Adventure
1. Kawarau Bridge Bungy
Jump 43 metres from the bridge where AJ Hackett opened the world’s first commercial bungy in 1988. Nevis Bungy, much higher, is for the truly brave.
2. Shotover Jet
A thrilling jet boat ride with 360° spins through the narrow Shotover River canyons.
3. Skydiving or paragliding
Tandem skydives over the Remarkables, or gentle paragliding from Bob’s Peak.
4. Skiing and snowboarding (June–September)
Coronet Peak and The Remarkables are close to town; Cardrona is on the way to Wanaka.
Views and nature
5. Skyline Gondola and Luge
Ride up Bob’s Peak for the classic view of Lake Wakatipu, then race down on the luge. The gondola costs about NZD 69 for adults.
6. Milford Sound
Cruise a dramatic fjord past waterfalls and seals. A coach-and-cruise day from Queenstown takes about 13 hours. See Milford Sound day trip.
7. Drive to Glenorchy
A 45-minute lakeside drive to a tiny town surrounded by mountains, with walks at Glenorchy lagoon and Lord of the Rings filming locations nearby.
8. Hike Queenstown Hill or Ben Lomond
Queenstown Hill takes 2–3 hours return; Ben Lomond is a full-day climb with huge views.
9. TSS Earnslaw to Walter Peak
Cruise on a 1912 steamship to a high-country farm for a barbecue lunch and sheepdog show.
10. Lake Wakatipu and the waterfront
Walk the lakeside to the Queenstown Gardens, swim at the town beach in summer, or hire a kayak.
Towns, food and wine
11. Arrowtown
A gold-rush village with heritage cottages, a Chinese settlement and gorgeous autumn colours, 20 minutes away by bus.
12. Gibbston Valley wineries
Taste Central Otago pinot noir at cellar doors along the Kawarau Gorge; bike tours are popular.
13. Fergburger
Queenstown’s famous burgers. Order ahead by phone to skip the queue.
14. Onsen Hot Pools
Private cedar hot tubs above the Shotover River; book ahead, especially at sunset.
Find tours & tickets in QueenstownDay trip
15. Wanaka
About an hour over the Crown Range: lakeside cafés, the famous “That Wanaka Tree” and the Roys Peak hike.
Practical tips
- Book popular activities and Milford Sound tours a few days ahead in summer and winter.
- Weather changes quickly in the mountains; carry layers and a rain jacket.
- Use a Bee Card for cheap Orbus bus rides.
More Queenstown guides
- Queenstown travel guide
- Queenstown itinerary: 3, 4 or 5 days
- Where to stay in Queenstown
- Best time to visit Queenstown
- Milford Sound day trip
- Queenstown Airport to town
- New Zealand ETA (NZeTA) and visitor levy
FAQ: things to do in Queenstown
What is Queenstown famous for?
Adventure sports (bungy and jet boating), stunning lake and mountain scenery, skiing and its location near Milford Sound.
What can you do in Queenstown for free?
Hike Queenstown Hill, walk the lakefront and gardens, and drive to Glenorchy.
Is Milford Sound worth the long day trip?
Yes, it’s one of New Zealand’s most spectacular places. A scenic flight is a faster (but pricier) option.
Plan your trip to Queenstown
The trusted services we use to plan our own trips.
