A remote Northern Territory town between coastal Darwin and lively Adelaide, Alice Springs is, for many, the gateway to Australia’s Red Centre. Small, laid-back and historic, this intriguing outpost is a great destination for adventurous couples, groups of friends and families, and it offers a burgeoning range of inviting accommodation options. Our Gurus’ list of the best places to stay in Alice Springs includes quirky art-filled studios as well as contemporary resort-hotels, ideal for exploring the town and the vast wilderness beyond.

Delve into Alice Springs’ heritage in the town’s Historical Reserve, where you’ll find the Telegraph Station and a number of exhibits about the area’s culture. There are a plethora of superb art galleries in the town centre, showcasing work by top Aboriginal artists, as well as hosting workshops and events — these are a real highlight. To see more of the town, walk up to Anzac Hill, visit the Road Transport Hall of Fame and the Royal Flying Doctor Service Museum, and take the kids to the Alice Springs Reptile Centre and the Kangaroo Sanctuary.

Keen adventurers will be thrilled to discover the wonders of the Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park, the rocky MacDonnell Ranges and the dramatic Kings Canyon. Take guided walking tours, mountain bike rides, camel excursions and scenic helicopter flights, soaking up the wonders of unspoilt landscapes of rich red earth, studded with vegetation, a plethora of rare birds and intriguing endemic wildlife. The Larapinta Trail, one of the world’s top 20 treks, is exceptional, and easily accessible from many of the best places to stay in Alice Springs.

The Best Places to Stay in Alice Springs

For an Outback Escape

• Squeaky Windmill Boutique Tent B&B has just three eco tents on the edge of the Western MacDonnell Ranges. You'll find beds topped with patterned quilts, private decks facing the mountains, and simple en-suite bathrooms. Evening BBQs are a real treat, as are the bird watching opportunities. Book all three tents for a private retreat with friends.
• Ooraminna Station Homestead was once a film set. This 600-acre slice of the outback promises rustic cabins, glamping tents and a campsite. Gather at the restaurant-bar for mouth-watering Australian classics and regular live music nights. Spend your days hiking, bird watching, fishing and cycing before cosying up by the campfire.

For Families or Groups

• Vatu Sanctuary, set in northern Alice Springs, is made up of three apartments and a studio, all facing a refreshing swimming pool. Comfortable, multi-bedroom apartments with sitting rooms and kitchens are great for families or groups on holiday together. Book more than one space for a larger group trip.
• Quest Alice Springs offers 68 serviced apartments near the Todd River. Modern spaces are adorned in white and dark wood, offering one, two or three bedrooms, well-equipped kitchens and sitting rooms. There's a swimming pool, meeting rooms and BBQ area for all guests to share. Great value for long stays and those keen to self-cater.

For a Resort

• Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters borders the Todd River on the edge of Alice Springs. The largest of the 229 modern rooms and suites have space for additional beds, and frame views of the stunning MacDonnell Ranges. A casino, swimming pool, events spaces and multiple restaurants complete the picture.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY VILLA

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Alice Springs Airport from within Australia, or via a larger hub — like Darwin International Airport if you are travelling from outside of the country. Hop aboard a bus or take a taxi into Alice Springs. Most hotels will also be happy to arrange an airport pick up in advance. Alternatively, catch the overnight Ghan train from Darwin or Adelaide — this is reputedly one of the world's best railway journeys.
• The Northern Territory is brilliant for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Summers (December to February) are very hot, with temperatures hovering at around 33°C. Visit between June and August for cooler temperatures and more possibilities to explore comfortably.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Darwin.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in the Northern Territory.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.