Darwin, Australia's tropical Top End, is the perfect destination for unforgettable family adventures. Whether you're travelling with little explorers or adventurous teens, Darwin has plenty of things to do for families and to keep everyone entertained. Come face to face with crocs, learn about Australia’s darkest day, swim in wild waterholes, and connect with culture when you visit the Top End. Not bad for a family holiday, right?
Need a place to stay? Oaks Darwin Elan Hotel offers comfort and convenience for families of all ages and sizes. Choose from spacious hotel rooms or self-contained 1 and 2 bedroom apartments with practical kitchen and laundry facilities.
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Go crazy at Crocosaurus Cove
Dive into a heart-pounding adventure at Crocosaurus Cove. Located right in the CBD, this thrilling experience is a must-see attraction for families in Darwin. You’ll get up close and personal with Australia's saltwater crocodiles, some of the world's most fearsome reptiles. There’s plenty more going on than just giant crocs. Explore the freshwater aquarium, say g’day to the resident turtles and watch feeding sessions before stepping into the famous Cage of Death. It’s about as close as you’ll ever want to get to a saltie… and that’s saying something.
Find peace in the Botanic Gardens
For a more relaxing thing to do with kids in Darwin, visit George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens, nestled in lush surroundings. This green space offers a calm journey through diverse plant life, where you can stroll along meandering paths, discover the water garden, and keep an eye out for the vibrant birdlife.
Our tip? Bring a picnic, claim a shady spot under the trees or fire up one of the free barbies and let the kids burn some energy at the playground featuring a tree house and Viking swing.
Surf’s up at the Darwin Wave Lagoon
When it's time to cool off and catch some waves, head to The Darwin Waterfront, where the Wave Lagoon keeps the whole family entertained and without worrying about crocs or stringers. Kids can ride the waves, splash around, and try bodyboarding. With its crystal-clear waters, it's one of the best things to do in Darwin for families.
Catch your lunch at Barramundi Adventures
Have you ever wanted to cast a line and catch the Top End's prized barramundi? Well, you’re in luck. Barramundi Adventures is a land-based barramundi-fishing farm, set at the southern end of Darwin Harbour in Berry Springs. You’ll have two hours to go and catch your own lunch or dinner. No pressure… but the BBQ's waiting.
Kick back at the Deckchair Cinema
Darwin's iconic Deckchair Cinema is the ultimate outdoor movie experience. With 250 comfy deckchairs overlooking Darwin Harbour, it's the perfect setting for movie lovers. Operated by the Darwin Film Society, this independent cinema screens everything from family favourites to Aussie films and international releases. Grab some popcorn, settle back and enjoy one of the best and simplest things to do with the kids in Darwin.
Dive into history at the Darwin Military Museum
On February 19, 1942, more than 188 Japanese aircraft launched two air raids over Darwin, making the largest foreign attack ever on Australian soil. The Darwin Military Museum brings this important chapter of history to life through interactive displays, military vehicles and personal stories, helping kids and adults better understand the events that shaped the Top End.
Splash about at a local waterhole
When Darwin gets warm (which is often), locals know exactly where to head. Just 50 kilometres from the city, Berry Springs Nature Park is a local favourite during the dry season. Bring your bathers, cool off in the freshwater pools, pack a picnic and keep an eye out for native wildlife among the trees. History buffs can spot remnants from World War II, when the area was used as a military recreation camp.
Connect with Aboriginal culture
Step into one of the world’s oldest living cultures with Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours and get properly hands-on with Aboriginal traditions and customs. Kids will be fascinated as they learn to play the didgeridoo, try spear-throwing, go foraging for bush tucker, craft rope and dilly bags from natural materials, listen to Dreamtime stories and discover traditions that continue to be shared today.
Enjoy the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets
Running every Thursday and Sunday during the dry season, the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets offer an array of entertainment, from live musical performances and pony rides to fire breathers and street food. Take in the market while snacking on snow cones and churros as another Top End sunset does its thing.
Explore two stunning national parks
Less than two hours from Darwin, Mary River National Park is a natural playground for families and wildlife enthusiasts with waterways, wetlands, and billabongs that teem with diverse birdlife… and crocodiles. Explore the Northern Territory's largest saltwater crocodile population with fun family-friendly wildlife cruises or a fishing charter.
In Litchfield National Park, you can dive into the pandanus-fringed plunge pools at Florence and Wangi Falls or take a refreshing dip in the gentle cascades at Buley Rockhole. On land, explore the famous termite mounds, take in the view from lookouts, and hike a short trail or two together. It’s an easy day trip and one of the coolest Darwin attractions for families that will keep everyone happy, even the hard-to-impress teenagers.
Ride the Skyline Ferris Wheel
Want to see Darwin from a different angle? Hop on the Skyline Ferris Wheel, a towering 35-metre marvel. It offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the harbour, the waterfront and cityscape. During the dry season, Stokes Hill Wharf also comes alive with mini golf, pop-up food stalls and plenty of space for an easy family arvo by the water.
Visit the Museum and Art Gallery of Northern Territory
At the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, you can expect exceptional permanent and rotating exhibits. Wander through the impressive NT flora and fauna exhibit, then delve into the poignant story of Cyclone Tracy's impact on the city in 1974. The museum's Discovery Centre caters to young minds with interactive educational exhibits designed just for the little ones. The best bit? Entry is free, leaving more room in the budget for ice cream afterwards.
Feed the Fish at Aquascene
Since 1981, Aquascene Fish Feeding Sanctuary has been making the most of a natural phenomenon in Doctors Gully. The kids will love tossing feed out into the water and watching the big fish gobble it up. Here they can wade into the water and feel the fish playfully tickle their feet. Don’t worry, the locals here are friendly… and thankfully, tooth-free.
With so many things to do in Darwin for families, no two days need to look the same. Stay close to the action at Oaks Elan Hotel and make the most of your Top End escape.
