The best museums and galleries in Darwin

Perched in a stunning location on Larrakia Land with views of Fannie Bay, the Museum and Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT) serves as an ideal starting point to explore the Territory’s social history, natural science and art. Permanent exhibits include the Cyclone Tracy display, early Territory life, megafauna and (often deadly) animals, Sweetheart the five-metre crocodile and a huge section dedicated to maritime history. 

Time Out tip: The museum is also home to the annual Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards - the most significant award of its kind nationwide – which is a must-see from August to January.

Address: 19 Conacher St, The Gardens
Opening hours: Daily 10am-4pm
Entry fee: Free (excl. touring exhibitions)

In the funky suburb of Parap, the Northern Centre for Contemporary Art (NCCA) is Darwin's avant-garde art space, dedicated to presenting contemporary art from the Northern Territory and beyond. With a focus on innovation and experimentation, the exhibitions span a diverse range of mediums and themes, from digital media and performance art to social and political commentary.

Time Out tip: After visiting the gallery, head to Laneway Specialty Coffee for creamy egg benny or a Reuben toastie.

Address: Vimy Ln, Parap
Opening hours: Wed-Fri 10am-4pm; Sat 8am-2pm
Entry fee: Free 

Want to see art and design from more than 70 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art centres in one place? Every August, Darwin becomes the epicentre of Indigenous art with the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (DAAF). From traditional bark paintings and weaving to contemporary sculptures and textiles, the fair showcases the spectacular diversity of Aboriginal art. The event is more than just an art fair; it's a cultural celebration, complete with workshops, performances, films, fashion shows and more.

Time Out tip: Make the most of your DAAF experience by booking tickets to the iconic Country to Couture runway on August 5 and the National Indigenous Fashion Awards on August 6. 

Address: Darwin Convention Centre, 10 Stokes Hill Rd, Darwin
Opening hours: August 7-10,2025
Entry fee: Free

The aerial assault on Darwin Harbour by Japanese forces on 19 February 1942 stands as the most significant military onslaught Australia has ever faced. The Darwin Military Museum is a must-visit to fully grasp the magnitude of this event. Located in the historic precinct of East Point, the collection features artillery pieces, vehicles and a lookout tower, offering a glimpse into the life of soldiers stationed in this remote outpost.

Time Out tip: Inside, you'll also find the Darwin Holocaust Memorial and Education Centre – leave at least two hours to explore the full museum. 

Address: 5434 Alec Fong Lim Dr, East Point
Opening hours: Mon-Sat 9.30am-4pm; Sun 10am-3pm
Entry fee: $20 for adults, $10 for children aged five to 15

In the fun-loving suburb of Parap, just five minutes from the CBD, Outstation Gallery is where the heart of remote Aboriginal art beats in Darwin. Specialising in contemporary art from the Tiwi Islands, Arnhem Land, the Western Desert, the Kimberley, and Central and South Australia, this gallery bridges the gap between remote artists and the urban audience. Artworks range from bark paintings and hollow logs to fibre art and acrylic paintings.

Time Out tip: If you're in the market for a new Indigenous artwork, Outstation Gallery has an impressive collection of masterpieces up for sale – which you can also browse online. 

Address: 8 Parap Pl, Darwin City
Opening hours: Tue 10am-1pm; Wed-Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-2pm
Entry fee: Free 

The Tiwi Islands are a cultural gem off the coast of Darwin, renowned for their distinctive art and cultural practices. Tiwi Design presents a collection that ranges from fabrics, intricate wood carvings and pottery to the famous Pukumani burial poles. August is a special time on the Islands, marked by the Tiwi Island Football Grand Final and Art Sale, a festive fusion of sport and art that draws visitors from far and wide. While you’re there, don’t miss the Patakijiyali Museum, an intimate space that holds records of important information about the Tiwi dreamtime and spirituality, the Catholic Mission, the role of the Tiwi people during World War II, and the Islands’ proud football heritage.

Time Out tip: For an easy day trip, join a small-group Tiwi By Design Tour, including return ferries from Darwin to Bathurst Island, a Traditional Aboriginal welcome, walking tour with a local Tiwi guide and more.

Address: Lot 431 Puantulura St, Wurrumiyanga
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9.30am-3pm
Entry fee: Free 

Darwin's urban landscape is a canvas for creativity, with outdoor street art galleries like Austin Lane and Shadforth Lane transforming the city's alleys into vibrant showcases of contemporary art. These open-air galleries feature murals and installations by local and international artists, adding a splash of colour and intrigue to the city streets. Don’t miss the portrait of the late singer Gurrumul and the very special memorial piece for the late, great Vincent Lingiari, both in central Darwin.

Time Out tip: If you love street art, align your trip to Darwin with the Darwin Street Art Festival that takes place every May/June.

Address: Around Darwin
Opening hours: 24 hours
Entry fee: Free

A haven for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike, Darwin Aviation Museum presents an impressive collection of aircraft and aviation artefacts that narrate the story of Darwin's pivotal role in World War II. The centrepiece is a massive B-52 bomber on loan from the United States Air Force, complemented by tales of heroic flights and the evolution of air travel in Australia. 

Time Out tip: Also in Darwin, don’t miss the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) tourist facility at Stokes Hill Wharf, where you can experience the history of the RFDS through virtual reality, holograms and interactive displays.

Address: 557 Stuart Hwy, Winnellie 
Opening hours: Daily 9am-5pm
Entry fee: $20 for adults, $10 for children aged under 12