Things to do in Otago
Discover the best attractions and experiences Otago has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Dunedin and the wider Otago coast through grand 19th- and early 20th-century buildings that shaped the region.
Larnach Castle
A grand 19th‑century castle on the Otago Peninsula with sweeping views and rich family history.
Dunedin Railway Station
An ornate Edwardian-era station famed for its tiled façade and grand interior.
Olveston Historic House
An elegant early 20th‑century house with period rooms and lush gardens.
Museums
Delve into Otago’s history, science and art at the region’s standout museums.
Toitu Otago Settlers Museum
Interactive galleries tracing the region’s settlement, immigration and social history.
Otago Museum
Natural history and cultural exhibits housed in a striking modern building.
Dunedin Public Art Gallery
A premier collection of New Zealand and international art in the city center.
Religious Monuments
Religious architecture and sacred sites that reflect Otago’s spiritual heritage.
First Church of Otago
A historic Gothic Revival church with a commanding spire and stained glass.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Dunedin
A venerable cathedral serving as a landmark for the Catholic community.
National & Theme Parks
Venture into some of New Zealand’s most dramatic landscapes right at Otago’s doorstep.
Mount Aspiring National Park
Vast Alpine scenery with glaciers, rivers and backcountry tracks near Wanaka.
Aoraki / Mount Cook National Park
NZ’s tallest peak and dramatic alpine scenery, with hiking and starlight views.
Fiordland National Park
Dramatic fjords and remote wilderness spanning the region’s southwest.
Neighborhoods
Characterful towns and city pockets each with its own story and vibe.
Arrowtown
Historic gold‑mining village with preserved streets, shops and cafés.
The Octagon (Dunedin city centre)
Compact hub encircling a lively square of heritage buildings and cafés.
Port Chalmers
Coastal village with maritime charm and scenic walks.
Free Things to Do
Otago offers plenty of scenic and cultural experiences that won’t cost a cent.
Dunedin Botanic Garden
Free-to-enter gardens with a wide plant collection and peaceful grounds.
Baldwin Street Walk
Take in views from the world’s steepest residential street.
Otago Harbourfront Walk
Stroll along the water for sea air and city views.
Gastronomy
Savour Otago’s diverse flavours from award-winning wines to regional specialties.
Gibbston Valley Winery
Wine tastings and vineyard scenery in the Gibbston wine region.
Whitestone Cheese, Oamaru
Popular local cheese maker with tastings in a rustic setting.
Fergburger (Queenstown)
Iconic and generously sized burgers loved by visitors and locals alike.
Nightlife
Evenings come alive in Otago’s lakeside towns with bars, live music and late bites.
The World Bar (Queenstown)
Lively lakefront bar with vibrant drinks and atmosphere.
Skyline Queenstown Night Ride (Luge)
Nighttime luge experience offering views over the town and lake.
Entertainment
The region’s theatres and cultural venues offer performances and shows.
Regent Theatre (Dunedin)
Historic venue hosting concerts, theatre and film events.
Dunedin Casino (If available)
Casual gaming and live entertainment in central Dunedin.
Sports
Adventure and outdoor sports thrive here, with alpine and trail options.
Cardrona Alpine Resort
World-class skiing and snowboarding near Wanaka.
The Remarkables
Spectacular ski fields with alpine runs and scenery.
Queenstown Trail
A renowned multi-day and day-biking route along pristine scenery.
Off the Track
Hidden corners and offbeat experiences for the curious traveler.
Catlins Coast
Wild coastline, waterfalls and wildlife on a scenic drive south.
Orokonui Ecosanctuary
Predator-free sanctuary near Dunedin with native wildlife.
Goldfields Mining Centre (Cromwell)
Mining history and interactive displays in Central Otago.