17 of the best things to do with in Darwin with kids

Your go-to guide for family-friendly fun in the Top End.

Darwin is an open-air playground where kids can swim, climb, ride and roam free. With oodles of water parks, hands-on wildlife encounters and plenty of space to run, it’s a top-notch place for families. From biking through bush trails to feeding fish by hand, there’s plenty to keep kids busy. Here’s your go-to guide for the best things to do with kids in Darwin.

1. Catch a wave at the lagoon

the wave pool at Darwin’s Waterfront Lagoon — Make a splash at the man-made lagoon. (Image: Tourism NT)

Darwin’s Waterfront Lagoon is where kids can boogie board, swim and splash without worrying about crocodiles or jellyfish. The wave pool delivers rolling swells every 20 minutes, perfect for both thrill-seekers and little paddlers. Parents can lounge on the grass while the kids ride the waves and when everyone’s waterlogged, there’s a bunch of family-friendly cafes and an ice creamery just a short stroll away.

2. Mountain bike at Charles Darwin National Park

mountain biking at Charles Darwin National Park — Tackle the tropical terrain on two wheels. (Image: Tourism NT/Travis Deane)

Swap the city streets and pools for dirt trails and tropical bushland with a mountain biking adventure at Charles Darwin National Park. Hire a bike from Cycle Zone and take on tracks winding through WWII bunkers and lush forests. There are routes for all skill levels, from easy family-friendly loops to more technical trails for the adventurous.

3. Bounce around the Aqua Park

an aerial view of the Darwin Waterfront Lagoon — Create fun family memories with your kids at the Darwin Waterfront. (Image: Tourism NT)

If your kids love Ninja Warrior-style challenges, they’ll go wild for the inflatable Aqua Park at the Darwin Waterfront. This floating obstacle course has slides, climbing walls and trampolines, all set on the water. Life jackets are provided, so even less confident swimmers can get in on the action. It’s the perfect way to burn energy before grabbing a post-bounce bubble tea or ice cream.

4. Feed the fish at Aquascene

a school of fish swimming at Aquascene, Darwin — Get up close to hundreds of wild fish. (Image: Tourism NT/Aquascene)

For over 70 years, Aquascene has been one of Darwin’s favourite attractions, where hundreds of wild fish swim right up to the shore to be fed by hand. The fish – mostly milkfish, mullet, and catfish – appear like clockwork with the tide, ready for a snack. Kids will love wading into the shallow water as fish nibble food straight from their fingers. It’s a sensory overload – splashing water, excited squeals, and the occasional slippery fish brushing against little toes.

5. Take a slide at Leanyer Recreation Park

A free water park? Yes, please. Leanyer Recreation Park has three huge water slides, a massive splash zone and a lagoon-sized pool. The giant tipping bucket is a crowd favourite, soaking anyone in its path every few minutes. There’s also a dry playground, skate park, canteen and BBQ areas, making it an easy outing for families.

6. Climb high at SWELL Palmerston

About 30 minutes from the CBD, Palmerston is home to not one but two free water parks that are well worth the drive. Palmerston Water Park boasts Darwin’s biggest waterslide – a six-lane racer that’s just as much fun for adults as it is for kids (yes, it’s a challenge). And if they’re more into climbing than sliding, SWELL Palmerston delivers the goods with a 50-metre pool and a three-storey high ropes course that’ll keep them busy for hours.

7. Swim with crocs at Crocosaurus Cove

swimming with a crocodile in the cage of death at Crocosaurus Cove — Get up close to a saltwater crocodile at Crocosaurus Cove. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

Ever wanted to swim with a saltwater crocodile? Crocosaurus Cove lets you do just that – safely, of course. Older kids (and brave parents) can hop into the Cage of Death for a face-to-face encounter with one of the world’s largest crocs. Younger ones can feed baby crocodiles, hold a reptile, or watch feeding time from the safety of dry land.

8. Visit the Territory Wildlife Park

A short drive from Darwin, the Territory Wildlife Park is a great place to get up close with the Northern Territory’s unique wildlife. Stroll through treetop aviaries, spot nocturnal animals in the nighttime house, and catch wildlife presentations throughout the day. The Flight Deck show is a highlight, where eagles and owls glide just overhead. Getting around is easy with the free shuttle train or, for something more fun, hire a pedal cart.

9. Browse the markets

Mindil Beach Markets at sunset — Admire the sunset as you graze your way along the food stalls. (Image: Tourism Australia/Nicholas Kavo)

Darwin’s markets are loud, lively, and full of things kids will actually enjoy – from food to music to wide-open spaces. Start with Parap Village Markets on Saturdays, where Darwin’s most talked-about laksa is worth the wait (ask for mild for younger tastebuds). On Thursday and Sunday evenings, Mindil Beach Markets serve up sunset views, street performers, and endless dinner options, while the kids roam free on the sand. Sunday mornings are for breakfast – head to Nightcliff Markets for smoothie bowls and pastries or Rapid Creek for tropical fruit and veg that’ll blow their minds (and maybe yours, too).

10. Fish at Stokes Hill Wharf

Drop a line off Stokes Hill Wharf and you might just reel in a trevally, queenfish, or even a barra if luck’s on your side. It’s a relaxed spot for a fish, with salty sea breezes and plenty of action to watch – from cruise ships pulling in to cheeky seagulls angling for scraps. When hunger hits, head to The Jetty Restaurant nearby, where there’s a crowd-pleasing buffet, water views and – the clincher – a chocolate fountain.

11. Food truck time at Nightcliff Foreshore

an aerial view of the Nightcliff Foreshore, Darwin — Enjoy casual dining at the picturesque Nightcliff Foreshore. (Image: Tourism NT)

Curled ice cream, loaded jacket potatoes, wood-fired pizza and Asian street food – Nightcliff Foreshore is a go-to spot for families who love a casual bite. Grab something delicious and spread out on the grass while the kids climb trees, ride scooters or watch the sun sink into the ocean. Hot tip: check the City of Darwin ’s street food schedule before you head out to make sure your top pick is parked and cooking.

12. Dinner and a swim

friends dining at Darwin Ski Club — Grab a seafood dinner at Darwin Ski Club. (Image: Tourism NT/Cait Miers)

Darwin nails the combo of good food and happy kids. At the Darwin Ski Club and the nearby Trailer Boat Club, you can kick back with a cold drink and a decent meal while the kids go wild in the pool. Just down the road, the Sailing Club skips the pool but makes up for it with swings right next to the tables – ideal for little ones who need to stay in sight but not in their seats. Add a killer sunset view at all three, and you’ve got dinner plans sorted.

13. Watch a flick at Deckchair Cinema

an outdoor movie night at Deckchair Cinema, Darwin — Catch a film at the Deckchair Cinema. (Image: Tourism NT/Friederike Franze)

A movie under the stars? Absolutely. Deckchair Cinema is Darwin’s open-air movie spot where families can settle into deck chairs, grab some popcorn and enjoy a film in the balmy night air. Hot food is on offer from 5.45pm when the gates open, so come hungry. Local tip: claim your spot early by popping one of the supplied cushions on your seat – it’s the way to reserve it for the night.

14. Feed the creatures at Crocodylus Park

feeding a croc at Crocodylus Park, Darwin — Crocodylus Park offers the ultimate wildlife experience. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Lions, meerkats, spider monkeys, cassowaries – Crocodylus Park is home to way more than just crocs. Not to be confused with Crocosaurus Cove in the city, this sprawling wildlife park is about 15 minutes from Darwin’s CBD and packs in crocodiles (heaps of them), exotic animals and even a jumping croc cruise. Kids can get up close with creatures big and small – including the chance to meet mobs of meerkats.

15. Explore MAGNT

two kids admiring a fossil display at MAGNT, Darwin — MAGNT boasts an extensivefossil collection of Australia’s unique megafauna. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) is where Darwin keeps its most famous croc – Sweetheart, a massive saltie preserved in all his toothy glory. There’s plenty here to keep kids curious, from marine life displays to new hands-on exhibits about Cyclone Tracy and vibrant showcases of Indigenous art and culture. Keen for more than a wander? Check online before you go – there are often kids’ workshops running, and spots can fill fast.

16. Explore Darwin Street Art

street art in Darwin CBD — Find vibrant street art on every corner. (Image: Tourism NT/Matt Lambley)

Darwin’s streets are splashed with colour, thanks to towering murals that turn laneways and buildings into an open-air gallery. Download the Darwin Street Art Festival (DSAF) app and take the kids on a mural-hunting adventure using the interactive map. Thirteen of the artworks have a high-tech twist – hold your phone up, follow the prompts, and watch the murals come alive with augmented reality.

17. Take an ice cream odyssey

When the heat kicks in, there’s only one solution – an ice cream crawl. In the CBD, Cold Rock lets kids go wild mixing in their favourite sweets. Down at the Waterfront, Trampoline scoops creative flavours like lamington and pistachio. For something a bit extra, head to Nightcliff Jetty (every night except Monday and Tuesday) where Curled ice cream is made right before your eyes on frozen plates. Flavours like Mango Madness, Mint Condition and Nutta Butta are crowd-pleasers.

The Northern Territory is made for road trips, and this one hits all the highlights.

Craggy mountain ranges, inviting waterholes, ochre soil: the landscape of the Northern Territory is asking to be explored by road and foot. There are many iconic road trips to choose from here, but none so all-encompassing than the roughly 3000 kilometres of sealed road that make up Explorer’s Way.

Spend 14 days (or more, to really make the most of it) driving this route from Adelaide, hitting the NT near the small settlement of Kulgera before later finishing in Darwin. Along the way, you’ll find nearly all the territory’s most iconic sights.

Discover some of the top highlights that make Explorer’s Way one of Australia’s most incredible road trips.

1. Alice Springs

echidna at Alice Springs Desert Park — See the locals at Alice Springs Desert Park. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT)

Recently hitting the big screen again with the story of The Kanagroo Sanctuary , there’s a lot to surprise you in Alice Springs.

Three distinct desert habitats – desert rivers, sand country and woodland – are recreated over 1300 hectares at Alice Springs Desert Park . Time your visit for a presentation or a free bird show.

Later, turn your attention to the skies above, taking a dive into local astronomy at Earth Sanctuary . You’ll find a range of experiences, from a 90-minute toe-dip into the stars through to an overnight adventure.

Alice Springs packs a surprising punch with its tasty dining options, including pub grub and unique brews at Alice Springs Brewing Co , tapas and pizza at Epilogue Lounge and tasty cafe fare at the quirky Page 27 .

2. Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park

woman standing at Ormiston Gorge — Dive into Ormiston Gorge. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom and Jesso)

Beginning 15 minutes from Alice Springs and stretching across 161 kilometres, Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park is packed with striking ancient landscapes and inviting water holes.

Visit Standley Chasm – traditionally known as Angkerle Atwatye, meaning ‘Gap of Water’ – to take in its bold red and orange hues, and to observe the diverse bird species, lizards and wallabies that call it home.

Cool off in one of several picturesque natural swimming holes, like Ellery Creek Big Hole and Ormiston Gorge.

3. Uluru & Kata Tjuta

three women looking at Kata Tjuta at sunset — Explore Kata Tjuta. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT)

Visiting the Cultural Heart of Australia is something everybody should experience. There are so many side trips in the Red Centre you could easily spend a week here, but to get the most out of a short time, park the car then get out on foot.

Take the 10-kilometre Base Walk around the entirety of Uluru or join a free, ranger-guided Mala Walk along part of the base, learning about Tjukurpa (creation stories) and geology as you go.

For a change of pace, wait until nightfall and wander through the iconic Field of Light display by celebrated artist Bruce Munro, or see the Wintjiri Wiru lightshow that shares the ancient Mala story using drones, lasers and projections.

4. Tennant Creek

pson looking at Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) northern territory — See the ancient granite boulders of Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles). (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom And Jesso)

Tennant Creek was Australia’s third-largest gold mining town in the 1930s, and visitors can discover that history at Battery Hill Mining Centre – and even try their own hand at gold fossicking.

For a completely different side of history, pop into Nyinkka Nyunyu Art & Culture Centre , which preserves and shares Warumungu culture through art, performance, a museum and more.

Just outside town, find the ancient granite boulders of Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles). A site integral to important stories held by the Warumungu, Kaytetye, Warlpiri and Alyawarra peoples, the boulders appear to almost have dropped out of the sky and seemingly continue to defy gravity.

5. Mataranka

aerial of people swimming in bitter springs northern territory — Dive into Bitter Springs. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Ben Savage)

A town made famous by the novel We of the Never Never by Jeannie Gunn (and a movie of the same name), Mataranka is also known for its sandy-bottomed thermal pool, Bitter Springs , within Elsey National Park. Follow a 500-metre loop track around these spring-fed pools that stay a toasty 34°C year-round, before choosing your favourite spot to dive into. Enjoy the local birdlife while you relax.

Elsewhere in the park, find historical sites, several scenic walks and Roper River, which is perfect for boating and fishing.

6. Nitmiluk National Park

Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise — Join a sunset cruise with Nabilil Dreaming. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Lachlan Gardiner)

Nitmiluk National Park is sandstone country, with 13 stunning gorges and plenty of waterfalls waiting to be explored.

One of the most beautiful spots can be found along the 62-kilometre Jatbula Trail, a five-to-six day bushwalk that follows an ancient Jawoyn songline from Nitmiluk Gorge to Leliyn (Edith Falls). Numbers are restricted and book out quickly, so be sure to plan well ahead. Not up for the hike? Drive right up to the falls and enjoy a dip without the challenge.

Elsewhere, explore Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Paddle a kayak through the river running through the canyon, or save your energy on a Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise , discovering the stories and ways of the Jawoyn people while enjoying a candlelit dinner as the cliffs around you shift colour and glow with the changing daylight.

Continue your cultural journey at local art centres like Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Art & Culture Centre or Mimi Aboriginal Art & Craft .

7. Litchfield National Park

cathedral termite mounds in Litchfield national park — Be awed by giant cathedral termite mounds. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ As We Wander)

Just over an hour’s drive from Darwin lies the beautiful Litchfield National Park. It’s famous for stunning waterfalls and swimming holes, including Buley Rockhole, Wangi Falls, Florence Falls and Tjaynera Falls.

Here you’ll also find hundreds of giant – and magnetic – cathedral termite mounds that are truly a sight to see. Ageing up to 100 years old, you won’t find mounds like these outside the northern parts of Australia. Stroll along the accessible boardwalk to see them up close.

8. Darwin

darwin street art — Darwin art is streets ahead. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Mark Fitzpatrick)

This list wouldn’t be complete without the territory’s capital city: Darwin. Situate yourself upon arrival with a stroll through the main streets, admiring the many art murals by local, interstate and international artists. They’re all remnants of the annual Darwin Street Art Festival , one of Australia’s longest running street art festivals.

Stop to recharge along Darwin’s Waterfront Precinct , an area of delectable restaurants, public swimming pools and free events. And, of course, it would be wrong to leave the city without enjoying a bowl of laksa at Mindil Beach Sunset Market as the sun goes down.

Learn more and start planning your Explorer’s Way road trip at northernterritory.com/drive.

17 of the best things to do with in Darwin with kids