Things to do in Top End

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Photo provided by Tourism NT
Photo provided by Tourism NT
Photo provided by Tourism NT
Photo provided by Tourism NT
Photo provided by Tourism NT

Top End Attractions

Explore the sights of Top End with some unique tours & day trips, or check out our list of {1 fun activities in Top End fun activities in Top End}. We have no booking fees as well as free cancellation, so you can rest easy and channel your energy into planning the perfect vacation.


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Top End must see attractions

1. Mindil Beach

Mindil Beach is one of Australia’s best beaches. Many visitors are surprised to find such a pretty tropical beach so close to a regional capital city. Some locals swim at Mindil during the dry season, but the possible threat of crocodiles and jellyfish makes this unwise for visitors to try. Better swimming is over at at Casuarina, which is patrolled by surf life savers, or alternatively at the Wave Lagoon water park and the free Leanyer Recreation Park. Still, at any time of day, a walk along the splendid Mindil Beach is not to be missed.
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Mindil Beach which includes street performance, nightlife and performance art

2. Darwin Waterfront

Head to the Darwin Waterfront and enjoy the music, food and atmosphere of this lively precinct. Just a short walk from the CBD, this picturesque oceanfront esplanade is very popular with locals. Enjoy sweeping views of the harbour, escape the summer heat at its swimming areas or try some seaside dining.
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Darwin Waterfront featuring swimming as well as a large group of people

3. Kakadu National Park

Experience one of Australia's best natural reserves at Kakadu National Park. Hike through sheer red-rock gorges, camp amid local wildlife or watch powerful storms roll across the sky during the wet season.
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Kakadu National Park showing wetlands

4. The Esplanade

The Esplanade stretches for about 2 miles (3 kilometers) along the southwestern edge of Darwin, overlooking Darwin Harbour. Stroll through the shady park on the water’s edge or visit excellent restaurants, unique shops and luxury hotels on the city side of the street.
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Darwin showing food

5. Litchfield National Park

Litchfield National Park is where you will find Northern Territory’s stunning natural environment at its best. Walk through rainforest trails, visit intriguing rock formations and cool off with a swim beneath dramatic waterfalls.
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Litchfield National Park featuring swimming, landscape views and a waterfall

6. Cullen Bay Marina

Cullen Bay Marina in Darwin offers a friendly welcome to visitors exploring Australia’s Top End, the very northern part of Northern Territory (NT). Whether you arrive by plane, car or boat, spend time relaxing at the marina, walking to nearby attractions or booking excursions to other places within NT.
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Cullen Bay Marina featuring a coastal town, a sunset and a bay or harbor

7. Katherine Gorge

Katherine Gorge within Nitmiluk National Park is the primary canyon carved through sandstone by the Katherine River. It’s now generally referred to as Nitmiluk, a Jawoyn word meaning the place of cicadas. Listen for the loud “nit, nit” buzzing sounds of these insects in summer evenings. The singular name Katherine Gorge is a bit of an understatement as the area actually has not one, but 13 gorges.
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Katherine Gorge which includes a river or creek, a sunset and boating

Recommended things to do in Top End

Number of things to do
1
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Bryson City: Mountaintop Zip Line Experience: $109
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

What to do in Top End

Free Things to Do in Top End

Escaping to Top End on a budget? The following can be experienced for nothing.

Fannie Bay Gaol Museum - Bring the whole family and set off on a fascinating adventure through history with each other.

East Point Recreation Reserve - Loads of excitement is in store for you at this fantastic attraction.

Parliament House - Architecture aficionado or not, you're certain to be awed by this landmark's modern-day design.

Government House - Stroll around this historic attraction and discover some secrets from the past.

Darwin Waterfront - This is a buzzing location where you can soak in the atmosphere and feel the rhythm of local life.

Northern Territory Library - Chat to a few locals and find out why many sightseers call in at this place.

Christ Church Anglican Cathedral Darwin - Whatever your religious leanings, this place is sure to inspire a sense of reverence in you.

Mindil Beach - Go for a nice, leisurely stroll along the water's edge and maybe even dip a toe in.

Charles Darwin National Park - Get ready for vistas that'll blow you away at this natural wonder.

Bicentennial Park - Grab your rug, throw together a few snacks and find a shady area to be with nature.

Things to Do in Top End with Kids

There are plenty of sensational experiences in Top End that the whole gang will love. Here are some of the best family friendly experiences around.


 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Top End? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 


 


Discover the most popular places to visit in Top End

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Top End

Darwin showing street scenes

Darwin City Centre

4/5(73 area reviews)

Enjoy the small-town feel in this large northern Australia city. Engage with friendly locals, of both human and animal species.

Darwin City Centre
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Palmerston

Noted for its restaurants and shopping, you might consider exploring all Palmerston has to offer. You won't have to venture far to check out nearby attractions like Howard Springs Nature Park.

Palmerston
Pier at Nightcliff! Spectacular sunsets!!!

Nightcliff

Nightcliff might not have many top sights, but Casuarina Beach and Mindil Beach Sunset Market are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Nightcliff
Cullen Bay Marina showing a sunset

Cullen Bay

While visiting Cullen Bay, you might make a stop by sights like Cullen Bay Marina and Mindil Beach.

Cullen Bay
Crocodylus Park showing dangerous animals, zoo animals and general coastal views

Knuckey Lagoon

Just a 15-minute drive from cosmopolitan Darwin, find this small community with recreation and conservation areas and lots of crocodiles.

Knuckey Lagoon
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Parap

Parap is noteworthy for its shopping, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Parap Village Markets and 24HR Art.

Parap

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 


 

Frequently asked questions

What to do in Top End on a sunny day?
What to do in Top End on a rainy day?
A The Royal Flying Doctor Service Darwin Tourist Facility is a fantastic indoor activity to try if the weather forecast isn't great.
Are there cheap things to do in Top End?
What can you do in Top End for free?
You'll hardly have time to dig your wallet out of your backpack with so many fantastic free things to do:

  • Darwin Waterfront
  • Mindil Beach
  • Casuarina Beach
  • Cullen Bay Marina