It’s no surprise that the adventure capital of the world, Queenstown, is my happy place. 

With so many incredible things to do, from hiking, horseback riding, scenic cruises and drives, and thrill-seeking activities, Queenstown kept me busy during my unforgettable South Island road trip.

Adrenaline junkies will enjoy a courageous jump off of Kawarau Bridge, the scenic location where AJ Hackett brought bungee jumping to New Zealand.

Outdoorsy travelers will ascend the stunning peaks that surround the quaint mountain town. 

Foodies will indulge in one of the many incredible restaurants in and around the city center.

There are so many incredible things to do in Queenstown. 

This detailed blog post covers the best activities in Queenstown, including family-friendly adventures and local-approved inspiration. No matter what kind of traveler you are – a thrill-seeker, an outdoorsman, or a foodie – there is something special in Queenstown for everyone!

Best Things to Do in Queenstown

Top Adventure Activities in Queenstown

Bungee Jumping at Kawarau Bridge

1988 was a historic year for adrenaline junkies in New Zealand. This was the year when AJ Hackett, a local thrill-seeker, brought the extreme sport of bungee jumping to Kawarau Bridge, just thirty minutes outside of Queenstown.

If you’re willing and able to take a leap of faith off the very bridge where bungee jumping originated in New Zealand, bungee jumping should be at the top of your bucket list when you visit Queenstown.

My bungee jumping experience at Kawarau Bridge was one of my most memorable moments from my incredible time in New Zealand. 

A few seconds of courage and a moment of breathtaking free-fall is the perfect reminder that you can do anything – a feeling that will stick with you longer after you leave New Zealand.

Paragliding Over Queenstown

Paragliding is arguably more nerve-wracking than bungee jumping. 

The moment your guide tells you to run towards the edge of the mountain, with your parachute in tow, you’ll wait for the breathtaking glide of the wind as you’re lifted into the sky.

Paragliding in Queenstown is an unforgettable way to get a bird’s eye view of the quaint town nestled beneath the Remarkables, a jagged mountain range that lives up to its name.

Adrenaline-inducing Queenstown Shotover Jet

The Queenstown Shotover Jet takes “scenic river cruising” to an adrenaline-inducing extreme. 

On board New Zealand’s fastest speed boat, you’ll travel at incredible speeds through the Shotover Canyon – twisting, turning and spinning through the incredible scenery of New Zealand.

Shotover Jet is a one-of-a-kind, locally owned adventure company that has been wow-ing millions of travelers from around the world since 1965. Built for high-speed adventures through the Shotover Canyon, this fast-paced jet boat ride is the perfect way to explore the postcard landscapes of New Zealand!

Traveling with kids to New Zealand? This activity is one of the best family-friendly adventure activities in the South Island. Check for limitations HERE.

Skydive Over Lake Wakatipu

Bungee, Paraglide, and Skydive, oh my!

I wasn’t quite daring enough on my first visit to New Zealand to tandem skydive over Lake Wakatipu, but next time I visit, it will be a plane I jump out of instead of a bridge I jump off. 

Skydiving in New Zealand is a bucket list adventure for many daring travelers. With unforgettable scenic landscapes to soar over, it’s no surprise why! 

Queenstown isn’t the only place you can Skydive in New Zealand – Wānaka, Franz Josef, Abel Tasman National Park and Aoraki/Mt. Cook National Park all have epic skydiving experiences!

Tandem Nevis Swing

New Zealand’s highest swing – the Nevis Swing, a 300meter parabolic drop just outside of Queenstown – is the final boss of adventure activities in New Zealand.

Boasting the highest bungee jump in New Zealand, the Nevis Bungy and Swing by AJ Hackett is an adventurous step above the 43 meter jump off Kawarau Bridge. 

The Nevis Swing is the perfect tandem activity for courageous couples, families, or friend groups.

Family-friendly Activities in Queenstown

Scenic Cruise on the TSS Earnslaw

The TSS Earnslaw is a 20th century, fully operational historic coal-fired steam ship that departs from the heart of Queenstown. This family-friendly activity is an incredible way to explore the sapphire waves of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding landscapes. 

Offering visitors a chance to discover the engine room showcasing the coal-powered steam engines in action, the TSS Earnslaw is the only restored steam ship that carries passengers in the Southern Hemisphere.

Not only will you witness a scenic ride, you’ll also experience historic engineering advancements in action.

The ship’s journey begins in the heart of Queenstown and ends on the other side of Lake Wakatipu at Walter Peak Farm.

If you plan to horseback ride at Walter Peak, you’ll depart the ship at Walter Peak Farm for your excursion. 

Horseback Riding near Walter Peak

Even beginner equestrians will enjoy horseback riding at the beautiful Walter Peak Farm!

This family-friendly activity in Queenstown is an incredible way to connect with nature on horseback. You’ll traverse the stunning countryside around the farm, experiencing picturesque views of Lake Wakatipu and the monumental Walter Peak.

Regardless of your skill level, knowledgable riding guides will make your horseback riding experience in New Zealand safe and memorable! Your horseback ride also includes a scenic ride on the TSS Earnslaw to and from the center of Queenstown.

Catch a Ride on the Queenstown Gondola (Skyline)

The best way to get a bird’s-eye view of Queenstown without jumping out of a plane (skydiving) is to catch a ride on the Skyline Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak. 

If you’re planning on staying in Queenstown for several days, I recommend purchasing the three-day Skyline Gondola pass which allows unlimited use of the gondola during the three-day period. 

If you’re planning to hike the Ben Lomond track, you can start the hike from the top of the Skyline Gondola.

Visit the Kiwi Park

For families with young kids or avid bird watchers, your time in Queenstown would not be complete without a visit to the Kiwi Park, a wildlife sanctuary home to New Zealand’s most notable bird – the Kiwi. 

Kiwi Park is more than just a sanctuary for local wildlife, this locally-owned nature park is committed to wildlife conservation, education and habitat restoration. It’s a great place to see the iconic New Zealand Kiwi and discover the country’s conservation efforts.

Local-approved Activities in Queenstown

Explore the Local Craft Market

Earnslaw Park, Queenstown’s lakefront park, is not just a place to relax and people-watch during the sunny summer season. Every Saturday from 9am – 4pm, Queenstown hosts a local market. 

Artisans from all over New Zealand gather to sell crafts, homemade ceramics and jewelry – the perfect handmade souvenirs from your trip to New Zealand. 

I stumbled upon the Queenstown Market by chance on my first day in the town and perused the stalls looking for unique souvenirs to decorate my apartment. 

Ceramics and hand-poured candles were among the treasures I collected. But my most prized treasure, and now what I consider to be a “collector’s item”, is my handmade New Zealand wine bottle clock – a heat-flattened bottle of wine turned into a decorative clock. 

The artist, a lovely old man from Dunedin, was a charming character along my ten-day road trip in the South Island.

Picnic at Queenstown Gardens

A relaxing stroll through the Queenstown Gardens is the perfect way to spend an early morning in Queenstown. Starting at Queenstown Bay Beach, you’ll walk along the Te Araroa trail – one of New Zealand’s great walks – into the town’s peaceful botanical garden. 

This relaxing walking trail (or biking) is the perfect place to escape the hustle-and-bustle of the city center.

Devour a Fergburger

Picture this. You’ve just spent all day traversing the captivating landscapes of New Zealand’s countryside, either on foot, on horseback, or up in the skies. 

You’re craving something hearty, and there’s no better way to refuel than to indulge in the world famous Fergburger – Queenstown’s most popular place to get a juicy, cooked-to-perfection hamburger.

The Fergburger is not just a meal in Queenstown…its a rite of passage. And one worth waiting for.

Best Outdoor Activities in Queenstown

Hike the Ben Lomond Track (Difficult)

New Zealand hiking is some of the most incredible hiking in the world. With breathtaking scenery, challenging-but-rewarding mountains to climb, and a variety of trails for all hiking levels, every traveler should plan to explore the backcountry of New Zealand on foot.

Queenstown has a collection of beautiful trails in and around the town.

But the most popular hiking trail in Queenstown is the Ben Lomond Track – a challenging 6.8 mile (11km) hike offering incredible views of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu at the summit. 

From the top of the Skyline Gondola, the Ben Lomond track ascends over 1,000 meters which gradually gets more difficult as you approach the summit. 

The Ben Lomond track can take anywhere from 6 – 8 hours, so you’ll want to plan for a full day of hiking – my advice is to start early and grab a Fergburger in the town after you complete the hike!

Rent Mountain Bikes and Explore Local Trails

If you’d rather explore the alpine trails outside of Queenstown on a bike, there are several local places to rent mountain bikes in Queenstown.

Renting mountain bikes allows you to cover more terrain in a shorter period of time, exploring more incredible scenery in and around Queenstown.

The Queenstown Bike Park has a variety of beginner and advanced biking trails for all skill levels. 

Additionally, many adventurous travelers will oftentimes rent bikes and ride through the Gibbston River Wine Trail, stopping at local wineries along the way. If you prefer to ride the wine trail with a guide, here is one of the best guided E-bike tour in Queenstown.

Best Activities for Couples in Queenstown

Indulge at Kamana Nest

I had no shortage of incredible eats in Queenstown, from the mouthwatering local-approved Fergburger to the juicy, back-for-seconds lamb shoulder at Pedro’s House of Lamb.

But the restaurant that shined the brightest was the beautiful restaurant in Kamana Lakehouse, Nest at Kamana. 

Offering foodies and wine connoisseurs a beautiful view of Lake Wakatipu, Nest at Kamana serves up Michelin-equivalent dishes for a moderate price. 

Nest’s expertly crafted dishes celebrate local ingredients and the chef always has a perfect New Zealand wine pairing for the dish you order. Make sure to book your reservations in advance! Nest is one of the most popular restaurants in Queenstown.

Relax at Onsen Spa

No matter where I travel, I always try to find a local-approved spa experience. New Zealand was no exception. The Onsen Day Spa is the perfect place to relax in a cedar-lined hot tub while enjoying the scenery of the Shotover River Canyon.

Located just outside of Queenstown, Onsen Day Spa offers couples a romantic soak in a private hot tub. Complete with a personalized selection of tea and chocolates, and the option to add a relaxing massage, Onsen is a must-visit spa in the South Island.

Visit a Local Winery near Queenstown

Queenstown just happens to be on the cusp of the Central Otago Wine Route – a collection of New Zealand’s finest local wineries.

A wine tour in Queenstown is the perfect way to discover the unique growing practices that make New Zealand wine varieties stand out from other global flavors. 

I booked a winery tour at the Gibbston Valley Winery and I really enjoyed learning about the ways in which New Zealand wine is grown. Down in the chilly stone cellars of the Gibbston Valley Winery I indulged in many local wine varieties. 

Adventurous couples will enjoy a guided E-bike tour of the local wineries outside of Queenstown!

Where to Stay in Queenstown

BEST BUDGET

Adventure Queenstown Hostel

Adventure Queenstown Hostel is the perfect budget-friendly stay for backpackers in the heart of Queenstown. Offering comfortable dorm rooms, a variety of guided tours arranged by the hostel, and social gathering spaces, this hostel is perfect for backpackers or families.

BEST MID-RANGE

The Dairy Private Hotel

Named one of Queenstown’s best boutique hotels, this luxury-feeling, modern hotel is perfect for travelers seeking affordable luxury in the heart of Queenstown.

BEST LUXURY

Kamana Lakehouse

A coveted lake-view room at Kamana Lakehouse is always the first to sell out during Queenstown’s peak season. Offering spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu and an unforgettable dining experience at the hotel’s on-site restaurant, Nest, Kamana Lakehouse is the best place to splurge in Queenstown. Book early to ensure reservation of the lake-view room!

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick Answers to Common Questions