Things to do in Darwin

Things to do in Darwin

Darwin brings the wild edge of Australia into everyday reach. It’s where you can cruise past crocodiles one moment, and sip a sunset drink by the harbour the next. Expect humid nights, open-air cinemas, fiery food markets and day trips that dive into ancient Aboriginal culture and postcard-perfect waterfalls. 

Whether you’re here for a short stop or staying to explore, Darwin serves up big nature, frontier history and tropical vibes that feel worlds away from the rest of the country. 

Unique Darwin things you can’t do anywhere else

• Crocosaurus Cove visit: Get eyeball-close with a saltie or dive into the Cage of Death if you dare. Urban Darwin meets outback reptile royalty, right in the CBD.
• Darwin Royal Flying Doctor Service Experience: Step into the shoes of outback medics through immersive exhibits and flight simulations; only in the NT.
• The Ghan Expedition Train Journey: Ride Australia’s most iconic rail adventure through the Red Centre, from Darwin to Adelaide.
• Mindil Beach Sunset Market: Local eats, live music and that famous Darwin sunset. Best served with laksa in hand and bare feet in the sand.
• Deckchair Cinema: Open-air films with tropical breezes and geckos for company. A Darwin cult classic.

Best Darwin attractions to see

• Darwin Hop‑On Hop‑Off Bus: From the waterfront to WWII relics, this open-top ride hits the city’s top sights in breezy comfort.
• Charles Darwin Dinner Buffet Cruise: Sunset, seafood and city views from the water. Darwin’s laid-back luxury at its best.
• Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory: Indigenous art, Cyclone Tracy stories and Sweetheart the croc. Free and fascinating.
• WWII Oil Storage Tunnels: Explore Darwin’s secret wartime tunnels. A cool escape with heavy history.
• Darwin Wharf Precinct: Combines dining, harbour strolls, and a sunset vibe. Popular with visitors and locals alike.

Best Darwin day trips and tours

• Jumping Crocodile Cruise (Adelaide River): See wild crocs leap from the water. It’s raw NT nature just outside the city.
• Darwin Harbour Sunset Cruise: Cruise into the golden hour with snacks, drinks and sea breezes.
• Kakadu National Park Tour with Cruise: Aboriginal rock art, billabongs, birdlife and crocs — Kakadu’s a blockbuster NT day trip.
• Litchfield National Park Day Tour: Cool off in waterfalls and plunge pools, with giant termite mounds along the way.
• Tiwi Islands Day Tour: Ferried escape to Aboriginal communities with vibrant art, storytelling and culture.

Budgeting for things to do in Darwin

Darwin delivers big nature, bold culture and plenty of bang for your buck. Iconic freebies like the Waterfront Lagoon and Mindil Market keep costs low, while standout museums are often donation-based or free. 

Most activities sit in the AU$35–80 range. Think crocodile cruises, sunset sails and cultural centres. 

Day tours to Litchfield or Kakadu push into the AU$140–220 bracket. But, they’re generally all-inclusive and cover transport, guides, lunch and national park access. 

Want to splurge? The Ghan or Tiwi Islands will take you there. Whether you’re backpacking or balling out, Darwin’s got wild adventures for every wallet.

Free things to do in Darwin

If you’re on a tight budget or are looking to fill some time between tours, there’s plenty to do for free in Darwin, too.

• Darwin Waterfront Lagoon: Saltwater swimming with no crocs or stingers—just sea breezes and sunshine.
• George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens: Tropical flora, shady walks and birdsong just minutes from the city.
• Fannie Bay Gaol: Tour this 19th-century prison and uncover its eerie colonial past for free.
• Parap Village Market: Saturday morning rituals begin here. Laksa, samosas, juices and artisan goods galore.
• Nightcliff Foreshore: A classic Darwin sunset spot with a local feel. It’s social, scenic and shows up on most destination guides