24 Best Things To Do In Queenstown (2026) — Real Tips, Wild Rides & Hidden Gems
I’ll be honest: the first time I arrived in Queenstown, I was completely overwhelmed. For such a small town, it packs in more activities, tours, and thrill-seeking adventures than most major cities.
Since then, I’ve been back multiple times, in both winter and summer, and I’ve approached it very differently each time. On my first trip, I didn’t plan much beyond where I was staying, and I ended up booking whatever was still available rather than what I actually wanted to do.
On later trips, I was much more intentional about how I spent my time. That’s when Queenstown really started to stand out as one of my favourite places to visit in New Zealand.
I’ve tried a mix of experiences, including a 15,000ft skydive over Lake Wakatipu, which I never thought I’d do, along with some much lower-key options that ended up being just as memorable.
Unless you’re spending a week or more here, you’ll need to be selective. The key is choosing the things that are actually worth your time.
I’ve pulled together the best things to do in Queenstown, with a focus on what to prioritise based on your time, budget, and travel style.
What to Prioritise in Queenstown (If You Don’t Have Much Time)
If you’re short on time (2–3 days):
Focus on a mix of one key activity, one standout experience, and one day trip.
- Skyline Gondola + luge
- One adrenaline activity (skydive, canyon swing, or jet boat)
- One day trip (Milford Sound or Wānaka)
If you want adrenaline experiences:
Queenstown is known for this, but you don’t need to do everything. Pick one or two.
- Shotover Jet
- Skydive
- Paraglide
- Bungy jump
If you want to keep things easy and low-effort:
These are simple to organise and don’t require much planning or travel time.
- TSS Earnslaw
- Wine Tasting Tour
- Skyline Gondola
- Milford or Doubtful Sound Tour
If you want to explore beyond Queenstown:
- Milford Sound
- Doubtful Sound
- Glenorchy
- Wānaka
If you’re finding it hard to turn this into a day-by-day plan, I’ve put everything into a Queenstown Trip Planner that walks you through what to prioritise and how to organise your time.
You can see what’s included here: Queenstown Trip Planner
The Experiences Most People Prioritise in Queenstown
1. Jet Boating in Queenstown (An Easy Adrenaline Activity)
If you want a fast-paced activity without committing half a day, jet boating is one of the easiest options to add to your itinerary.
I’ve done all three main jet boat experiences in Queenstown, and while they’re similar in format, they do feel quite different once you’re on the water.
All of them involve high speeds, sharp turns, and 360° spins, but I’d describe this as more fun than intimidating. You’ll probably laugh more than you scream.
The rides aren’t especially long, but that’s normal across all operators and still feels like enough time once you’re out there.
Which jet boat should you choose?
Shotover Jet
This is the one I’d recommend. It runs through narrow canyon walls, which makes the spins feel faster and more dramatic. It also includes a shuttle from central Queenstown, so it’s very easy to fit into your day.
KJet
Departs directly from town and runs across Lake Wakatipu and the Kawarau River. It’s the most convenient option if you don’t want to leave the centre, but the setting is more open so it feels slightly less intense.
Dart River Adventures (Dart River Jet)
This one is further out near Glenorchy and feels more like a scenic experience alongside the adrenaline. It’s a longer trip and takes more time to get to, so it works better if you’re already planning to head in that direction.
Skippers Canyon Jet
This one is more about the remote setting and the journey in than just the ride. The access road is narrow with steep drops, and private vehicles aren’t allowed, so you’ll go by shuttle.
If you’re nervous about heights, it’s something to be aware of, but you’re not driving yourself and the drivers are very experienced.
Quick take
If you want the most memorable overall experience, go with Shotover Jet.
If convenience is your priority, KJet is the easiest to slot into your plans.
If you want something more scenic and don’t mind the extra time, Dart River is worth considering.
✅ Book your Shotover Jet ride here — speed, spins, and scenery guaranteed.
2. Milford Sound (A Full-Day, High-Impact Experience)
If you only have time for one big day trip from Queenstown, this is usually the one people choose.
I’ve done Milford Sound multiple times as a self-drive from Te Anau rather than Queenstown. If you’re staying in Queenstown, I’d strongly recommend a tour instead of driving yourself. It’s a long, tiring day otherwise.
Once you’re there, you’ll take a cruise through the fiord, passing waterfalls, steep cliffs, seals, or occasionally even dolphins.
What to know before you book
- It’s a long day from Queenstown
Whether you drive or take a coach, this will take up most of your day - Tours are the easiest option
Transport, timing, and logistics are all handled for you - Scenic flights save time (but cost more)
Much shorter overall, plus you get aerial views of Fiordland - Weather changes the experience, not the value
I’ve been in both sunshine and rain. Rain actually makes the waterfalls more dramatic, so it’s not something I’d stress about - It can get busy
This is one of the most visited places in New Zealand, so expect other boats - Road access can be affected by severe weather
There’s only one road in and out. If conditions are bad enough, tours can be cancelled (not common, but possible)
Is it worth it?
For most first-time visitors, yes.
But it’s not the only option, and it’s not always the best fit depending on how you want to spend your time.
If you’re deciding between the two fiords, I’ve broken that down properly here:
→ Milford Sound vs Doubtful Sound
And if you’re trying to figure out the best way to actually do it (self-drive vs coach vs scenic flight), this guide walks through your options and what each one involves:
→ How to get to Milford Sound
Quick take
- Best if you want a classic New Zealand experience and don’t mind a long day
- Skip or reconsider if you’re short on time or prefer a slower pace
Tip: If you’re driving, fill up in Te Anau. There’s nowhere to refuel between there and Milford Sound.
✅ Book your tour from Queenstown to Milford Sound here! These trips sell out early, so don’t leave it too late!
Also worth considering:
👉 Doubtful Sound – Quieter and less touristy, with equally stunning scenery. I cover that option further down in this post.
3. Skyline Gondola & Luge (Easy to Fit Into Any Itinerary)
This is one of the easiest activities to include in your Queenstown itinerary.
Skyline Queenstown takes you up above the town for views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. It’s quick to do, right in the centre, and easy to fit around everything else.
I’ve done this on multiple visits, and it’s one of the few things I’d recommend to almost everyone. You can keep it simple and just go up for the views, or spend longer up there depending on how much time you have.
Don’t skip the luge
The luge is what turns this from a viewpoint into an actual activity.
I’ve done it a few times, and here’s what I wish I’d known: your first ride is always on the “easy” track, no matter what ticket you buy or whether you’ve done it before.
It’s how they check you can steer and brake safely, but it also means you’ll want at least three rides so you can properly try the steeper tracks. The advanced track is noticeably more fun.
What to know before you go
- Buy luge rides with your gondola ticket
It’s much cheaper to bundle them at the bottom. You can add more later, but you’ll pay more per ride. - Go earlier or later in the day if you can
It gets busy, especially in peak season and mid-afternoon. - You don’t need to spend hours here
You can be up and down in about 1–2 hours, which makes it one of the easiest things to fit into a short trip.
Quick take
- One of the best low-effort activities in Queenstown
- Worth doing even if you’re not interested in adrenaline activities
- The luge is what makes it stand out, so don’t skip it
4. Wine Tasting
If you’re not interested in adrenaline activities or don’t want a long day trip, wine tasting is one of the best alternatives.
Queenstown sits in the Central Otago wine region, known for Pinot Noir. I’ve done a few wine tasting tours here across different trips, and it’s something I’ve come back to more than once.
How to do it
- Join a guided wine tour (recommended)
This is the easiest option. Transport is included, and you’ll visit a few wineries without needing to plan anything yourself - Be realistic about timing
Most tours are labelled as half-day, but they usually run mid-morning to mid-afternoon. In practice, this ends up being your main activity for the day
What the experience is like
On the tours I’ve done, stops typically include places like:
- Gibbston Valley Winery
One of the best-known wineries, with a wine cave tour and a well-established setup - Kinross
My personal favourite. More low-key, and they also pour wines from smaller producers without their own cellar doors
The exact wineries will vary depending on the tour, but this gives you a good idea of what to expect.
If you don’t want to commit to a tour, The Winery in central Queenstown is a good alternative. You can taste at your own pace and choose between small pours, half-glasses, or full glasses. Just keep an eye on your spending, it adds up quickly.
✅ Book your Queenstown wine tasting tour here!
Quick take
- Best if you want a slower, more relaxed afternoon
- A good alternative to adrenaline activities or long day trips
- Usually takes up most of the day, even if it’s labelled as half-day
Thrilling Activities Worth The Nerves!
5. Skydive in Queenstown (The Biggest Adrenaline Experience)
If you’re going to do one adrenaline activity in Queenstown, this is the one people build their trip around.
I’ve done the 15,000ft skydive twice with NZONE Skydive Queenstown, and it’s still one of the most memorable things I’ve done in New Zealand.
The build-up is honestly the hardest part. On my first jump, I remember sitting in the plane thinking, why are the doors opening? why am I being guided towards them? despite knowing exactly what I’d signed up for.
Once you’re out, it doesn’t feel like a dropping sensation in the way you might expect. It’s more like being suspended in strong wind. Then the parachute opens, everything slows down, and you get time to take in the views over Lake Wakatipu and the mountains.
(I’ve included a video of my jump so you can see exactly what it’s like.)
Yes, that’s me jumping out of a perfectly good plane!
12,000ft vs 15,000ft
I’ve done the highest jump twice, but if I did it again, I’d probably go for 12,000ft.
- 15,000ft gives you a longer freefall, but it’s more expensive
- At that height, you may need oxygen in the plane
- I also had some ear pain from the pressure on my most recent jump
12,000ft is cheaper, still gives you a proper freefall experience, and is likely enough for most people.
What to know before you book
- Photos and videos cost extra (but are worth it)
I paid for them, and I’m glad I did. It’s one of those things you’ll want to look back on. - You might feel wiped out afterwards
After my jump, I had a bit of an adrenaline crash. I didn’t feel like eating much, needed a nap, and had a very light dinner. I was completely fine the next day. - Try to keep your mouth closed
Once it’s open, you’ll get the flapping cheeks in your videos. Not exactly the look most people are going for. Which is exactly why I have kept the video of my second skydive to myself! - Book it for the beginning of your stay
Skydiving is highly weather dependent. If it is raining or too cloudy it’ll be cancelled and you’ll be offered either a refund or the chance to re-book. If you plan it for your last day, re-booking won’t be an option.
Quick take
- Best if you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience
- The anticipation is worse than the jump itself
- 12,000ft is a solid option if you want to save money
✅ Book your Queenstown skydive with NZONE — unbeatable views, expert instructors, pure adrenaline.
6. Paragliding in Queenstown (A Step Up Without the Full Commitment)
If you like the idea of skydiving but aren’t sure you’re ready for it, paragliding is a good place to start.
I did this a couple of years before my skydive, and it ended up being a really good stepping stone. You still get the height and the views, but without the intensity of jumping out of a plane.
I went with GForce Paragliding, which launches from the top of the Skyline gondola and glides down towards Queenstown.
What to know before you book
- You need a gondola ticket separately
Flights from Skyline don’t include the gondola, so you’ll need to factor that into your cost - You can’t go back up after your flight
Once you land, that’s it. If you’re planning to do the luge or spend time at the top, do that first - It’s calmer than you might expect
Compared to skydiving, this feels much more controlled. It’s more about the glide than the adrenaline - Weather matters
Conditions need to be right for take-off, so there’s always a chance of delays or rescheduling
Other options
There are also other paragliding companies in Queenstown that launch from different locations, often further out from the town centre.
These can offer slightly different views or flight styles, but I haven’t personally done those, so I’d recommend checking recent reviews and logistics (especially transport) before booking.
What it feels like
Take-off is the only slightly intense part. After that, it’s surprisingly smooth.
You’re essentially floating over Queenstown, with views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains the whole way down. It feels more like a scenic experience than a thrill ride.
Quick take
- Best if you want something adventurous without going all-in on adrenaline
- A good stepping stone before skydiving
- Easy to combine with Skyline, just make sure you do everything else first
7. Bungy Jumping
Queenstown is where commercial bungy jumping started, so if this is on your list, there’s no better place to do it.
There are a few different bungy options around Queenstown, each with a slightly different feel depending on height and setting.
The main bungy options
- AJ Hackett Bungy Kawarau Bridge (43m)
The original bungy jump. Lower height, but still a proper jump. A good option if you’re nervous or doing it for the first time - Nevis Bungy (134m)
The highest bungy in New Zealand. This is the one people choose if they want the biggest possible adrenaline hit
What to know before you book
- This is more intense than most other activities
Unlike jet boating or paragliding, there’s no gradual build-up. You’re stepping off a platform and dropping - The setting makes a big difference
Nevis feels remote and high-exposure, while Kawarau is lower and more accessible - Transport is often included
Especially for Nevis, which is further out and requires a shuttle to reach the site
Is it worth it?
If bungy jumping is something you’ve always wanted to do, Queenstown is one of the best places in the world to do it.
But it’s also one of the most intense experiences here, so it’s not something everyone will enjoy in the same way as other activities.
Quick take
- Best if bungy jumping is already on your bucket list
- Kawarau = more manageable first jump
- Nevis = biggest adrenaline experience
8. Canyon Swing
If the idea of bungy jumping feels like too much, the canyon swing is often seen as a slightly more approachable alternative.
Instead of dropping straight down, you jump out and swing in a large arc across the canyon. You still get the height and speed, but the motion feels different from a vertical fall.
What to know before you book
- It’s still a high-adrenaline activity
You’re falling off a platform into open space, so it’s not exactly “easy”, but many people find it less intense than a full bungy - The motion is different to bungy
There’s an initial drop, but then it turns into a swing rather than a straight fall - You can choose how you jump
You can go forwards or backwards, depending on how intense you want it to feel - You don’t need to do it alone
It can be done solo or tandem, so you can share the experience
Is it worth it?
If you want something that still feels like a big experience but don’t love the idea of a full vertical drop, this is often a good middle ground.
It’s still a proper adrenaline activity though, so it depends on your comfort level.
Quick take
Still requires a bit of nerve
Best if you want a high-adrenaline experience without doing a bungy
Different feel to skydiving and jet boating
9. Skiing
I’ll be honest – I know next to nothing about skiing. My parents put me in a class on holiday in France when I was about 5, and it ended in tears. Having said that, it is a very popular Queenstown activity in winter.
Even if you’re not planning your whole trip around it, it’s something you’ll can try once the season starts.
The main ski fields
- Coronet Peak
The closest to Queenstown and the easiest to access. This is usually the most popular option, especially for shorter trips - The Remarkables
Slightly further out, with a mix of beginner and intermediate terrain
There’s also Treble Cone and Cardrona Alpine Resort near Wānaka.
What to know before you plan it in
- It’s very seasonal
Ski season typically runs from June to early October, depending on snow conditions - It takes most of the day
Even though the fields are relatively close, transport, lift passes, and time on the mountain mean this isn’t something you can easily combine with other activities - You don’t need your own gear
Rental equipment is available if you don’t have your own - Transport is a factor
You can drive, but many people use shuttle services from town instead
Is it worth it?
If you’re already planning a winter trip and enjoy skiing or snowboarding, it’s an easy addition to your itinerary.
If you’re not a skier, it’s not something you need to build your trip around. Queenstown has plenty of other activities that don’t depend on the season.
Quick take
- Best if you’re visiting in winter and already ski or snowboard
- Not essential if you’re visiting outside ski season
- Takes up most of a full day
Relaxed Queenstown Activities for Chilled Days
10. Lake Wakatipu TSS Earnslaw Cruise
If you want something slower-paced that still feels like a proper Queenstown experience, this is one of the easiest options to add to your itinerary.
The TSS Earnslaw is a historic steamship that crosses Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm.
What the experience is like
You board in central Queenstown and cruise across the lake, with time to walk around the ship, grab a drink, and take in the views.
When you book, you’ll choose between:
- Cruise only
A return journey on the lake without visiting the farm - Walter Peak farm experience + lunch or dinner
This includes the cruise, a gourmet BBQ meal, and a farm show once you arrive
What to know before you book
- You need to choose your experience in advance
It’s not something you can easily switch on the day, so decide whether you want just the cruise or the full farm experience when booking - It’s very easy to organise
Departs from central Queenstown and runs multiple times a day - It’s a good break from adrenaline activities
This is one of the few options that’s purely about slowing down rather than doing more
Is it worth it?
If your itinerary is already quite full or adrenaline-heavy, this is a nice way to balance things out.
If you’re short on time, it’s more of a “nice to have” than a must-do.
Quick take
- A good contrast to Queenstown’s more intense activities
- Best if you want something low-effort and scenic
- Easy to fit into most itineraries
I have a full guide to the TSS Earnslaw cruise experience for more information.
✅ Book your Lake Wakatipu cruise — scenic views and classic Queenstown charm.
11. Queenstown Gardens
If you’re in need of a breather between Queenstown’s higher-octane activities, Queenstown Gardens is the perfect low-effort reset button. It’s just a short walk from the town centre, and offers a peaceful loop track with lake views, ducks and the occasional paddle boarder by the shore.
I’ve walked through the gardens a couple of times — and while it’s not a must-do in the grand scheme of Queenstown, it’s a nice way to slow down for an hour or two. You’ll likely see locals playing frisbee golf or relaxing with a coffee, and it’s a good spot to get a different view of the lake.
Speaking of coffee – for a list of the best cafes check out my guide to the best coffee in Queenstown!
Good to Know:
- You can easily combine this with a coffee stop or lazy lakefront stroll.
- The gardens are mostly flat and well-maintained, so they’re suitable for all fitness levels.
- Bring snacks and relax by the lake if the weather’s good.
12. Below Zero Ice Bar
If wine tasting isn’t your thing, an alternative would be Below Zero Ice Bar in Queenstown’s town centre.
With a selection of cocktails and mocktails, wrap up in the gear they provide and enjoy your drink sitting on ice furniture, drinking from an ice glass made on an ice bar.
Unlike some other ice bars in other countries, children can join the adults. It’s not a long experience as you are limited on the time you can spend in there, but it is a fun option for a different type of drinking experience.
13. Helicopter Ride
If you want to see Queenstown and the surrounding landscapes from a completely different perspective, a helicopter flight is one of the most memorable ways to do it.
I’ve done this once on a slightly discounted last-minute ticket. Even for a short flight, it’s one of the more expensive activities in Queenstown, but the views and the landing experience make it feel very different from anything you can do on the ground.
What to know before you book
- Flights are short but cover a lot
Most experiences last around 20–60 minutes, but you’ll see a huge amount in that time - Landings are a big part of the experience
Many flights include a stop on a mountain or in a remote alpine area, which is what makes it feel more than just a scenic flight - It’s expensive, even for shorter options
Prices are high compared to most other activities, so it’s usually something people choose as a one-off experience - Last-minute deals do sometimes exist
That’s how I ended up doing mine, but I wouldn’t rely on it if this is something you really want to include - Weather matters
Flights depend on visibility and conditions, so delays or cancellations are possible
Is it worth it?
If you have the budget, this is one of the most unique ways to experience Queenstown and the surrounding landscapes.
That said, if your New Zealand itinerary also includes Franz Josef Glacier or Fox Glacier, I’d personally save your money for a helicopter experience there. The glacier landings and views of Aoraki Mount Cook tend to feel more distinctive.
Quick take
- Best if you want a high-impact experience in a short amount of time
- Very different perspective compared to everything else on this list
- Consider saving it for Franz Josef or Fox Glacier if you’re heading there
Unmissable Queenstown Day Trips — Self-Drive and Tours
14. Lake Pukaki and Mount Cook
If you can rent a car and have time to make a slightly longer day trip, I recommend checking out Lake Pukaki.
I’ve never seen water as blue as that lake. As you drive through the area you round a corner, suddenly in front of you is a stunning turquoise lake with a beautiful view of Mount Cook.
The colour of the water is due to particles in the water that runs off the glacier, and it really is a stunning place. It’s about a 2 1/2 hour drive from Queenstown to Lake Pukaki, so fairly manageable for a day trip if you don’t mind doing some driving.
15. Puzzling World
About an hour’s drive from Queenstown is Puzzling World, just outside Wanaka. It’s a fun choice for all but especially people with kids. It’s essentially a museum dedicated to optical illusions.
It’s great both for photo opportunities and also to keep kids entertained trying to understand how the illusions work – both fun and educational.
It also has a very complicated maze – with four coloured towers that you need to visit before heading back to the exit. The maze has bridges that take you to different sections and it’s harder than it looks from outside.
I’ll admit it took me quite a long time to do it, and I spent a lot of it annoyed with myself for leaving my water in the car as it was very hot that day!
16. Arrowtown
If you’re interested in local history then take a trip from Queenstown over to Arrowtown. It’s a historic gold mining town with cottages, shops and restaurants to explore.
You can even rent a gold pan to try your luck in the river. There are also golf courses nearby if that takes your fancy.
Arrowtown also has an area dedicated to the historic Chinese settlement, an area where the Chinese workers who arrived during the gold rush lived.
The living quarters show how different their lives were compared to the local New Zealanders who mined in Arrowtown.
Arrowtown also has a museum that I was pleasantly surprised by. The Lakes District Museum doesn’t look that impressive from the outside, but it has a lower level that I couldn’t see so it’s much bigger than I realised. It looks at the regions history from early settlers to modern times.
There is also a small exhibition space in the lobby where artists can show and sell their work. I cam away with a beautiful print that the artist signed for me.
17. Glenorchy
The drive to Glenorchy is reason enough to visit — often called one of the world’s most scenic drives, it winds along Lake Wakatipu, with the Remarkables and other mountain ranges towering above.
Glenorchy itself is small, but it’s the gateway to some of the region’s best outdoor adventures. My top recommendation? The zip line tour that takes you through the forest, over streams and waterfalls, all with stunning mountain views.
Even if you’re not doing an activity, the drive alone makes this trip worth it.
Tip: It’s only about 45 minutes from Queenstown, so easy to do as a half-day trip — perfect if you want epic scenery without a full-day commitment.
If you don’t have a car, consider visiting Glenorchy as part of a Lord of the Rings tour, which includes the same scenic drive and stops at famous filming locations.
18. Wanaka
Many people choose to stay in Wanaka for a night as a separate destination, but it also makes a fantastic day trip from Queenstown.
Wanaka’s great for coffee and a lakeside stroll — ideal if you want a quieter break from Queenstown’s adventure scene.
The town itself is lovely, but the real star is Lake Wanaka, home to the famously photogenic Wanaka Tree — a solitary willow growing right out of the lake.
I’ve visited a few times, and honestly? It doesn’t always look as dramatic as Instagram suggests, especially when the water levels are low. But even on those days, Wanaka is still worth the visit for its relaxing vibe and mountain views.
Drive tips:
There are two main routes from Queenstown to Wanaka:
- The Crown Range Road is the shorter, more scenic option, with sweeping mountain views. But it also has a section of tight, steep hairpin bends down the side of a mountain. It’s safe in good conditions, but I personally wouldn’t drive it in bad weather or if the road might be icy.
- In those cases, take the longer route via Cromwell — still beautiful, but with gentler roads.
My Wanaka essentials:
- Grab a morning flat white from The Coffee Shack — their coffee is excellent and it’s right next to Charlie Brown’s food truck, which does incredible crepes (sweet and savory).
- Walk the lakefront path for peaceful views and fresh air — it’s easy terrain and a good way to stretch your legs.
- Browse local shops or galleries in town if you’re into design or handmade gifts.
Some visitors prefer to visit Wanaka instead of Queenstown, but in my experience if comparing Queenstown and Wanaka, Queenstown is the better choice.
19. Lord Of The Rings Tour
If you’re a Lord of the Rings fan (or just love stunning scenery), a dedicated LOTR tour from Queenstown is a must. Even if you haven’t memorized the movies, these tours take you to some of the most beautiful filming locations in the region — think dramatic mountains, rivers, and forested valleys.
Most tours include a drive along the road to Glenorchy, often called one of the world’s most scenic drives, with plenty of stops for photos and short walks.
I love these tours even as a solo traveler — you’ll be with a group, so there’s no stress about transport, and the guides usually have loads of behind-the-scenes movie trivia to keep everyone entertained.
✅ Book your half-day tour or full-day tour – epic film locations and stress-free exploring.
20. Doubtful Sound Day Cruise
If Milford Sound is Queenstown’s most popular day trip, Doubtful Sound is its quieter, wilder cousin — and one of the most special places I’ve visited in New Zealand.
I held off on booking this tour for ages because the logistics sounded complicated (coach > ferry > coach > cruise), but when I finally did it… I immediately wished I’d done it years earlier.
The journey is part of the experience — remote, scenic, and surprisingly smooth. By the time you reach the boat, you’re deep in Fiordland’s heart, surrounded by cliffs, waterfalls, and silence.
It’s more expensive and further away than Milford, but it’s also calmer, less commercial, and feels like true wilderness. The boat itself is spacious, the commentary is low-key and interesting, and you might spot dolphins, seals, or even penguins if you’re lucky.
Good to Know:
- It’s only accessible by tour (no public road).
- You can start from Queenstown, Te Anau, or Manapouri.
- It’s not suitable for wheelchair users, and it’s a long day — keep that in mind if travelling with young kids.
✅ Read my full Doubtful Sound day cruise review
Fun Things to Do in Queenstown for All Travellers
21. Food
Queenstown has an excellent restaurant and cafe scene. Head to Fergburger to try out one of the many burger options – it’s a local institution.
There are several excellent steak restaurants around, and great seafood as well. Head to Patagonia Chocolates right by the lake for sweet treats and a coffee (their ice cream is especially good). Vudu Cafe is an excellent choice for breakfast and coffee.
As Queenstown is by the Remarkables Mountain Range, there are a few places in the town using Remarkable in the name.
My favourite is the Remarkable Sweet Shop. It’s got a huge variety of sweet treats to choose from, but I also just find the name delightful!
22. Kiwi Park
In New Zealand, a kiwi refers to either a person from New Zealand or the bird, but not the fruit (which is specifically called a kiwifruit). The bird is one of several species unique to New Zealand.
For a little bit of nature, wander over to the Kiwi Park, a haven for native species including the iconic kiwi as well as tuatara, kea, tui and several others that you won’t find elsewhere. Kiwis are nocturnal and flightless so you are unlikely to spot them in the wild.
23. Bob’s Cove Track
This walk is about a 15 minute drive outside of Queenstown, and offers a short walk with some really lovely views. It’s an easy walk, although you need a car to get to the starting point.
It takes around 40-60 minutes depending on how long you stop for photos, or if you wanted to have a picnic on the beach.
The loop track is around 3km and fairly easy going, but if you’re up for it, I definitely recommend adding on Picnic Point for a bit more elevation and one of the best lake views in the area.
Good to Know:
- No public transport — you’ll need a car.
- Go early — the car park is tiny and fills fast.
- There’s no food, water or facilities on-site (just one long-drop toilet).
- Don’t count on phone signal — download directions before you go.
For more info, have a look at my guide to the Bob’s Cove Track.
24. Create A Personalised Perfume!
For a unique souvenir, head to Miller Road fragrance bar. If you love unique beauty and fragrance products, create your own perfume at a Miller Road workshop.
These 2 1/2 hour sessions will teach you about fragrance and how to combine scents to make your own perfume. If you don’t have time for the full workshop you can also buy something from their range of signature scents. I took home a travel-friendly perfume roller ball in the scent White Woods.
Accommodation
The options below are some that I recommend, but for a wider selection have a look at my dedicated Queenstown accommodation post.
Novotel Queenstown – this hotel is right by the lake and town centre and is one of the easiest places to stay in Queenstown. Many of the main activities such as the Canyon Swing and NZONE Skydive have collection points about an 8-minute walk from the hotel.
If you are looking for something a bit more boutique, try out The Dairy Hotel (they have a daily happy hour with drinks and snacks!).
If you are on a tighter budget then consider Absoloot Hostel.
It is worth booking accommodation well in advance. In the summer months Queenstown can become extremely busy and you may find there are limited options if you leave it too late.
It’s not a very big town, but the range of adventure activities and beautiful scenery make it a very popular destination for everyone visiting New Zealand.
What Might Not Be For Everyone
Queenstown has something for every kind of traveller — but not every activity suits every person. These aren’t bad experiences, but depending on your interests, time, and budget, they might not be top priorities:
Kiwi Birdlife Park
I’ve included it in the main list as I really enjoy it, but it’s also lower on the list because I wouldn’t prioritise it on a short trip. If you’re passionate about conservation or travelling with kids, it’s a lovely stop. But it’s small and fairly expensive — so if you’ve already seen native birds elsewhere, you might find it skippable.
Skiing or Snowboarding
Queenstown is a hub for winter sports — but if you’re an experienced skier used to large European or North American resorts, you might find the slopes here a bit underwhelming. That said, the atmosphere is still fun, and it’s perfect for beginners or casual snow fans.
Driving to Milford or Doubtful Sound
These are stunning drives — but also long, isolated, and full of tourists unfamiliar with NZ road rules. Unless you’re confident with winding roads and single-lane bridges, I’d recommend taking a tour instead (you’ll enjoy it more, too).
No wrong choices here — just be honest with yourself about what matters most to you. Your time in Queenstown is limited, so make sure every experience feels worth it.
What Will You Do in Queenstown?
Whether you’re jumping out of planes, cruising through fiords, sipping Pinot Noir, or just strolling through gardens — Queenstown has something that fits your energy.
I’ve been here in both winter and summer, and every time I visit, I’m struck by how much there is to do in a town this size. It can definitely feel overwhelming at first, but the truth is: there’s no wrong way to experience Queenstown.
If you need help planning your time in Queenstown, take a look at my 5 days in Queenstown guide.
If you’re just getting started with your South Island planning, check out:
- 👉 How Many Days Do You Need in Queenstown?
- 👉 Best Day Trips From Queenstown
- 👉 Best Places To Stay In Queenstown
- 👉 Best Tours From Queenstown
Or if you’re planning a bigger itinerary, these might help:
- 🚗 Queenstown to Mount Cook Road Trip
- 🏞️ 10 Day New Zealand South Island Itinerary
- 🍷 Wine Tasting in New Zealand – Best Regions To Visit
Still not sure where to start?
Book a few core experiences early in your trip — like a jet boat ride or wine tour — and leave room for spontaneous extras. Weather changes, and so might your energy. But trust me: Queenstown will absolutely deliver.
As for me, I’ll be back soon — probably jumping out of another plane or finding my next favourite wine spot.
