Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory — Attraction in The Gardens

The good burghers of Darwin have made it easy to get here: Bus No 4, leaves from the bus stop outside Woolies on Cavenagh Street, and drops you right at the front door of the museum. It takes only about 20 minutes, perhaps less, in a nice, scenic route. When you’re done with the museum, just hop on the same bus back to Darwin, again, from right outside the front door to the museum - and no, I’m not exaggerating: The stop is outside the front door! Couldn’t be easier. And as if that’s not enough, entrance to the museum is free, and there’s a coterie of pretty young ladies on hand to welcome you. They’re helpful and polite, although, to be honest there isn’t a lot for them to do, apart from asking you to sign in for Covid-safe reasons, and to put your bags in a locker. Still, they do that with a friendly smile and will gladly answer any of your questions. It’s all very laid back and relaxed.

Inside you’ll find a beautifully curated museum and art gallery, that's spacious, airy and easy to move around in. The gallery features Aboriginal art only. I found the works interesting, complex and intricate, some quite colourful, some also with a political message. Just reading the display panels, gives you some idea about the long history, culture and attachment to the land of indigenous people. Quite fascinating as an outsider.

The other four elements of the gallery comprise a natural history section, a maritime section, an exhibition of sound recordings, film and photos about Cyclone Tracy that devastated Darwin on Christmas day 1974, and an exhibition titled “Unruly Days - Territory Life 1911-21” , showcasing Darwin’s anarchic first decade under Commonwealth rule. I enjoyed it all, especially the “Unruly Days” exhibit with it’s extensive collection of old photos, quotes and memorabilia from the period. The Cyclone Tracy Exhibit will also catch your attention, especially if you aren’t familiar with that story.

Next to the reception desk, is the little shop, with the usual collection of souvenirs, books etc, but unfortunately the little cafe is closed.

We enjoyed our first visit so much that we went back again the next day.

In terms of cultural activities, this was the highlight of our...

Fascinating museum in which we could learn a lot about the history of the country and especially of the Northern Territories. I'm amazed at how blunt and direct the comments are for a museum. They don't hide anything that has been done against forst nations or non white communities (especially Chinese) in the area. Thanks for that! It's the only way to learn and do better in the future. On top of that there is a section about the cyclone Tracy which devastated Darwin city: the scar is so deep that this event has been mentioned in all the tours we have done in or close the city, so definitely good to have details about this. There is one room in which they recreated storm impressions (a mini dark room with storm sounds): to be honest, my mother entered to experience it, but I couldn't (there is a warning on the door of course, but it's true that it can really trigger bad memories and traumas). Then, there was one gallery about first nations and specific collaborations with the museums. And 2 amazing contemporary art galleries: one by established artists (paintings sculptures, videos, and more) and one by students. I really enjoyed the students' gallery; it's a good feeling to see what the youth feel and have to say, and it's beautiful to see this kind of museums giving them such a good platform to display their art pieces. Finally, for kids and adults who like it, there are boats, a whale skeleton (freshly brought back to the museum in April 2024, thanks to sponsors), and a natural history part. A must visit if you're in Darwin! If you are a tourist like me, I would advise you to do it on the first day as it helps to enjoy and understand better the next days of visits!! Don't forget to stop by the shop and the restaurant! The museum is free (I'm still amazed at how museums are free everywhere over Australia), so if you can do donations or spend on what they sell, I'm...

Always Love the Museum, they offer a variety of different viewing pleasures. Ranging from, Animal, Historic, Boats (though it is very hot in there so be prepared 😂) all kinds of beautiful art. The gift shop is a little pricey, but has some pretty cool stuff in there and the staff are always so lovely Haven't been to the little food place in there yet. To get into the museum itself is free, you can't take backpacks in anymore they have lockers to out them in which requires a $2 coin you get back when you leave. I have always loved this museum.

There's a cyclone Tracy part of the museum which tells you about the events of that tragic day... Which I've always been fascinated by.

Sweetheart is still there which was good to know.

It's got some nice views from sections too! All in all a great place to take the kids because it's FREE &...