The Union Hotel, nestled at 70 Waymouth Street in Adelaide's bustling CBD, stands as one of South Australia's most distinguished gaming and hospitality venues. Since 1855, this heritage-listed establishment has been serving Adelaide's community, combining traditional pub charm with modern pokies entertainment. For gaming enthusiasts seeking quality pokies machines in Adelaide's heart, the Union Hotel delivers an exceptional experience that blends historical character with contemporary gaming facilities.
This iconic Adelaide venue has earned its reputation as a premier destination for pokies players throughout South Australia. The establishment offers patrons not just gaming machines, but a complete entertainment package featuring award-winning gastropub cuisine, craft beverages, and the atmospheric Bar Cuba function space. Whether you're a seasoned pokies player or someone looking to enjoy an evening of casual gaming alongside quality dining, the Union Hotel presents a sophisticated alternative to Adelaide's larger casino complexes.
The Union Hotel's gaming floor features carefully selected pokies machines that cater to various player preferences and betting styles. While the venue maintains a boutique approach compared to massive gaming complexes, this creates an intimate, comfortable atmosphere where regular patrons feel welcomed and valued. The gaming area offers sufficient space between machines, ensuring player comfort during extended gaming sessions.
Gaming enthusiasts appreciate the venue's commitment to maintaining modern, well-serviced machines with reliable performance. The pokies selection includes popular Australian favourites alongside newer titles, providing variety for both traditional players and those seeking contemporary gaming experiences. Betting options accommodate different budgets, with machines accepting various denominations to suit casual players through to more serious gaming enthusiasts.
Machine Type | Key Features | Player Appeal |
Classic 5-Reel Pokies | Traditional symbols, straightforward gameplay | Ideal for experienced players who prefer familiar mechanics |
Video Pokies | Bonus rounds, free spins, multipliers | Appeals to players seeking engaging features and larger potential wins |
Progressive Jackpot Machines | Linked jackpots, increasing prize pools | Attracts players chasing substantial payouts |
Multi-Line Pokies | Multiple payline options (25-50 lines) | Suitable for strategic players who enjoy betting flexibility |
The venue's gaming machines typically feature Return to Player (RTP) rates complying with South Australian regulations, which mandate minimum RTP percentages of 87.5% for all new pokies installations. This regulatory standard ensures fair gaming practices whilst maintaining the mathematical house edge inherent to all gaming machines.
Regular patrons of Union Hotel consistently praise the venue's balanced approach to gaming entertainment. Anne Baker, a frequent visitor, notes: "The atmosphere makes you feel comfortable spending time here. It's not just about the machines - the whole experience matters." This sentiment echoes throughout player feedback, where the combination of quality service, pleasant surroundings, and fair gaming creates loyalty amongst regular customers.
The gaming area's integration within the broader pub environment receives particular appreciation. Unlike standalone gaming venues that can feel sterile or overly focused on machines, Union Hotel maintains its pub character. Players can easily transition between gaming, dining, and socialising without feeling confined to a dedicated gaming room. This layout particularly appeals to couples or groups where some members enjoy pokies whilst others prefer different entertainment.
Gaming industry professionals recognise Union Hotel's strategic positioning within Adelaide's gaming landscape. The venue successfully competes by offering boutique charm rather than attempting to rival Adelaide Casino's scale. This differentiation strategy works effectively, attracting players who prefer neighbourhood venue atmosphere over large casino environments.
Experts note that successful pokies venues balance several factors: machine variety, comfortable surroundings, quality food and beverage options, and attentive service. Union Hotel excels across these dimensions, creating a sustainable business model that serves its community whilst maintaining commercial viability. The venue's longevity - operating continuously since 1855 - demonstrates management's understanding of evolving customer preferences whilst respecting traditional pub values.
From a gaming strategy perspective, industry observers recommend that players at Union Hotel adopt responsible gambling practices. Setting predetermined budgets, taking regular breaks, and viewing pokies as entertainment rather than income generation helps maintain healthy gaming relationships. The venue's food and beverage offerings provide natural break points, encouraging balanced visits rather than prolonged gaming sessions.
Adelaide's CBD offers numerous alternatives for pokies enthusiasts seeking variety or comparing different venue experiences. Understanding the competitive landscape helps players make informed choices about where to spend their gaming time and budget.
Located at 471 Pulteney Street, approximately 750 metres from Union Hotel, Pulteney Pokies operates a dedicated gaming focus. This venue features 33 modern pokie machines within spacious surroundings specifically designed for gaming comfort. Operating hours extend until 5:00 AM daily, catering to night-shift workers and late-night gaming enthusiasts.
Pulteney Pokies' dedicated approach contrasts with Union Hotel's integrated pub model. Players seeking purely gaming-focused environments without extensive dining or entertainment elements may prefer Pulteney Pokies. However, those valuing atmospheric dining alongside gaming will find Union Hotel's balanced approach more appealing.
Situated at 21 Pulteney Street, Mansions operates as both an accommodation provider and a gaming venue. This dual-purpose facility attracts visitors to Adelaide seeking convenient gaming access alongside their lodging. The venue's pokies selection serves guests and local patrons, creating a diverse clientele throughout different times of day.
The proximity of multiple Pulteney Street venues (Mansions and Pulteney Pokies) creates a minor gaming precinct accessible within short walking distance from the Union Hotel. Players often compare experiences across these venues, with individual preferences determining regular patronage patterns.
The Cumberland Arms Hotel, located at 205 Waymouth Street, sits practically adjacent to the Union Hotel, making direct comparison inevitable. This neighbouring venue offers similar pub-style gaming within heritage surroundings. The Cumberland Arms emphasises its bistro offerings alongside gaming facilities, creating direct competition for the Union Hotel's integrated approach.
Both venues attract similar demographic profiles, though subtle differences in atmosphere, menu offerings, and service styles create distinct identities. Some patrons frequent both establishments, enjoying variety whilst maintaining loyalty to the Waymouth Street precinct.
Venue Name | Distance from Union Hotel | Number of Pokies | Operating Hours | Special Features |
Union Hotel | Base location | Multiple machines | Mon-Fri: 11:30 AM-10:00 PM, Sat: 4:00 PM-2:00 AM | Heritage building, Bar Cuba functions, gastropub dining |
Pulteney Pokies | 750m (10 min walk) | 33 machines | 11:00 AM-5:00 AM daily | Gaming-focused, late-night operation |
Cumberland Arms Hotel | 135m (2 min walk) | Multiple machines | Daily operation | Bistro dining, similar heritage character |
Adelaide Casino (SkyCity) | 1.2km (15 min walk) | 1000+ machines | 24/7 operation | Full casino, table games, multiple restaurants |
For players seeking maximum pokies variety, Adelaide Casino on North Terrace provides over 1,000 gaming machines alongside traditional table games. The casino's 24/7 operation and extensive facilities represent the opposite end of the spectrum from Union Hotel's boutique approach. Players requiring specific machine types, higher betting limits, or casino-style amenities naturally gravitate toward this major venue.
However, many players specifically avoid large casinos, preferring the neighbourhood pubs' relaxed atmosphere. Union Hotel serves this demographic perfectly, offering sufficient gaming variety without overwhelming scale or the sometimes impersonal service large venues can exhibit during peak periods.
Union Hotel's central CBD location at 70 Waymouth Street ensures excellent accessibility through multiple transport options. The venue's positioning between King William Street and Light Square places it within Adelaide's free tram zone, simplifying public transport access.
Adelaide Metro operates comprehensive bus, train, and tram services throughout the metropolitan area. Multiple bus routes pass within two blocks of the Union Hotel, with stops on King William Street and Hindley Street providing convenient access. The free City Connector bus (99C) circles the CBD, stopping near Waymouth Street throughout operating hours.
Tram services along King William Street bring passengers within 400 metres of the Union Hotel. Adelaide's tram network operates a free zone within the CBD, meaning passengers travelling between stops within this zone pay no fare. The Pirie Street and Victoria Square tram stops both provide short walks to Waymouth Street.
Transport Type | Nearest Stop | Distance | Walking Time | Fare (2025) |
Tram | Pirie Street Stop | 400m | 5 minutes | Free (within CBD zone) |
Bus | King William Street | 200m | 3 minutes | $5 standard fare |
Train | Adelaide Railway Station | 1.5km | 18 minutes | $5 standard fare |
Taxi/Rideshare | Direct to the venue | 0m | N/A | Variable |
Adelaide Metro's metroCARD system provides convenient payment across all public transport modes. Alternatively, contactless credit/debit cards or the Adelaide Metro Buy & Go smartphone app enable fare payment without pre-purchasing cards. The integrated ticketing system calculates fares based on zones travelled, with single journeys within the CBD typically costing $5 in 2025.
Motorists find the Union Hotel easily accessible via major CBD arterials. Waymouth Street runs east-west through the CBD, connecting directly to Light Square and major thoroughfares. Several car parks operate within walking distance, including the Wilson Parking facilities on Light Square (200m) and Topham Mall (250m).
Street parking on Waymouth Street itself follows standard Adelaide CBD regulations, with metered parking available during business hours. Evening and weekend parking often becomes less restricted, though verification of current parking signage remains essential to avoid fines. Parking rates typically range from $4-$8 per hour during peak times, with evening rates reducing significantly.
For patrons planning to consume alcohol whilst gaming or dining, Adelaide's drink-driving laws strictly prohibit driving with blood alcohol concentrations exceeding 0.05%. Taxi ranks operate on Hindley Street (300m) and King William Street (400m), whilst rideshare services like Uber provide convenient door-to-door transport. Many regular patrons utilise public transport or rideshare services, avoiding parking concerns and enabling responsible alcohol consumption.
Beyond its pokies offerings, Union Hotel delivers comprehensive hospitality services that distinguish it from gaming-only venues. This integrated approach creates destination appeal rather than simple gaming facility functionality.
The Union Hotel restaurant operates Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM and 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with Saturday dinner service from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The menu showcases modern Australian cuisine alongside traditional pub favourites, utilising quality seasonal produce sourced from South Australian suppliers.
Signature dishes receive consistent praise from diners, with the salt and pepper squid, fish and chips, and premium steaks frequently mentioned in reviews. The kitchen maintains high standards across both lunch and dinner services, ensuring consistent quality whether patrons dine before gaming sessions or order meals whilst playing pokies.
Menu prices reflect the establishment's gastropub positioning, offering better value than fine-dining restaurants whilst maintaining superior quality to standard pub fare. Mains typically range from $25-$45 AUD, with entrées and sides priced proportionally. The venue accommodates dietary requirements, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options upon request.
The first-floor Bar Cuba represents Union Hotel's premium function offering, accommodating cocktail events for up to 120 guests or seated dining for 60 people. This versatile space features Cuban-inspired décor, creating a distinctive atmosphere for corporate events, private celebrations, and special occasions.
Function packages offer flexibility across one, two, or three-course menu options, with beverage packages available to suit different budgets and preferences. The dedicated function team assists with event planning, ensuring smooth execution for hosts whilst maintaining Union Hotel's service standards.
Bar Cuba's separation from the main pub area enables private events whilst the ground floor continues regular operations. This configuration appeals to corporate clients requiring professional environments alongside convenient CBD locations. The function space contributes significantly to Union Hotel's revenue diversification beyond gaming and regular hospitality services.
The Union Hotel bar stocks extensive beer, wine, and spirits selections befitting its gastropub positioning. Local South Australian wines feature prominently, showcasing regional producers from McLaren Vale, Barossa Valley, and Adelaide Hills. Craft beer selections balance local Adelaide breweries with national and international options, rotating seasonal offerings to maintain variety for regular patrons.
The bar's cocktail menu demonstrates mixology competence beyond standard pub offerings, though without attempting to rival dedicated cocktail bars. Classic cocktails feature alongside contemporary creations, with Bar Cuba's functions enabling more elaborate beverage presentations for special events.
Union Hotel's heritage listing recognises its architectural and historical significance within Adelaide's development. The building's continuous operation since 1855 makes it one of Adelaide's oldest pubs, with original features preserved alongside modern amenities. Exposed brickwork, timber features, and period details create an authentic historical atmosphere that modern constructions cannot replicate.
The venue balances heritage preservation with contemporary comfort requirements. Climate control maintains comfortable temperatures year-round, whilst modern lighting enhances ambience without compromising the building's character. Acoustic treatments enable comfortable conversation levels despite the venue's popularity during peak periods.
Regular live music performances add an entertainment dimension beyond gaming and dining. Jazz performances, mentioned favourably in customer reviews, exemplify the venue's commitment to creating complete entertainment experiences rather than solely facilitating gaming activities. This programming attracts broader demographics, including patrons who may not initially consider pokies venues but appreciate quality music in historic settings.
Understanding Union Hotel's operating schedule helps patrons plan visits effectively, particularly given the venue's varied service times across different days.
Day | Restaurant Hours | Bar/Gaming Hours |
Monday | 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM | 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM |
Tuesday | 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM | 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM |
Wednesday | 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM | 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM |
Thursday | 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM | 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM |
Friday | 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM | 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM |
Saturday | Dinner: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM | 4:00 PM - 2:00 AM (late night) |
Sunday | Closed | Closed |
The venue's Sunday closure reflects management's commitment to staff welfare and work-life balance, distinguishing Union Hotel from 24/7 casino operations. This operational choice reinforces the establishment's community pub identity rather than a gaming-machine-focused business model.
Contact Details:
Address: 70 Waymouth Street, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
Phone: (08) 8231 2144
Email: info@theunionhotel.com.au
Website: www.theunionhotel.com.au
Bookings for restaurant dining are recommended, particularly for Friday and Saturday evenings when demand peaks. Bar Cuba function enquiries require planning, with the dedicated function team providing quotations and availability information upon request.
Unlike some gaming venues operating formal membership schemes with points accumulation and tiered benefits, Union Hotel maintains a more traditional pub approach. The venue welcomes all patrons without membership requirements, creating an inclusive atmosphere rather than hierarchical reward structures.
However, regular patrons often receive informal recognition through staff familiarity and personalised service. This organic relationship-building creates genuine community connections rather than transactional loyalty programme mechanics. Long-term customers appreciate being remembered and welcomed personally, particularly valuable in an era of corporate anonymity.
For Bar Cuba functions, corporate clients may negotiate preferential rates or terms based on regular booking patterns, though formal programmes don't apply. Gift cards are available for purchase, providing convenient options for gifts or personal budgeting tools.
Union Hotel's CBD location places numerous Adelaide attractions within easy walking distance, enabling visitors to combine gaming with broader city exploration.
Adelaide Central Market (600m, 8-minute walk) represents Adelaide's premier fresh produce market, operating since 1869. The market's 70+ traders offer fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, seafood, cheese, and specialty foods. Many visitors combine morning market browsing with afternoon Union Hotel visits.
Adelaide Botanic Garden (1.5km, 18-minute walk) provides a tranquil green space featuring international plant collections, heritage buildings, and themed gardens. The garden's free admission makes it popular for pre-gaming walks or post-meal strolls.
Rundle Mall (700m, 9-minute walk) serves as Adelaide's primary shopping precinct, featuring major department stores, fashion retailers, and entertainment options. The pedestrian mall's proximity enables convenient shopping combined with Union Hotel dining and gaming.
Adelaide Oval (2km, 25-minute walk or short bus ride) hosts cricket and AFL football, representing Adelaide's premier sporting venue. Match days create busy periods throughout the CBD, including increased patronage at venues like Union Hotel.
South Australian Museum (900m, 12-minute walk) on North Terrace houses extensive Aboriginal cultural collections, natural history exhibits, and Pacific cultures displays. The museum's free general admission makes it an accessible complement to paid entertainment like pokies.
Union Hotel operates under South Australian gaming regulations requiring venues to promote responsible gambling practices. The establishment displays prominent information about gambling help services, including Gambling Help SA's 1800 858 858 helpline available 24/7 for confidential support.
Gaming machine regulations in South Australia mandate several player protection features:
Maximum bet limits prevent excessive single-bet losses
Mandatory display of time and money spent
Pre-commitment functionality allowing players to set personal limits
Regular breaks prompt players to assess continued gaming
Union Hotel staff receive training in identifying problem gambling indicators and providing appropriate intervention or referral to support services when concerns arise. The venue's integrated pub environment naturally encourages breaks for dining, socialising, and other activities rather than continuous gaming sessions.
Players are encouraged to approach gaming as entertainment with costs expected, similar to cinema tickets or concert admission. Setting affordable loss limits before commencing gaming helps maintain this perspective. If gaming stops being enjoyable or causes financial strain, seeking support through Gambling Help SA ensures confidential professional assistance.
Union Hotel features a selection of modern pokies machines, including classic 5-reel pokies, video pokies with bonus features, and multi-line options. The venue maintains well-serviced machines complying with South Australian gaming regulations, offering various betting denominations to accommodate different player budgets. All machines meet the minimum 87.5% RTP requirement mandated for South Australian venues, ensuring fair gaming standards.
Absolutely. Union Hotel's integrated design allows seamless transitions between gaming, dining, and bar areas. The restaurant operates Monday through Saturday with lunch and dinner services featuring modern Australian cuisine and traditional pub favourites. Many patrons enjoy meals before or after gaming sessions, or order food whilst taking breaks from pokies. The venue's gastropub approach specifically aims to provide complete entertainment experiences rather than gaming-only facilities.
No, Union Hotel welcomes all patrons without membership requirements. Unlike some venues operating tiered membership schemes, Union Hotel maintains traditional pub accessibility. Anyone of legal gambling age (18+ in South Australia) can access gaming facilities, dine at the restaurant, or enjoy beverages without pre-registration or membership fees.
Friday evenings and Saturday nights typically see the highest patronage as working professionals finish their weeks and socialise. Weekend afternoons also attract steady gaming traffic. Weekday lunchtimes bring business district workers, creating moderate activity between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM. Late weekday evenings (after 7:00 PM Monday-Thursday) generally offer quieter gaming environments with better machine availability and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Union Hotel provides a boutique, neighbourhood pub atmosphere with sufficient pokies variety for most players, whilst Adelaide Casino offers 1000+ machines with maximum variety and 24/7 operation. Players preferring intimate, community-focused venues with heritage character favour Union Hotel, whilst those seeking specific machine types, higher limits, or table games prefer the casino. Union Hotel's advantage lies in personalised service, quality dining integration, and comfortable scale rather than overwhelming gaming floor size.
Yes, several options exist. Wilson Parking operates facilities on Light Square (200m) and Topham Mall (250m), with rates typically $4-$8 per hour during peak times. Street parking on Waymouth Street follows standard CBD metered regulations. Evening and weekend parking restrictions often relax, though verification of current signage remains essential. Many patrons utilise public transport or rideshare services, particularly when consuming alcohol, avoiding parking concerns entirely.
Yes, Bar Cuba on the first floor accommodates cocktail events for up to 120 guests or seated dining for 60 people. The dedicated function space offers flexible catering options, including one, two, or three-course menus with beverage packages. The function team assists with event planning for corporate gatherings, birthday celebrations, and special occasions. Advanced booking is required, with availability varying by season and day of the week.
Union Hotel displays prominent information about Gambling Help SA (1800 858 858), available 24/7 for confidential support. Gaming machines feature mandatory displays showing time and money spent, with pre-commitment functionality for setting personal limits. Staff receive training in identifying problem gambling indicators and providing appropriate referrals to support services. The venue promotes gambling as entertainment rather than income generation, encouraging responsible budget setting.
No, restaurant services operate specific hours: Monday-Friday 11:30 AM-2:30 PM and 5:00 PM-9:00 PM, Saturday 5:00 PM-9:00 PM. The bar remains open beyond restaurant hours on Friday and Saturday evenings, though full menu availability may be limited during bar-only periods. Checking current service times before visiting for specific dining requirements is recommended, particularly for special dietary needs requiring kitchen preparation.
Union Hotel's heritage listing and continuous operation since 1855 create an authentic historical atmosphere impossible to replicate in modern constructions. The gastropub approach balances quality dining with gaming entertainment rather than focusing solely on machines. The venue's CBD location, Bar Cuba function space, live music programming, and community pub character distinguish it from both standalone gaming venues and large casino complexes. Regular patrons appreciate the balance between sufficient gaming options and comfortable, personalised service within heritage surroundings.
