2024 Holiday Travel Guide: Top 10 Must Do Activities in Darwin!

Welcome to the Top End of Australia! We absolutely love it up here, especially during the dry season winter months when you can bask in summerlike temperatures. But there’s more to Darwin than just its warm weather—it’s a vibrant, multicultural hub that serves as the gateway to Southeast Asia. The city’s diverse food and beverage scene is a testament to its rich cultural tapestry.

Whether you’re an adventure-seeker or a foodie, Darwin has something for everyone. Here’s our ultimate travel guide to the Top 10 must do activities in Darwin. This comprehensive guide covers everything from where to play to where to stay, ensuring you’ll have an unforgettable experience

Lets Countdown The Top 10 Must Do Activities in Darwin!

1. Visit the Visitor Information Centre (VIC)

The Darwin Visitor Information Centre is your first stop for local insider knowledge. The staff here are incredibly friendly and helpful, offering brochures, tours, and experiences tailored to your interests. The displays break down everything by region across the Northern Territory, making it super easy to plan your time.

2. Cape Adieu Sunset Cruise

(Credit: Cape Adieu)

Absolute bliss! The Cape Adieu Sunset Cruise is our favourite experience in Darwin, and a great evening out on the water. The new owners, Munro and Grace, are fantastic hosts making every guest feel like part of their family. The vessel is licenced with a great range of beer, wine and spirits on board, and you’ll enjoy a delicious four-course meal showcasing the region’s freshest ingredients. You can even BYO your own drinks!  Sit back and relax with the gentle tropical breeze in your hair and take in the breathtaking sunset over Darwin Harbour. 

3. Darwin Waterfront Precinct

If you want to feel like you’re on a permanent holiday, head to the Darwin Waterfront Precinct. The free, safe swimming lagoon with its own sandy beach is perfect for families. There are plenty of deck chairs, beach umbrellas, and green grassy areas to relax under the shade of swaying palm trees, and even a beach volleyball court if you’re feeling energetic. Don’t miss the Wave Pool and Aqua Park for some added fun! There’s a great range of cafes and restaurants that line the outer precinct, and a few boutiques and specialty shops if you’re up for a little retail therapy.

4. Crocosaurus Cove

(Credit: Tourism NT Tourism Australia)

You can’t visit the Northern Territory without seeing a crocodile, and Crocosaurus Cove offers a safe environment to get up close and personal with these incredible reptiles. The main attraction is the Cage of Death, where brave souls can be lowered into a tank for an intimate experience with a 5-meter saltwater crocodile. There are also daily snake presentations, and a fun hands on experience for the kids where they get to feed (or ‘fish’ for) the juvenile crocodiles.

5. Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) Tourist Facility and Bombing of Darwin

This two-in-one attraction located at Stokes Hill Wharf offers a deep dive into the history of the Royal Flying Doctor Service and the bombing of Darwin during World War II. With interactive exhibits, mini theatre, holograms, virtual reality experiences and hands on teddy bear hospital, it’s an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Plus, your ticket purchase helps support the incredible work of the RFDS.

6. Stokes Hill Wharf

(Credit: Tourism NT Tourism Australia)

After visiting the RFDS facility, stay on at Stokes Hill Wharf for a meal. With a variety of cuisines on offer at the food courts you’ll be spoilt for choice. Enjoy your meal al fresco style while taking in the stunning views of Darwin Harbour. If you time your visit to arrive before the busy lunch and dinner sittings, you’ll have no trouble finding a car park on the wharf. Alternatively, catch the free Darwin Waterfront Shuttle Bus that operates across the peak lunch and dinner times, and loops between Stokes Hill Wharf, the cruise ship terminal, and the Waterfront Precinct. 

7. Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT)

For a free and enriching experience, visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. Open daily from 10 AM to 4 PM, it offers permanent exhibits like the Cyclone Tracy display and “Transformations,” which showcases the unique ecosystems of the Northern Territory. There’s a Discovery Centre where kids can engage with interactive exhibits, and during the school holidays they operate a free kid’s program, however bookings are essential. Grab a bite to eat at Saltwater @ Bundilla café, that offers beautiful views over the foreshore and ocean.

8. Mindil Beach Sunset Market

(Credit: Mindil Beach Markets)

No trip to Darwin is complete without visiting the famous Mindil Beach Sunset Market held on Thursdays and Sundays from 4 pm to 9 pm. Operating for over 35 years, this market is the perfect place to enjoy a variety of international foods, live music, and unique homewares. Arrive early to find easy parking, and bring a picnic blanket to sit on while you enjoy your market finds and take in one of the most iconic Top End sunsets over the Timor Sea.

9. Darwin’s WWII Oil Storage Tunnels

(Credit: Tourism NT Tourism Australia)

Whether you’re a history buff or not, this self-guided tour through the WWII oil storage tunnels is a fascinating look into the past. Learn about the efforts to store oil safely during the war through the interpretive signage and displays, and don’t miss the new virtual reality experience. 

10. Big Bus Darwin

(Credit: Tourism NT Tourism Australia)

The Hop On Hop Off Big Bus is the best way to get an overview of Darwin’s CBD. With stops at many of the major attractions and insightful commentary on board, it’s a convenient and informative way to explore the city. Our tip? Get the two-day pass and do a full lap first to plan your stops effectively.

Additional Activities and Where to Stay

Beyond our Top 10 Must Do Activities there are plenty of other attractions to explore, such as the beautiful Botanic Gardens, East Point Military Museum, the Ski and Sailing Clubs at Fannie Bay, and the various local markets like Parap, Nightcliff, and Rapid Creek. 

For those travelling with their RV, the Darwin Discovery Parks offers a fantastic location just 15 minutes from the CBD. With over 160 spacious sites, two pools, a jumping pillow for the kids, and a full gym, it’s perfect for all style of travellers! The park is pet-friendly for 11 months of the year (excluding July) and provides a perfect retreat after a day of exploring. If you’re a light sleeper, be prepared for some noise from the nearby International Airport, but earplugs can help ensure a restful night.

Darwin is a treasure trove of adventures waiting to be discovered. From its rich history to its vibrant food scene and breathtaking natural beauty, there’s something here for everyone. Make the most of your trip by following our ultimate travel guide and get ready for an unforgettable experience in the Top End.

Ready to start planning your trip to Darwin? Check out our Top Things To Do In The NT and book your experiences for an adventure of a lifetime!