Things to Do in Alice Springs
The heart of the Red Centre, cradled by the ancient MacDonnell Ranges — dramatic gorges and waterholes, a superb desert wildlife park, outback history and great walks.
Ways to Experience Alice Springs
Alice Springs sits at the heart of the Red Centre, cradled by the ancient MacDonnell Ranges. Beyond the town lie a string of dramatic gorges and waterholes, one of Australia’s great desert walks, a superb wildlife park and layers of Aboriginal culture and outback history — with Kings Canyon and Uluru within reach to the south. Here are the experiences to build your days around.
What to Do
West MacDonnell Ranges
Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, Ellery Creek and Ormiston Gorge.
West Macs → East of townEast MacDonnell Ranges
Emily Gap, Trephina Gorge and the old goldfield at Arltunga.
East Macs → WildlifeAlice Springs Desert Park
Meet the animals and plants of the desert, with a great birds-of-prey show.
Desert Park → HistoryTelegraph Station
The 1870s station that gave Alice Springs its name and start.
History → Great walkThe Larapinta Trail
A world-class desert trek along the West MacDonnell ridgelines.
Larapinta → Day tripKings Canyon
The sheer walls and Rim Walk of Watarrka, a big day south.
Kings Canyon →Plan Your Days
- Do the gorges early — mornings are cooler and the light is best
- Carry plenty of water and buy a Parks Pass where needed
- Add a stage of the Larapinta Trail for the big views
- Staying a few days lets you reach Kings Canyon and Uluru — see where to stay
- Prefer guided? See our Alice Springs tours
Things to Do — FAQ
What are the best things to do in Alice Springs?
Explore the gorges and waterholes of the West and East MacDonnell Ranges, meet native wildlife at the Desert Park, learn the town’s story at the Telegraph Station, walk a stage of the Larapinta Trail, and day-trip to Kings Canyon.
Is Alice Springs worth visiting?
Very — it’s the heart of the Red Centre, ringed by the spectacular MacDonnell Ranges, rich in Aboriginal culture and outback history, and the natural base for exploring central Australia.
What can you do for free?
Many MacDonnell Ranges gorges (Simpsons Gap, Ellery Creek) and lookouts like Anzac Hill cost nothing; national-park sites may need a parks pass. The Desert Park and some attractions charge entry.
Is Alice Springs good for families?
Yes — the Desert Park, gorge swimming holes and easy walks suit families. See Alice Springs with kids.
Alice Springs, Planned Around You
The MacDonnell Ranges and their gorges and waterholes, the Desert Park and the Telegraph Station, and the road south to Uluru — with the driving and bookings handled by the family that’s toured Australia since 1974.
Call 0409 661 342 Plan My Trip — Free Enquiry