Things to See and Do in Darwin, Australia
Posted on 26. Oct, 2011 by admin in Cities, Destinations
On the Northern Territory lies Darwin, one of Australia’s most cosmopolitan and multi-cultural cities. This territorial capital provides a gateway between Australia and other nearby countries in the Asia-Pacific region. Darwin International Airport serves as a hub for various domestic, regional, and international airline carriers. The city is also connected to the rest of Australia via the Stuart Highway and The Ghan, a train system linking the top end of the country with Adelaide in the South and other major cities.
Things to See
As one of Australia’s heritage sites, Darwin has several historical and cultural landmarks and structures that define the city. Although preserved and converted for other purposes, some early 20th century buildings such as the Old Admiralty House, Lyons Cottages, Parliament House, the Supreme Court and other structures add an interesting sight to the modern cityscape. The city also has several World War II landmarks and museums, including the Wharf Precinct and the Aviation Heritage Center.
Darwin also draws visitors for its natural attractions. The Causarina Coastal Reserve is named after the Causarina tree variety that surrounds the area. Within the coastal reserve is Old Man Rock, a site of cultural significance among the indigenous people of Australia. From Darwin, visitors can join tours to Litchfield National Park and Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see the area’s amazing biodiversity of plant and animal life and several Aboriginal art and archaeological sites.
Things to Do
From local flea and produce markets, specialty art stores to high-end shops, Darwin has something to offer for everyone. One of these exciting shopping experiences is the Mindil Beach Sunset Market, a crowd drawer from May to October. For more consistent market options, the Parap Village, Nightcliff, and Rapid Creek markets are open all year round, during certain days of the week. There are plenty of accommodation and dining choices in the central business district and the esplanade fronting the Port of Darwin.
Aside from dining and shopping, the pleasantly balmy climate allows lots of opportunities for outdoor recreational activities in Darwin. The city also hosts several major festivals each year, among them are the Darwin Festival, the Northern Territory Indigenous Music Awards, and the unusual and fun Darwin Beer Can Regatta.