Darwin. As the capital of the Northern Territory, this city is a guilty pleasure for Aussies to frequent. With its staples like never-ending beer taps, enticing beaches, cultural tours and scenic spaces, its no wonder why this Northern Territory city captures the country’s spirit and raw splendor.
It’s a modern, tropical location right on a harbor twice the size of Sydney’s harbor. Darwin is considered Australia’s most culturally diverse city, with a population made up of more than 50 nationalities, including the area’s traditional Aboriginal landowners.
Get seduced by Darwin like the locals and enjoy one of its must-see places that will leave you wondering if you can delay your flight back home. If you decide to stay a little while, use promo code STASUMMERAU to save on Australian tours!
Deckchair Cinema
Deckchair Cinema adds a twist to the whole movie-watching experience. Run buy the Darwin Film Society, this outdoor movie theater screens films that not only appeal to cultural aficionados, but land-loving photo junkies. Catch a movie under the stars and recline in a deckchair – hints the venue’s namesake. Visitors can take in the open air scenery, while watching independent features and even some mainstream pictures. The outdoor movie theater just celebrated its 20th anniversary as a staple to Darwin’s film culture. Showtimes begin promptly at 7:30 p.m. and some nights, guests can enjoy double features beginning at 9:30 p.m. on weekends.
Victoria Hotel
If people watching is your thing, or just socializing with locals, then head to a pub. One of Darwin’s oldest backpacker pubs – dating back to the 1880s – is full of meals and drinks on the cheap. It’s open every night of the week and features live bands, DJs and a bit of table dancing – hey, why not?! It draws crowds of international travelers and locals, so you’ll quickly find others to swap Aussie tales with.
Crocosaurus Cove Cage of Death
This is Darwin’s newest tourist attraction and well worth checking out. You can get up close with massive saltwater crocs, hatchlings, juveniles and the world’s largest display of Australian reptiles. This underwater world within a 200,00 litre freshwater aquarium is a remarkable place. You can join the saltwater crocs by diving in the ‘Cage of Death’ – a pure adrenaline rush!
Nightcliff Jetty
Darwin’s fresh air and expansive views can be best appreciated along the Nightcliff Jetty’s foreshore. It runs about 7 kms alond Darwin’s foreshore. On Sunday’s you can walk to the Nightcliff Market – comparable to U.S. farmer’s markets – to see local artists perform center stage at about 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. and pick up some handmade crafts, fresh food and enjoy a picnic with a harbor view. It’s also considered a local hangout for avid fitness enthusiasts. So lace up your kicks and get moving.
Litchfield National Park
Northern Territory’s most captivating waterfalls and swimming holes can be found at Litchfield National Park. It is technically outside of Darwin, approximately 100km southwest, near the Batchelor township, but this popular natural wonder receives approximately more than a quarter of a million visitors per year, yet never feels touristy. You can pack up your gear and camp out at Litchfield for a day or two, or just embark on a day trip from Darwin and plunge into the crystal blue waters of its falls. Your choice. Either way, it’s a must-see.