The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory has a fine collection, but what is its most popular attraction by far? That's right - a preserved saltwater crocodile called 'Sweetheart.'
Sweetheart, a 50 year-old male, was menacing boats on the Finnis River, so he was captured by rangers. They intended to give him to a croc farm for breeding. Sadly, during the capture, the drugged crocodile drowned and could not be resuscitated. His body was given to the museum.
If you can drag yourself away from Sweetheart, there's a fine natural history collection and plenty of indigenous art. You'll also get a good grounding in the Territory's history, including Cyclone Tracy (there's a room that simulates the cyclone) and visits by Indonesian sailors back in the day. The museum looks beyond the mainland to focus on Southeast Asian and Pacific culture.
Latest Reviews
Review by manon, April 2013
Doing what: Darwin Afternoon Sightseeing Tour
We only had half a day in Darwin and this tour was excellent to see the city. It gave us a quick and good view of the city so as to wet our appetite for a longer stay next time. Thank you to the lovely driver and guide that we had, she mqde us most welcome.
Review by Richard A K, February 2013
Doing what: Darwin Afternoon Sightseeing Tour
Good tour for 1/2 day with minimal walking
Review by huddfamily, August 2012
Doing what: Darwin Afternoon Sightseeing Tour
The tour was extremely professional and provided us with excellent tour. their communication with us was great only too pleased to be obliging. Many other tour operators should follow in their footsteps.
Practical Info
The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory is located on Bullocky Point, on Darwin Harbour and is easily accessible by bus from the city center.




