offers something distinct. Rooftop views at Two Suns provide a change of pace, while Bar 1854 ends the evening with style. For newcomers, this crawl delivers a complete taste of the city’s hospitality. The mix of cocktail bars in Adelaide and adaptable event venues in Adelaide ensures that a night out here can be both exciting and memorable.