Plan a trip to Alice Springs

Situated in the center of the vast Australian outback, it is equidistant – approximately 932 miles - between the cities of Darwin in the north and Adelaide in the south. For thousands of years, this area had been inhabited by the Aborigines, and today, with a community of about 26,000, they still constitute a large part of the city’s population.

Alice Springs was founded in 1872 as part of the Overland Telegraph Line which linked Adelaide and Darwin. These origins have been preserved in the original buildings and equipment at the popular Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve. You can still enjoy the experience of traveling by train between the cities, through the heart of the Northern Territory, via the Ghan train which has a stop in Alice Springs. While not cheap, the train ride is an experiential and unique way to get to know the Outback.

The Araluen Cultural Precinct - consisting of the Araluen Arts Centre, the Museum of Central Australia, the Central Australian Aviation Museums, Central Craft, and a café – is another city landmark. The complex gives visitors the opportunity to explore the culture and heritage of Central Australia from close up.

Anzak Hill offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding mountains. There is a memorial on the hill which was originally dedicated to members of the armed forces who lost their lives in World War I and today commemorates all those who served in the defense of the country.

With Alice Springs’ remote location came daily challenges, and there were creative initiatives established to meet those challenges. Visit the Alice Springs School of the Air, a unique school which provides a lifeline to education for children who live in remote parts of the continent. The school’s visitor’s center gives a glimpse into the tremendous impact of this educational initiative – known as “the world’s largest classroom.” The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) helps residents in remote areas of the Outback in medical emergencies, and its tourist facility tells the fascinating history and activity of the service through the eyes of the pilots, doctors, nurses, and patients.

Be sure to visit the Todd Mall Markets with its wide range of clothing, art, crafts, jewelry, food, and many unique memorabilia.

Alice Springs’ special location in the heart of the Outback makes it a great departure point to many of the region’s iconic attractions. The MacDonnell Ranges, including the MacDonnell National Park, are beautiful with their spectacular canyons and craters. There are picturesque trails for all fitness levels, swimming areas, and campgrounds. Don’t miss nightfall in the park – the clear skies are the perfect backdrop for spectacular stargazing.

Kings Canyon, part of the Watarrka National Park, is a natural wonder located about halfway between Alice Springs and Uluru. The canyon features high sandstone walls, palm-filled fissures, and breathtaking views across the desert. The park itself has hiking and off-roading trails, camel tours, and a range of guest accommodations.

Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a huge, enchanting, and exciting red rock and one of the Northern Territory’s most iconic landmarks. Rising up nearly 1142 feet, Uluru is the largest monolith in the world and a sacred place for the Aborigines – in fact, it is an important focus of their spiritual life. Uluru is located in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, approximately 291 miles from Alice Springs. The park is also an unforgettable experience with a range of activities including cultural tours, nature hikes, ranger-guided walks, and the famous 36 red-rock domes of the Kata Tjuta. These rock formations are said to hide ancient wisdom as well as a diversity of native fauna and flora.

Heading back to Alice Springs… in addition to the adventure and natural beauty of the region, one of its most outstanding features is its friendly locals. From quirky characters to welcoming staff, you will feel at home in this charming town!