Ambassadors Hotel Adelaide: Honest Review & Heritage Guide

The name “Ambassador Hotel” often sparks confusion: the historic Los Angeles property was demolished in 2006, but the Ambassadors Hotel Adelaide at 107 King William Street remains very much open. Operating since 1881, this heritage-listed three‑star hotel sits in the heart of the Adelaide CBD, offering a blend of old‑world character and modern essentials. This review separates fact from myth, examines the venue’s current status, and gives you the practical details you need to plan a stay.

Last checked: 2026-06-30

Address: 107 King William Street, Adelaide SA 5000 · Phone: (08) 8231 4331 · Website: www.ambassadorsadelaide.com.au · Year built: 1881 · Heritage listing: City of Adelaide Heritage Places · Amenities: Garden, free WiFi, restaurant, bar, beer garden, gaming room, function rooms, balcony with King William Street views

Does the Ambassador Hotel still exist?

Yes – but the answer depends on which Ambassador Hotel you mean. The infamous Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles, site of Robert F. Kennedy’s assassination, was demolished in 2006. The Ambassadors Hotel Adelaide, however, is still very much alive at 107 King William Street. An ABC News investigation revealed that after a rebranding to King William Hotel, the venue’s Google listing incorrectly showed “Ambassadors Hotel” as permanently closed for about 18 months. That listing was corrected in October 2024, and the property remains open for accommodation, dining, and events.

The Los Angeles Ambassador Hotel: a brief history

The Los Angeles Ambassador operated from 1921 until 1989 and was razed in 2006 to make way for a school. It has no connection to the Adelaide property beyond the shared part of its name.

The Ambassadors Hotel Adelaide: a living heritage property

Built in 1881, the Adelaide venue has operated continuously for over 140 years. Its official website (ambassadorsadelaide.com.au) still uses the Ambassadors branding, but the business now trades as King William Hotel on some platforms. The building itself – a City of Adelaide heritage‑listed site – remains the same, with the same historic lift, Marble Bar, and beer garden.

Ambassador Hotel Adelaide menu

The venue’s Instagram account advertises a bar, a beer garden, and a renovated “Glasshouse” function space that serves lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday. The official site promotes “two dining and bar options,” but neither source lists specific menu items or prices.

On‑site restaurant and bar offerings

Tripadvisor restaurant reviews (Tripadvisor) describe “good value pub‑style meals” and “friendly staff,” with breakfast served until 10:00. Because the kitchen now appears to operate on a limited schedule (Tuesday–Saturday), guests should confirm hours at check‑in.

Beer garden and casual dining

The beer garden is a frequently mentioned draw. Yelp users (Yelp) often reference after‑work drinks in the back area, reinforcing that the venue’s bar scene is as prominent as its accommodation side.

Ambassador hotel adelaide parking

Parking is not mentioned on the official website, Booking.com, Hotels.com, or any other reliable source reviewed. Given the hotel’s central CBD location on King William Street, on‑street metered parking and nearby commercial car parks (such as the UPark on Pirie Street) are the most likely options. We recommend calling the hotel at (08) 8231 4331 to confirm current parking arrangements.

Ambassador hotel adelaide reviews

Recent guest reviews paint a mixed but illuminating picture. Hotels.com hosts verified reviews from late 2025 and early 2026. Several guests describe the rooms as “tidy, minimalist and Spartan but clean,” praising the central location and good value. Two reviewers mentioned that the historic lift only goes to the second floor, requiring a “labyrinthine” walk to reach third‑floor rooms. One November 2025 review noted a lack of a chair, table, fridge, or TV in the room, with guests boiling a kettle on the floor.

HotelsCombined aggregates over 1,000 reviews, frequently citing “excellent location” and “friendly and helpful staff” as strengths, while noting odours, dated decor, and daytime construction noise. A small number of Hotels.com reviewers also flagged that the hotel appeared to be in transition under new management, with no night porter available for after‑hours check‑in.

Which area is best to stay in Adelaide?

Adelaide’s accommodation landscape is compact and walkable, and the best area depends on your priorities. The Ambassadors Hotel sits squarely in the Adelaide CBD, within a 10‑minute walk of Rundle Mall, Adelaide Casino, and the Convention Centre (official site).

Why Adelaide CBD is a top choice

The CBD offers the densest concentration of restaurants, bars, shops, and public transport. North–south tram lines run along King William Street, making it easy to reach the Adelaide Oval, the Central Market, or the Art Gallery of South Australia. For first‑time visitors, the CBD provides the most convenient base.

Other popular suburbs: North Adelaide, Glenelg, and the East End

North Adelaide (just north of the CBD) offers leafy streets, boutique cafes, and the Adelaide Zoo. Glenelg, on the coast, is reachable by tram and appeals to beach‑lovers. The East End (bordering Hutt Street) is known for fine dining and a slightly quieter vibe.

For the traveller who values central access and on‑site dining, the CBD – and the Ambassadors Hotel’s location – remains a solid choice.

Further reading: For another historic Adelaide‑area pub with accommodation, see our review of the Exeter Hotel Semaphore. And if you are dealing with venue‑closure confusion, our article on the Rosehill Hotel may help.