South Australian Maritime Museum

The South Australian Maritime Museum sits on Lipson Street in historic Port Adelaide, one of the country's oldest maritime museums. Set in a heritage bond store in the heart of the old port, it tells the rich story of South Australia's seafaring past — from migration and shipwrecks to the lives of those who worked the sea — through engaging exhibits, vessels and a historic lighthouse.

The appeal is that combination of fascinating maritime history, hands-on exhibits and genuine heritage, all in the atmospheric setting of historic Port Adelaide. With its ships, the climbable lighthouse and absorbing stories of the sea, it's an engaging day out for families and history lovers, and pairs naturally with the port's other museums and heritage streets.

With a 4.6 rating from more than 800 reviews, it's a much-loved institution. Admission, opening hours, the lighthouse and any special exhibitions vary, so it's worth checking current details before you visit — and allowing time to take in both the museum and the historic surrounds of Port Adelaide, ideally combined with the area's other heritage attractions.