Things To Do
in Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a remote town located in the heart of Australia's Red Centre. Known for its stunning desert landscapes and rich Aboriginal culture, it serves as a gateway to the iconic Uluru. The town has a vibrant arts scene and is surrounded by unique natural attractions.

Alice Springs offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and cultural experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Alice Springs
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Alice Springs Desert Park to learn about the desert's flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Head to the historic Telegraph Station to understand the town's origins and enjoy a picnic lunch in the adjacent park.

evening
:

Experience the stunning sunset at Anzac Hill, followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Culture
morning
:

Take a guided tour of the Alice Springs School of the Air to understand how education is delivered in remote areas.

afternoon
:

Visit the Araluen Cultural Precinct to explore Aboriginal art and culture.

evening
:

Enjoy a meal at a local pub and perhaps catch some live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$20-$40
Coffee$4-$6
🍺Beer at a Bar$6-$10
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3-$5
🏨Hotel Room per Night$100-$200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich Aboriginal culture and history.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Unique desert climate and stargazing opportunities.
  • Remote location can be challenging to access.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Extreme temperatures in summer may be uncomfortable.

Places to Visit in Alice Springs

Visit one of these nice places.

Anzac Hill

Offers panoramic views of the town and surrounding ranges, perfect for capturing stunning sunset shots.

Alice Springs Desert Park

A picturesque location showcasing desert landscapes, wildlife, and Aboriginal cultural displays.

Simpsons Gap

A beautiful gap in the West MacDonnell Ranges, known for its towering cliffs and resident black-footed rock wallabies.

Culinary Guide

Food in Alice Springs

Alice Springs offers a culinary journey that reflects its multicultural heritage and the unique flavors of the outback.

Alice Springs Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kangaroo Steak

A lean, rich meat often served grilled or as a part of a gourmet dish, embodying the Australian bush flavors.

Must-Try!

Bush Tucker

Traditional Aboriginal ingredients such as wattleseed, bush tomatoes, and quandongs used in various dishes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Alice Springs Markets

Held on weekends, these markets feature local produce, handmade crafts, and delicious street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Alice Springs experiences a desert climate characterized by high daytime temperatures and cool nights. Summers can be scorching, while winters are mild. Rainfall is scarce, mostly occurring during the summer months. The dry climate allows for clear, starry nights, ideal for outdoor activities and stargazing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Indigenous Culture

Always be respectful of Aboriginal customs and traditions, particularly when visiting sacred sites.

Casual Dress Code

Australians typically dress casually; however, dress appropriately when visiting cultural sites.

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated, especially for guided tours and dining reservations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Alice Springs is generally safe, but like any remote location, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas and be cautious of wildlife, especially when driving. Keep emergency contact numbers handy and follow local advice regarding safety in the outback.

Tipping in Alice Springs

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change for good service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Some local markets may only accept cash, so it's good to have some on hand.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (December to February)

Expect hot temperatures, often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Hydration and sun protection are essential.

Autumn (March to May)

Temperatures are milder, ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Winter (June to August)

Cooler temperatures, often dropping to around 5°C (41°F) at night. Days are pleasant and sunny.

Spring (September to November)

Warm temperatures return, ranging from 15°C to 35°C (59°F to 95°F), with blooming wildflowers and clear skies.

Nightlife Guide

Alice Springs at Night

Alice Springs has a laid-back nightlife scene, featuring a mix of pubs, bars, and occasional live music events. The town comes alive in the evenings with locals and tourists enjoying casual drinks, and some venues offer live entertainment. The vibe is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Alice Springs

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Larapinta Trail

A 223 km long trail offering stunning views of the West MacDonnell Ranges, suitable for experienced hikers.

Simpsons Gap Walk

A shorter, accessible walk that leads to a picturesque gap in the ranges, ideal for families and casual hikers.

Airports

How to reach Alice Springs by plane.

Alice Springs Airport

Located about 15 minutes from the town center, it offers domestic flights to major Australian cities and is the primary gateway for visitors to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Alice Springs is relatively walkable, especially in the town center where key attractions, shops, and cafes are located within a short distance. However, public transport options are available for longer distances, and some areas may require a vehicle for access to natural sites.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Aboriginal Australians

The traditional custodians of the land, with a rich cultural heritage and strong community ties.

European Descendants

A significant portion of the population, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the town.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

AFL (Australian Rules Football)

A popular sport in Alice Springs, with local teams competing in regional leagues.

Rugby

Another favored sport, with both league and union formats being played and supported by the community.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Alice Springs is generally light, with most residents using cars for transportation. Public transport is available, including buses, but services may be limited. Be cautious of wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk when animals are more active on the roads.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Alice Springs.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly meals, often featuring local produce.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are widely available, especially in cafes and restaurants catering to dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Alice Springs includes a public hospital and several clinics. Emergency services are available, but it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, especially for remote travel. In case of severe medical emergencies, air evacuation may be necessary.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

Australia Travel Guide