The McDonnell Ranges can be well explored from Alice Springs. The region boasts of exquisite rock carvings and stunning artifacts displaying the aboriginal art and ancient culture. The beautiful region of Uluru, is within easy reach of Alice Springs and it is situated in Uluru National Park. Alice Springs is the largest natural attraction in Australia with a 9kms circumference.
The place houses the Olgas, also known as Kata Tjuta or 'Many Heads'. These Olgas are 36 dome-shaped peaks which cover an area of 36 sq. kms. A quiet mysterious aura surrounds the Olgas giving it a charm of its own. Alice Springs acts a base to explore places like Palm Valley, the MacDonnell Ranges and Kings Canyon. Hot air balloon flights are available over the ranges.
Here, one comes across attractions like are camel safaris and hot air ballooning. This geographical location lies 1490 kms to the South of Darwin. It attracts thousands of tourists every year. The town was orginally established to support the Telegraph station.
During September, the Henley-On-Todd boat race is held. The bottomless boats are propelled along the dry river bed by numerous hairy legs. Other festivals celebrated, are mostly sports carnivals and the famous Camel Cup held in May. The lizard races come along in August with the Harts Range horse racing event.
Places to See
Ayers Rock (Uluru)It is the largest rock in the world, about 345 meters above the plain with an approximate circumference of the base of about 9 km. The trip to reach Uluru takes 4 hours by car, whereas bus trips take longer. Yulara is a resort established at the Rock, located approximately 25 km from Uluru. The beautiful Olgas are at a distance of 30 km from Uluru.
Stuart Town Gaol
The Stuart Town Gaol is the oldest building in the Alice Springs Township, built in 1909. It was originally, an abode for the prisoners, held at the police station south of Heavitree Gap in a desert Oak shack.
John Flynn Memorial Church
A memorial to Reverend John Flynn in tribute to his contribution to Alice Springs and Outback Australia.
Old Hartley St School
The first government school in Alice Springs. Houses the National Trust Office also arts and craft shops.
Panorama Guth
The place features the works of Henk Guth a local artist, the major attraction being the 360 degree panoramic painting featuring landmarks of Central Australia.
Alice Springs Desert Park
Opened in March 1997 this is a showcase of the local flora and fauna. One of the essential places to visit to see some of the famous, rare or endangered animals of Central Australia. Check out the Wildlife Park.
Olive Pink Botanic Garden
Featuring a selection of Central Australian flora. See some of the origins, adaptations and uses of some of the local flora. Named in memory of Olive Pink who was a local identity.
Pitchi Ritchi
Aboriginal artifacts, featuring aboriginal sculptures by William Ricketts, after looking around enjoy some billy tea, damper, whip cracking, boomerang throwing and Didgeridoo playing.
Transport Heritage Centre
Features the Old Ghan and the Transport Hall of Fame. There are special trips by the old Ghan train at night.
Aviation Museum
Displays Conellan Airlines, the first Airline in Central Australia and is situated between the Alice Springs Cemetery and Strehlow Research Centre.
A few other attractions are Alice Springs Cemetery, Frontier Camel Farm and Arid Australian Reptile Display, and the Old Timers Folk Museum, featuring local history and some of the machinery of the area.
