Rooftop Bars in Adelaide: 9 Places to Drink with a View
Adelaide is often overlooked by many tourists and overshadowed by other well-known cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. But once you visit this bustling South Australia’s coastal capital, you’ll marvel at its beautiful cultural events, beaches, and vibrant nightlife. Shopping in Adelaide is also a pure delight, with plenty of boutiques, department stores, and sprawling shopping malls. The Rundle Mall on King William Street is a good place to start!
But as soon as the sun goes down, the city lights up with all-night eateries, world-class restaurants, pubs, clubs, cocktail lounges, and bars. If you’re looking for a unique atmosphere and a bright and vibrant setting while enjoying your night in the city, head to the best rooftop bar in Adelaide with a premium drink menu. Look for an intimate upstairs terrace or seek out Adelaide's highest poolside bar. Sunny afternoon drinks or a more upbeat rooftop bar for dancing – the choice is yours.
From the city center to its colorful suburbs, Adelaide has plenty of rooftop bars for every taste and budget. Some offer a more laid-back and casual feel, while others are stylish and classy. But no matter your preference, you’ll always be rewarded with great outdoor views, delicious wine, tasty local cuisine, and more. So if you ever find yourself in this vast city, leave your bags at reputable luggage storage in Adelaide and discover a great rooftop bar near you.
The Hennessy Rooftop Bar
What’s it like:
Perched atop the luxury Mayfair Hotel in the heart of the city, The Hennessy Rooftop Bar is a sophisticated rooftop bar in Adelaide, offering a chic blend of indoor and outdoor seating. The indoor space features an elegant interior highlighted with crystal chandeliers, hand-crafted furnishings, and leather armchairs.
When you head to the outdoor terrace, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the city, overlooking King William Street, the capital’s widest main street, and the iconic Rundle Mall. It also features a tiled bar surrounding the edge of the terrace to provide plenty of opportunities for visitors to admire the gorgeous city skyline.
When it comes to the food and drink menu, this fun outdoor venue won’t disappoint you. The Hennessy Rooftop Bar offers premium champagne, creative cocktails, beer, spirits, and a heavenly selection of high-end wines from Australia, South Australia, and around the world. There are also classic bar snacks and light meals to accompany your favorite drinks.
Our recommendation:
This airy outdoor terrace bar is open every day. But if you’re looking for extra fun, visit on Fridays or Saturdays from 7:30 PM to 12:30 AM as it comes alive with DJ entertainment and live music.
Location:
45 King William St, Adelaide
Sôl Rooftop
What’s it like
Sôl Rooftop is a classy, elevated destination sitting on the 9th level of SkyCity Adelaide, one of the country’s most famous entertainment venues. As you explore the bright and airy indoor restaurant, you’ll undoubtedly be drawn to the rooftop terrace, offering sweeping views of the Adelaide CBD, the hills, and the coast.
From day to night, Sôl Rooftop impresses guests with a modern, locally-inspired menu for lunch and dinner. There’s a selection of delectable snack food options and small and large plates to cater to every occasion. Of course, you can’t leave without trying one of its rare spirits, signature cocktails, and an impressive list of local and international wines.
Our recommendation:
Visit Sôl Rooftop bar to watch the sunset while indulging in its extensive selection of wines, crafted signature cocktails, and champagne. If you’re here on the weekend, stop by for Bottomless Brunch. It includes three courses and two hours of free-flowing delicious cocktails and Prosecco.
Location:
Level 9, SkyCity Adelaide, North Terrace, Festival Drive
Rocket Bar & Rooftop
What’s it like:
Rocket Bar & Rooftop is one of the top-notch Adelaide rooftop bars to spend a lively evening in the city. It’s a beach party-style bar featuring a 120-year-old leafy Cycad tree in the middle and an open-air venue that can cater to up to 100 people. It’s a prime spot for a fun, lively evening where you can dance, party, and enjoy great food and drinks.
Whether you’re looking for a space for a private celebration, event, or a night out with friends, Rocket Rooftop Bar has adequate seating, comfortable booths, and beautiful views over the skyscrapers. It offers an array of premium cocktails, wine, beer, and spirits within the central business district.
Our recommendation:
Rocket Bar & Rooftop is a favorite weekend spot among party-goers, so don’t be surprised to see a long line before getting in. To ensure a spot at the bar, come early and enjoy its party vibes and DJs on weekends.
Location:
142 Hindley St, Adelaide
Luna10
What’s it like:
Another high-class Adelaide rooftop bar you should visit is Luna10. It’s a stunning rooftop bar on the tenth floor of the brand new Crowne Plaza Adelaide, providing a perfect city escape in the middle of the city. It’s up to you whether you want to chill by the pool or cocktail lounge while sipping on its delightful cocktail list. Whatever you pick, you’re sure to enjoy the glorious sunset over some of the city’s impressive views.
Besides its poolside cocktail bar and lounge and delicious drinks, Luna10 takes pride in its fresh summer dishes. It includes Ceasar salad, a vegan bowl for veggie eaters, and other classics like club sandwiches and beef burgers. There are also some light snacks and a cheese board to match its extensive wine list.
Our recommendation:
If you want to come early, Luna10 is open from 11 AM, serving an array of all-day classics like burgers with fries, classic Margherita pizza, battered fish chips, and more. From 5 PM to 9 PM, more dishes are added to the menu, including koomo lobster roll and crispy soft shell crab for seafood lovers. Whether you’re here to drink, dine, or both, keep in mind that Luna10 doesn’t accept cash transactions.
Location:
Level 10, Crowne Plaza Adelaide, 27 Frome Street, Adelaide
2KW Bar and Restaurant
What’s it like:
Situated on top of Adelaide’s historic ten-story high-rise building, 2KW Bar and Restaurant is a vibrant rooftop bar and restaurant offering an award-winning outdoor space with postcard-worthy views. It’s the go-to destination for locals and visitors looking for a place with the best drinks, food, and an outdoor terrace bar where you can relax and enjoy the calming breeze.
The elegant rooftop terrace is equipped with booths, lounges, and well-manicured greenery. It is bright, refreshing, air, and surrounded by spectacular views, including one of the world’s most scenic sporting grounds, the Adelaide Oval.
2KW Bar offers an impressive collection of local wines, craft beers, and seasonal cocktails made using local ingredients. At the restaurant, you can select from a menu of modern Australian dishes featuring local produce from South Australia. The bar also has its own menu, including light snacks, pizza, nibbles, and bites that go well with your drinks.
Our recommendation:
The terrace bar is open for everyone, but it works on a first-come, first-served basis, so be sure to come early. However, booking a table is required if you want to dine at the restaurant for lunch or dinner.
Location:
2 King William St, Adelaide
The Unley
What’s it like:
Popular among tourists and locals alike, The Unley is one of the best rooftop bars in Adelaide for an after-work drink, happy hour, and catching up with friends. Its revamped interior features open, free-flowing spaces, cozy fireplaces, and modern furniture. As you head upstairs to the rooftop bar, you’ll admire its friendly atmosphere, highlighted by lots of greenery, lights, and casual seating.
Don’t worry about coming with an empty stomach, as The Unley serves lunch and late-night food daily. There are some Adelaide pub food and snacks made with local, seasonal ingredients, but plenty of hearty dishes and sharing plates are also available. It also serves vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options to meet your dietary requirements. For drinks, you can order some local craft beer, creative cocktails, wines from South Australia, and boutique gins.
Our recommendation:
Check out their weekly specials to see what services and events to enjoy at the rooftop bar. If you’re down for happy hour sips, visit The Unley between 4 PM and 6 PM from Monday to Sunday and get tap beer, base spirits, and house wines for a lower price.
Location:
27 Unley Road, Parkside SA
Merrymaker Rooftop Bar
What’s it like:
You know you’ll have a great time when you spend an evening at Merrymaker Rooftop Bar. Rising sixteen floors above the streets of the city’s excellent Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets, Merrymaker is the highest rooftop bar in Adelaide. It has everything you need for an unforgettable night, from its well-curated cocktails and drinks to its fresh seafood delights and unmatched views.
An excellent wine list, craft beer, and creative cocktails await you at the rooftop bar. Wines by the glass are also available for some tastings, including local wines and wines from Italy, France, and more. If you’re craving seafood, you’re at the right place! Merrymaker Rooftop Bar is only a short walk from Adelaide Central Market, so you can ensure to find fresh seafood dishes, such as lobster rolls and oysters, on the menu.
Our recommendation:
There’s always something going on at this gorgeous rooftop bar, and Friday and Saturday nights are always busy. That’s why you must book ahead to avoid disappointment and if you plan to experience an unforgettable happy hour or party here.
Location:
23-29 Market Street, Adelaide
West Rooftop Bar
What’s it like:
Party-goers and beach lovers will find a paradise at West Rooftop Bar. It’s a beachside rooftop bar perched on top of the three-level Henley House. It offers magnificent views of the picturesque Henley Beach, giving visitors a relaxing respite from the city’s hustle and bustle.
West Rooftop Bar is undoubtedly the best destination to spend balmy summer afternoons and bask in the sun. It’s not the highest rooftop you can find in Adelaide, but its beachside views, ocean air, and calming atmosphere are truly unremarkable. You can chat inside or outdoors with comfortable lounge sofas and velvet booths.
Step outside the open-air deck and select from a nice collection of seasonal cocktails, tap beers, wines, and spirits with a focus on gin. There’s also a small food menu to go well with your favorite drink.
Our recommendation:
This unique Adelaide rooftop bar screams summer night fun, sitting on the water’s edge. But Henley House has three different levels to explore, so take your time to enjoy each before heading to your final destination – West Rooftop Bar. Sample the casual meals and light snacks at SeaSalt Society, then head upstairs for the famous tapas or pizza at Melt. Then chill at the bar for a scenic drinking experience.
Location:
269 Seaview Road, Henley Beach, SA
The Gallery
What’s it like:
Adelaide is no stranger to state-of-the-art rooftop bars, and The Gallery is proof of it. Located in the heart of Adelaide CBD, The Gallery covers two levels of classy indoor event spaces filled with gorgeous art. The Gallery Room on the first floor is ideal for small affairs, while the Waymouth Room on level two is designed for weddings and corporate functions. But when you head upstairs to the rooftop, you’ll find a fully functional bar available to the public from 4 PM to 7 PM for parties, music, and drinks.
The Gallery rooftop is modern and spacious, offering a friendly atmosphere. It can be open air for hot summer days, but it also provides plenty of cover during wet days. The bar features a DJ setup, fixed tall tables, stools, cocktail tables, and comfy lounge spots where you can hang out while sipping a glass of wine.
Our recommendation:
The rooftop menu includes a tasty selection of bar snacks, pizza, seafood dishes, bites, and more. For pizza lovers, stop by between Tuesday and Friday around lunchtime to grab flavorful pizzas for about $10.
Location:
30 Waymouth St, Adelaide
The best rooftop bar in Adelaide
Adelaide is brimming with flavors, culture, entertainment, and world-class attractions. But your visit to the city won't be complete without experiencing its unmatched nightlife scene. If you've been to a wine bar or explored some of its wineries, be sure to check out the best rooftop bars in Adelaide.
From a classy and trendy spot to a gorgeous and colorful rooftop bar complete with a lush green vertical garden and stylish indoor restaurant, every rooftop bar in Adelaide offers a friendly and local vibe. Classic cocktails and rooftop dining are at your fingertips.
From a gin and rum bar to a specialty wine bar, the city skyline awaits! Making time to see the sights from up high is an excellent way to enjoy fine spirits, high-quality wine, exquisite cocktails, beers, and your favorite dish in an outdoor venue while taking in breathtaking beachside and city views.
