Alice Springs & surrounds 24-hour itinerary

Take a hot air balloon journey to get away from it all

Rise early this morning and take to the skies in a hot air balloon for a magnificent bird’s eye view of Alice Springs and the Red Centre. As you drift into an outback sunrise of pastel blues, purples and yellows, keep an eye out for native wildlife and the iconic Red Kangaroo down below. Book with Outback Ballooning a day or two in advance – all tours are subject to weather suitability.

Indulge your senses at the Olive Pink Botanic Garden

Enjoy a catered breakfast at the Bean Tree Café, which is located within the Olive Pink Botanic Garden's grounds. It's Australia's only desert zone botanic garden, and it's the ideal spot for a relaxing breakfast or lunch in the natural setting. Take a walk along the trails to explore the hundreds of plant species endemic to the Red Centre, or look for some of the 80 bird species that have been identified at the gardens.

A visit to the Alice Springs Desert Park is a must

The Alice Springs Desert Park is a must-see. The Desert Park, located on Larapinta Drive, is a must-see for all visitors to the Red Centre. In the dim light of the nighttime house, look for rare and endangered creatures, and avoid the star attractions at the ‘free-flying birds of prey' performance. Within the Park, walk the 1.6-kilometer trail to see three different environmental regions. Attend one of the day's informative seminars, which include an Aboriginal Survival Talk. Take your time exploring the Park and then unwind with some refreshments at the onsite café.

Experience local Aboriginal art

The Todd Mall, which is lined with commercial galleries specializing in Aboriginal art, is a good place to start. Stop by Papunya Tula Artists to see the renowned dot paintings, then go over to Mbantua Art Gallery and Cultural Museum, which has one of Australia's greatest collections of Aboriginal work and focuses on art from the Utopia region. While you're in the vicinity, get a bite to eat at one of the Todd Mall's numerous fashionable cafés.

The Alice Springs Telegraph Station is a must-see

The Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve is a short drive from the CBD. Learn about the individuals who built the overland telegraph station or go on a mountain bike tour for a more adventurous path. Tours go daily from the Trail Station and are led by an experienced local rider, with all necessary equipment provided.

Be inspired by the early pioneers

Step into a full-sized replica of a current PC-12 aeroplane, part of the fascinating new collection, among the interactive displays at the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS). You'll learn about the legendary Australian outback service, which was founded by pioneers in 1928. Enjoy your lunch on the historic verandah while seeing Alice Springs' famous blue skies. Relax with a cup of coffee made specifically for the RFDS by a local coffee roaster.

Climb Anzac Hill and watch the sunset

For a panoramic perspective of the town, climb to the summit of Anzac Hill. You can either drive to the top or hike via the ‘Lions Walk' if you're feeling energetic. As the sun sets, take in the vista of the MacDonnell Ranges, the town center, and desert landscapes.

Stargaze the night away

Make the most of the magnificent starry skies in the Red Centre at the Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre to round up the day. Learn how to explore the night sky and recognize the zodiac and constellations, as well as old Aboriginal creation legends.