Watch the Melbourne Demons and discover Alice Springs with this 3-day itinerary The Melbourne Demons take on Greater Western Sydney (GWS) in Round 12 on Sunday 31 May.

Footy fans, make Alice Springs your basecamp for adventure. Before and after the match, explore the best food, nature and experiences in the Red Centre with this three-day itinerary.

Morning

Welcome to Alice Springs, less than a 3.5-hour flight from most capital cities in Australia. Alice Springs is easy to reach and offers a holiday like nowhere else in Australia. There's lots to see and do in the Red Centre so make sure you hire a vehicle for the trip. Start by exploring the local café scene. If you’re looking for a place to have breakfast, try out these local's favourites:

• Page 27 Café
• The Watertank Café
• The Bakery

Afternoon

Make the Alice Springs Desert Park your first stop. Located on Larapinta Drive, this attraction is one of the top things to do in Alice Springs.

Highlights include:

• The Nocturnal House, where you can spot rare and endangered desert animals in low-light conditions.
• The Free-Flying Birds of Prey Show, showcasing iconic desert raptors up close.
• The park features a 1.6km walking loop that takes you through three distinct desert habitats, with informational talks scheduled throughout the day throughout the day.

Explore the park’s attractions at your leisure or check the park's timetable to watch the daily shows.

Evening

Check into your accommodation. Alice Springs has plenty of places to stay to suit every budget. From hotel rooms to holiday parks and even camping under the stars. Choose what best suits your holiday, settle in, and enjoy a good night’s rest before a big day tomorrow.

Morning

Have breakfast at the Bean Tree Café located at the Olive Pink Botanic Garden. The Olive Pink Botanic Garden is Australia’s only arid zone botanic garden and the perfect place to relax for breakfast or lunch amongst the native surrounds.

Here you'll find walking trails where you can see the hundreds of plant species that are native to the Red Centre, or spot some of the 80 bird species which have been recorded at the park.

Afternoon

Explore the Tjoritja (West MacDonnell Ranges), one of the best day trips from Alice Springs. These incredible ranges start just a 15-minute drive from Alice Springs and stretch for hundreds of kilometres. Here you'll find towering red cliffs, desert waterholes, and scenic walks.

Visit highlights like:

• Simpsons Gap
• Standley Chasm
• Ormiston Gorge

Here you can enjoy swimming, hiking, and unforgettable outback views, all within an easy 2WD drive from Alice Springs.

Evening

The Earth Sanctuary, just 15 minutes south of Alice Springs, is an award-winning eco-tourism experience focused on stargazing and sustainability. Visitors can enjoy sunset views, dinner under the stars, and guided telescope tours of the brilliantly clear Central Australian night sky.

Morning

Rise early and take to the skies in a hot air balloon for a magnificent bird’s eye view of Alice Springs and the Red Centre. As you drift into an outback sunrise of pastel blues, purples and yellows, keep an eye out for native wildlife and the iconic Red Kangaroo down below.

Alternatively, head to Anzac Hill where you will be treated to sweeping views of Alice Springs and the surrounding ranges. While you're here spend some time taking in the memorial which celebrates those who have served for Australia.

Afternoon

Head to TIO Traeger Park to watch The Melbourne Demons take on Greater Western Sydney (GWS) in Round 12. Located in The Gap, there is parking available or alternatively Alice Springs Public Buses operates the 300 and 301 service along Gap Road with stops at TIO Traeger Park. Food and beverages are available for purchase at the game.

Evening

For your last night of your trip book a sunset tour at The Kangaroo Sanctuary. This special place is home to rescued orphaned joeys and adult kangaroos, who live out their life on a 188-acre wildlife reserve. On tour you'll meet the furry locals, learn about the Sanctuary's journey and have a turn at being a 'Kangaroo Mum' while you cuddle a joey on tour. Make sure to book ahead as this is a must visit for anyone visiting Alice Springs.