Take 48 hours to experience the highlights Alice has to offer, including the many adventurous and sometimes quirky activities, and be entertained from sunup to sundown.
Day 1
0830
Grab your morning coffee and a scrumptious brekkie from one of the many trendy cafes in the Todd Mall, then get a feel for Alice and wander along the Mall’s pedestrian strip. Visit the world-class Aboriginal art galleries and delve into the Mall’s many nooks and crannies, as intriguing shops can be found here.
1000
Head to the Desert Park and explore the natural and cultural displays of the Red Centre. Listen to the guides share their stories of the region, watch the birds of prey display, see the unique animals in the nocturnal house and learn about the native desert plants.
1130
While at the Desert Park, try your hand at weaving a basket or making a beanie with some local indigenous women from the Beanies, Baskets and Bushtucker group. Share stories with the women, learn their skills and sample bush delicacies. Be sure to book ahead on 0408 436 928.
1330
Head back into town for a yummy lunch. Visit Oscars Café and Restaurant and sample the Portuguese and Mediterranean delights. From light mezzi plates to hearty pastas there’s a dish to suit everyone. The restaurant is open everyday for lunch from 11am.
1500
For a bird’s eye view of the expansive Alice Outback why not take a chopper flight. Soar above Simpson’s Gap, buzz past Standley Chasm or chase the winding paths of the Hale and Todd Rivers. Choose from 10 minutes to half-day flights. Contact Alice Springs Helicopters to arrange your tour on 08 8952 9800.
1800
Mingle with the locals at the newly opened Juicy Rump Bar and Restaurant in Lasseters Hotel Casino. Pull up a chair in the beer garden, lounge or deck area and indulge in a Wagyu steak and brew of the month.
Day 2
0500
Rise at dawn for a sunrise balloon flight and marvel at the spectacular dawn colours of the Australian Outback and MacDonnell Ranges. Spot the local wildlife from above as the balloon crosses spinifex grasses, mulga scrub and cattle stations. Tours depart daily and a gourmet breakfast is provided.
1000
Strap on a helmet and pedal your way out to Simpson’s Gap. The sealed path winds its way between spinifex and ghost gums, all the while presenting an arresting view of the West MacDonnell Ranges. While exploring the Gap, keep your eyes peeled for the local Black-footed Rock Wallabies. Contact Jungala Enterprises for bookings on 0415 815033.
1400
For a well-earned lunch head to the Bluegrass Restaurant. Relax in the leafy alfresco setting and restore your energy after your bike ride. Choose from an Australasian Mediterranean menu.
1530
Spend the afternoon exploring some of the local town attractions. Learn about the remarkable service provided to outback Australians by the Royal Flying Doctors, visit the School of the Air classroom and listen as a lesson is broadcast to children in remote areas, then visit the Alice Springs Telegraph Station for the all important history on the Overland Telegraph.
1730
Nothing beats an Aussie bush barbecue under the star-studded skies of the Outback. Relax beside the campfire and indulge in a sumptious three-course meal at the foot of the East MacDonnell Ranges. A mouth-watering steak, a slice of damper and cold beer is a sure way to end your 48 hours in Alice Springs.