Nestled within Australia’s Red Centre, Alice Springs is a vibrant outback town with breathtaking scenery, plenty of outdoor activities, and a thriving arts scene. Continue reading for our selection of the must-do highlights of Alice Springs.
Don't miss Alice Springs from your Northern Territory experience! This vibrant outback town offers so much more than meets the eye. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of the Red Centre, where ochre-colored cliffs and vast desert landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see. But it's not just about the views; Alice Springs is a hub of outdoor activities waiting to be explored. From hiking the iconic Larapinta Trail to embarking on unforgettable camel treks through the desert, there's no shortage of adventure here. And let's not forget about the thriving arts scene, where you can delve into Aboriginal culture through mesmerizing art galleries and cultural experiences. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures or a deeper connection to Australia's indigenous heritage, Alice Springs has something for every traveler. So, add it to your Northern Territory itinerary and prepare for an unforgettable outback adventure!
Established in 1871, Alice Springs Telegraph Station is the original site of the first European settlement in the region. The town’s oldest building serves as an interactive museum where you can learn about the history of the Australian outback. In addition to the original Post and Telegraph Office, visitors can explore the Station masters residence, as well as the remnants of the buggy shed, shoeing yard, and evaporation tank.
The 223 km (138 mi) long trail that crosses the West MacDonnell Ranges to the summit of Mount Sonder, Larapinta Trail is one of the best long-distance walks in Australia. The trail is divided into 12 sections that can be completed individually or as a multiday hike. Most sections are suitable for experienced hikers, although some shorter walks are family-friendly.
For more unique walks in the region, read our guide to the Best Hikes in Alice Springs.
Located on Larapinta Drive, the 1,300-hectare (3,212 ac) Desert Park is another must-do highlight of Alice Springs. This is the perfect place to learn about the flora and fauna found in the semi-arid landscape of the Red Centre.
Kangaroos, emus, dingoes, bilbies, thorny devils, and other native wildlife inhabit three distinctive areas: Desert Rivers, Sand Country, and Woodland. Highlights include walks along a dry river bed, free flying bird shows, and nocturnal tours where you can observe endangered desert mammals.
The West MacDonnell Ranges, stretching 160 km (99 mi) west of Alice Springs, are known for world-class hikes and picturesque swimming holes, including Ormiston Gorge and Ellery Creek Big Hole.
Head east of the town to explore the East MacDonnell Ranges, where you can see more than 5,000 ancient Aboriginal rock carvings and visit the ruins of Central Australia’s first town at the Arltunga Historical Reserve.
Kangaroo Sanctuary is a wildlife reserve founded by Chris “Brolga” Barns, known from the “Kangaroo Dundee” documentary. The sanctuary offers care to rescued kangaroos in need of rehabilitation and provides a permanent home for those who can’t be released back into the wild. Join a daily tour to get up close and personal with the kangaroos and joeys and learn about the rescue work at the reserve.
For more children-friendly activities, see our article on Things to Do in Alice Springs for Families.
The ANZAC Hill Memorial is a tribute to Australian and New Zealand soldiers who fought for the country during World War I. Standing at 600 m (1,968 ft) above Alice Springs, the hill is the perfect spot to enjoy panoramic views of the town and watch spectacular desert sunrises and sunsets.
With clear air and minimal light pollution, the Red Centre offers perfect conditions for stargazing. There’s no better place to learn about the night skies than Earth Sanctuary, located just a 15-minute drive south of Alice Springs. The sanctuary offers several unique experiences, such as family-friendly Astro Tours and Sunset to Sunrise camping adventures.
The Araluen Cultural Precinct is an arts and cultural hub comprising several art galleries and museums, a theatre, and a centre for visual and performing arts. The centre boasts one of the most important Aboriginal art collections in Australia, including the world’s largest collection of works by renowned watercolourist Albert Namatjira.
Wondering what is the ideal season to travel to Alice Springs? Learn more in our article on the Best Times To Visit Alice Springs.
Todd Mall, a pedestrian shopping street in the heart of Alice Springs, comes alive during its bi-weekly markets. This is a perfect spot to meet locals, listen to live music, find unique handicrafts, or grab a quick snack, including the legendary Todd Mall mango sorbet. The markets take place every other Sunday between March and December, from 9 am to 1 pm.
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