Things to do in Darwin
Darwin is the doorway to the ‘top end's' three major national parks; Kakadu National Park, Litchfield National Park and Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Park. But, the city has a lot more to offer. Even though Darwin is generally known as the gateway to these other main attractions, the city itself has many appealing local attractions worth visiting. From fish feeding, coastal reserves and lakes to WWII history, jumping crocodiles and wildlife, Darwin has a lot to offer visitors of all ages.
Chinese Temple
The Chinese have left their mark upon the city and visitors can go to the Chinese Temple on Woods Street, about 1.5kms from the city centre, where the local Buddhists, Taoists and Confucians still worship. The building has a very chequered history, having been destroyed by the 1937 cyclone; Japanese bombing raids in 1942; and by Cyclone Tracy in 1974. Open from 08:00 to 16:00 daily, the temple is an interesting example of the rich racial mixture which is such an important part of the history of Darwin.
Christchurch Cathedral
One building which is a reminder of the devastation of Cyclone Tracy is Christchurch Cathedral in Smith Street, near the harbour. The original building was completed in 1902 however it was 'enhanced' by the Armed Forces in 1944. Using stones taken from the old Post Office, they built a porch as a memorial to the people who died in WWII. Significantly, when Christmas morning of 1974 dawned, the only part of the cathedral left intact was the porch. The cathedral was subsequently rebuilt incorporating the porch into the new design.
Darwin Harbour
Darwin Harbour is twice the size of Sydney Harbour, with sunken ships lost in WWII and Cyclone Tracy as well as some confiscated Indonesian fishing vessels lying at its bottom. In addition, there are cultured pearl farms, mangrove tidal areas and sandy beaches. Take a voyage of discovery around the foreshores or spend a day fishing for barramundi, jewfish, golden snapper and threadfin salmon, or go for the adventure of scuba diving around the wrecks.
There are a number of very popular options for discovering the true extent of the harbour. Enjoy a relaxing cruise on an old pearl lugger, a thrilling flight in a seaplane, a gentle hovercraft trip, or for the more adventurous, helicopter flights are available.
Mindil Beach Sunset Market
Each year, from April through until the end of October, the Mindil Beach market folk come together for their world-famous 'show and sell'. Held every Thursday evening and Sunday afternoon, the market regularly attracts crowds of up to 15,000. It is by far Darwin's most popular market, with local produce, authentic fare from different countries, some of the most colourful Territorians plying their wares and services, and plenty of excellent street performers to keep you entertained.
