Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
21/08/2025
Rachel Claire, Pexels
Alice Springs offers a more subdued drinking and social scene, with a selection of pubs, bars, and a local brewery providing opportunities for an evening out. While visitors primarily focus on exploring the region's natural beauty and cultural experiences during the day, there are venues available for a relaxed drink or a casual meal in the evenings. It is important to note that Alice Springs has experienced some safety concerns, particularly at night, and visitors are advised to exercise caution and consider using taxis for transport after dark.
Entertainment and Music:
Alice Springs offers a modest but diverse entertainment scene, primarily centered around relaxed venues with live music and occasional cultural performances, complementing its role as a base for exploring the Red Centre.
Visitors will find several venues that host live music and entertainment. Epilogue Lounge and Rooftop Bar, located in the Todd Mall, regularly features local DJs, bands, hip-hop artists, and solo acts, including open mic nights . For a more casual atmosphere, Jump Inn Bar & Restaurant provides regular live musicians and hosts weekly jam nights, appealing to an international crowd . The Araluen Arts Centre serves as a key cultural hub, attracting interstate and international music acts to its sizable theatre . Additionally, Monte's Lounge offers a unique setting with various musical experiences, from DJ sets to cabaret performances .
1. Epilogue Lounge & Rooftop Bar
Type: Lounge & Rooftop Bar
Stepping into Epilogue Lounge & Rooftop Bar provides a vibrant, modern atmosphere, offering a refreshing contrast to the desert landscape. It feels like a lively urban spot, ideal for enjoying tapas and cocktails. The rooftop setting provides a great place to unwind, and there is often live music, adding to the energetic ambiance.
Getting There: Located at 1/58 Todd Street, this venue is within easy walking distance from the main Todd Mall area. For evening visits, especially after dark, it is advisable to use a taxi. Taxi fares in Alice Springs start around $1.10 per mile, with a typical 5km trip costing approximately $19.25 on Friday and Saturday nights.
2. Monte's Lounge
Type: Bar & Entertainment Venue
Monte's Lounge offers a unique, circus-inspired atmosphere, creating an unforgettable experience with its lively and bohemian vibe. One can expect a dynamic setting with outdoor seating, where locals and backpackers often mingle. The venue provides a mix of Mexican food, beer, wine, and cocktails, often accompanied by cabaret or dance performances.
Getting There: Situated at 95 Todd Street, Monte's Lounge is conveniently located in the central area and can be reached on foot from many accommodations. However, for safety, especially during evening hours, taking a taxi is recommended. Taxi services are readily available, with prices varying based on distance and time.
3. Jump Inn Craft Beer Bar & Restaurant
Type: Craft Beer Bar & Restaurant
This venue offers a relaxed and friendly setting, known for its extensive selection of independent craft beers and a spacious outdoor beer garden. The decor incorporates retro-style sofas and wooden tables, creating a comfortable space for groups. Alongside the craft beer, the menu features a delicious range of Mediterranean and Asian specialties, including highly regarded bao and pho.
Getting There: Found at 4 Traeger Avenue, Jump Inn is positioned close to the town center, making it accessible by walking. Given the general advice for evening safety, utilizing a taxi service for nighttime transportation is a sensible choice.
4. Alice Springs Brewing Co.
Type: Brewery & Taproom
As Alice Springs' very own brewery, this venue offers a distinctive experience focused on locally brewed craft beers. It provides an opportunity to taste fresh beer that has not undergone long transport. The establishment is a testament to the growing food and drink culture in Alice Springs, reflecting a shift towards more diverse and high-quality offerings.
Getting There: Located at 96 Todd Street, the brewery is centrally situated and is generally within walking distance of Alice Springs' main accommodation areas. For travel after sunset, it is advisable to take a taxi due to safety concerns in the area. Taxi booking services like 13cabs are available.
At TFA Travel we believe in travel for all. Our mission is to enable people to explore the world as easily as possible without having to pay a travel agent a huge commission.
Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
