16 unexpected things to do in Alice Springs

Aboriginal rock art, idyllic waterholes, spectacular sunsets, intriguing history and diverse culture. This is Alice Springs, and it’s filled with an abundance of things to do.

From holding a baby kangaroo wrapped in a pillowcase to hot air ballooning, mountain biking and camel rides, here is your guide to the best things to do in Alice Springs.

1. Kangaroo Sanctuary Alice Springs

Cuddling a joey is the stuff of bucket lists. Luckily, Brolga, aka Chris Barnes, is ready to make your dreams come true at his Kangaroo Sanctuary 20 minutes’ drive from Alice Springs.

kangaroos spread across The Kangaroo Sanctuary — The sanctuary is home to orphaned joeys and kangaroos. (Image: Tourism NT/Jewels Lynch)

Stroll through bushland and meet the resident mob of rescued orphaned joeys and adult kangaroos as a giant red sun sinks into the desert. Public tours are available here Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, except in the summer, when the facility is closed.

Woman petting a kangaroo at Kangaroo Sanctuary — Tours of the sanctuary run for two hours and offer plenty of opportunities to get acquainted with kangaroos. (Image: Tourism NT/Helen Orr)

2. Alice Springs art galleries

Home to the Arrernte people, Alice Springs is a major hub for Aboriginal art from around Central Australia and boasts numerous art galleries, shops and studios. Araluen Arts Centre contains about 1100 artworks and a large collection of paintings by the great Albert Namatjira.

a woman admiring an artwork on display at Araluen Arts Centre — Appreciate the artworks on display at Araluen Arts Centre. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

Commercial galleries worth a visit include the Indigenous-owned Papunya Tula Gallery in the Todd Mall and the nearby Yubu Napa Gallery and Mbantua Gallery .

a close-up of a local artist creating an Aboriginal art at Yubu Napa Art Gallery — Yubu Napa Art Gallery exhibits incredible works by Aboriginal artists. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

Tjanpi Desert Weavers is also a must-visit gallery in Alice Springs. In the gallery space, you’ll find a delightful array of baskets, jewellery and animal sculptures woven by women out on Country. The gallery also functions as a social enterprise, providing opportunities for women’s employment across 26 communities across APY Lands. Stop in to admire the artwork, learn about the project – and maybe even pick up a trinket to take home.

woven baskets on display at Tjanpi Desert Weavers — Tjanpi Desert Weavers showcases baskets and items intricately woven by women out on Country. (Image: Tourism Australia)

3. Alice Springs hot air balloon rides

Wake up before 5am to get a bird’s eye view of the desert on a hot air balloon ride. Outback Ballooning offers half-hour and hour-long flights with guaranteed angelic views over the desert plains.

Outback Ballooning in Alice Springs — There’s no better way to watch the sunset in Alice Springs than a hot air balloon ride. (Image: Tourism NT)

If you prefer to stay on terra firma, opt for the hot air balloon chase, where you watch your friends or family take flight before following in a 4WD.

two hot air balloons floating above Alice Springs — Float above the vast and rugged landscapes with Outback Ballooning. (Image: Tourism NT/Daniel Tran)

4. Earth Sanctuary Alice Springs

If spotting constellations, super giants and planets is on your bucket list, you’ll want to plan a trip to one of the best stargazing spots in the world.

stargazing at the Earth Sanctuary, Alice Springs — Witness the night skies dazzle at the Earth Sanctuary. (Image: Tourism NT/Plenty of Dust)

On the 40-hectare property at Earth Sanctuary the one-hour astronomy tour takes you on a trip through the night sky, where you’ll learn how to navigate using the stars and hear ancient Aboriginal stories interwoven with modern science. You’ll also get to look at the glittering cosmos through deep sky telescopes at the Earth Sanctuary Observatory – a sight that’s bound to reframe your sense of perspective.

an aerial view of the Earth Sanctuary, Alice Springs — Go camping at the Earth Sanctuary for the best stargazing views. (Image: Tourism NT)

5. Olive Pink Botanic Garden Alice Springs

Just a few minutes’ drive from the Todd Mall, the beautiful Olive Pink Botanic Garden is home to about 2,500 plantings of over 600 species. Take the easy ascent to Annie Meyers Hill for some of the best views of Alice Springs.

a couple exploring the Olive Pink Botanic Garden — Hike to Annie Myers Hill in Olive Pink Botanic Garden to appreciate the views. (Image: Tourism NT / Shaana McNaught)

For breakfast or lunch, pop into the quaint Bean Tree café for banana pancakes, smashed avo on toast and creamy oat lattes.

a table-top view of the breakfast menu at Bean Tree café — Start your day with a sweet or savoury option for breakfast at Bean Tree. (Image: Tourism NT/Christopher Nayna)

6. Royal Flying Doctor Service Alice Springs

Housed in Alice Springs’ original Royal Flying Doctor Service base, this centre includes a museum with historic radios, medical equipment and a replica fuselage you can sit in.

Go hi-tech and don a virtual reality headset to experience flying as a patient in the outback. You can also ‘see and hear’ founder John Flynn, who appears as a life-size hologram.

the plane on display at Royal Flying Doctor Service in Alice Springs — Check out the plane replica and the virtual reality headset. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

7. National Road Transport Museum

From the early days of camel trains to the birth of the Ghan train, you can learn about all things transport in Central Australia at the National Road Transport Museum . If you want to stay longer, there’s a campground with powered and unpowered sites – just beware that the train line runs directly behind the campground and the train horn is a common sound.

abandoned vehicles at the National Road Transport Museum, Alice Springs — Learn about all things transport at National Road Transport Museum. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

8. Alice Springs camel rides

If you feel like throwing your leg over a camel and setting off into the desert there are several farms that offer tours. Just 20 minutes’ drive from Alice Springs, Pyndan Camel Tracks has one-hour rides at noon, mid-afternoon and sunset. Opt for the sunset tour to see the sky turn from pink to a rich orange and to enjoy a bubbly and bar snacks after the ride.

camel rides at sunset, Pyndan Camel Tracks — Ride a camel at sundown. (Image: Tourism NT)

9. Megafauna Central

At Megafauna Central in the Todd Mall you can see life-size replicas of some long-vanished creatures, including the world’s largest bird known as Dromornis and a colossal crocodile species called Baru. It’s part of the Museum of Central Australia , which presents the geological history of the region starting from the big bang and continuing to the present day.

10. Alice Springs Desert Park

Just 10 minutes’ drive from town, Alice Springs Desert Park features a jam-packed list of daily presentations, including talks on dingos, emus, echidnas, plant medicine and red kangaroos.

a man admiring a dingo at Alice Springs Desert Park — See a dingo at Alice Springs Desert Park. (Image: Tourism NT/Helen Orr)

Make sure you catch the bird show and grab a free self-guided audio tour to explore the three habitats – woodlands, sand country and desert rivers.

an echidna at Alice Springs Desert Park — Catch the talk on echidnas while you’re there. (Image: Tourism NT)

11. Alice Springs Telegraph Station

Visit the spot where European settlement began in Alice Springs by taking the short drive to the Telegraph Station , Learn how the Telegraph Station was established in 1871 to relay messages between Darwin and Adelaide along the Overland Telegraph Line and walk through the lovely historic stone buildings, which are open for daily tours.

12. Alice Springs Reptile Centre

Home to over 100 snakes, lizards and crocodiles, Alice Springs Reptile Centre offers educational tours, with talks covering topics such as reptile habitats and how to avoid encounters with snakes in the wild.

visitors at Alice Springs Reptile Centre while admiring a crocodile in a glass cage — See Terry the saltwater crocodile through the glass. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

Catch one of the daily shows and don’t forget to grab a selfie with a friendly python.

a kid holding a lizard at Alice Springs Reptile Centre — The reptile show will give you an up-close experience. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

13. Sunrise or sunset at ANZAC Hill

For the early riser, a sunrise at ANZAC Hill will reward you with stunning views of Alice Springs waking up. Sunset is just as sweet from atop the 608-metre hill when a giant orange sun sinks into the vast desert landscape.

Close to the centre of Alice Springs, ANZAC Hill landmark serves as a memorial to Australia’s military history and offers a serene spot to reflect on those who fought for the country during the Second World War.

a group of hikers traversing the trail to ANZAC Hill — Traverse the beautiful hiking trail to ANZAC Hill. (Image: Tourism NT/Chloe Erlich)

14. Todd Mall markets

Start the day with a mango smoothie and fresh pastries from the Todd Mall markets , held every Sunday from 9am between March and December. You can peruse plenty of stalls with unique handmade jewellery, postcards and Aboriginal paintings.

Shoppers at Todd Mall Markets in Alice Springs — Find a local treasure to take home or a treat to eat at the local markets. (Image: Tourism NT)

15. West MacDonnell Ranges

Take a day trip to the West Macs to enjoy some fabulous outback scenery and a cool dip in one of the spectacular waterholes, such as Ellery Creek, Ormiston Gorge, Glen Helen and Redbank Gorge.

Aerial view of Glen Helen — Find spectacular waterholes at Glen Helen. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Highlights you shouldn’t miss include the dramatic gorges of Simpsons Gap and Standley Chasm, and the Ochre Pits, a colourful outcrop of ochre on the banks of a sandy creek.

Simpsons Gap near Alice Springs — Simpsons Gap is one of the highlights of exploring West MacDonnell Ranges. (Image: Tourism NT/Sean Scott)

a group of travellers exploring the Ochre Pits — Explore the extraordinary Ochre Pits in the West MacDonnell Ranges. (Image: Tourism NT/The Salty Travellers)

16. East MacDonnell Ranges

Situated 85 kilometres east of Alice Springs and home to the largest ghost gum in Australia, Trephina Gorge is considered the main attraction of the East Macs. Here you’ll find dramatic gorges, ridges and plenty of short walks. If you have a 4WD you can continue a further five kilometres on an unsealed road to take a dip in the John Hayes Rockhole.

the Trephina Gorge in the East MacDonnell Ranges — Trephina Gorge is the main attraction of the East MacDonnell Ranges. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

For more incredible ways to explore, read our travel guide to Alice Springs.

Summer transforms the Northern Territory into a lush paradise of colour and life, as a visit during the ‘low-season’ reveals secrets the locals willingly share.

Waterlilies bloom, floodplains are alive with birdlife, waterfalls are gushing, and everywhere the green is dazzling. Summer in the Top End and the Red Centre is a kaleidoscope of unexpected wonders that delight and surprise visitors. Of course, the locals know only too well that the Northern Territory low season is often the best time to see and experience this amazing part of Australia.

Here are some of the reasons why savvy travellers – avoiding the crowds – are discovering a new dimension to the Territory. Remember that you’ll need a Parks Pass to visit national parks.

1. Take a dip in the Florence Falls waterhole

Wander through savanna woodland and monsoon forest to discover the perfect place to cool off – the waterhole at the base of spectacular Florence Falls in the magnificent Litchfield National Park , just 90 minutes’ drive from Darwin. The falls flow year-round but are most spectacular during the summer. Camping is available nearby but bookings are essential and must be made online before you visit.

Surrounded by lush forest, a woman cools off in Florence Falls, just one of many incredible things to do in the Northern Territory. — Cool off beneath the cascading waters of Florence Falls. (Image: Joshua Griffin)

2. Wind down at Buley Rock Hole

Another popular local swimming spot in Litchfield National Park is Buley Rock Hole , open year-round. This is a great place to wind down after exploring everything the park has to offer, including towering termite mounds. Wade through the rock pools, soak up the scenic bush or just lie back and relax as the cool water rolls over you.

Buley Rockhole, Litchfield National Park — Let the cool water wash over you. (Image: Tourism Australia)

3. Tour the Tiwi Islands

The Tiwi Islands , a scenic 80km flight from Darwin across the narrow Clarence and Dundas Straits, reveal a different side to the Territory, with their own distinctive culture. Take a day tour with Tiwi by Design to visit Bathurst Island and learn about creation stories, the Mission days, World War II history and the islanders’ obsession with AFL!

Take a ‘behind-the-scenes’ tour of Tiwi Design’s screen-printing workshop and pick up a great souvenir in the form of art. Choose from contemporary or traditional Tiwi designs and a wide range of work including carvings, paintings, pottery, printmaking, bark paintings and tunga (bark baskets).

A creative moment shared inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing space. — Take a peek inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing studio. (Image: Tourism NT)

4. Dine in Darwin

Foodies are spoilt for choice in multi-cultural Darwin. Try Sri Lankan flavours at Ella by Minoli, where Masterchef contestant Minoli De Silva creates delectable dishes, or head to Charlie’s of Darwin for gin-tasting, cocktails and more. Bowls of fragrant laksa, excellent coffee, fresh vegetables and authentic crafts are all part of a weekend visit to Darwin’s Parap Markets , Rapid Creek Markets and the Nightcliff Markets .

Prefer to catch your own dinner? Book a Top End fishing charter to bag a barramundi – and from October register for the annual Million Dollar Fish competition. Hooking one of the tagged barra released each year in waterways across the Territory could win you up to $1 million.

A bowl of Laksa. — Eat your way through multicultural Darwin. (Image: Tourism NT)

5. Up close with Uluṟu

The magnificent monolith Uluṟu is even more magical when the summer rains fall. When it rains on The Rock, the locals come out to watch – consider yourself lucky if that happens when you visit. Waterfalls cascading off the sides of Uluṟu is a sight that relatively few tourists see.

There’s so much to do at Uluṟu, from guided walks to learn the stories of the Aṉangu people and the ancient landscape they live in to scenic flights for a bird’s-eye view or a leisurely walk around the base of Uluṟu. Book ahead to spend the evening wandering through the Field of Light installation by Bruce Munro.

A closer look at Uluru and uncover its ancient stories, sacred sites, and striking natural beauty – one of the most iconic things to do in the Northern Territory. — Discover the details that make Uluṟu truly sacred. (Image: Tourism NT)

6. Drive the Red Centre Way

From Alice Springs, take an epic road trip along the Red Centre Way, taking in Uluru and Watarrka National Park, home to the magnificent Kings Canyon. Allow at least a week to drive through the red heart of Australia by 4WD, a little longer on the sealed road by 2WD vehicle, travelling through ochre deserts, palm-lined valleys and dramatic gorges. Stop off at waterholes for a refreshing dip along the way.

Kings Canyon offers hiking options for all levels of fitness, from the three-hour Rim Walk atop soaring sandstone walls to the gentler Kings Creek Walk. Either way, you’ll have breathtaking views.

SEIT Outback Australia is a small group touring specialist offering exciting, adventurous, exclusive and specialised iconic, pioneering and cultural touring in the Red Centre of Australia, giving you the time to learn, absorb and relax in the heart of Australia.<br /><br />This innovative tour company focuses on providing clients with the ultimate interpretive touring experiences with a range of products and customised touring itineraries for small groups and bespoke private charters.<br /><br />The company bases its philosophies from the key words of Spirit, Emotion, Intellect and Task (SEIT). — Drive through Australia’s heart. (Image: Outback Australia Tours)

7. Take a walk at Kata Tjuṯa

Head out early to tackle the Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuṯa . This natural wonder, also known as The Olgas, is a labyrinth of soaring ochre domes that glow golden at sunrise and sunset (the walk may be closed during the middle of the day as temperatures rise).

Walking trails range from easy to longer, more difficult tracks. At the Kata Tjuṯa dune viewing area, take in the panoramic view of the domes. The longest of the trails is the Valley of the Winds Walk, a 7.4km circuit that winds between the domes and through creek beds. It’s moderately difficult and steep in places, but offers stunning views – and occasional encounters with kangaroos.

The Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuta is one of the most awe-inspiring things to do in the Northern Territory, especially at sunrise when the domes glow golden. — Step into the golden light of Kata Tjuṯa. (Image: Tourism NT)

8. Explore Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges

Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park lies 135km west of Alice Springs, with many fascinating natural features to beguile visitors. The ‘West Macs’ formations include chasms, gorges and waterholes – take your swimsuit for a dip at Ormiston Gorge waterhole, open year-round. The Ormiston Pound Walk is a three to four-hour circuit that leaves from the visitor centre and loops back along the gorge via the main waterhole. Other places of interest in the park include Simpsons Gap , Standley Chasm , Ellery Creek Big Hole and Glen Helen .

Soaking in the serenity of Ormiston Gorge, these two travellers enjoy one of the most scenic things to do in the Northern Territory. — Take the plunge at Ormiston Gorge waterhole. (Image: Joshua Griffin Litchfield)

Start planning the NT road trip of a lifetime at northernterritory.com