Darwin’s history is well illustrated at a number of sites around the city.
The attractions below are free.
A fine range of Darwin's historic buildings remain after the ravages of the war, Cyclone Tracey and property developers.
A guide to walking trails is available from Top End Tourism in Bennett Street.
Botanical Gardens (enter via Gardens Road) Established in the 1870s, the gardens display over 400 species of tropical plants.
Chinese Temple, an interesting example of the rich cultural mixture in Darwin. Open daily
Fannie Bay Museum – The old Fannie Bay Gaol Constructed in 1882-3 and closed in 1979. The laundry destroyed by Cyclone Tracy houses a Cyclone Tracy display and 30 minute video.
Esplanade, Fannie Bay
Lyons Cottage – British Australian Telegraph Residence Museum Superb display of the pearl diving era and life in Darwin in the early days.
Corner of Knuckey Street and The Esplanade.
The War
Following the first two enemy attacks in February 1942, Darwin effectively became a fortress. Coastal defences were constructed at East Point (see East Point Military Museum) and there was a major build-up of the Royal Australian Air Force and the Royal Australian Navy. Oil storage tunnels were constructed to safeguard fuel stores but were never used. The Bombing of Darwin
