13 Epic and Unforgettable Things to Do in Darwin!

Best Things to do in Darwin

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Looking for the best things to do in Darwin? Buckle up, because this place is packed with epic adventures! But before you dive into your itinerary, make sure you read through this guide—trust me, it’s worth it.

Located in Northern Australia, Darwin is a tropical gem where the Outback meets the tropics. It’s the ultimate getaway, especially for Aussies seeking warmth during those chillier southern months (yes, it actually gets cold down south!).

Pro tip: Try to plan your trip during the dry season! You don’t want to get caught in monsoons or flash floods—that’s not the adventure you’re looking for.

So, ready to explore the best things to do in Darwin? Let’s get started!

Explore Kakadu National Park

If you’re after the ultimate Aussie adventure, Kakadu National Park is where you need to be. This massive park is one of the best things to do in Darwin, hands down. It’s one of the largest national parks in Australia and a must-see for any wildlife lover.

Get ready to meet some of the most amazing creatures you’ve ever seen—think 10-foot-long crocodiles, kangaroos, exotic birds, and more! It’s like stepping into a real-life nature documentary.

Just a heads up, most Kakadu tours from Darwin kick off early, so make sure you’re up and ready to go!

Best way to get there: Book a tour. Seriously, no better way to do it!

Distance from Darwin: 4 hours 23 minutes – 430 km.

Recommended Kakadu Tour: Kakadu Wilderness Escape Day Tour.

Mindil Beach Sunset Markets

If you’re looking for one of the best things to do in Darwin during sunset, make sure you check out the Sunset Market! Open from late April to late October, from 4 pm to 9 pm, this market comes alive once the sun dips below the horizon. It’s where the locals gather to eat, shop, and soak up the good vibes. With a variety of food stalls offering delicious bites, unique souvenirs, and even the occasional didgeridoo performance, the market’s a perfect way to round off your day. So, grab some food, relax, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere! Best way to get there? Walking or hop on a local E-Scooter for a quick ride.

Distance from Darwin: 10 mins – 6 km.

Swim at the Mataranka Hot Springs

Mataranka might not be your typical Darwin day trip, but trust me, it’s definitely worth a mention! If you’re driving up to Darwin or heading to Uluru, make sure you take a detour and dip into these crystal-clear natural hot springs. It’s one of those best things to do in Darwin you absolutely can’t miss. Surrounded by lush tropical trees and wildlife, it’s a surreal experience that’ll have you feeling like you’ve stepped into paradise. Seriously, it’s one of my favorite ways to unwind in the region.

Best way to get there: Grab a rental car or jump on a tour.

Distance from Darwin: 3:00 hours – 171 km.

Visit Litchfield National Park (Wangi Falls)

If you’re looking for an unforgettable nature experience, Visit Litchfield National Park and make sure to check out the stunning Wangi Falls. Known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful surroundings, it’s the perfect spot to cool off and enjoy the serenity. As one of the best things to do in Darwin, the best way to get there is by car, but if you prefer a hassle-free experience, I recommend the Litchfield National Park Day Tour, which covers all the highlights.

Best way to get there: Tour or rental vehicle.

Distance from Darwin: About 1.5 hours – 110 km.

NOTE: Follow the signs when swimming (swim at your own risk) as there are alligators roaming around.

Swim at the Darwin Wave Lagoon

If you’re visiting Darwin and looking for a way to cool off, the lagoon is your go-to spot. With the hot weather all year round, it’s the perfect escape for both locals and travelers. Unlike the beaches or swimming holes, which are often croc-infested (yikes!), the lagoon offers a much safer, more relaxed alternative. Plus, it’s one of the best free things to do in Darwin, especially if you’re on a budget. The best part? They even provide boogie boards and tubes to add some extra fun to your swim!

Pro tip: Don’t forget to slip, slap, slop on that sunscreen, as the Darwin sun can be brutal. And a heads-up—during the wet season (October to April), storms can be a real threat, so if things get wild, they’ll shut the lagoon down for safety.

Best way to get there: Local transit or a short walk.

Distance from Darwin: Just 5 minutes – 2km.

Make sure the lagoon is on your list of things to do in Darwin when you’re in town!

Visit The Darwin Museum and Art Gallery (MAGNT)

Not sure whether you’re in the mood for art or history? Don’t stress—this place has both! The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) is packed with a mind-blowing collection of artifacts, some dating back over 60,000 years! It’s one of those best things to do in Darwin if you want to dive deep into the region’s history while checking out some killer art along the way.

Perfect for history buffs or anyone keen to learn more about Darwin’s roots. Definitely make time for this spot on your trip!

Best way to get there: Local transit or walking.

Distance from Darwin: 10 min – 8 km.

Relax at Berry Springs Nature Park

Berry Springs is not just a beautiful spot to relax—it’s got some serious history behind it. During WWII, it served as a rest and relaxation camp for over 100,000 troops! Now it’s one of the best things to do in Darwin, offering stunning natural springs and wildlife galore. Open from 8:00 am to 6:30 pm (and weekends from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm), it’s a great spot for a day out.

If you’re up for it, lace up your hiking boots and take a walk around the loop—there’s plenty to see! Plus, bird watchers, you’re in for a treat. This place is a paradise for spotting some unique species.

But a quick heads up: Swim at your own risk, especially during the wet season. This spring, while beautiful, is also home to crocodiles.

Best way to get there: Rent a 4×4 for the adventure.

Distance from Darwin: 37 min – 50 km.

NOTE: Follow the signs when swimming (swim at your own risk) as there are alligators roaming around.

Make your own Didgeridoo

One of the top things to do in Darwin is to build your very own Didgeridoo. Take full advantage of this while you’re there.

Several shops around town offer day trip where you go in the bush to find your own tree, chop it down and start carving away.

If you’re lazy like me, you can go buy one at a local store such as the Didgeridoo Shop.

I know you’re probably saying…”now I have to carry this thing around with me”…

Here’s the best part…every post office in Australia (especially in Darwin) has Didgeridoo boxes so that you can send them home.

NOTE: The box has a limit of 6 feet and costs around 100$ (depending on where you’re sending it) So do not buy a Didgeridoo more than 6 feet high.

Douglas Hot Springs

If you’re looking for another hot spring to take a dip in, make sure you check out Douglas Hot Springs. It’s one of those places to visit in Darwin that you will never want to leave.

While you’re there keep an eye out for native birds. You might just see some pretty cool ones!

Always check road conditions before going. During the wet season, the roads get really bad. Like I mean, uncrossable.

NOTE: Always be on the lookout for crocodiles. (swim at own risk)

Best way to get there: 4×4 rental vehicle.

Distance from Darwin: 2:00 hours – 200km.

NOTE: Follow the signs when swimming (swim at your own risk) as there are alligators roaming around.

Go Visit The Tiwi Islands

If you’re looking for one of the most unique things to do in Darwin, you’ve got to check out the Tiwi Islands. Just 80km north of Darwin, these nine islands are home to the Aborigines, who have lived there for over 7,000 years. It’s a must-do for anyone wanting to dive into rich culture and history.

The islands are also a sanctuary for endangered bird species, like the Knot, and are a paradise for bird watchers. Trust me, you’ll want to bring your best camera to capture all the exotic birdlife.

The best way to get there is by ferry (it’s worth booking a tour for a hassle-free experience). It’s about a 3-hour journey from Darwin (105km), but totally worth it!

Recommended Tour: Tiwi Islands Aboriginal Culture Tour with Lunch.

Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge)

Inhabited by the Jawoyn people for thousands of years, Nitmiluk National Park is another national wonder which attracts people from all over the world, and is a must do in Darwin.

It is home to the stunning Edith Falls, making it another great swimming hole for those hot days.

NOTE: There is both a lower and upper pool that you can enjoy. So make sure to bring your swimsuit.

With all essential amenities present, Katherine Gorge makes for great day trip from Darwin.

Best way to get there: I recommend a day tour.

Distance from Darwin: 3.5 hours – 278km.

Test your luck at the Mindil Beach Casino Resort

Known as the second casino to ever open in Australia. The Mindil Beach Casino Resort has been a fixture in Darwin since 1983, and it’s fun for the whole family also.

Not only is it a casino, but it is also an entire resort for you to relax at. So if gambling is not your thing, simply go to relax and have a drink and swim in the pool.

Best way to get there: Public transport.

Distance from Darwin: 11min – 9km.

Have a drink at the Daly Waters Pub

This rackety Outback watering hole is one of the oldest and best things to do in Darwin. It has been a staple in the region attracting people from all over the globe for decades. It’s a must-stop for every traveler passing through.

With live music, every night, and accommodation on-site, this pub makes for the ultimate Australian experience to tell your friends back home.

Best way to get there: Rental car or Tour bus.

Distance from Darwin: 6h05min – 589km.

Where to stay in Darwin

After experiencing all the best things to do in Darwin, you’re left with very few options as Darwin is extremely isolated from the rest of Australia.

You can either fly out, take a boat or do the next best thing and make your way down to Alice Springs (aka, the red center), and explore the rest of what Australia has to offer.

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