Best Things To Do in Queenstown

If you're planning a visit to New Zealand and want to see one of the country's most famous cities, Queenstown is a must. This destination, located next to the Southern Alps, offers adventure tours, some of the most outstanding panoramic views in the region and the most famous vineyards in Oceania.

Some of the best things to do in Queenstown include taking a Lord of the Rings tour, discovering the local wineries, visiting the spooky Fear Factory haunted house, touring The Remarkables mountain by helicopter, taking a cruise to Walter Peak, touring Lake Wakatipu and discovering the Hensman Road lookout.

Queenstown, located in the heart of New Zealand, is a magical place that has captured the attention of Lord of the Rings story lovers around the world. Taking a tour of the saga in this destination is an unforgettable experience that will transport fans to the majestic landscapes of Middle-earth created by J.R.R. Tolkien.

The tour begins with a bus ride around the town, taking in the New Zealand landscapes that were used as the natural film sets for the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Expert guides will share fascinating stories about the production of the films and reveal the secrets behind the iconic shots on some of Queenstown's best excursions.

The highlight of the tour is a visit to the spectacular Fiordland National Park, home to the famous Milford Sound. This mysterious site served as the inspiration for the creation of Rivendell in the movies. Visitors can marvel at the beauty of the fjord, surrounded by towering mountain peaks and lush waterfalls, as they immerse themselves in the atmosphere of Middle-earth.

In addition to the natural scenery, Queenstown is also home to the famous Weta Workshop film studio, where special effects and replicas of the characters and sets from The Lord of the Rings were created. During the tour, you'll get to explore the complex and have the chance to see artefacts used in the films up close, including iconic costumes, weapons and props.

Discovering Queenstown's wineries is a delight for wine lovers and lovers of exquisite flavours. Located in the heart of the Central Otago wine region, Queenstown offers a unique experience for wine enthusiasts and offers some of the best vines in Oceania.

The Central New Zealand winery tour allows you to explore the beauty of the vineyards, surrounded by majestic mountains and crystal clear lakes. You'll have the opportunity to learn about the winemaking process, from harvesting the grapes to bottling, with guided tours led by expert winemakers who share their passion and knowledge.

During the tour, you'll taste a variety of award-winning wines, including the region's renowned Pinot Noir, a speciality of the region. If you consider yourself a wine taster, you'll enjoy a unique sensory experience, exploring the complex flavours and aromas of local wines while learning about the distinctive characteristics of each grape variety.

In addition to tastings, local wineries offer unique gastronomic experiences, such as wine and gourmet food pairings. You can also sample dishes that highlight the flavours of local wines, creating perfect combinations for the palate on the best full-day tours from Queenstown.

Visiting Glenorchy from Queenstown allows you to discover a world of stunning natural beauty. Situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by majestic mountains, Glenorchy is a picturesque destination that captivates all who visit.

The journey from Queenstown to Glenorchy is an experience in itself as you travel along a scenic road that winds along the lake, offering postcard-perfect views. As you approach Glenorchy, the scenery will become even more breathtaking, with lush forests, snow-capped peaks and crystal clear rivers surrounding you at every turn.

Once in Glenorchy, you'll have the opportunity to explore its rustic, laid-back charm. The small town boasts quaint architecture and cosy cafes and local craft shops. From there you can also visit Paradise, another colonial town with quiet streets that will take you back in time to the region's historic past.

The real gem of Glenorchy is its natural environment. The region is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, with a wide range of outdoor activities available. From scenic walks to horse riding, kayaking on Lake Wakatipu or simply relaxing on the beach, Glenorchy offers options for all tastes and levels of adventure, making it an ideal plan if you plan to visit Queenstown with children.

Taking a helicopter tour of The Remarkables Mountain in Queenstown is an experience that will transport you to new heights and allow you to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. Known for its rugged peaks and natural beauty, The Remarkables Mountain offers a unique opportunity for adventurers in search of thrills and spectacular scenery.

The helicopter tour begins in Queenstown, where passengers are taken to the heights on a thrilling aerial tour. As the helicopter soars over the towering peaks of The Remarkables, a panorama of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys and crystal clear lakes will be revealed , creating an unforgettable visual spectacle.

During the tour, you'll have the opportunity to land at strategic points and enjoy open views. Whether exploring glaciers, hiking scenic trails or simply enjoying the fresh mountain air, each moment offers a unique connection to the wilderness of Queenstown.

In addition to the breathtaking views, taking a helicopter tour of The Remarkables will also give you the opportunity to experience the thrill of helicopter flying. The sensation of floating in the air and getting a unique perspective of the natural beauty that surrounds this destination is truly electrifying, especially if you plan to visit Queenstown in the summer when the weather is ideal for such experiences.

For an alternative experience during your visit to Queenstown, you can opt for a visit to the Fear Factory Haunted House. Located in the centre of town, this attraction attracts those looking for a dose of adrenaline and excitement in a sinister and mysterious environment.

At Fear Factory you'll be greeted by a creepy atmosphere and a hair-raising ambience. The tour will take you through dark corridors and spooky rooms, where you will encounter terrifying characters and disturbing situations that will keep you on edge, especially if you plan to visit Queenstown in winter, when the temperature drops and the cold adds its share of terror.

The Fear Factory haunted house is known for its interactive approach, where visitors can choose to participate in even more terrifying experiences. From dark labyrinths to encounters with supernatural creatures, every step at this site challenges the limits of fear and mental endurance.

And if you're looking for an extra dose of adrenaline, Fear Factory also offers live escape experiences, where visitors must solve puzzles and challenges to escape from fictional situations of danger. These experiences provide an even greater level of immersion, where the clock is ticking and the pressure is on. Are you up for the spooky challenge?

Experience the Time Tripper underwater experience in Queenstown and immerse yourself in a fascinating world full of surprises. This unique attraction combines cutting-edge technology and immersive storytelling to transport you to the depths of Lake Wakatipu and explore the region's underwater history.

During the journey you can equip yourself with virtual reality goggles and immerse yourself in an alternative underwater adventure. As you venture into the waters of the lake, you will experience the sensation of swimming alongside ancient sea monsters and discovering hidden shipwrecks.

Time Tripper uses special effects and holographic projections to create an immersive environment that will make you feel as if you are actually at the bottom of the lake. Along the way, you'll encounter prehistoric creatures, explore shipwrecks and marvel at the region's rich marine history.

This underwater experience is a unique way to learn about the geology and aquatic life of Lake Wakatipu. Experts at the visitor centre will provide you with additional information about the scientific and archaeological discoveries made in the area, adding an educational tinge to the experience.

Touring Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown allows you to embark on a journey of beauty and serenity. With its crystal clear waters surrounded by majestic mountains, Lake Wakatipu is an iconic place that captivates visitors with its natural charm.

One of the most popular ways to tour the lake is via a scenic cruise. Aboard a boat, you can enjoy the spectacular views as you cruise along the calm waters. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to admire the breathtaking scenery, including The Remarkables Mountains and the picturesque lakeshore, in an activity that is ideal for families or children in Queenstown.

Another option for exploring Lake Wakatipu is through water activities, such as kayaking or paddleboarding. Paddling around the lake allows you to immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the lake and get a closer perspective of the beauty that surrounds it. You can also enjoy the feeling of freedom and connection with nature as you glide gently over the waters.

If you prefer a more thrilling experience, you can also opt for a speedboat ride. These thrilling excursions take you speeding across the lake, giving you a dose of adrenaline and the chance to enjoy the scenic views in a thrilling way.

Taking a cruise tour to Walter Peak in Queenstown is an experience that combines the scenic beauty of Lake Wakatipu with rural New Zealand hospitality, but takes you beyond that to discover one of the region's most famous peaks. Walter Peak, located on the southern shore of the lake, is a historic farm that offers visitors the opportunity to explore the countryside and enjoy authentic farm experiences.

The Walter Peak cruise begins in Queenstown, where you will board a traditionally restored steamboat. As this cruise navigates the waters of the lake, you can relax and enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains and scenic shorelines.

Once you arrive at Walter Peak, you can immerse yourself in the rural atmosphere of the farm. You will have the opportunity to walk around the grounds, interact with the animals and learn about farming life in New Zealand. You can also enjoy sheep shearing demonstrations and feed the cattle and deer. In the afternoon, finally, you can climb to the top of this snow-capped mountain if you wish , especially if you are visiting Queenstown in winter.

The culinary experience at Walter Peak is another highlight of the tour. You can enjoy a delicious buffet lunch, with farm-fresh produce and traditional Kiwi dishes. You can also complement your experience with a local wine tasting to sample the flavours of the region.

Exploring Gold Rush times in Arrowtown is a fascinating journey back in time that will transport you to an era full of adventure and excitement. Situated just outside Queenstown, Arrowtown is a charming historic town with its mining heritage in every nook and cranny.

In Arrowtown you can immerse yourself in an atmosphere reminiscent of the gold rush era. The restored wooden buildings and old shops recreate the atmosphere of the days when fortune hunters came to the region in search of precious metals. It's as if time has stood still, allowing visitors to experience a true immersion in history that you won't want to miss, even if you plan to visit Queenstown in 3 days or even less.

The Arrow River walk is a must-do experience for those who wish to explore the traces of the gold rush. There you can pan for gold on the banks of the river, reliving the thrill of those adventurers who tried it over a century ago. It's a reminder of the tenacity and determination of the pioneers who fought for their fortune in this challenging environment.

As well as gold history, Arrowtown also offers a variety of modern attractions. You can enjoy delicious meals in renowned restaurants, visit art galleries and boutique shops, or simply stroll through the beautiful gardens and parks. It is a place where past and present intertwine, providing a unique experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the region's history.

Queenstown, primarily, is famous for its breathtaking scenery and exciting activities. Taking in the panoramic views of the town from the Hensman Road viewing platform is an unforgettable experience that will leave you breathless.

The Hensman Road viewing platform is strategically located on an elevated point that offers a panoramic view of the town and its surroundings. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a dreamlike setting: majestic mountains, a crystal clear lake and the enchanting city in the valley. It's as if nature and civilisation merge in perfect harmony, especially if you plan to visit Queenstown during the summer.

Snow-capped mountains will frame the landscape, while the ubiquitous Lake Wakatipu, one of New Zealand's largest lakes, will sparkle in the sunshine. The changing colours of the water, from deep blues to turquoise greens, will add a tinge of magic to the scene. You can also look out over the horizon and take part in zip-lining experiences, one of the most common activities in the region.

The view from the Hensman Road lookout is especially impressive at sunset, when the sun tints the sky with shades of gold and pink. The city comes alive as the lights slowly come on, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This is the moment when you can fully appreciate the beauty of Queenstown and understand why it is considered one of the most beautiful destinations in the world.