Welcome to Queenstown, New Zealand — adventure capital of the world! Whether you want to experience world-famous adventure activities, discover incredible South Island scenery, or simply take things slow, you’ll find something for everyone here.
Check our list of the 25 top things to do in Queenstown below.
Essential info for your Queenstown trip
How many days do you need in Queenstown?
To maximise your Queenstown experience, we recommend you stay at least four to five days. This gives you enough time to explore the stunning landscapes, partake in thrilling outdoor activities, indulge in local cuisine, and soak in the town’s vibrant atmosphere without feeling rushed.
If it’s your first time visiting Queenstown, check out our full Queenstown itinerary for an in-depth plan! We also have a guide on Queenstown accommodation that details the local suburbs and a couple of great places to stay.
What is Queenstown well-known for?
Queenstown is best known for its wealth of adventure activities. Visitors come from around the globe to enjoy exciting activities like bungy jumping, sky diving and jet boating, all surrounded by the spectacular scenery of the Southern Alps. Queenstown also boasts a vibrant culinary scene and is a gateway to Central Otago, the world’s southernmost wine region.
How do I get around Queenstown?
Flying in? The Queenstown Airport is just a short drive from downtown Queenstown along State Highway 6A, taking approximately 10–20 minutes depending on the day. Many people hire a rental car to explore the surrounding region; if you’re planning to drive, check out our guide on parking in Queenstown.
You can also get around Queenstown and Arrowtown via bus. With a registered Bee Card, adult bus fares are just $2.50 a ride, while youth fares are $1.50 or less. You can pick up a Bee Card at the Paper Plus in Queenstown Airport or at the iSite Visitor Centre in central Queenstown.
8 adventure things to do in Queenstown
1. Race down the Luge tracks at Skyline Queenstown
Image credit: Skyline Queenstown
Take the Skyline Gondola to Bob’s Peak for the best views of The Remarkables mountain range and stunning Lake Wakatipu. Feel the adrenaline rush of the Luge as you twist and turn across two thrilling tracks. Once you’re feeling peckish, unwind with a meal at the Stratosfare Restaurant and Bar or the Skyline Café & Bar.
2. Hit the slopes at one of Queenstown’s ski and snowboarding fields
Image credit: queenstownnz.co.nz
When winter hits, the fun keeps going on the ski fields. Glide down Queenstown’s world-class ski resorts and snowboarding fields like Coronet Peak, Cardrona, and the Remarkables Ski Fields, surrounded by stunning scenery.
3. Get your adrenaline pumping on a jet boat tour
Image credit: kjet.co.nz
You’ll find a host of jet boat operators offering jet boat tours on Lake Wakatipu, the Kawarau River, and the Shotover River. Speed through narrow canyons, execute exhilarating spins, and navigate the twists and turns of these pristine rivers.
4. Feel the thrill of a bungy jump or giant swing
Image credit: expedia.com
Plunge into the unknown from iconic jump sites like the historic Kawarau Bridge Bungy or the thrilling 134 metre high Nevis Bungy platform. Or, experience the rush of the Shotover Canyon Swing, suspended above stunning landscapes.
5. Have a downhill mountain biking adventure
Image credit: Skyline Queenstown
Some of the best cycle trails in Central Queenstown start at Skyline. From late September to mid-May, you can easily get to the top with the Mountain Bike Uplift, the first Gondola-assisted service of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. No worries if you don’t have your own mount – you’ll find plenty of bikes available to hire. Whether you’re a seasoned biker or a novice, Queenstown offers mountain biking adventures suitable for all levels.
6. Zip across the Kawarau Gorge at epic speeds
Image credit: queenstownnz.co.nz
Soar through the stunning Kawarau Gorge on the Kawarau Zipride. Experience breathtaking views of canyon walls and the turquoise river below as you glide at speeds over 60km/h. With three 130m lines right next to each other, you’ll make great memories with friends or family!
7. Dive into Lake Wakaitpu with the Hydro Attack shark ride
Buckle up for a thrilling water activity unlike anything else in New Zealand. Reaching speeds up to 80 km/h, this jet-powered shark ride lets you speed across, dive under, and jump over Lake Wakatipu!
8. Swerve your way down Cardrona in a mountain cart
Cardrona might be known as a skiing destination, but come summer, it’s grounds for Australasia’s only mountain carting experience. Race down three different trails with epic alpine views, then take the ski lift back up and do it again.
9 scenic Queenstown attractions
9. Enjoy spectacular landscapes on the vintage TSS Earnslaw cruise ship
Image credit: RealNZ
A TSS Earnslaw cruise is a must-do activity in Queenstown. Admire the snow-capped peaks piercing the horizon as you glide across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm.
10. Soak up incredible views from Onsen Hot Pools
Image credit: onsen.co.nz
Rejuvenation meets indulgence at the Onsen Hot Pools, one of the best hot pools in Queenstown. Relax in soothing thermal waters with sweeping views of majestic snow-capped mountains and the Shotover River.
11. Conquer the epic Ben Lomond Track
Image credit: Skyline Queenstown
The Ben Lomond route begins just 10 minutes from the town centre, making it easy to start. But at 1,748 m high, this Queenstown walk is a major challenge spanning 6-8 hours. Cross through untamed landscapes of alpine tussock, with spectacular, region-wide views at the peak.
If you want to save an hour on the trip, skip the Tiki Trail hike and take the Skyline Gondola up to Bob’s Peak. Read our guide to hiking the Ben Lomond Track for more information.
12. Gain a new perspective on a scenic helicopter flight
Image credit: queenstownhelicopters.nz
Marvel at some of Queenstown’s very best views from remote locations inaccessible by foot or car. A scenic flight creates memories that linger long after you’ve touched down. Popular destinations include landing points on The Remarkables, Cecil Peak, and Skippers Canyon.
13. Discover the scenery behind The Lord of the Rings with a Queenstown movie location tour
Image credit: Bernard Spragg
Some of the most popular Queenstown tourist attractions include the real-world Lord of the Rings filming locations that brought Middle-Earth to life. Satisfy your inner Tolkienite with a guided tour of scenic spots like the Kawarau River (Anduin River), The Remarkables Mountain range (Misty Mountains), and Deer Park Heights (Rohan).
14. Bask in scenic views from New Zealand’s only floating sauna
Image credit: Wildfolk Photography
Join a session at the Watershed Sauna and take in the serene views of Lake Wakatipu as you soak in the heat. Once you’ve sweated it out, jump into the cold plunge pool, cut directly out of the floor into the lake.
15. Explore the southern sky at night on Skyline’s stargazing tour
Image credit: Skyline Queenstown
Gaze upwards for shooting stars, constellations, and distant planets from the vantage point of Bob’s Peak. Skyline’s 60-minute guided Stargazing tour reveals the mysteries of the night sky through 11” Celestron telescopes. Sip on a cosy hot chocolate or mulled wine at the Stratosfare Bar after the experience.
16. Turn back time with a visit to Arrowtown
Image credit: arrowtown.com
Step back in time to this quaint village on the banks of the Arrow River. Cobbled streets, preserved cottages, and a rich gold rush heritage provide a unique backdrop to experience a bygone era.
17. Take a day trip to the iconic Milford Sound
Image credit: newzealand.com
The scenic drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound is one of the most beautiful in New Zealand. Drive by breathtaking scenic spots like the Devil’s Staircase, Lake Te Anau, and the Homer Tunnel, before witnessing the towering fjord cliffs and cascading waterfalls of the Milford Sound itself.
8 activities to do in Queenstown for non-adrenaline junkies
18. Try free fudge at the iconic Remarkables Sweet Shop
Image credit: Jamie Cobel
With three locations in the Queenstown area, you won’t be able to resist visiting the Remarkables Sweet Shop. Browse through shelves of nostalgic Kiwi sweets, popular international brands, and mouthwatering fudge that you can even taste-test for free.
19. Pan for gold at the Goldfields Mining Centre
Image credit: goldfieldsmining.co.nz
Get your hands dirty searching for real gold at this mining heritage site near Queenstown. Learn about the region’s gold rush history while trying your luck at gold panning.
20. Sip your way through Queenstown’s wine and brewery scene
Image credit: gibbstonvalley.com
Take a self-guided wine tour to sample the best wineries in Queenstown, or leave the car behind and book a guided tour through the Gibbston Valley wine region. Alternatively, take a craft beer tour and spend a few hours hitting Queenstown’s breweries.
21. Play disc golf in the Queenstown Gardens
Image credit: queenstownnz.co.nz
Looking for Queenstown activities where you can engage with the locals? Disc golf combines the joy of golf with the precision of frisbee. With stunning mountain and lake views, playing the Queenstown Gardens disc golf course adds an element of leisurely enjoyment to your action-packed New Zealand itinerary.
22. Drink and dine on the shores of Lake Wakatipu
Image credit: queenstownnz.co.nz
Lakeside dining is an experience that indulges both the palate and the senses. Many of Queenstown’s best restaurants are located on the waterfront or a close walk away — try Botswana Butchery for gourmet dining or Erik’s Fish & Chips for a classic Kiwi dinner with a side of good vibes.
23. Learn about Queentown’s history at the Lakes District Museum
Image credit: arrowtown.com
Delve into Queenstown’s rich heritage, from its original Māori inhabitants to the gold rush and early European settlement. The Lakes District Museum, located in Arrowtown, offers authentic exhibits and gold panning experiences. It’s a fun, all-ages Queenstown activity if you’re after something a little quieter.
24. Join in the nightlife on a guided pub crawl
Experience Queenstown’s vibrant social scene on a massive pub crawl with Big Night Out or Kiwi Crawl. Meet fellow travellers while enjoying craft drinks and the energetic atmosphere that makes Friday nights unforgettable! There are even pub crawls focused specifically on Queenstown’s three ice bars.
25. Tee off at one of Queenstown’s renowned golf courses
Image credit: queenstownnz.co.nz
Queenstown’s six golf courses are a dream come true for those who find solace in the greens. Tee off amidst natural splendour, with each swing accompanied by breathtaking views.
Discover more fun things to do around Queenstown
Want to explore even more Queenstown to-dos for your next trip? See our guides on the best things to do in Queenstown at night and best things to do in Queenstown with kids.
For epic outdoor activities with incredible views of downtown and beyond, visit Skyline Queenstown. Your next adventure awaits!