17 of the best things to do with in Darwin with kids

Your go-to guide for family-friendly fun in the Top End.

Darwin is an open-air playground where kids can swim, climb, ride and roam free. With oodles of water parks, hands-on wildlife encounters and plenty of space to run, it’s a top-notch place for families. From biking through bush trails to feeding fish by hand, there’s plenty to keep kids busy. Here’s your go-to guide for the best things to do with kids in Darwin.

1. Catch a wave at the lagoon

the wave pool at Darwin’s Waterfront Lagoon — Make a splash at the man-made lagoon. (Image: Tourism NT)

Darwin’s Waterfront Lagoon is where kids can boogie board, swim and splash without worrying about crocodiles or jellyfish. The wave pool delivers rolling swells every 20 minutes, perfect for both thrill-seekers and little paddlers. Parents can lounge on the grass while the kids ride the waves and when everyone’s waterlogged, there’s a bunch of family-friendly cafes and an ice creamery just a short stroll away.

2. Mountain bike at Charles Darwin National Park

mountain biking at Charles Darwin National Park — Tackle the tropical terrain on two wheels. (Image: Tourism NT/Travis Deane)

Swap the city streets and pools for dirt trails and tropical bushland with a mountain biking adventure at Charles Darwin National Park. Hire a bike from Cycle Zone and take on tracks winding through WWII bunkers and lush forests. There are routes for all skill levels, from easy family-friendly loops to more technical trails for the adventurous.

3. Bounce around the Aqua Park

an aerial view of the Darwin Waterfront Lagoon — Create fun family memories with your kids at the Darwin Waterfront. (Image: Tourism NT)

If your kids love Ninja Warrior-style challenges, they’ll go wild for the inflatable Aqua Park at the Darwin Waterfront. This floating obstacle course has slides, climbing walls and trampolines, all set on the water. Life jackets are provided, so even less confident swimmers can get in on the action. It’s the perfect way to burn energy before grabbing a post-bounce bubble tea or ice cream.

4. Feed the fish at Aquascene

a school of fish swimming at Aquascene, Darwin — Get up close to hundreds of wild fish. (Image: Tourism NT/Aquascene)

For over 70 years, Aquascene has been one of Darwin’s favourite attractions, where hundreds of wild fish swim right up to the shore to be fed by hand. The fish – mostly milkfish, mullet, and catfish – appear like clockwork with the tide, ready for a snack. Kids will love wading into the shallow water as fish nibble food straight from their fingers. It’s a sensory overload – splashing water, excited squeals, and the occasional slippery fish brushing against little toes.

5. Take a slide at Leanyer Recreation Park

A free water park? Yes, please. Leanyer Recreation Park has three huge water slides, a massive splash zone and a lagoon-sized pool. The giant tipping bucket is a crowd favourite, soaking anyone in its path every few minutes. There’s also a dry playground, skate park, canteen and BBQ areas, making it an easy outing for families.

6. Climb high at SWELL Palmerston

About 30 minutes from the CBD, Palmerston is home to not one but two free water parks that are well worth the drive. Palmerston Water Park boasts Darwin’s biggest waterslide – a six-lane racer that’s just as much fun for adults as it is for kids (yes, it’s a challenge). And if they’re more into climbing than sliding, SWELL Palmerston delivers the goods with a 50-metre pool and a three-storey high ropes course that’ll keep them busy for hours.

7. Swim with crocs at Crocosaurus Cove

swimming with a crocodile in the cage of death at Crocosaurus Cove — Get up close to a saltwater crocodile at Crocosaurus Cove. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

Ever wanted to swim with a saltwater crocodile? Crocosaurus Cove lets you do just that – safely, of course. Older kids (and brave parents) can hop into the Cage of Death for a face-to-face encounter with one of the world’s largest crocs. Younger ones can feed baby crocodiles, hold a reptile, or watch feeding time from the safety of dry land.

8. Visit the Territory Wildlife Park

A short drive from Darwin, the Territory Wildlife Park is a great place to get up close with the Northern Territory’s unique wildlife. Stroll through treetop aviaries, spot nocturnal animals in the nighttime house, and catch wildlife presentations throughout the day. The Flight Deck show is a highlight, where eagles and owls glide just overhead. Getting around is easy with the free shuttle train or, for something more fun, hire a pedal cart.

9. Browse the markets

Mindil Beach Markets at sunset — Admire the sunset as you graze your way along the food stalls. (Image: Tourism Australia/Nicholas Kavo)

Darwin’s markets are loud, lively, and full of things kids will actually enjoy – from food to music to wide-open spaces. Start with Parap Village Markets on Saturdays, where Darwin’s most talked-about laksa is worth the wait (ask for mild for younger tastebuds). On Thursday and Sunday evenings, Mindil Beach Markets serve up sunset views, street performers, and endless dinner options, while the kids roam free on the sand. Sunday mornings are for breakfast – head to Nightcliff Markets for smoothie bowls and pastries or Rapid Creek for tropical fruit and veg that’ll blow their minds (and maybe yours, too).

10. Fish at Stokes Hill Wharf

Drop a line off Stokes Hill Wharf and you might just reel in a trevally, queenfish, or even a barra if luck’s on your side. It’s a relaxed spot for a fish, with salty sea breezes and plenty of action to watch – from cruise ships pulling in to cheeky seagulls angling for scraps. When hunger hits, head to The Jetty Restaurant nearby, where there’s a crowd-pleasing buffet, water views and – the clincher – a chocolate fountain.

11. Food truck time at Nightcliff Foreshore

an aerial view of the Nightcliff Foreshore, Darwin — Enjoy casual dining at the picturesque Nightcliff Foreshore. (Image: Tourism NT)

Curled ice cream, loaded jacket potatoes, wood-fired pizza and Asian street food – Nightcliff Foreshore is a go-to spot for families who love a casual bite. Grab something delicious and spread out on the grass while the kids climb trees, ride scooters or watch the sun sink into the ocean. Hot tip: check the City of Darwin ’s street food schedule before you head out to make sure your top pick is parked and cooking.

12. Dinner and a swim

friends dining at Darwin Ski Club — Grab a seafood dinner at Darwin Ski Club. (Image: Tourism NT/Cait Miers)

Darwin nails the combo of good food and happy kids. At the Darwin Ski Club and the nearby Trailer Boat Club, you can kick back with a cold drink and a decent meal while the kids go wild in the pool. Just down the road, the Sailing Club skips the pool but makes up for it with swings right next to the tables – ideal for little ones who need to stay in sight but not in their seats. Add a killer sunset view at all three, and you’ve got dinner plans sorted.

13. Watch a flick at Deckchair Cinema

an outdoor movie night at Deckchair Cinema, Darwin — Catch a film at the Deckchair Cinema. (Image: Tourism NT/Friederike Franze)

A movie under the stars? Absolutely. Deckchair Cinema is Darwin’s open-air movie spot where families can settle into deck chairs, grab some popcorn and enjoy a film in the balmy night air. Hot food is on offer from 5.45pm when the gates open, so come hungry. Local tip: claim your spot early by popping one of the supplied cushions on your seat – it’s the way to reserve it for the night.

14. Feed the creatures at Crocodylus Park

feeding a croc at Crocodylus Park, Darwin — Crocodylus Park offers the ultimate wildlife experience. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Lions, meerkats, spider monkeys, cassowaries – Crocodylus Park is home to way more than just crocs. Not to be confused with Crocosaurus Cove in the city, this sprawling wildlife park is about 15 minutes from Darwin’s CBD and packs in crocodiles (heaps of them), exotic animals and even a jumping croc cruise. Kids can get up close with creatures big and small – including the chance to meet mobs of meerkats.

15. Explore MAGNT

two kids admiring a fossil display at MAGNT, Darwin — MAGNT boasts an extensivefossil collection of Australia’s unique megafauna. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) is where Darwin keeps its most famous croc – Sweetheart, a massive saltie preserved in all his toothy glory. There’s plenty here to keep kids curious, from marine life displays to new hands-on exhibits about Cyclone Tracy and vibrant showcases of Indigenous art and culture. Keen for more than a wander? Check online before you go – there are often kids’ workshops running, and spots can fill fast.

16. Explore Darwin Street Art

street art in Darwin CBD — Find vibrant street art on every corner. (Image: Tourism NT/Matt Lambley)

Darwin’s streets are splashed with colour, thanks to towering murals that turn laneways and buildings into an open-air gallery. Download the Darwin Street Art Festival (DSAF) app and take the kids on a mural-hunting adventure using the interactive map. Thirteen of the artworks have a high-tech twist – hold your phone up, follow the prompts, and watch the murals come alive with augmented reality.

17. Take an ice cream odyssey

When the heat kicks in, there’s only one solution – an ice cream crawl. In the CBD, Cold Rock lets kids go wild mixing in their favourite sweets. Down at the Waterfront, Trampoline scoops creative flavours like lamington and pistachio. For something a bit extra, head to Nightcliff Jetty (every night except Monday and Tuesday) where Curled ice cream is made right before your eyes on frozen plates. Flavours like Mango Madness, Mint Condition and Nutta Butta are crowd-pleasers.

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.

17 of the best things to do with in Darwin with kids