Whether you're here to test your survival instincts (looking at you, bungy jumpers), take in the jaw-dropping landscapes, or eat your body weight in Fergburgers, Queenstown has something for everyone. So, buckle up – literally, if you're skydiving – and let’s dive into the absolute best things to do in this adventure-packed, picture-perfect, and slightly crazy town.
- Adrenaline Activities
- Family Activities
- Winter Activities
- Wine & Food
- Hiking & Walking in Queenstown
- Cycling & Mountain Biking
- Rainy Day Activities
- Golfing
Adrenaline Seeker? Welcome to the Adventure Capital of the World!
If your idea of a good time involves jumping off things, racing down rivers, or plummeting from great heights, Queenstown is your kind of playground. This place takes adventure to a whole new level. Start with a classic: the Kawarau Bridge Bungy, where you can hurl yourself off the world’s first commercial bungy jump. Still standing? Take things up a notch with skydiving over the Remarkables – because nothing says “vacation” like a 15,000ft freefall. If high-speed chaos is more your thing, hop on a Shotover Jet Boat and zoom through tight canyon walls at ridiculous speeds. And for the ultimate thrill, the Nevis Bungy (134m of pure terror) is waiting. Basically, if you’re not slightly questioning your life choices by the end of the day, you’re doing Queenstown wrong.
Things to Do With Kids in Queenstown
Bringing the little adventurers along? Queenstown delivers family fun by the truckload. Start with a gondola ride up to Bob’s Peak, where you can soak in insane views before jumping on the Skyline Luge – basically Mario Kart, but real. While you're there, why not take on the stunning views and go down the fun way – by zipline? If your kids prefer wildlife over racing, head to the Kiwi Birdlife Park, where they can spot the elusive kiwi and other native creatures. Need more? Go on a family-friendly rafting trip, let them burn off energy with a scenic lakeside walk, or visit Walter Peak High Country Farm, where sheep-shearing and farm animals make for a hands-on rural experience. Queenstown is one giant adventure park, and your children will love every second.
Snow Fun & Winter Activities
When the snow starts falling, Queenstown turns into a winter wonderland. Whether you’re carving up the slopes at Coronet Peak or The Remarkables, trying snowboarding for the first time (good luck with that tailbone), or simply enjoying the après-ski vibes, there’s something for every snow lover. If downhill action isn’t your thing, try ice skating at Queenstown Ice Arena, take a scenic winter cruise on Lake Wakatipu, or explore cross-country skiing at Snow Farm. Winter in Queenstown = snow, adventure, and cozy vibes galore.
Our recommendations:
- Hit Cardrona Ski Resort, halfway between Queenstown and Wānaka. Have a look at their Refresher or Beginner package for one or multiple days to save on a lesson, rentals, and lift ticket combo.
- Go heli-skiing in a remote section of the Southern Alps with Harris Mountains Heliski or Alpine Heli Ski.
- Skip the drive, and go on a Flight & Cruise to Milford Sound for the best perspective on the eighth wonder of the world.
- Get to know the diverse and rugged landscape of the Southern Alps, Milford Sound and Earnslaw Burn on the Fiordland's finest helicopter tour with Heliworks Queenstown. Land 10-15 minutes at each location to soak it in!
- Get truly out there and explore New Zealand's backcountry by snowmobile or snowshoes.
- Go all in and ski on the Tasman Glacier for the ultimate winter experience!
Wine & Food – Because You’ve Earned It
After all those adrenaline spikes, you deserve some top-tier food and wine. Queenstown delivers on both. Start with a wine tour in Gibbston Valley, home to some of the world’s best pinot noir (scientifically proven to taste even better after a day of extreme sports). Take things up a notch with wine and cheese pairings at boutique wineries, or go all out with a scenic lunch cruise on Lake Whakatipu. Back in town, you’ll find everything from casual lakeside eats to fine-dining experiences showcasing fresh, local ingredients. And don’t forget a quick trip to Arrowtown, a charming gold rush town with killer cafes, high-end restaurants, and even more outstanding wine. Put simply, if your plan is to eat and drink your way through Queenstown, you’re in for a treat.
Hiking & Walks – Work Off That Wine
Queenstown is a hiker’s dream, with jaw-dropping trails for all levels. If you want mind-blowing alpine views, take on the Ben Lomond Track; it’s tough, but the 360° views are worth every step. Short on time? The Queenstown Hill Walk is a quicker option with equally epic vistas. Looking for something chill? Try the Sunshine Bay Track, a relaxing lakeside stroll. Further afield, Arrowtown’s riverside trails offer a mix of history and scenery, while the Kelvin Peninsula Track gives you stunning waterfront views. Whether you’re into heart-pounding climbs or lazy lakeside wanders, Queenstown’s got a trail with your name on it.
Here are some popular hikes and their details:
Queenstown
- Queenstown Hill Time Walk: A moderate hike with panoramic views over Lake Whakatipu and the Remarkables.
- Ben Lomond Track: A challenging full-day hike offering stunning summit views of the Southern Alps.
- Sunshine Bay Track: A short, scenic walk along the lakefront leading to a secluded bay.
Kelvin Heights
- Kelvin Heights Peninsula Trail: A picturesque lakeside walk with sculptures and views of Queenstown.
- Jardine Park Loop: A short, easy trail through native bush with views of the Remarkables.
Arrowtown
- Arrow River Trail: A scenic riverside walk with gold-mining history and beautiful willow trees.
- Tobins Track: A short but steep climb with rewarding views over Arrowtown and the Whakatipu Basin.
- Sawpit Gully Track: A moderate loop with a mix of forest, open ridges, and historic gold-mining sites.
Frankton
- Frankton Arm Walkway: A relaxing lakeside path connecting Queenstown Gardens to Frankton Beach.
- Lake Hayes Walkway: A peaceful loop around Lake Hayes with reflections of the surrounding mountains.
Each of these trails offers a unique way to experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Queenstown region!
Cycling & Mountain Biking – Two Wheels, Endless Thrills
Queenstown's got you covered if you prefer your adventure on two wheels. Queenstown Trail is perfect for cruisy rides, taking you through scenic lakeside paths, vineyards, and countryside. For more speed and adrenaline, head to Skyline Queenstown Bike Park, home to world-class downhill trails (bonus: you can skip the uphill part with a gondola ride). Love single tracks? Rude Rock on Coronet Peak is a local favorite, with fast, flowing trails and epic views. Seven Mile Bike Park is another great spot, offering a mix of winding forest tracks and jumps. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider, Queenstown’s biking scene is pure gold.
Here are a few cycling trails for beginners and intermediates:
- Queenstown Trail: A scenic network of easy-to-moderate trails linking Queenstown, Arrowtown, and Gibbston Valley.
- Kelvin Peninsula Trail: A flowing lakeside track with stunning views and gentle terrain, which you can link to Jack’s Point (that part is more advanced).
- Lake Hayes Loop: A smooth, scenic ride around Lake Hayes, perfect for beginners.
- Arrow River Bridges Trail: A beautiful ride through Arrowtown’s gold-mining history and across scenic bridges.
Mountain biker? These will be right up your alley:
- Skyline Queenstown Bike Park: With direct gondola access from town, this world-renowned bike park has downhill trails ranging from flowy to technical. You can even e-bike to the Ben Lomond Saddle if you want to escape the crowds.
- Rude Rock Trail: A legendary single track with epic views and a mix of fast-flowing and technical sections on Coronet Peak.
- Hot Rod & Zoot Track: Fast, flowy trails with berms and jumps, starting from Coronet Peak.
- Pack Track & Sack Trail: A technical, steep descent through native forest from Coronet Peak.
- Seven Mile Bike Park: A mix of winding forest tracks, jumps, and flow trails near Queenstown.
How to Spend a Rainy Day (No, It’s Not a Write-Off)
Rainy day? No problem. Queenstown’s got plenty of indoor fun. Get your heart racing with indoor skydiving at iFLY, or test your puzzle-solving skills in an escape room. Need to chill? Visit the Onsen Hot Pools, where you can soak in steaming pools while watching the rain over the mountains (highly recommended). The Winery offers cosy wine tastings featuring Central Otago’s best vintages, while movie buffs can escape the weather at Dorothy Browns Cinema, complete with plush seating and a wine bar. For families, indoor mini-golf, ice skating, and virtual reality experiences keep kids entertained. So, rain or shine, Queenstown never disappoints.
Golfing – Yes, Even the Views Are Better Here
Golf in Queenstown is a whole different level. Jack’s Point Golf Course is an absolute stunner, with an 18-hole course set against a jaw-dropping mountain backdrop. For lakeside vibes, Queenstown Golf Club on Kelvin Peninsula offers gorgeous scenery with a slightly more relaxed layout. Arrowtown Golf Club is another gem, set in rolling countryside with a historic feel. Whether you’re a golf pro or just here for the views (we won’t judge), Queenstown’s courses promise an unforgettable round.
Queenstown isn’t just a destination – it’s an experience. Whether you’re throwing yourself off a ledge, sipping world-class wine, or simply soaking in the views, one thing’s for sure: you’ll never be bored here. Pack your sense of adventure, your appetite, and maybe a bit of courage. You’ll need it!
