The best things to do in Katherine

What is it? An impressive series of cascading waterfalls and natural swimming holes in Nitmiluk National Park, just 60 kilometres north of Darwin. 

Why go? When the Top End heat kicks in, there’s no better place to cool off than Leilyn (Edith Falls). Take a dip in the lower or upper pools, or hike 8.6 kilometres return to reach the more secluded Sweetwater Pool. If you’re up for a shorter stroll, the 2.6-kilometre Leilyn Trail loop rewards you with a scenic lookout. Picnic tables and a drive-in campground mean you can make a day (or night) of it.

Time Out tip: Rangers regularly assess water safety – especially during the wet season (October to April) – so check ahead to see if the pools are open before you go.

Where: Nitmiluk National Park, Nitmiluk

Price: $10 parks pass (book online)

What is it? Established almost 30 years ago, this vibrant Aboriginal gallery showcases and ethically sells artwork from across the Top End, Arnhem Land, Kimberley, and the Central and Western Desert.

Why go? Bright and beautiful, Top Didj Art Gallery brings together incredible works from more than 250 artists in remote NT communities. The spacious warehouse is located just seven kilometres from Katherine and 22 kilometres from Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge), making it a must-visit when you’re in the area. You’ll discover everything from paintings, carvings and weavings to didgeridoos – all available for purchase as a memento of your time in the Top End.

Time Out tip: Pop next door to the newly opened Hungry Goat Café for a ham and cheese toastie or scones with plum jam and cream. You won’t believe the café’s run by Chilli, a local legend who’s just 15 years old!

Where: 363 Gorge Rd, Lansdowne

Price: Free entry

What is it? On the mighty Katherine River, Nitmiluk Gorge is considered the jewel in the crown of the scenic waterway. And the best way to experience said jewel is by water, on a cruise, ideally at sunset. 

Why go? As drawcards go, they don’t get more glistening than Nitmiluk Gorge. This is the place of the Cicada dreaming. It’s a gateway to the spiritual world of the Jawoyn people, and it’s also home to post-card-worthy scenery. Cruising down the river under the towering cliffs of the gorge is a must-do when visiting Katherine. The ever-changing colours of the cliffs are something you have to see to believe. Not even postcards do this place justice.

Time Out tip: You can book cruises and canoe trips at Nitmiluk Visitor Centre, which is located at the entrance to Nitmiluk Gorge. Some tours include transfers too!

Where: Tours depart from Nitmiluk Tours boat ramp (Shop 5/52 Katherine Tce)

Price: Timeless Land Three Gorge Tour is $219 for adults and $129 for children

What is it? On the southside of town next to the Katherine River, the hot springs offer sparkling clear and warm pools for a rejuvenating dip.

Why go? In the hot springs stakes of the NT, Mataranka gets a lot of hype and deservedly so. Meanwhile, Katherine Hot Springs flies under the radar, making it an unsung treasure. The water temperature at the springs is always between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius, so you can enjoy a dip all year round. Bring a pool noodle to float between the baths and a snorkel to see fish and turtles playing in their natural paradise. Although the water is the drawcard, make the most of the picnic grounds and walking tracks as well.

Time Out tip: During the dry season, grab a coffee at the Pop Rocket Café, located in a quirky container next to the springs.

Where: Riverbank Dr, Katherine South

Price: Free entry

What is it? Centrally located on the main street in Katherine, The Finch Café is a perfect spot for a smoothie or iced latte. 

Why go? This family-run venture serves up friendly service, delicious dishes and much-needed, refreshing drinks. You can nab a table inside and relax in air-conditioned comfort, or perch yourself in the patio garden under the finch mural. Try a healthy Buddha bowl with pulled chicken or spiced beans, and follow it with a homemade doughnut for, you know, balance. Hot tip: keep an eye on the café’s socials for woodfire pizza offerings.

Time Out tip: You can also head to the Pop Rocket Café for alfresco brunch, Maidens Lane for hearty burgers or The Black Russian Caravan Bar for top-notch toasties.

Where: 17A Katherine Terrace, Katherine

Price: Expect to pay $22 for smashed avo or $20 for a Buddha bowl

What is it? A 61-kilometre hike along the western edge of the Arnhem Land plateau that’s open to just 15 trekkers a day during the dry season from June to September. 

Why go? From start (Nitmiluk Gorge) to finish (Leliyn/Edith Falls), this five- to six-day trail has it all: cascading waterfalls, sandstone escarpments and monsoon forests. You’ll kick things off with a scenic ferry cruise to 17 Mile Creek, which sets the tone for the rest of the picturesque adventure. Along the way, expect to see ancient rock art, native red-tailed black cockatoos and crystal-clear water holes. 

Time Out tip: You’ll want to head off early each morning before the temperatures start soaring and the humidity ramps up. 

Where: Starts at 17 Mile Creek, Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge

Price: $25 daily walking fee ≠ $10 nightly camping fee (book online)

What is it? Just 22 kilometres south of town, Cutta Cutta Caves are an extensive system of limestone caves with hourly guided tours running from 9am to 3pm between April and October. 

Why go? To experience this ancient landscape and geographic wonder, you must go underground. 15 metres below the surface, Cutta Cutta Caves are full of stalactites and limestone formations. When your eyes adjust to the darkness, look out for the elusive ghost and horseshoe bats, along with brown tree snakes. Above ground, take a stroll along the short Tropical Woodland Walk. Get down to it. And up amongst it.

Time Out tip: While you wait for the next tour, stretch your legs on the Tropical Savanna Walk – a short, scenic trail through native plant life that takes just 10 to 20 minutes.

Where: Cutta Cutta Caves Nature Park

Price: $40 for adults, $28 for children

What is it? Tucked away in the industrial area, Maidens Lane is the town’s go-to brunch spot.

Why go? Maiden’s extensive burger menu and Campos coffee have attracted a core following in Katherine. This trendy spot is a slice of the big city in the outback. Charcoal buns, panko portobello mushrooms, sticky chicken bao, puppuccinos – you’ll want to come back for more.

Time Out tip: These legends open at 6am on weekdays, so you can swing by for a caffeine hit before heading off on your national park adventure.

Where: 5/19 Crawford St, Katherine East 

Price: Burgers for $24

What is it? The Katherine Museum brings the history of the area to life in both indoor and outdoor exhibitions. 

Why go? Walking through the displays will transport you to the bombings of World War II and the devastating floods that have hit the region. The Museum is a testament to the strength and resilience of the Katherine township and gives visitors an insight into the charm and character of the outback. 

Time Out tip: Call ahead to see if the volunteers are serving up Devonshire tea.  

Where: 20 Christie Rd, Katherine

Price: $10 for adults, $5 for children

What is it? Katherine Country Club features an award-winning restaurant, two bars and a par 72 golf course. 

Why go? You don’t have to be a golf enthusiast to appreciate these greens. Local members and visitors can take a putt and enjoy a meal at the Katherine Country Club. There’s even a pro shop to stock up on your golfing essentials (remember it’s 300km to the next golf club). If you don’t want to traipse the fairway, the bistro serves up classic meals and incorporates locally sourced and native ingredients. Cheers to that. 

Time Out tip: Mingle with the locals at happy hour, running on weekdays from 4pm to 6pm. 

Where: 40 Pearce St, Katherine

Price: Golf from $20 (nine holes); main meals from $25