Darwin Waterfront Park
Spend an afternoon at the Darwin Waterfront relaxing on the banana lounges or on shady patches of lawn in the palm-lined Recreation Lagoon while the kids enjoy tube-riding, boogie-boarding and bucket-loads of fun in the Wave Lagoon.
If you’re after even more fun for both adults and kids alike the Big Buoy Water Park is the NT's very own floating water attraction for thrill seekers aged 6 and up. Proudly Territory owned and operated, Big Buoy II is the latest installment of top quality inflatables, bigger and better than our maiden year 2016. Big Buoy is located in the safe swimming area of the Recreation Lagoon and is a challenging and fun water sports activity with a climbing cube, multiple slides, launching pillow and more.
Crocosaurus Cove
There’s still plenty of animal experiences to be had while in Darwin at the popular Crocosaurus Cove. This 3 storey attraction that occupies almost an entire city block and allows visitors to witness iconic Top End Crocodiles from 3 months to 80 years old in purpose designed displays that can be viewed from all 3 levels.
Here you’ll enjoy 360 degree viewing of some of the largest Saltwater crocodiles in captivity and don’t forget to check out our most famous crocodile, Burt, the star of the iconic Australian movie, Crocodile Dundee! There are also plenty of smaller creatures to captivate you including reptiles and fish as well as a variety of animal-based shows throughout the day to keep you entertained.
For those after an adrenaline-pumping experience, the Cage of Death is the way to go as you’re lowered into the same enclosure as some of the largest Saltwater crocodiles on the planet for a unique 15 minute, face to face encounter!
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The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
The MAGNT covers a range of topics, installations and activities including engaging interactive programs, ever-changing art installations, a breathtaking display of Cyclone Tracy’s impact on the city of Darwin and the feeding of the adorable pig-nosed turtles.
There are a range of public programs that run throughout the year for both adults and children alike including the Discovery Centre and the MAGNT Explorer challenge. At the Discovery Centre you’ll find a fun and creative space for kids and families as it provides a variety of free arts and crafts activities, children’s books and puzzles, and the opportunity to peer into a microscope and draw an amazing micro world onto Perspex discs.
The MAGNT Explorer challenge by solving cryptic clues that will lead you through the galleries with each explorer needing to complete a trail to win a prize. Pick up your MAGNT Explorer pack from the friendly staff at the foyer information desk. Every Friday morning you can also join the pig-nosed turtle and his friends in the Monsoon Garden for feedings while you learn fun facts from MAGNT Natural Sciences staff about this unique reptile found only in Northern Australia and Papua New Guinea.
Head to the Markets!
One of the best, and one of the most iconic things in the NT would have to be the markets! They are certainly a Top End institution and way of life in Darwin – and what better way to experience a destination than like a local! Browse the interesting local arts, crafts and produce, plus there are plenty of amazing food vendors to purchase from – a bite to eat here won’t set you back much and will be well worth the money spent. The famous Mindil Beach Sunset Markets are held every Sunday between April and October and offer a buzzing atmosphere, local entertainment, delicious food and many unique local trader stalls. Grab a bite to eat and find a spot on the beach to catch the famous Mindil Beach sunset. The Parap Village Markets are held every Saturday boasting fresh produce, flowers, eclectic souvenirs, great coffee and is ‘the’ place for an incredible Laksa! Others to try are Malak Market Place, Nightcliff Markets and Rapid Creek Markets for even more unique and free outings.
Deckchair Cinema
Starting in 1994 near Stokes Hill Wharf, Darwin's Deckchair Cinema has fast gained popularity over the years and now takes place on the lawns of the Darwin Waterfront precinct, for the ultimate CBD harbour sunset location. It promises to be a magical night under the stars and cinematic experience like no other, for all ages to enjoy throughout the dry season. Showing a selection of family favourites, cult classics, foreign flicks and more, settle in to one of the 250 deckchairs or 150 straight-backed seats and enjoy the selection of food vendors or bring your own picnic.
Aquascene
Another family experience not be missed is Aquascene for an interactive fish feeding experience either from the actual waters or the concrete stairs viewing platform. View the visiting fish species including milkfish, rock cod, catfish, bream, fantail ray and many more, with minimal impact on the environment being an Eco Certified attraction. With family ticket admission and transfers to and from Darwin CBD, its an easy, fun and affordable day out.
Get to know Darwin
Sightseeing in the NT’s capital city is easy with the 24 hour or 48 hour pass on the Hop on Hop off Bus. This allows you to customise your Darwin experience while also learning interesting facts via the entertaining audio commentary provided on the bus. It takes 90 minutes to do a full loop if you remain on the bus alternatively there are 12 drop off spots which include the beautiful George Brown Botanic Gardens, Crocosaurus Cove, the MAGNT, the Darwin Military Museum and and the interactive Royal Flying Doctors Darwin Tourist Facility just to name a few.
With the flexibility of the Hop on Hop off pass you can discover Darwin’s famous landmarks spending as long as you want at various locations throughout the city. While on the bus you will enjoy unobstructed views from the open top double-decker bus as you drive around Darwin. All in all this is a great introduction to Darwin.
Click here for our packages featuring Darwin or contact the NT Now team on 1800 854 897 or email deals@ntnow.com.au
Image credit: Tourism NT & Peter Eve, Shaana McNaught, Friederike Franze, Big Bus Darwin
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