If you’ve ever wandered through the State Library of South Australia and thought there must be more to discover beyond the books, you’re right. The Discovery Trail is a free, self-guided activity that transforms a library visit into a proper adventure for kids and families.
Pick up a trail sheet when you arrive, then set off through the building following clues that lead you to fascinating spaces, curious objects and surprising stories hiding in plain sight. It’s the kind of activity that gets kids looking up, around and into corners they might otherwise walk straight past.
What to expect on the trail
The Discovery Trail takes you from the grand Mortlock Chamber, with its stunning multi-level galleries and heritage architecture, to unexpected nooks throughout the library. Along the way, you’ll spot details and stories that reveal the building’s history and collections in a whole new light.
It’s designed for children and adults to explore together, so expect plenty of “look at that” moments and conversations sparked by what you find. There’s no time limit and no booking required, so you can take it at your own pace, whether that’s a quick whip around or a leisurely morning of discovery.
The practical details
The Discovery Trail is available during regular State Library opening hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: 9am to 6pm
- Wednesday: 9am to 7pm
- Thursday: 9am to 6pm
- Friday: 9am to 8pm
- Saturday: 10am to 5pm
- Sunday: 12pm to 5pm
The library is closed on public holidays. The trail is completely free and no bookings are required. Simply pick up your trail sheet when you arrive and you’re ready to begin.
Getting there
The State Library sits on North Terrace in the heart of Adelaide’s cultural precinct, making it easy to reach by public transport. The tram stop labelled “State Library, Art Gallery, Museum” is right outside, and there are bus stops nearby near the War Memorial on North Terrace. If you’re coming by train, Adelaide Railway Station on North Terrace is the closest stop. You can plan your journey via Adelaide Metro.
If you’re driving, Wilson’s Adelaide Central car park at 225 North Terrace (next to David Jones) is the nearest option. There’s also paid street parking along Kintore Avenue and Victoria Drive.
Accessibility and pram access
The library has good accessibility throughout. Access to the Spence Wing first floor and the Mortlock Chamber is via the lift in the glass foyer entrance. For the Institute Building, you can use the external ramp on the Kintore Avenue entrance or the internal ramp between the Institute Building and the Spence Wing, opposite the Treasures Wall.
On-street accessible parking is available close to the library. You can find more information and maps of accessible parking options through the City of Adelaide website.
While you’re there
If you’re planning to make a morning or afternoon of it, the Library Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays from 10am to 4pm. It’s a handy spot for a coffee or snack before or after your trail adventure.
The Discovery Trail is one of those rare finds: a genuinely engaging activity for kids that’s completely free, located in a beautiful heritage building, and flexible enough to fit around nap times, energy levels and whatever else your day throws at you. It’s also a lovely way to introduce children to the library itself, showing them that libraries hold far more than just books on shelves.
Ready to begin? Head to the State Library of South Australia and pick up your Discovery Trail sheet at the entrance.
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