The best museums in Darwin byHertz AU

Darwin in the Top End has a rich and varied history well worth exploring. If you are interested in learning more about its culture and heritage, here are the best museums in Darwin to start with. All are easily accessible with your Darwin Airport car rental from Hertz Darwin.

Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory

Darwin’s biggest museum is a great starting point for your journey. The Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory displays many Aboriginal historical artifacts and explains their links with Asian seafarers, running through to modern times and developments. There is an unforgettable Cyclone Tracy exhibit showing the effects this storm had on the city in 1974. With wind speeds of over 200 kilometres per hour it was devastating; one of the items recovered was a signal tower buckled by the sheer power of the winds. The Maritime Museum is also located here so you can kill two birds with one stone; it boasts exhibits of Asian and Oceanic art and maritime archaeology.

Chinese Temple and Museum

The Chinese have played a key role in the Northern Territoru’s history. This temple has been around for over a century (although it had to be rebuilt after Cyclone Tracy). Within its grounds is a museum displaying photos and items highlighting the contributions of early Chinese indentured labourers.

East Point Military Museum

This intimate museum is found on a site of WW2 fortifications – Darwin was one of the country’s first lines of defence during the war. The museum houses artillery, armoured vehicles, photography, video and other military memorabilia. Look out for the parts about the Japanese bombing on Darwin harbour – something commemorated every year with a special Open Day.

Fannie Bay Gaol

A central part of life in the early Top End, this museum originally operated as a prison for nearly a century from 1883 until 1979, complete with a ‘native’ section for Aboriginals. Its gallows and small cell blocks offer a different view on life back then.

The Australian Aviation Heritage Centre

Learn more about Darwin’s aviation with this museum dedicated to the skies. Aircraft on display include a B52 bomber (one of only 2 outside the USA), a Spitfire replica, and Sabre jet.