The 8 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. Every August, MAGNT plays host to the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards, showcasing the very best Indigenous art, from emerging and established artists.

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.

The aerial assault on Darwin Harbour by Japanese forces on 19 February 1942 stands as the most significant military onslaught Australia has ever faced. 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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 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.

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.