Looking for things to do in Darwin, the Northern Territory’s laidback capital? You’ve come to the right place!
Darwin is quite unlike any other capital city in Australia. With its tropical climate, diverse cultures and laidback vibe, there are so many things to see and do here that you can’t find anywhere else in the country.
Darwin is actually closer to Indonesia than Sydney, and that means that a uniquely characteristic culture and lifestyle has developed here, with multicultural cuisines and cultures, and residents who don’t take life too seriously.
Located on the Timor Sea, on the lands of the Larrakia people, the sunsets in Darwin are epic. Warm year-round (and very wet for several months!), Darwin is a must-visit city – I’m pretty sure you’ll be captivated and surprised by it.
I’ve been to Darwin a handful of times, and on my most recent trip spent a week traipsing around the city. I have a friend living there who took me to some spots that weren’t on my radar – it’s always great having a local’s perspective.
Here are my recommendations for what to do when you visit.
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The best things to do in Darwin
Here’s a list of my favourite things to do in Darwin – and I’ve popped them on a map of Darwin so you can easily plan out your days here.
1. Deckchair Cinema
The Deckchair Cinema is one of the most beloved spots in Darwin. This open-air cinema sets up under the stars during the dry season, and is a great way to spend an evening.
While it’s not unusual for most cities in Australia to set up a summer outdoor cinema, in Darwin – like everything – it’s a little different. As you settle into your deckchair, you may notice geckos scurrying across the screen or bats flying overhead. It’s all part of the charm of this outdoor cinema.
With a mix of mainstream and indie films, the Deckchair Cinema has something for everyone. We saw a beautiful Aussie film called Sweet As that was filmed in the remote Pilbara region of Western Australia.
Each night, local companies set up a buffet for dinner or you can buy typical movie snacks (and bevvies) from the on-site kiosk. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, and there’s usually some live music before the film begins.
This is one of my favourite things to do in Darwin – I always feel like a bit of a local!
Make sure you book your tickets in advance as they tend to sell out quickly.
2. Sunset at Nightcliff Beach
If you’re a sunset lover like me, then Nightcliff Beach is a must-visit spot in Darwin. While you can catch an epic sunset everywhere in Darwin (most of the city’s coastline faces west), this was my fave spot to see the sun sink into the horizon.
Nightcliff Beach has stunning views of the sun setting over the ocean. The fiery orb sinking into the horizon creates a mirror image off the Timor Sea, blurring the line between sea and sky.
While swimming isn’t recommended here due to the possibility of crocodiles, you’ll see plenty of locals taking a leisurely dip to cool off in the evening. My friend managed to persuade me to go in the water – but I was in and out in a flash to avoid becoming a saltie’s dinner!
Back on shore, set up a picnic on the lush lawns or grab some food from one of the many food trucks that line the beach. We grabbed wood-fired pizzas at Cucina Sotto le Stelle and devoured them on red-and-white-checked tablecloths under trees strung with pretty fairy lights. BYO drinks.
The atmosphere around Nightcliff Beach is always lively and relaxed – Darwinians know how to spend an evening.
Love sunsets? Why not consider this 3-hour Darwin sunset cruise – which comes with sparkling wine and dinner!
3. Mindil Beach Sunset Market
One of the most popular things to do in Darwin is visiting the iconic Mindil Beach Sunset Market.
Held every Thursday and Sunday during the dry season (late April to October), this market has dozens of vendors selling food, clothing, jewellery, art and more.
After you’ve strolled through the stalls, make your way over to the beach to take in the stunning sunset.
Grab some dinner from one of the many food stalls. There’s everything from curries to seafood to deep-fried crocodile. Take your snacks over the grassy areas to enjoy live music performances.
While I find the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets one of the more touristy and crowded places to visit in Darwin, there is a great vibe here – and the sunsets are stunning. So, it’s definitely worth adding to your Darwin itinerary.
Top tip! Parking can be a nightmare, so get there early if you’re driving. Even better, take a taxi or Uber to avoid having to deal with parking.
4. Parap Village Markets
Saturday’s Parap Village Markets are also busy – but one of the best Darwin activities is eating, and the Parap Markets is the place to go to try a dazzling array of food.
Choose from fresh tropical fruits, satay, banh mi, thick mango smoothies, Portuguese tarts, dumplings… the options are endless. You can also pick up jewellery, clothing and souvenirs.
The Parap Village Markets is also where you’ll find some of Darwin’s famous laksas. Darwin has become the laksa capital of Australia – there’s now even a month-long festival dedicated to awarding the best.
Prepare to line up at the laksa joints and patiently wait to slurp your soup, some of which have developed somewhat of a cult following. Mary’s Laksa and Yati’s Laksa are two of the top choices – and locals are usually firmly Team Yati or Team Mary. You’ll have to try both and decide which is your favourite!
The markets are held year-round (rain or shine) on Saturdays from 8am to 2pm.
5. Rapid Creek Markets
Yes, I have another Darwin market on this list, but this one is much more of a local’s market. I hadn’t heard of the Rapid Creek Markets until my friend invited us to meet her there for lunch.
This is Darwin’s oldest market and it operates year-round (even during the Wet) from 7am to 2pm on Saturday and Sunday.
Squeeze through the stalls piled with fruit and veggies – some you’ll be familiar with, others you’ll have no idea what they are. We saw (and tried) tropical fruits I’ve never even heard of.
Plan to be here for lunch. We sipped on delicious, fresh smoothies and ate dumplings and an incredible chicken satay sandwich.
6. Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory is well worth a visit if you want to learn more about the diverse flora and fauna found in this region. Or if you just want an escape from the tropical heat!
This free museum has both permanent and temporary exhibitions, including one that explores the devastating impact of Cyclone Tracy on Darwin in 1974. Step into the room that simulates the sounds of the cyclone – it’s quite frightening to experience the intensity and destruction it brought.
One of the most famous exhibits at the museum is the body of Sweetheart, a 5.1-metre-long, 780kg crocodile who was known for attacking fishing dinghies in the 1970s. As his attacks became more frequent, authorities made the decision to capture and move Sweetheart to a crocodile farm. Sadly, as he was being caught, he drowned. This massive croc is now preserved and on display in the museum.
As well as crocs, the museum has displays showcasing the unique wildlife found in the Northern Territory, from colourful birds to iconic marsupials like kangaroos and wallabies.
This is one of the most popular Darwin attractions – it’s busy on weekends and often filled with school kids during the week.
7. Darwin Military Museum
If you’re a history buff and wondering what to do in the NT, plan a visit to the Darwin Military Museum. This museum showcases the important role that Darwin played during World War II, with a focus on the bombing of Darwin by Japanese forces in 1942.
The museum has an extensive collection of artefacts and exhibits that detail the events leading up to and during the war in Darwin.
One of the most interesting things to see in Darwin is the museum’s immersive video experience. This 20-minute show comes with sounds and lights that are often quite realistic – I jumped a few times! It runs throughout the day, so make sure you catch it.
Outdoors, there’s a huge array of tanks, weapons and vehicles that were used during WWII, as well as displays from other wars such as the Vietnam War. Most of these are nicely shaded or indoors, so it’s easy to stroll around outdoors for an hour or so.
If you really want to dig into Darwin’s past, there’s a tour around the city in a genuine WWII army truck. We saw this truck at the Darwin Military Museum and my friend’s dad has taken the tour, which visits ammunitions storage bunkers, the Qantas hangar and the East Point Gun Battery and Military precinct. You can find out more about The Darwin History and Wartime Experience online here.
8. Darwin Waterfront
Because Darwin has crocs year-round and stingers in the wet season, the safest place for a swim in the city is at the Darwin Waterfront.
The Wave Lagoon is a popular spot with families, simulating ocean waves. Get ready to take on the waves when the siren begins! There are boogie boards and inflatable tubes to float about on.
There’s also the Aqua Park, a range of 4-metre-high floating inflatables to tackle.
After your swim, grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and bars located on the boardwalk. There are plenty of options to choose from, whether you’re in the mood for a casual meal or a fancy dinner.
9. Street art
Darwin is a vibrant and artistic city, with its streets adorned with colourful and often thought-provoking murals.
The street art scene in Darwin has been steadily growing over the years, thanks to events like the Darwin Street Art Festival, which showcases local and international artists.
The festival began in 2017 as a way to showcase the creative talent of the city and celebrate its diverse community. It has since become an annual event, with artists from all over the world flocking to Darwin to leave their mark on the city’s walls.
You can find street art scattered throughout the city, but some of the best spots include Austin Lane and West Lane. The murals range from abstract designs to realistic portraits, and they often reflect local culture and history.
Wander the city and see what you find – download the app to guide you.
10. Crocosaurus Cove
If you’re visiting the NT, no doubt you’re expecting to see a croc at some point. If that’s on your NT bucket list, then you can’t leave without visiting Crocosaurus Cove, one of the most popular attractions in Darwin.
Here, you can get up close and personal with some of Australia’s largest saltwater crocodiles – in a safe environment.
The highlight of Crocosaurus Cove is the Cage of Death experience, where visitors are lowered into a clear acrylic cage and submerged into a pool with a massive saltwater crocodile. It’s definitely not for the faint-hearted, but it’s an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for these ancient creatures.
This is probably the only place in Australia you can swim with a croc without ending up with a missing limb!
Aside from the Cage of Death, Crocosaurus Cove also has other exhibits and activities to enjoy, such as feeding shows and educational talks.
11. Stokes Hill Wharf
Stokes Hill Wharf has lovely views of the waterfront but it’s also been a historically important site for Darwin. The wharf has played a significant role in the growth of the city and was once a vital lifeline for supplies during World War II.
Today, it’s a tourist hub with various restaurants, bars and shops.
While it may be a bit touristy, don’t let that deter you from visiting Stokes Hill Wharf. There’s some great food here, with a focus on Asian and seafood. We loved the dishes at Siam Thai and it seems like every place was selling some form of fish and chips. Grab a table outside and enjoy your meal while taking in the views of Darwin Harbour.
Snap a photo with the “Darwin” sign for your Instagram feed.
And if you’re interested in learning more about Australia’s iconic Royal Flying Doctor Service, you can visit their tourist facility at Stokes Hill Wharf. There’s a hologram cinema and virtual reality experiences so you can relive the 1942 bombing of Darwin.
12. Laundry Gallery
Located in an old launderette, Laundry Gallery is one of the coolest new galleries in Darwin.
It showcases a range of contemporary art from both established and emerging Indigenous artists. It’s making art more accessible to a younger, cooler crowd.
At Laundry Gallery, you can find a variety of mediums including paintings, sculptures, photography and more. The gallery aims to showcase the work of NT artists, giving visitors a taste of the territory’s vibrant art scene.
Laundry Gallery is conveniently located opposite the popular Parap Village Markets, making it easy to combine both activities on a Saturday morning.
13. House of Darwin
Sure, you could pick up a souvenir from one of the many Darwin markets, but why not find something a bit more unique, something a bit cooler?
House of Darwin is an Indigenous-owned fashion brand that sells t-shirts, stickers and hats, all with designs that are retro and nostalgic. I love the brand’s Stuart Highway-themed t-shirts.
But the brand is more than just clothing. Profits from this social enterprise go back to social programs in remote Indigenous communities.
14. Fishing trip
Fancy a day out on the water? Why not try your hand at fishing in Darwin’s beautiful harbour. Known for its abundance of barramundi, Spanish mackerel and longtail tuna, these waters are a fisher’s paradise.
And you don’t have to have any experience – there are plenty of fishing charters that cater to all levels.
I did a fishing trip on my first trip to Darwin (many years ago) and it was such a great day out on the water (once I got over my hangover from the night before… but that’s another story).
While I didn’t catch anything, the views of the coastline are fantastic and you may even spot local wildlife such as dolphins and sea birds.
Who knows, unlike me, you may reel in something big!
15. Time your visit with a festival
Darwinians love a good festival, and you’ll find some fabulous (and wacky) festivals throughout the year.
Darwin Street Art Festival: This festival celebrates the vibrant street art scene in Darwin, with artists from all over the world coming together to create murals and installations throughout the city. 2024 dates: 18 May-8 June
Darwin Fringe Festival: A celebration of alternative and independent arts, this festival showcases a diverse range of performances including theatre, cabaret, comedy and more. 2024 dates: 12-21 July
Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta: A unique festival where boats made from beer cans compete in races on Darwin’s harbour. This event is all about having fun and raising money for charity. So Darwin. 2024 date: 18 August
Darwin Festival: One of Australia’s leading arts festivals, this event brings together local and international artists to showcase the best in theatre, dance, music, comedy and more. 2024 dates: 8-25 August
Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair: Showcasing the rich culture and heritage of Australia’s First Nations people, this fair is a must-visit for anyone interested in Indigenous art and craft. 2024 dates: 9-11 August
Darwin International Film Festival: A celebration of film from around the world, this festival screens a diverse range of films including independent features, documentaries and short films. 2024 dates: 12-22 September
Darwin International Laksa Festival: For foodies, this is one event not to be missed. Celebrating the iconic dish of laksa, this festival showcases a variety of mouth-watering versions from different restaurants and food stalls in Darwin. 2024 dates: 1-31 October
16. Day trip to Litchfield
While there are so many great things to do in Darwin city itself, there are also plenty of reasons to leave the city. One of the best day trips from Darwin is to Litchfield National Park.
One of the best national parks in the NT – if not in Australia – is located just 90 minutes from Darwin.
Rent a car for the drive. Head out early to beat the crowds – and make sure to pack some lunch and drinks.
I have a full guide to Litchfield National Park, which highlights the best waterfalls and swimming holes.
Make sure Wangi Falls, Florence Falls and Buley Rockhole are on your list for the day. Or, go a bit further afield and hike to the Cascades or Tjaetaba Falls for (slightly) quieter swimming holes.
Keep in mind that weekends are always packed at Litchfield, so if you can go during the week you’ll find it less crowded.
You’ll need an NT Parks Pass to access Litchfield.
17. Day trip to Berry Springs
Just a 40-minute drive from Darwin, Berry Springs Nature Park is another popular day trip destination. This tranquil oasis boasts crystal-clear pools and small waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery – perfect for swimming and relaxing in the sun.
Once you arrive at Berry Springs, head to the main pool where you can take a dip in the refreshing water. If you prefer a more secluded experience, there are also smaller pools and walking trails through the surrounding bushland.
Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch or BBQ supplies as there are plenty of shaded picnic tables and BBQs available for use.
18. Crocodile jumping tour
Once you’ve seen crocodiles in the safety of Crocosaurus Cove, head out to see them in the wild. There are several tours that offer crocodile jumping experiences, where you can watch these prehistoric creatures leap out of the water to catch a chicken carcass.
Keep your limbs inside the boat at all times!
I did this tour on my first visit to Darwin and was completely blown away (and terrified!) by the power and grace of the saltwater crocodiles.
While this isn’t the exact tour I did, this Litchfield National Park and Jumping Crocodile Cruise combines a boat ride on the Adelaide River with a visit to Litchfield National Park.
It leaves from Darwin and starts with a cruise on the Adelaide River for an up-close view of crocodiles in their natural habitat (from the safety of your boat!).
The tour continues to Litchfield National Park, where you’ll cool off in the beautiful swimming holes at Florence Falls, Wangi Falls and Buley Rockhole. Lunch, snacks and water are included. Check rates and availability online here.
Make sure to book your tour well in advance as they tend to fill up quickly during the dry season.
19. Day trip to Kakadu
While I wouldn’t recommend a day trip to Kakadu National Park from Darwin, it is possible if you’re really, truly short on time.
It’s a big day of driving, so hand the wheels over to someone else and take a tour.
You’ll have the chance to see ancient rock art, learn about local Indigenous culture and history, and spot some incredible wildlife. Keep an eye out for saltwater crocodiles, buffalo and various bird species.
This Darwin to Kakadu day trip tour includes stops at Cahills Crossing and Ubirr.
But if you have more time, I would highly recommend spending at least a few days exploring Kakadu on a Northern Territory road trip. It is a vast and diverse park with so much to see and do. From hiking through stunning landscapes to cultural experiences – this is one of Australia’s most iconic national parks.
What to do in Darwin travel FAQs
Is Darwin worth visiting?
Absolutely! Darwin may be smaller and more laidback compared to other Australian cities, but it has so much to offer. It’s so different to the rest of Australia that I think everyone should experience it. There are beautiful sunsets, cultural experiences, nature encounters and incredible food.
How many days do I need in Darwin?
I recommend at least two days in Darwin, but with all the things to do in the city and the day trip options, you could easily spend a leisurely week here.
When is the best time of year to visit Darwin?
Darwin has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons – wet and dry. The best time to travel to Darwin is the dry season (May-September) when the weather is more pleasant for outdoor activities (although temps regularly still hit 30 to 35 degrees!). This is also peak tourist season so expect higher prices and crowds.
The wet season (November-April) has fewer tourists and lush green landscapes, but also heavy rainfall and potential cyclones.
The time between September and December is referred to as “the build-up” which is when the air is thick with humidity before the rains really kick in.
How to get to Darwin
By air
Darwin is connected by air to all the Australian capital cities (except Canberra and Hobart), with daily flights from most of those cities.
You can rent a car at Darwin International Airport when you arrive.
By car
One of the best ways to reach Darwin – in my opinion – is via the Stuart Highway. The Adelaide to Darwin drive is one of the best road trips in Australia and something everyone should do at least once in their lifetime!
Or you could road trip to Darwin from Broome, or drive the Savannah Way from Cairns.
By bus
Greyhound buses travel to Darwin from Alice Springs (21.5 hours), Broome (1 day), Katherine (4.5 hours) and Kununurra (11 hours).
By train
For an epic Australian bucket list experience, take The Ghan all the way from Adelaide to Darwin. This luxury train traverses the Australian Outback for 3 days before arriving in Darwin.
How to get around Darwin
You’ll need a car in Darwin so you have more flexibility. You can rent a car from the airport or downtown.
To hit the main Darwin attractions, jump on the Big Bus Darwin, a hop-on hop-off bus service with a couple of different routes (routes vary depending on the season).
Darwin does have a pretty comprehensive bus network but I’ve never travelled this way so I don’t have any tips or recommendations. You can check the Darwin bus timetable online here.
Where to stay in Darwin
Backpackers
Youth Shack Backpackers is on buzzy Mitchell Street, and has triple, 4-bed and 6-bed dorms as well as private rooms. There’s a pool, bar and the usual backpacker activities.
Hotels
The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Esplanade has harbour views and an enormous pool. It’s only a short drive to the Mindil Beach Sunset Market. Check rates and availability on Expedia and Booking.com
Also in the Waterfront precinct, the Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront has modern rooms, many with water views. Check rates and availability on Expedia and Booking.com
Serviced apartments
If you want a bit more flexibility when you visit Darwin, a serviced apartment is always a good choice. Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront is in a great location, while Hudson Parap is close to the Parap Village Markets and has one, two and three bedroom options.
Caravan parks
We stayed at the Discovery Parks Darwin, the closest caravan park to the city centre. It has two pools and caravan sites and cabins.
The Darwin FreeSpirit Resort is a bit further out from the city but gets a big thumbs-up for its resort-style pool and more modern cabins.
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What are your favourite things to do in Darwin?
Related posts
Before you go… you might like these Australian travel guides:
- How to plan an epic Adelaide to Darwin road trip
- How to plan a Top End Northern Territory road trip
- The best things to do in the NT
- The best things to do in Katherine, NT
- The ultimate guide to Litchfield National Park
- How to spend a few days in Kakadu National Park
- The ultimate Australia bucket list
AUSTRALIA TRIP ESSENTIALS
- Book your flight to Australia online with Skyscanner. I like this site because it shows me which dates are cheaper.
- Find a great hotel in Australia. Check prices on Booking.com and Expedia online.
- Check out the huge range of day tours throughout Australia on GetYourGuide or Viator. There’s something for everyone.
- A copy of the Lonely Planet guide to Australia will be handy.
- One thing I always purchase is travel insurance! Travel Insurance Master allows you to compare across multiple policy providers, while SafetyWing is great for long-term travellers and digital nomads.
- Pack sunscreen (look for SPF50 or higher), a hat and sunglasses because the sun is hot!
PIN IT FOR LATER: WHAT TO DO IN DARWIN
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