The 10 Best Budget-friendly Things to do in Darwin, Northern Territory

The Royal Flying Doctor Service Darwin Tourist Facility is an exciting attraction on Stokes Hill Wharf that brings to life two iconic Australian stories. Both iconic stories are retold using state of the art technology including Virtual Reality headsets, hologram movies, audio-visuals and touch screen TVs as well as the fascinating story boards. The first story is the Royal Flying Doctor Service, affectionately known as the RFDS. Founded in 1928 by Reverend John Flynn, it began its aero-medical operations in the Northern Territory in 1939. The second story is the Bombing of Darwin on 19th February 1942. The bombing raids by the Japanese, brought destruction to the city of Darwin and many of the events that happened that day are featured. The RFDS Tourist Facility is a must see in Darwin for visitors of all ages and families to have an interesting learning experience about Darwin's history.

The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) is the NT's premier cultural institution. Enjoy permanent exhibition highlights such as Cyclone Tracy, Natural History and Sweetheart, a famous croc as well as exciting temporary exhibitions. Enjoy a meal at the picturesque Saltwater cafe overlooking the sea or purchase a book or gift at the Store at the Museum. Entry is free. MAGNT runs an engaging series of talks, public programs, workshops and school holiday programs. Check out the website for details

A B-52 bomber (one of only two on display outside the U.S.) is exhibited here along with other military aircraft, engines and the wreckage of a Japanese Zero fighter shot down in the 1942 air raids on Darwin.

Situated just 5 minutes from Darwin City, Mindil Beach is a local’s favourite for watching tropical sunsets over the ocean. With a palm filled, grassy reserve, Mindil Beach is popular for markets and events. The Mindil Beach Sunset Markets take place here every Thursday and Sunday evening throughout the dry season (April to October). Follow the surrounding walking paths, which take you from Mindil Beach to Fannie Bay and East Point Reserve.

The Mindil Beach Sunset Markets see the congregation of over 200 unique stalls, ranging from incredible local and international cuisine to an array of arts, crafts and services stalls. The Market also supports and provides opportunity to Darwin and regional NT artists from all genres of creative and performing arts to showcase their talent. The combination of amazing food, arts and culture, set to the backdrop of the spectacular sunset, creates an electric atmosphere.

Berry Springs Nature Park, is a great location close to Darwin where you can enjoy a refreshing swim and a BBQ. A great place to unwind after spending a day at the Territory Wildlife Park. Please check our website for access to swimming. During the wet season, October-April, the pools may be closed when swimming is considered to be unsafe.

On November 15th 2010, the YMCA proudly assumed management of the Leanyer Recreation Park. Entry is free to this fantastic venue.The Park consists of dry and wet recreational area's. There are 3 massive water slides where you can ride the water, a water park with swimming area's and a water playground, just the place to get wet and splash around in. There is also a dry play ground, a skate park, a half basketball court, BBQ's, a Cafe and lots of shaded area'sThe newly opened cafe is a great place for a coffee and a bite to eat. it also has catering available to busy mums and other organizations. menu's are available on our website.The Recreation Park is open daily from 8am to 8pm. The Water Park is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 7pm during school terms. During School Holidays we are open every day from 10am to 7pm. On Public Holidays we are also open from 10am - 7pm.

The Defence of Darwin Experience is managed by Darwin Military Museum on behalf of the Northern Territory Government. It was established to tell a story of Darwin's role in World War II and is dedicated to the period 1932 to 1945 - a very important time in Territory history. The Defence of Darwin Experience opened on 18 February 2012, which was in time to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Bombing of Darwin. Defence of Darwin Experience is the first facility in Australia to provide visitor with an immersive, interactive, multimedia experience which extends beyond the physical walls of the precinct 'hub'. The Defence of Darwin Experience is fully airconditioned inlcuding a gift shop and cafe. The Darwin Military Museum is only a step outside of the Defence of Darwin Experience, providing visitors with a different experience: artillery pieces; vehicles, uniforms, firearms, models and paintings and much more. The Darwin Military Museum is the original military museum which was established from the 1960s by the Royal Australian Association of the Northern Territory. The Darwin Military Museum is continuing to expand by adding more exhibitions to further educate visitors of Northern Australia involvement in WWII. Defence of Darwin Experience and Darwin Military Museum has formed a large World War II precinct at East Point. Visitors can move through the precinct and view the displays and exhibitions offered by both facilities.