Things to do in Queenstown-Lakes District
Discover the best attractions and experiences Queenstown-Lakes District has to offer
Historic Monuments
Discover the district's Gold Rush heritage through preserved towns and historic inns.
Arrowtown Chinese Settlement
A well-preserved historic site where Chinese miners lived during the gold rush, with restored huts and interpretive signs.
Cardrona Hotel
A 19th-century wooden hotel in Cardrona, famed as one of New Zealand's oldest and best-preserved pubs.
Museums
Delve into local history and quirky collections that tell the story of the region.
Lakes District Museum (Arrowtown)
Exhibits on Arrowtown's gold rush, local life and the area's early settlers in a heritage building.
Puzzling World
A renowned puzzle and illusion center offering interactive exhibits and mind-bending rooms.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites that offer architectural beauty and peaceful spaces.
Our Lady of the Lake Church, Wanaka
A lakeside Catholic church with scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere.
St Andrew's Church, Queenstown
A historic church known for its classic architecture and tranquil setting.
National & Theme Parks
New Zealand's dramatic parks are on your doorstep here.
Mount Aspiring National Park
Wild alpine scenery, glaciers and world-class trekking in the Southern Alps.
Fiordland National Park
World-renowned fjords and dramatic landscapes reachable via Milford or Doubtful Sound tours.
Rob Roy Glacier Track
A popular glacier-side track inside Mount Aspiring National Park.
Neighborhoods
Characterful areas to explore beyond the town center.
Queenstown Central (CBD)
The vibrant town center with shops, eateries, and lake views.
Arrowtown
Historic gold mining village with preserved streets and heritage charm.
Wanaka
Lakeside town known for outdoor access and relaxed vibe.
Free Things to Do
Free experiences that showcase the natural beauty and vibe.
Queenstown Gardens
Stroll the manicured gardens with lake views and shady paths.
Lake Wakatipu Lakeside Walk
A scenic path along the water for a relaxing stroll or sunset photo.
Queenstown Trail (sections)
Free-to-use trail sections ideal for walking or biking near the lake.
Gastronomy
Iconic bites and cellar doors to sample local flavors.
Fergburger
Legendary burgers served fast with big flavors.
Gibbston Valley Winery
Vineyard winery offering tastings and scenic cellar-door setting.
Rata, Queenstown
Restaurant delivering modern Kiwi cuisine in a stylish space.
Nightlife
Lively bars and late-night spots in Queenstown's buzzing center.
Minus 5 Ice Bar
Ice-filled bar with chilly ambiance and frosty cocktails.
The Bunker Night Club
Cozy, upscale nightclub with cocktails and music.
The World Bar
Vibrant, globally themed venue with music and drinks.
Entertainment
Iconic experiences for a dose of thrill and fun.
Shotover Jet
Thrilling high-speed jet boat ride through the Shotover River canyons.
AJ Hackett Bungy
World-famous bungy jump offering dramatic city and canyon views.
Skyline Luge Queenstown
Fun alpine sledding with views across the lakes and mountains.
Sports
Adventure-packed activities for active travelers.
Shotover Jet
Adrenaline-filled jet boat experience on the Shotover River.
Kawarau Bridge Bungy
Historic bungy site at the Kawarau Gorge offering a classic jump.
NZONE Skydive Queenstown
Helicopter or plane-based skydives with views over the Southern Alps.
Off the Track
Escape the usual route with scenic day trips and backcountry tracks.
Glenorchy Day Trip
Scenic drive to Glenorchy with short walks and alpine scenery.
Routeburn Track
One of NZ's Great Walks with alpine vistas and alpine lakes.
Moke Lake
Easy lakeside walk with mountain views near Queenstown.