Itinerary
What to Do
The Great Northern Darwin Cup Carnival is the Territory's biggest social and sporting event, featuring all the colour, fashion, and excitement of thoroughbred racing in the Top End, culminating in the Great Northern Darwin Cup on Monday August 4, 2025.
A full list of race days and associated events can be viewed below:
DCOH Darwin Guineas Day: Saturday, July 5
AUFS Chief Minister's Cup: Saturday, July 12
Rydges Palmerston Ladies' Day: Wednesday, July 16
Ladbrokes Derby Day: Saturday, July 19
TAB Metric Mile Day: Saturday, July 26
Dabble Corporate Race Day: Wednesday, July 30
Ladbrokes Let's Talk Racing Luncheon: Thursday, July 31
bet365 Palmerston Sprint Race Day: Saturday, August 2
Sportsbet Darwin Turf Club Gala Ball: Saturday, August 2
Ladbrokes Darwin Cup Calcutta: Sunday August 3
Great Northern Darwin Cup: Monday, August 4
Sightseeing in the NT’s capital city is easy with the Big Bus Darwin Hop on Hop off sightseeing tour which will allow you to customise your Darwin experience while also learning interesting facts via the entertaining audio commentary provided on the bus. The popular drop-off spots include the beautiful George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, Crocosaurus Cove, Stokes Hill Wharf and the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.
Embark on an adventurous Darwin sunset dinner cruise on the harbor. Enjoy a stunning hour and a half cruise while taking in the magnificent views of Darwin Harbour and the Top End’s famed sunset. Feast on a serving of fresh local fish and chips onboard, accompanied by a complimentary champagne or beer. Experienced crew members provide real-time commentary, pointing out notable sites like HMAS Coonawarra, Parliament House, and Cullen Bay. This sunset cruise offers a memorable blend of natural beauty, fascinating stories, and warm Darwin hospitality. You might even see a pod of frolicking dolphins!
Dining Freedom at Darwin Waterfront
Elevate your Darwin experience with the flexibility of two restaurant vouchers per person, offering you the freedom to dine at your leisure. Redeemable at the iconic Wharf One, the vibrant The Precinct Tavern, or the lively Dock One Bar, these vouchers invite you to explore the diverse culinary scene along Darwin's stunning Waterfront. Whether you crave modern pub fare, fresh seafood, or simply a refreshing drink in an award-winning setting, these vouchers ensure delicious moments at some of the city's most beloved local destinations.
Where to Stay
The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Esplanade Darwin is located next to the Darwin Entertainment Centre and overlooks the palm-lined esplanade, with stunning ocean views also available from select rooms. All rooms have been newly refurbished, and the hotel also boasts the largest outdoor swimming pool in Darwin, as well as free WiFi, a fitness room and beauty salon. While being located on the esplanade, the DoubleTree is also within walking distance of many Darwin hotspots, eateries and shopping areas. A later check out time of 1pm will also mean a relaxing end to your stay in Darwin.
