Alice Springs may be a remote desert town, but it’s filled with rich history, culture and lots to see and do. It’s one of the main gateways into the Northern Territory, and is often used as a base for exploring Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon. Flight time is only a few hours from most other Australian cities.
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Known to locals as ‘Alice’, the town is situated between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges. One of the largest towns in the region, international tourists and Australians from other states flock here for its Instagram-ready desert landscapes, unique outback adventures and aboriginal cultural experiences.
Attractions
With such stunning surrounds, be sure to take a hot-air balloon ride with Outback Ballooning. You’ll witness the area’s spectacular sunset, as well as picturesque views of the MacDonnell Ranges.
Just outside of town, Alice Springs Desert Park offers great natural trails as well as a fascinating Nocturnal House featuring animals of the night. And over at the Alice Springs Reptile Centre, encounter scaly creatures like thorny devils and frill-neck lizards.
The town itself is filled with many cool art galleries, such as the Araluen Arts Centre which houses collections from Aboriginal and other Australian artists.
Stay
At the foot of the MacDonnell Ranges is Crowne Plaza Alice Springs, a 4.5 star hotel featuring rooms with either a balcony or patio to enjoy the surrounding views.
There’s also DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs, with comfy refurbished guest rooms and suites.
Closer to the town centre, Mercure Alice Springs Resort features modern rooms, a pool and great mountain views.
If you’re on a budget, check out Alice’s Secret Travellers Inn, with its quirky private and dormitory rooms and a lush garden.
Just three minutes away from Todd River, Diplomat Motel Alice Springs offers air-conditioned accommodation, an outdoor swimming pool, barbecue facilities and even a bar.
Dine
Though small in size, Alice Springs is teeming with great dining options. Simply stroll down Todd Mall in the CBD and you’ll find a variety of solid eateries.
Hidden inside the mall is Page 27, a popular cafe known for its signature Little Marionette blend coffee and smoothie bowls.
Another must-go is Kungkas Can Cook, an Aboriginal-owned cafe featuring local bush foods.
For scenic views of the MacDonnell Ranges, head to Lasseters Hotel’s Tali which has an Oyster Bar and favourites like pan-fried barramundi fillet.
And for award-winning Indian and Thai food, fine-dining restaurant Hanuman is always a crowd-pleaser.