Some of the main highlights of interest to visitors here are related to the lush tropical environment of the area, and include botanical gardens, wetlands, crocodile parks and fish-feeding venues. There are other attractions that are interesting due to the roles they have played in Darwin’s history, such as the Fanny Bay Gaol and Lyons Cottage.

Aquascene
Located in Doctors Gully at the end of the Esplanade, Aquascene provides a unique experience where visitors can hand-feed fish as they wade in the shallow waters. So many fish come into the shallows for this feeding frenzy that you can see many species, including bream, catfish, milkfish and mullet, among others. Even the normally cautious barramundi come in close enough for you to touch. Website: www.aquascene.com.au/.

Charles Darwin National Park
Just over a mile from the city, the park offers protection for parts of the Port Darwin wetlands and spectacular views of Darwin city. In addition to encompassing one of Australia's most important wetlands, locally-significant woodlands are part of this park as well. Shell middens indicate Aboriginals have used the area for thousands of years. The area was also a part of the country’s coastal network of military installations forming Australia’s front line of defence during WWII, and you’ll still see a number of bunkers and storage facilities from that period.

Crocodylus Park
This unusual, world-class visitor attraction makes the world of the crocodile accessible to all. Research that is conducted worldwide is documented here, bringing a better understand of the lives of these creatures. Other wildlife found at this park includes cassowaries, emus, ostriches, primates, lions, tigers and more. The park is conveniently located approximately 10 minutes by car from Darwin’s airport.

Fannie Bay Gaol
The penal system of the early territory is well-depicted at this gaol. You can see the conditions of prisoner life in the late 19th century, and have a look inside a cell. The gaol was built in 1882 and finally closed in 1979, when it was replaced by the newly-constructed Berrimah Gaol. In 1982 the Fannie Bay Gaol was re-opened as a museum and today features photographic and video displays, as well as numerous artefacts. Phone: +61 8 8999 8264.

George Brown Darwin Botanical Gardens
These massive gardens blend the flora of Northern Australia with tropical vegetation from other regions of the world. As you make your way through the grounds you’ll encounter coastal dunes, mangroves, a rainforest and open woodlands. More than 400 palm species can be seen here as well as aroids, bromeliads, orchids and unusual foliage plants. There’s a self-guided tour through an area dedicated to Aboriginal plant use. Amenities for visitors include picnic areas and barbecue facilities.

Lyons Cottage
Also known as the BAT House, short for British Australian Telegraph, Lyons Cottage has been preserved as an example of early Darwin architecture. Located on a site overlooking Darwin’s harbour, the cottage is the only remaining colonial-style bungalow. The cottage’s design resembles the architectural style of British colonial bungalows found in India, Malaysia and Singapore, and includes high ceilings and shuttered windows. Exhibits on the cultural history of the Larrakia aboriginal people and on early European settlement are housed here. Phone: +61 8 8999 1750.

Window on the Wetlands
This visitor’s centre at the wetlands provides an overview of the ecology of the wetlands of the northern coast. Some of the displays are interactive, demonstrating the ecological processes at work here, and the environmental changes that occur with changes in season. Touch-screen computers are also available so that you can learn more about specific points of interest.

Browse the night markets. Whether you’re actually interested in shopping or just curious, a visit to one of the night markets shouldn’t be missed. Real bargain hunters usually head to the Mindil Beach night market, where goods on offer range from fresh fruit to handicrafts. There’s also lots of ethnic food and entertainment by street artists to be enjoyed here as well.

Check out the pearls. You can visit an aquarium here that’s different than any other you’re likely to have seen. The Indo-Pacific Marine and Australian Pearling Exhibition at the Wharf district comprises a living coral ecosystem, home to numerous exotic marine creatures including butterfly fish, clown fish and sea horses. Alongside the aquarium is the Pearling Exhibition which features displays on the development of the pearling industry in the Northern Territory.

Enjoy the bounty of the seas. There’s amazing choice in seafood on offer in Darwin, served up in a wide-array of eateries. Darwin has a significant Asian population, and this influence is clearly seen in seafood dishes. In fact, the best of east and west is what you’ll find here - seafood fresh from the waters off the Darwin coast combined with eastern herbs and spices to create specialties that rival the best you can find anywhere in Australia.

Explore East Point Reserve. The East Point Reserve and Lake Alexander are picturesque spots well worth a visit. The reserve is located on a spit of land from which you’ll have great views of the city and harbour. There are picnic and recreation facilities here for your enjoyment as well. If you’re interested in military history, the East Point Military Museum documents the strategic role played by Darwin in WWII.

Get active in Territory Wildlife Park. Located 45 minutes drive south of Darwin, this park has been consistently voted the Northern Territory’s ‘Best Major Tourist Attraction’ since 1989. In addition to the many native birds, fish, mammals and reptiles that are resident here, you’ll also see the endangered desert-dwelling bilby. Other highlights include the popular nocturnal house and the largest walk-through freshwater aquarium in the world.

Take a sunset cruise. A sunset cruise that begins in Darwin Harbour is a great way to explore the spectacular coast. Have a romantic evening watching the sun go down over champagne and canapés, or simpler fare. Travel by sailboat or yacht: there’s a variety of options available.