The Best Alice Springs Accommodation For Every Traveller

Chalk it up to friendly locals, boutique safari tents, fancy hotels, or the timeless charm of the desert, but we’ll never get tired of an Alice Springs getaway.

Whether you’re venturing to the gateway town to delve into the rich Aboriginal culture, explore its rugged beauty, or stare at the millions of stars in the clear night sky, there’s a wide array of hotels to choose from (and camping options if you prefer). Want to tick off the magnificent monolith of Uluru and the Red Centre on the same trip? There’s plenty of incredible places to wash off the red dust and stay at Uluru and throughout the Red Centre.

Here’s our pick of the best spots to lay your head in Alice Springs.

1. Sturt Desert Pea House

If you’re looking for an oasis in the desert for a large family or group of friends, you’ll find it at the spectacular Sturt Desert Pea House , a 10-minute drive from central Alice Springs.

the living room interior at Sturt Desert Pea House — Historic charm and modern comforts meet in this spectacular stay just outside Alice Springs.

Here, you’ll have comfy beds for eight, kitchen stocked with quality coffee and teas, media room with a huge television, plus books and board games and even an office with a printer.

the reading area inside Sturt Desert Pea House — There are plenty of spaces to relax after a day of exploring.

In this historical house with all the mod cons, every seat is comfortable – impressive given there are three lounge areas, two dining tables and two outdoor tables. If you can drag yourself away from the saltwater pool or fire pit, there’s a Vietnamese restaurant just 300 metres away.

a bonfire setup outside Sturt Desert Pea House, Alice Springs — End the day around the fire pit.

2. Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters

If you’re seeking top-notch luxury in the desert, then some of the most opulent digs can be found at the Crowne Plaza . With its 205 rooms (including 12 suites) decorated with Aboriginal art and a well-stocked minibar plus four restaurants, superb pool, huge fitness centre, a spa with soothing treatments and nearby Lasseters casino, the Crowne Plaza caters to those who appreciate finer comforts.

a couple relaxing in the pool at Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters — Enjoy the expansive pool at Crowne Plaza. (Image: Tourism NT/Peter Eve)

Despite its seemingly secluded setting looking out to the majestic MacDonnell Ranges, this sprawling complex is just two kilometres from central Alice Springs – a bit far to meander to town, but there are plenty of taxis available to get you to and from your suite.

3. DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs

Home to one of the best Indian/Thai restaurants in the Northern Territory, Jimmy Shu’s Hanuman, the DoubleTree Hilton is the pick of the bunch for foodies. You’ll also find Saltbush here, a restaurant where fresh produce and Australian bush food form the foundation of its unique lunch and dinner menus.

nighttime at DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs — Views of the breathtaking MacDonnell Ranges are another highlight of every stay.

Beyond its gastronomic allure, this haven of luxury, featuring 228 slick guest rooms, is positioned a mere 500 metres from the casino and convention centre. Unwind by the pool or embark on a workout at the compact gym, all while admiring the surrounding MacDonnell Ranges.

The Double Junior Suite features a large living area and lounge.

4. Stay at Alice Springs Hotel

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option in a prime downtown spot, choose Stay at Alice Springs . Spend a night in one of the hotel rooms, or if you’re keen to prep your own meals, opt for a two-bedroom apartment with full kitchen. Outside, in the Todd Mall there’s all of downtown Alice Springs at your fingertips – restaurants, bars and shops. Cool off in the pool and utilise the handy guest laundry and onsite parking facilities.

the spacious surroundings at Stay at Alice Springs Hotel — Stay at Alice Springs Hotel is a spacious budget-friendly option.

5. Mercure Alice Springs

Nestled on the banks of the (usually dry) Todd River, the Mercure Alice Springs is a fuss-free stay, where you’ll find cheap and cheerful rooms. The pool is a hit on warm days, the buffet brekky is basic but satisfying and the on-site restaurant Barra on Todd serves up some winning meals, including fresh barramundi with a green apple salad. Positioned within an easy stride from the town centre, you’ll have access to cafes, shopping and dining, while still waking up to the tranquil sounds of chirping birds.

6. YHA Alice Springs

At this YHA , the movie experience is elevated, thanks to its unique history as a former open-air cinema, now repurposed into a budget-conscious hostel. Every evening, you can enjoy films under the stars on the original outdoor screen. Perfectly positioned in the centre of town, this hostel is an ideal spot for wallet-conscious backpackers, offering both private rooms and co-living rooms full of bunk beds, with female-only and male-only options.

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7. Diplomat Hotel Alice Springs

If you’re looking for an affordable place to stay, Diplomat Hotel Alice Springs stands out for its central location and excellent value. Single, queen and king rooms are simple with the bare essentials, but there’s an onsite tavern (catch live music on Thursdays and Karaoke on Fridays) plus a café serving breakfast and lunch and a pleasant saltwater pool.

8. Quest Alice Springs

Nestled amongst the eucalypts along South Terrace and within walking distance of town, Quest Alice Springs offers very comfy, quiet, apartment-style accommodation.

the exterior of Quest Alice Springs — Quest Alice Springs is within walking distance from town.

With roomy studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments available, it suits solo travellers and families alike. The decent outdoor pool and BBQ area offer a great way to unwind after a big day out under the Alice Springs sun.

the room interior of Quest Alice Springs — Check into the spacious apartment-style accommodation at Quest Alice Springs.

9. Desert Palms

Nestled amidst lush palm trees, this slightly dated family-friendly motel is located on a quiet street about 30-minutes walking distance from town. Each of the 80 villas are private havens, boasting kitchenettes and verandas. The large swimming pool is a big hit with the kids. Just a short stroll away, you’ll find yourself at the Alice Springs Golf Club or casino. For breakfast either grab a bite from the on-site kiosk or visit the Double Tree by Hilton next door for a buffet breakfast treat.

For more incredible ways to explore, read our travel guide to Alice Springs.

Summer transforms the Northern Territory into a lush paradise of colour and life, as a visit during the ‘low-season’ reveals secrets the locals willingly share.

Waterlilies bloom, floodplains are alive with birdlife, waterfalls are gushing, and everywhere the green is dazzling. Summer in the Top End and the Red Centre is a kaleidoscope of unexpected wonders that delight and surprise visitors. Of course, the locals know only too well that the Northern Territory low season is often the best time to see and experience this amazing part of Australia.

Here are some of the reasons why savvy travellers – avoiding the crowds – are discovering a new dimension to the Territory. Remember that you’ll need a Parks Pass to visit national parks.

1. Take a dip in the Florence Falls waterhole

Wander through savanna woodland and monsoon forest to discover the perfect place to cool off – the waterhole at the base of spectacular Florence Falls in the magnificent Litchfield National Park , just 90 minutes’ drive from Darwin. The falls flow year-round but are most spectacular during the summer. Camping is available nearby but bookings are essential and must be made online before you visit.

Surrounded by lush forest, a woman cools off in Florence Falls, just one of many incredible things to do in the Northern Territory. — Cool off beneath the cascading waters of Florence Falls. (Image: Joshua Griffin)

2. Wind down at Buley Rock Hole

Another popular local swimming spot in Litchfield National Park is Buley Rock Hole , open year-round. This is a great place to wind down after exploring everything the park has to offer, including towering termite mounds. Wade through the rock pools, soak up the scenic bush or just lie back and relax as the cool water rolls over you.

Buley Rockhole, Litchfield National Park — Let the cool water wash over you. (Image: Tourism Australia)

3. Tour the Tiwi Islands

The Tiwi Islands , a scenic 80km flight from Darwin across the narrow Clarence and Dundas Straits, reveal a different side to the Territory, with their own distinctive culture. Take a day tour with Tiwi by Design to visit Bathurst Island and learn about creation stories, the Mission days, World War II history and the islanders’ obsession with AFL!

Take a ‘behind-the-scenes’ tour of Tiwi Design’s screen-printing workshop and pick up a great souvenir in the form of art. Choose from contemporary or traditional Tiwi designs and a wide range of work including carvings, paintings, pottery, printmaking, bark paintings and tunga (bark baskets).

A creative moment shared inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing space. — Take a peek inside Tiwi Design’s screen-printing studio. (Image: Tourism NT)

4. Dine in Darwin

Foodies are spoilt for choice in multi-cultural Darwin. Try Sri Lankan flavours at Ella by Minoli, where Masterchef contestant Minoli De Silva creates delectable dishes, or head to Charlie’s of Darwin for gin-tasting, cocktails and more. Bowls of fragrant laksa, excellent coffee, fresh vegetables and authentic crafts are all part of a weekend visit to Darwin’s Parap Markets , Rapid Creek Markets and the Nightcliff Markets .

Prefer to catch your own dinner? Book a Top End fishing charter to bag a barramundi – and from October register for the annual Million Dollar Fish competition. Hooking one of the tagged barra released each year in waterways across the Territory could win you up to $1 million.

A bowl of Laksa. — Eat your way through multicultural Darwin. (Image: Tourism NT)

5. Up close with Uluṟu

The magnificent monolith Uluṟu is even more magical when the summer rains fall. When it rains on The Rock, the locals come out to watch – consider yourself lucky if that happens when you visit. Waterfalls cascading off the sides of Uluṟu is a sight that relatively few tourists see.

There’s so much to do at Uluṟu, from guided walks to learn the stories of the Aṉangu people and the ancient landscape they live in to scenic flights for a bird’s-eye view or a leisurely walk around the base of Uluṟu. Book ahead to spend the evening wandering through the Field of Light installation by Bruce Munro.

A closer look at Uluru and uncover its ancient stories, sacred sites, and striking natural beauty – one of the most iconic things to do in the Northern Territory. — Discover the details that make Uluṟu truly sacred. (Image: Tourism NT)

6. Drive the Red Centre Way

From Alice Springs, take an epic road trip along the Red Centre Way, taking in Uluru and Watarrka National Park, home to the magnificent Kings Canyon. Allow at least a week to drive through the red heart of Australia by 4WD, a little longer on the sealed road by 2WD vehicle, travelling through ochre deserts, palm-lined valleys and dramatic gorges. Stop off at waterholes for a refreshing dip along the way.

Kings Canyon offers hiking options for all levels of fitness, from the three-hour Rim Walk atop soaring sandstone walls to the gentler Kings Creek Walk. Either way, you’ll have breathtaking views.

SEIT Outback Australia is a small group touring specialist offering exciting, adventurous, exclusive and specialised iconic, pioneering and cultural touring in the Red Centre of Australia, giving you the time to learn, absorb and relax in the heart of Australia.<br /><br />This innovative tour company focuses on providing clients with the ultimate interpretive touring experiences with a range of products and customised touring itineraries for small groups and bespoke private charters.<br /><br />The company bases its philosophies from the key words of Spirit, Emotion, Intellect and Task (SEIT). — Drive through Australia’s heart. (Image: Outback Australia Tours)

7. Take a walk at Kata Tjuṯa

Head out early to tackle the Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuṯa . This natural wonder, also known as The Olgas, is a labyrinth of soaring ochre domes that glow golden at sunrise and sunset (the walk may be closed during the middle of the day as temperatures rise).

Walking trails range from easy to longer, more difficult tracks. At the Kata Tjuṯa dune viewing area, take in the panoramic view of the domes. The longest of the trails is the Valley of the Winds Walk, a 7.4km circuit that winds between the domes and through creek beds. It’s moderately difficult and steep in places, but offers stunning views – and occasional encounters with kangaroos.

The Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuta is one of the most awe-inspiring things to do in the Northern Territory, especially at sunrise when the domes glow golden. — Step into the golden light of Kata Tjuṯa. (Image: Tourism NT)

8. Explore Tjoritja/West MacDonnell Ranges

Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park lies 135km west of Alice Springs, with many fascinating natural features to beguile visitors. The ‘West Macs’ formations include chasms, gorges and waterholes – take your swimsuit for a dip at Ormiston Gorge waterhole, open year-round. The Ormiston Pound Walk is a three to four-hour circuit that leaves from the visitor centre and loops back along the gorge via the main waterhole. Other places of interest in the park include Simpsons Gap , Standley Chasm , Ellery Creek Big Hole and Glen Helen .

Soaking in the serenity of Ormiston Gorge, these two travellers enjoy one of the most scenic things to do in the Northern Territory. — Take the plunge at Ormiston Gorge waterhole. (Image: Joshua Griffin Litchfield)

Start planning the NT road trip of a lifetime at northernterritory.com

The top Alice Springs accommodation for every traveller