7 Vibrant Markets in Darwin To Visit ASAP

Opals to flowers, food stalls, zebra rock: Darwin’s markets run the gamut for souvenirs and a culinary education on the tropical city’s multifaceted culture.

Visiting Darwin’s markets has become the cornerstone of the locals’ weekend routine. But whether you’re a Territorian, a visitor or a vendor, everyone can easily find something to love about Darwin’s vibrant, community-focused ventures.

From breakfast banh mi to crocodile belts, here is your comprehensive guide to Darwin’s best markets and stalls.

1. Mindil Beach Sunset Market

Taking pride of place, Darwin’s largest market runs along the foreshore of Mindil Beach, famous for its sunsets over the Timor Sea. Visitors enjoy browsing over 200 stalls, live performances and scrumptious food trucks.

an aerial view of Mindil Beach Sunset Market — The sky turns purple at dusk at Mindil Beach Sunset Market. (Image: Mindil Beach Markets/Charlie Bliss)

Hungry hordes graze their way along the food stalls, which serve up tastes from Turkey to Timor. From made-to-order yellowfin tuna nachos to the sugary goodness of Spanish churros topped with Belgium chocolate, there are hundreds of picnic-friendly dishes, including crocodile, kangaroo and buffalo gourmet burgers from the quirky Roadkill Café.

a couple picking food at Mindil Beach Sunset Market — Taste your way around the food stalls. (Image: Tourism NT/Helen Orr)

Souvenir lovers, rejoice. Fill your suitcase with Indigenous art, local photography, antique batik pieces, Slappa’s Thongs, Bogan Biltong (made by Mr and Mrs Bogan) and don’t forget – a crocodile back scratcher from Mick’s Whips.

a person smelling soap at a stall in Mindil Beach Sunset Market — Find scented soaps and other artisan items. (Image: Tourism NT/Nick Pincott)

After the VIP market experience at the Mindil Beach Sunset Market ? The Sunset Lounge (reserve a table and seat online before you visit) is the perfect place for sipping wine, a local mango smoothie and nibbling snacks.

welcome VIPs signage at Mindil Beach Sunset Market — Book your seat in the VIP Sunset Lounge. (Image: Tourism NT/Nick Pincott)

When: Thursdays and Sundays, May to October
Hours: 4pm – 9pm
Address: Mindil Beach, off Gilruth Avenue

2. Parap Village Markets

The smaller but equally vibrant markets in the hip hood of Parap are a locals’ favourite for a progressive brunch. A Malaysian laksa noodle soup, with its creamy coconut broth, a roti wrap and an icy fresh-fruit shake are non-negotiable. But don’t stop there; there’s also Cambodian prawn pancakes, Indonesian satays, Lebanese snacks and authentic Thai sweets to try.

a couple checking out the fresh produce on display at a stall in Parap Village Markets — Pick fresh fruits at Parap Village Markets. (Image: Tourism NT)

One of Parap’s most famous food stalls is Mary’s legendary laksa (just look for the queue) – with its fragrant, noodle-stuffed broth, quality seafood and fiery sambal – it certainly deserves the devotion it inspires.

a couple buying Laksa soup at Parap Village Markets — Try out Mary’s legendary laksa. (Image: Tourism NT)

From books to jewellery and door stoppers to tarot card readings, you can buy just about everything you’d expect at these lively markets. Whether you want to gawk at the rows of colourful tropical fruits or snag some affordable textiles, this market is good for anyone who wants a truly local Darwin experience.

mangoes on display at Parap Village Markets — Freshly picked mangoes are available at Parap Village Markets. (Image: Tourism Australia/Nicholas Kavo)

“The market is a weekend institution," says Sousou Elayoubi, while serving up kofta, hummus and falafel at her Lebanese food stall. “It has a relaxed vibe and is a great place to catch up with friends."

a person holding two cups of desserts at Parap Village Markets — The markets are a foodie delight. (Image: Tourism Australia/Nicholas Kavo)

If you’re seeking a break from the heat, jump into the air-con nearby at these standout venues: Parap Fine Foods, Parap Bakery, The Cyclone Café, Laneway Speciality Coffee and Mad About Coffee.

Walk off your caffeine buzz with a wander through the Parap galleries, including the Northern Centre for Contemporary Art, Outstation Gallery and Laundry Gallery.

a couple shopping clothes at Parap Village Markets — Browse fashionable items through the stalls. (Image: Tourism NT)

When: Saturdays (rain or shine)
Hours: 8am to 2pm
Address: Parap Shopping Village, Parap

3. Rapid Creek Markets

For mountains of bright tropical fruits, piles of Asian greens and eskies filled with homemade tofu and fish, head to Darwin’s oldest market, Rapid Creek Markets.

buying green vegetables at Rapid Creek Markets — Fill your basket with Asian greens at Rapid Creek Markets. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

It might be set in a suburban shopping centre about 10 kilometres from Darwin CBD, but no serious foodie will want to miss this bustling Asian market, with its maze of indoor and outdoor stalls teeming with fresh-picked vegetables and fruit sold by Filipino, Tamil, Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese growers.

two people browsing through stalls selling fresh produce at Rapid Creek Markets — Different varieties of fresh produce are lined up along Rapid Creek Markets. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

Arrive early to beat the crowds (and the heat) to hoe into delights such as spicy jackfruit curry and roti wraps, banana fritters hot from the fryer and bright green pandan cakes.

people buying at a food stall in Rapid Creek Markets — Drop by the food stalls to try Asian snack delights. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

When: Saturday and Sunday
Hours: 7am to 2pm
Address: Trower Road, Rapid Creek

4. Nightcliff Markets

The super-local, family-friendly Nightcliffe Markets is a popular brunch spot where locals kick back to live music, sip smoothies, munch on crepes, enjoy a Thai massage and have their tarot read over a coffee or three.

Highlights of this Darwin market include the perfect pork banh mi (also available with tofu), Nutella and banana creations from Ken’s Crepes, and mixed berry donuts from the revered Ray’s Café and Patisserie.

To take home there’s hand-made jewellery, second-hand books, pot plants and clothing made using screen and lino printed fabrics. Kids (and parents) will embrace the children’s playground and shaded seating.

a woman smelling flowers at Nightcliff Markets — Pick fresh blooms at Nightcliff Markets. (Image: Tourism NT/Kane Chenoweth)

When: Sundays
Hours: 8am to 2pm
Address: Progress Drive, Nightcliff

5. Fred’s Pass Rural Market

Locals head to Fred’s Pass , about 30 kilometres from Darwin’s CBD, to pick up second-hand books, have a massage and to relax at the tables with nibbles while listening to local musicians. For the kids, there’s a jumping castle and toy stalls. With ample parking for caravans, campervans and trailers, this is a good option for adventurers enjoying a road trip to Darwin.

When: Saturdays
Hours: 8am to 1pm
Address: Fred’s Pass Reserve, Bees Creek Road

6. Palmerston and Rural Markets

Every Friday night, Palmerston’s CBD comes alive with local entertainment and an array of 60 stalls selling dishes from Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Indonesia and Greece. At the Palmerston and Rural Markets there’s also locally grown tropical fruit and veggies, handmade jewellery, pot plants and massages.

Head to Palmerston markets for food, fun and community vibes. (Image: Palmerston Markets Facebook)

When: Fridays (April to October)
Hours: 5pm to 9pm
Address: Goyder Square, Palmerston

7. Berry Springs Markets

Join the locals for brekky at Berry Springs Community Markets , which has stalls laden with fresh fruit and veggies, second-hand goods and arts and crafts. For the kids there are often running races, a tug-a-war competition and arts and crafts activities.

When: Last Sunday of each month, March to December
Hours: 8am to midday
Address: Cox Peninsula Road, Berry Springs

Spend a few days visiting the real-life Central Australian locations that inspired the new film everyone is talking about, and discover why Alice Springs is such an important part of Australian culture.

In the credits of the new Australian film Kangaroo , the first name under ‘cast’ should read ‘The Northern Territory ’. Not only is Alice Springs (and the surrounding landscape) integral to the movie itself, but the spiritual heart of Australia and its local Indigenous owners also inform the look and feel of every frame, explains Producer Trisha Morton-Thomas of Brindle Films, who also plays Charlie’s grandmother Gwennie.

“By setting Kangaroo in Alice Springs (Mparntwe), the film embraces how visible Aboriginal people are here, and the living Aboriginal culture that is woven through this community,” she explains.

still from kangarro film — See *Kangaroo*, then visit the real-life filming locations.

And while shooting in such a sacred part of the Northern Territory required extra planning, it was something the cast and crew were highly invested in.

“There are incredibly significant sacred sites and places of deep cultural stories in the area, that at times are very gender-specific, which we’ve kept out of the production,” she explains. “Even if overhead drone footage captures a sacred site that isn’t meant to be seen by other people outside of that clan, we’ve made sure to omit it from the film.”

If Kangaroo piqued your interest in a Central Australian holiday, we don’t blame you. Read on to discover eight places featured in the movie that you can visit in real life – and get planning. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a hat.

1. Alice Springs/ Mparntwe

artist at Many Hands Art Centre — Visit the galleries of Alice Springs, like Many Hands Art Centre. (Image: Tourism NT/ Helen Orr/ Many Hands Art Centre)

The red and dusty streets of the film’s fictional town of Silvergum were filmed on the outskirts of Alice Springs. And, while the art gallery featured in the film is fictional, Alice Springs is a hub of creativity. See the work of local artists at the Araluen Art Centre , Yubu Napa Art Gallery , Iltja Ntjarra (Many Hands) Art Centre and the famous Tjanpi Desert Weavers .

2. The Kangaroo Sanctuary & Kangaroo Rescue Centre

The Kangaroo Sanctuary Alice Springs, the inspiration for the Kangaroo move — Visit the movie’s inspiration at Kangaroo Sanctuary. (Image: Tourism NT/ Kangaroo Sanctuary)

Kangaroo was inspired by the journey of Chris ‘Brolga’ Barns, who founded the now world-renowned Kangaroo Sanctuary based in Alice Springs. For lead actor, Aussie Ryan Corr, the animals were central to the movie, alongside the landscapes.

“The animals in this story were a real calling point for me,” he explains. “What this story tries to tell us about the connection between humans and animals is beautiful.”

To gain a real insight into the fauna and flora of the Red Centre, you can visit the Kangaroo Sanctuary on a sunset tour, where you might even get the chance to hold a baby kangaroo.

3. Ormiston Gorge

woman walking along the edge of Ormiston Gorge near alice springs — Take a dip in Ormiston Gorge. (Image: Tourism NT/ @domandjesso)

The film captures the raw beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges, known in the Arrernte language as Tjoritja. This national park is rich in Indigenous culture and stark geological wonders.

Only a 15-minute drive from Alice Springs, Tjoritja offers visitors the chance to camp, hike and swim among ancient landscapes (most attractions are less than a three-hour drive away).

Ormiston Gorge , a cooling oasis in among the red desert sands, is one of the most popular destinations, no doubt because of the permanent swimming hole and towering red cliffs. From here, visitors can also embark on the beautiful Ormiston Pound Walk and the shorter – more accessible – Ghost Gum Walk. Bring your bathers – it’s safe for swimming.

4. Standley Chasm

woman walking through Standley Chasm near alice springs — Wander through Standley Chasm. (Image: Tourism NT)

The 1.2-kilometre walk to nearby Standley Chasm will be a highlight for any visitor as the imposing 40 metre-high chasm walls project strength and ancient wisdom.

Visit at midday to experience the path illumined by the midday sun. Not only will you fill your camera roll with vibrant red images of the gorge and its intoxicating shadows, but you can also camp nearby in a powered or unpowered site so you can watch the brilliance of the desert stars fill the night sky after dusk.

5. Simpsons Gap

three people walking on path through simpsons gap near alice springs — Walk the trails of Simpson’s Gap. (Image: Tourism NT/ Helen Orr)

Closer to Alice Springs, the photogenic Simpsons Gap is the perfect place to spot the endangered Black-footed Rock wallaby near the permanent watering hole. While swimming isn’t permitted, soaking up the sun and views certainly is.

Explore the area’s numerous walking trails, appreciate the soaring cliffs on either side of the ‘gap’ and pick out the shooting locations of Kangaroo in the area.

6. Ellery Creek Big Hole

aerial of Ellery Creek Big Hole near alice springs — Dive into Ellery Creek Big Hole. (Image: Tourism NT/ Tourism Australia)

When it comes to classic Northern Territory landscapes, you can’t go past Ellery Creek Big Hole/ Udepata : tall gum trees sidling up to a refreshing watering hole (fed by the West MacDonnell Ranges and surrounded by rugged red cliffs.

Swim in the cooling waters, hike the cliff tops, watch for birds and even stargaze as you camp here overnight. It’s locations like this that attracted the film’s director Kate Woods to the project.

“It humbles you to be in this environment: it’s so beautiful, so old and so vast,” she explains. “I was thrilled to get a chance to … shoot such a beautiful story in the incredible landscape of the Northern Territory.”

7. Larapinta Drive

aerial of Larapinta Drive into alice springs — Drive along Larapinta Drive. (Image: Tourism NT)

There is no better way to get a feel for how the characters arrived at the fictional Central Australian town of Silvergum than to travel along the iconic state road, Larapinta Drive.

Connecting Alice Springs to the mighty King’s Canyon in the west, via the historic community of Hermannsburg, this road takes in the West MacDonnell National Park, Alice Springs Desert Park and artist Albert Namatjira’s house, among other attractions. Take your time, bring a camera and prepare for numerous stops along the way.

8. Todd River

competitors in Henley on Todd Regatta, alice springs — Join in the fun of the quirky Henley on Todd Regatta. (Image: Tourism NT/ TImparja Creative)

Meandering through Alice Springs like a lazy Western Brown snake, the Todd River is a central part of Alice Springs culture. Known as an ‘intermittent river’, the Todd can go from a dry dusty riverbed to a flowing waterscape in less than 15 minutes after heavy rainfall.

When it’s dry, the famous Henley on Todd Regatta fills the sandy riverbed with handmade ‘boats’ carried by sailors. This is the world’s only dry river boating event, and it’s referenced in the ‘Silvergum Boat Race’ in the movie. Inspired by the real-life event, the characters built quirky “Flintstones-style boats” and competed in teams.

See Kangaroo in cinemas now, and start planning your NT getaway at northernterritory.com.

7 vibrant markets in Darwin to visit