Big Dinosaur
Height
Approximately 5 metres
Year Built
Address
Darwin, NT 0800
The Lowdown
The Big Dinosaur in Darwin stands as a prehistoric sentinel in Australia's tropical capital. This impressive sculpture celebrates the Northern Territory's rich paleontological heritage and its unique position as a region where ancient history feels particularly alive. The Top End has yielded significant fossil discoveries over the years, and the landscape itself - with its dramatic escarpments, ancient rock formations, and primeval wetlands - evokes a sense of deep time. The Big Dinosaur serves as both an educational marker and a popular photo opportunity for tourists exploring Darwin and the surrounding region, adding to the city's collection of quirky attractions that complement its more serious cultural and natural landmarks.
Did you know?
"Darwin was heavily bombed in WWII - this dinosaur survived longer than the city did!"
History
The Big Dinosaur was erected in Darwin to celebrate the Northern Territory's connection to prehistoric times and to provide an engaging attraction for families and tourists. While Darwin is better known for its WWII history, tropical climate, and proximity to Kakadu National Park, the dinosaur adds an element of paleontological interest. The Northern Territory has been the site of several significant fossil discoveries, including marine reptiles and ancient crocodiles, making the Big Dinosaur a fitting tribute to the region's deep natural history.
More Fun Facts
- •Darwin is Australia's northernmost capital city
- •The Northern Territory has yielded important fossil discoveries
- •Modern saltwater crocodiles are often called 'living dinosaurs'
- •Kakadu National Park, 250km east, contains ancient rock art depicting extinct megafauna
- •The Top End's landscape evokes prehistoric times with its ancient geology
- •Darwin was heavily bombed in WWII - this dinosaur survived longer than the city did!
- •Part of Darwin's collection of quirky roadside attractions
Visiting Tips
- 💡Visit during the dry season for the most comfortable weather
- 💡Combine with a trip to the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory
- 💡Darwin's markets (Mindil Beach Sunset Market) are legendary
- 💡The Esplanade offers beautiful sunset views over the harbor
- 💡Day trips to Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks are popular
- 💡Don't miss the jumping crocodile cruises on the Adelaide River
- 💡Darwin has a strong WWII history - visit the Defense of Darwin Experience
Opening Hours
Outdoor sculpture accessible at all times
More Big Things Nearby
Anmatjere Woman and Child
Anmatjere Woman and Child in Aileron is a giant 7-metre tall sculpture of an Aboriginal woman and child at Aileron, Northern Territory, standing alongside the Big Anmatjere Man.
Big Barramundi
A 6-metre long fibreglass barramundi celebrating Normanton's status as the 'Barramundi Capital of Australia'.
Big Cow
A large cow sculpture located in Highfields, Queensland, celebrating the region's dairy farming heritage.