Experience the Outback - Things to do in Alice Springs

Alice Springs and its surrounds is a truly unique place that everyone needs to visit at least once in their lifetime. There are so many things to do in the township and the beautiful area that encompasses it, it is hard to know where to start. Here are a couple of the best things to see and do when you are visiting this amazing town.

Camel Cup, Alice Springs. Image: Wikipedia

Local Events

Alice Springs plays host to some truly individual events every year, like the annual Camel Cup. The annual camel racing festival usually takes place at Blatherskite Park and is organised by Alice Springs Lions Club, it’s a great day out for the whole family and includes stalls and food as well as the races themselves. Another interesting event is the Henley-on-Todd Regatta - an annual boat race which does not feature any water. Every spring the town holds a mock regatta where you can enjoy local food and drinks while watching local teams run very creatively constructed boats down a dry river bed.

Art

Explore the rich, complicated history of the area by visiting the galleries of Alice Springs. The Araluen Arts Centre is the base of the towns performing and visual arts scene where both native Aboriginal art and European colonial art can be seen. Alice Springs also has many galleries where you can purchase beautiful creations by local artists.

Markets, Alice Springs. Image: www.travelnt.com

Street Markets

Sundays are market days in Alice Springs - with a day-long market held along Todd Mall. From February to December you can find arts and crafts and local produce to buy while taking in the sights and sounds of the town. Night markets also run between August and November where you can find clothes, souvenirs, indigenous art and multicultural food.

Wildlife

Alice Springs has some of the most incredible wildlife in the world, with many species completely unique to the area. Alice Springs Desert Park gives you a chance to experience some of the amazing diversity with over 180 species of birds to spot in their natural habitat. Alice Springs Reptile Centre gives you the chance to look at some of our mysterious and dangerous snakes and lizards and see some of the shyer native reptiles this beautiful region plays host to.

Earth Sanctuary

Earth Sanctuary

Visit Australia’s first 100% carbon neutral venue in the outback of Australia - Earth Sanctuary has been running eco-tourism tours for 15 years, educating it’s visitors on the importance of sustainability and being kind to the earth. Earth Sanctuary runs one-of-a-kind tours for those interested in learning about sustainability, local culture and the incredible desert night sky. With astronomy tours, school programs and special dinner and bush tucker lunch tours, Earth Sanctuary shouldn’t be missed.

The natural beauty of Alice Springs and the desert that surrounds it is undeniable, its stunning landscapes and history make it a wonderful destination to experience and explore. Whether you are visiting for adventure, culture or education, you are sure to find what you’re looking for.