Where to stay in Alice Springs

By Lee Atkinson

The largest town in central Australia, laid-back Alice Springs is the perfect base from which to explore the fascinating and culturally rich red heart of the country, with a number of unique outback attractions right on the city's doorstep. The best time to visit is between May and November, when days are warm and nights are cool. There are plenty of good options when it comes to finding somewhere to stay, but it's a good idea to book ahead during these busy cooler months as rooms can fill up fast. 

Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters

Where: 93 Barrett Drive, Northern Territory, Alice Springs

Some of Alice Springs' most luxurious rooms can be found in Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters, located near the town's centre. Rooms are decorated with Aboriginal art and most have a view of the majestic MacDonnell Ranges, which stretch east and west of Alice Springs. There are four restaurants and a bar, a resort-style pool and spa and a gym. The hotel and casino complex is less than two kilometres (1.2 miles) from the centre of Alice Springs, where you'll find shops, cafés and art galleries. 

DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs

Where: 82 Barrett Drive, Alice Springs

Alice Spring's DoubleTree by Hilton offers eco-friendly luxury with views of the MacDonnell Ranges. Not only does this hotel have a great location next to the 18-hole Alice Springs Golf Club, but it is also home to one of the best eateries in central Australia. Hanuman Restaurant serves Thai and Indian cuisine and has a cult following. Cool off in the pool after a spicy meal. You'll also find Saltbush here, a restaurant that uses native Australian ingredients as the foundation for their innovative menu.

Desert Palms

Where: 74 Barrett Drive, Alice Springs

The studio villas at this family-friendly motel complex have verandas and kitchenettes, and are surrounded by lovely tropical gardens and lots of palm trees. The pool is a big hit with kids. It's only a few minutes walk to the bars and restaurants of Lasseters Casino or the Alice Springs Golf Club, and about a 10-minute riverside stroll to the cafés, galleries and shops in the centre of Alice Springs. Desert Palms has plenty of parking, a handy guest laundry and free Wi-Fi. 

Diplomat Alice Springs

Where: 20 Gregory Terrace, Alice Springs

If you want to stay in the centre of Alice Springs the Diplomat is a great choice. It's a short walk from the art galleries, cafés and shops of Todd Mall (a car-free, gallery-lined shopping street). If you feel like staying in, the hotel has its own tavern and restaurant, as well as a saltwater swimming pool.

Alice Springs YHA Hostel

Where: Corner of Parsons Street and Leichhardt Terrace Alice Springs

The in-house movies are bigger and better at the Alice Springs YHA. This budget-friendly hostel used to be an outdoor movie theatre before it was transformed into a hostel, and movies are still shown on the outdoor screen every night. Plus, the hostel has a great location for backpackers, situated in the centre of town. Private rooms are available as well as shared dormitories. 

BIG4 MacDonnell Range Holiday Park

Where: 25 Palm Place, Ross

Nothing beats the freedom of the open road, and hiring a campervan or motorhome is a great way to explore the outback, especially if you are on a budget. The BIG4 MacDonnell Range Holiday Park offers comprehensive facilities and friendly staff nestled in the picturesque surrounds of the MacDonnell Ranges, just 4.5 kilometres (three miles) from the galleries, hotels and shops in the centre of Alice Springs. Don't miss its famous pancake breakfast held every Sunday morning all year round.