Your Guide to Adelaide Nightlife: Stay at InterContinental, Sip at the Best Cocktail Bars
Stay at InterContinental Adelaide and enjoy the city’s best nightlife. From stylish cocktail bars to vibrant spots, experience Adelaide after dark.
Kevin Ruddy 
Adelaide comes alive at night. The Riverbank glows, laneways buzz, and small bars invite you in. InterContinental Adelaide is a great base, right by the river and Festival Centre. From here, you can walk to Peel Street, Leigh Street and the East End in minutes. This guide is all about easy plans, good drinks, and short walks. Staying central saves time and effort, while also making it simple to compare hotels in Adelaide. From this spot, travellers can enjoy the city’s best cocktail bars in Adelaide without long rides or confusion.
Where to stay: InterContinental Adelaide
Start with a central base for easy bar-hopping. InterContinental Adelaide offers stunning river views, convenient tram links, and exceptional service. The Atrium Lounge suits pre-dinner drinks. Shiki adds theatre with Teppanyaki. Riverside Restaurant suits a slower meal. Among hotels in Adelaide, the location gives a clear edge for a short stay.
How to plan your night
Map the laneways and set a simple route. Peel and Leigh Streets pack many small venues into one stroll. The East End adds lively patios and late energy. Set a two-or-three-bar plan. Book one table if possible. Leave room for a last-minute find. This approach unlocks the best cocktail bars in Adelaide in one walk.
Cocktail shortlist near the hotel
Pick proven rooms with strong menus and good vibe.
Maybe Mae, Peel Street
Slip into an Art Deco den. Order a house signature or a seasonal spritz. Arrive early or book.
Bank Street Social
Head downstairs for local spirits and upbeat service. Share a pizza and stay for round two.
Proof Wine Bar
Choose refined classics and a calm pace. Sit upstairs if a table opens.
La Buvette Drinkery
Lean French. Try vermouths, pastis, and crisp highballs. The late vibe feels relaxed.
BRKLYN, Rundle Street
Find New York energy and a balcony view. The gin list reads long and varied.
One-night sample itinerary
Start at the Atrium Lounge for one classic. Dine at Shiki or Riverside. Walk to Maybe Mae for round two. Move to Bank Street Social for a change of pace. Finish at BRKLYN or Proof, based on mood. This route covers top cocktail bars in Adelaide without long hops.
Practical tips
Book peak venues on Friday and Saturday. Split large groups across two tables. Dress smart-casual and travel light. Use rideshare late at night. Check venue socials for pop-ups.
Conclusion
A solid base sets the tone for a great night. InterContinental Adelaide keeps everything within reach. Guests can check in quickly, enjoy a first drink, and head straight to the laneways. The city rewards those who explore lightly and stay flexible. Use this guide to choose two or three bars that match the mood. With classic rooms and fresh menus, every round feels new. Visitors can also compare hotels in Adelaide for longer stays, but the heart of the experience remains the same: walkable streets and standout cocktail bars in Adelaide.
