Things to do in  Darwin

Darwin is best known as the capital of Australia’s Northern Territory, a sparsely populated expanse of desert and wetlands. In Darwin city, Waterfront Precint, George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, and Mindil Beach Markets attract visitors. Nearby are Litchfield and Kakadu national parks.

Two or three days is ideal amount for visiting Darwin, which is not large. Walk the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, swim at Waterfront Precinct, and view the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. Make it a multi-day trip with a visit to Kakadu or Litchfield national parks.

May to October is the best time to visit Darwin. Darwin has a tropical climate, so it experiences two seasons: wet and dry. May to October is the dry season—and while the average temperature is still hot, most travelers will find this climate more comfortable than the humid wet season.

No. You should not swim at the natural beaches in Darwin. Darwin’s beaches are plagued with deadly venomous jellyfish and croccodiles. To swim in Darwin, head to the Darwin Waterfront Precinct’s Recreation Lagoon, which is an artificial and sheltered waterfront area that’s safe for swimming.

Many of Darwin’s top attractions are free. There is no fee to visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory or the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. It’s also free to enjoy the Waterfront Precinct, with safe swimming areas, and Darwin’s famous sunsets over the Timor Sea.

Yes. Darwin is worth visiting for its many attractions, including the art galleries and museums, parks and gardens. Its tropical climate, sea views, pretty sunsets, and safe water activities at the Waterfront Precinct are draws. It's also an ideal starting point for trips to neighboring national parks.