Family life in the Territory comes with plenty of ways to spend time together. Weekends might mean cooling off at a waterpark, visiting a museum, exploring a local playground or joining a community event.
There are options across the NT for different ages, interests and budgets, from simple afternoons close to home to memorable family days out.
Enjoy the outdoors
Outdoor family time looks a little different across the Territory. Around Darwin and Palmerston, free waterparks and shaded recreation areas are popular choices. Alice Springs has aquatic facilities and parks, Katherine offers hot springs and family play spaces, and communities such as Nhulunbuy have pools and outdoor recreation areas.
Many local parks also include playgrounds, picnic tables, barbecues or sporting facilities, making it easy to turn a quick outing into a relaxed family afternoon.
Find out moreExplore and discover
Not every family day needs to be outdoors. Museums and cultural spaces across the Territory give children the chance to learn about local history, science, wildlife and art.
Families can explore MAGNT in Darwin, Megafauna Central in Alice Springs, the Katherine Museum and Battery Hill Mining Centre in Tennant Creek. East Arnhem is also home to Aboriginal-owned art centres where visitors can learn about the region’s art, culture and stories.
Wildlife experiences are another Territory favourite, from the Territory Wildlife Park near Darwin to Alice Springs Desert Park in Central Australia. Check opening hours and visitor information before setting out, particularly during seasonal weather.
What’s on for families
Community events are a big part of Territory life. Throughout the year, families can enjoy regional shows, festivals, sporting events, markets and school holiday activities.
The cooler months are especially busy, with events held across Darwin and Palmerston, Alice Springs, Katherine, Tennant Creek and regional communities. Dates and programs change each year, so check what’s coming up when planning your next family day.
Explore events across the Territory
More for Territory families
Playgroups, sporting clubs, library programs and youth activities can help children make friends and families feel part of their local community.
Eligible families may also be able to access help with the cost of school, sport and swimming activities.