Renowned for its varied outdoor markets, Aboriginal arts and crafts, tropical climate and vast expanses of nature, Darwin is the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory, and is a place which blends a laid-back country atmosphere with modern city life. A diverse range of adventure activities here draw thrill-seekers in droves, and its idyllic waterfront makes the perfect setting for a stroll or cycle. Whatever you want to do when visiting, here’s the top 10 things to do and see in Darwin, Australia!
Darwin’s Wharf Precinct is comprised of a wharf area and a picturesque waterfront walkway, a trail which winds past the crystal blue ocean and various vibrant bars and eateries. A stroll here offers the perfect chance to see Darwin’s fishing industry first-hand, as small boats laden with fresh catches are often seen bobbing on the water. You may even glimpse a majestic cruise liner, too.
Watch out for: A seafront area offering spectacular views
Darwin’s Wave Lagoon is situated outside, right in the middle of the waterfront, making it a picturesque and unique place to splash about in the water! This is a clean, warm wave pool where visitors can relax and recline on a complimentary board, or embark on some swimming lessons to increase their confidence in the waves. The turquoise water here is extremely inviting, and there are changing facilities and showers on-site, as well as a plethora of ice-cream vendors.
Watch A Race At Hidden Valley Motor Sports Complex
Hidden Valley Motor Sports Complex in Darwin is a heaven for car fans; motorbikes, v8s, drag cars and go-karts can all be found here. There are often major racing competitions held on-site, and visitors can watch from different parts of the track or can take a trip round themselves! A new viewing platform has recently been added here offering excellent views of the entire circuit, and with an electrifying atmosphere, colorful illuminated scoreboards and the latest racing cars, a trip here really does give you a taste of life in the fast lane!
Watch out for: The huge shade covers in the shape of sails
Go To The Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
The Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory is a wonderful, varied and enthralling museum and art gallery exhibiting a diverse range of artwork from this part of the world. There are over 30,000 items of art and material culture found here, as well as a collection of over 1.2 million natural history specimens. There is also a quaint little eatery here offering a beautiful view of the sea.
Berry Springs Nature Park is a stunning space featuring a natural swimming hole and lush expanses of nature. Take a dip in the water here and you may see many small fish and other native aquatic life which live in the clear water. Picnic tables are dotted around the green grass providing an idyllic spot for a bite to eat after swimming.
Watch out for: There are many adventure activities here
Fly High At The Australian Aviation Heritage Center
The Australian Aviation Heritage Center displays a ginormous range of different aircraft models, with the whole exhibition reflecting the story of Australian aviation history. Educational films are shown throughout the venue and old aircraft posters charmingly adorn the walls. A top spot for plane lovers, don’t miss the assortment of books and DVDs available for purchase.
This is one of the biggest churches in Darwin and is extremely popular with the local Catholic community for its magnificent stained glass windows, intricately decorated altar and richly embroidered tapestries. There are many decadent monuments dedicated to soldiers found here, and the grounds are vast and well maintained; don’t miss St Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Cathedral!
Watch out for: Books are available which give fascinating details of the meaning behind each stained glass window
Mindil Beach Markets is Darwin’s top spot for grabbing a bargain! A cluster of markets selling an array of colorful jewlry and handmade crafts, it’s also a great place for picking up some authentic Aboriginal artwork and gifts. Food from all over the world is sold here, and there is a large area for regular live performances where visitors can relax on one of the many tables and chairs and enjoy some top-quality entertainment.
Watch out for: The energetic live music played throughout the market
Ever fancied watching a movie under the stars from the comfort of a cushioned armchair” Well you can do just that at Deckchair Cinema. Every night of the week films are played here in this popular outdoor complex, with a movie list incorporating everything from Hollywood blockbusters to arthouse Aussie flicks; heaven!
Watch out for: An array of different seating options available
The Magnetic Termite Mounds site is an enthralling place where visitors can see a variety of termite homes, amazing architectural feats complete with arches, tunnels and chimneys. A great place to learn more about the insect, come here to be educated on how they live, eat and breed, and to learn the techniques which go into making their unusual and sophisticated habitations!
Watch out for: Some of the mounds reach over four meters!
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