Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory Tours
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.
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.
Explore Darwin City Sights
- Go sightseeing in Darwin on a 5-hour morning tour that takes you to top sites including Parliament House, Palmerston Town, the Darwin Botanical Gardens and the vibrant waterfront. Learn about the Darwin’s World War II history at the Defence of Darwin Experience, with admission to this military heritage site included in your tour. Have time to explore the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, and stop by the Fannie Bay Gaol and Darwin Aviation Heritage Centre among other sites on this comprehensive introduction to Darwin.
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Darwin City Sightseeing Tour with Optional Sunset Cruise
- Explore the ancient history and modern vibrancy of Darwin on a half-day sightseeing tour. Travel by coach and listen as your local guide shares commentary about the tropical city’s natural and cultural attractions. Delve into Aboriginal art at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory, and stroll past fragrant orchid blooms at the Botanic Gardens. Upgrade to cap off the day with a sunset cruise through Darwin Harbor while enjoying a fish-and-chip dinner with sparkling wine.
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Small-Group Tour: Highlights of Darwin Bike Tour
- Get an overview of this small city without the risk of getting lost, on a small-group cycle tour. Your guide will take you past must-see sites like the Darwin Waterfront, Botanical Gardens, and more, while telling you about the city’s history. The intensity of the ride can be adjusted to suit your group’s needs, and there will be plenty of rest and photography stops, if you need them.
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Darwin Shore Excursion: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
- Swap your cruise ship for a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Darwin on this sightseeing shore excursion. Select a 24- or 48-hour pass and explore the city in the Top End at your own pace. Board the open-top double-decker bus from the cruise terminal at Fort Hill Wharf and disembark at any of the 11 stops around Darwin, or simply stay on the bus for a 60- or 90-minute narrated tour. Visit the Military Museum, Botanic Gardens, Doctors Gully, Crocosaurus Cove and more!
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