What to Do in Queenstown: 11 Must-Dos

You’ve heard Queenstown called the adventure capital of the world, but there’s more to this South Island gem than heart-pounding thrills. Beyond the bungee jumps and jet boats lies a sophisticated destination where wine tastings meet mountain hikes, historic steamships cruise pristine lakes, and native wildlife sanctuaries offer quiet moments between adrenaline rushes. The real question isn’t whether you’ll find something to do—it’s how you’ll fit everything into your stay.

Take the Plunge at Kawarau Bridge, Birthplace of Bungy Jumping

When you’re seeking the ultimate adrenaline rush in Queenstown, there’s no better place to start than Kawarau Bridge, where AJ Hackett and Henry van Asch launched the world’s first commercial bungy operation in 1988.

You’ll plunge 43 meters toward the Kawarau River from this Category I historic bridge, originally built in 1880. Choose between solo or tandem jumps, and opt for a “water touch” to graze the river’s surface during your fall.

The operation runs jumps every 80 minutes from 9:20 AM to 2:40 PM daily, with free shuttle service from Queenstown. Even if you don’t jump, watching others take the leap from this birthplace of modern bungy jumping offers spectacular entertainment.

The bridge’s innovative design earned the prestigious Telford Premium in 1882, recognizing it as a remarkable feat of engineering that continues to stand strong today.

Ride the Historic TSS Earnslaw Steamship Across Lake Wakatipu

After getting your heart racing with bungy jumping, step aboard the TSS Earnslaw for a completely different but equally memorable Queenstown experience. Known as the “Lady of the Lake,” this authentic coal-fired steamship has been operating on Lake Wakatipu since 1912, making it one of the Southern Hemisphere’s oldest commercial passenger vessels.

You’ll cruise across pristine waters while exploring the original engine room, where massive twin steam engines still burn coal just as they did over a century ago. The onboard museum showcases fascinating historical photos and steamship heritage.

Your journey offers spectacular lake views and commentary about surrounding high country stations and the region’s gold rush history. At 51.2 meters in length, it stands as the biggest vessel on Lake Wakatipu, featuring a durable steel hull and beautiful Kauri timber decking. This vintage Edwardian experience perfectly balances Queenstown’s adrenaline activities with its rich cultural heritage.

Conquer the Shotover River by Jet Boat

While the TSS Earnslaw offers tranquil lake views, the Shotover River delivers pure adrenaline through one of the world’s most thrilling jet boat experiences.

You’ll hurtle through narrow canyon walls at speeds reaching 90 km/h, experiencing signature 360-degree spins that’ll leave you breathless. The shallow waters—sometimes only 10 cm deep—allow drivers to navigate impossibly close to boulders and cliffs.

Shotover Jet’s held exclusive operating rights since 1965, building an impeccable safety record through rigorous training protocols.

Your 25-40 minute ride accommodates up to 14 passengers, ensuring an intimate yet electrifying adventure. The experience includes thrilling features like side-to-side thrashing and rapid bouncing specifically designed for adrenaline seekers.

Located just 10 minutes north of Queenstown near Edith Cavell Bridge, complimentary transport removes logistical hassles.

With over 4.6 million riders, it’s Queenstown’s original adventure tourism experience.

Ascend Bob’s Peak via Skyline Gondola for Panoramic Views

For the ultimate bird’s-eye perspective of Queenstown’s dramatic landscape, you’ll want to board the Skyline Gondola—the Southern Hemisphere’s steepest cable car that climbs 438 vertical meters up Bob’s Peak in just 5-10 minutes.

You’ll enjoy spectacular 220-degree panoramic views spanning Lake Wakatipu, The Remarkables, Coronet Peak, and Cecil Peak from the top station at 783 meters elevation.

Book tickets online (adult returns cost NZD $52) to skip queues, especially during busy summer weekends.

The modern 10-person cabins accommodate wheelchairs and strollers with flush boarding platforms. The upgraded system can transport up to 6,000 people per hour to and from the summit, ensuring shorter wait times even during peak periods.

Once you reach the top, explore the luge tracks, dine at Stratosfare Restaurant, or simply relax on outdoor viewing platforms.

Don’t miss the nighttime experience—Queenstown’s lights create magical reflections against the natural backdrop.

Hike Ben Lomond Track for Summit Rewards

Ben Lomond Track stands as Queenstown’s premier alpine day hike, demanding 6-8 hours and serious fitness to conquer its 1,748-meter summit. You’ll gain 1,400-1,750 meters elevation depending on your starting point—either the challenging Tiki Trail below the gondola or the easier route from the gondola top, which saves an hour and 500 meters of climbing.

The trail shifts from Douglas fir forest to alpine tussocks before reaching Ben Lomond Saddle at 1,326 meters. The final summit push proves steepest, with rocky, uneven terrain testing your endurance.

Your reward? Spectacular panoramic views spanning Lake Wakatipu, The Remarkables, and distant peaks like Mount Aspiring.

Start early at 7am, carry ample water and weather protection, and plan your adventure between October and May for ideal conditions. Be cautious when crossing mountain biking trails throughout the scenic reserve, as high-speed riders share portions of this route.

Experience Queenstown’s Craft Beer and Fergburger Culture

Queenstown’s craft beer scene rivals its adventure activities, offering world-class brews that perfectly complement the town’s legendary Fergburger experience. Start at Altitude Brewing near Queenstown Marina, where you’ll discover “The Mischievous Kea” IPA alongside their renowned Powder Day Pilsner.

Head to Atlas Beer Café on the lakefront for 20 rotating taps paired with their iconic steak and chips.

Don’t miss Canyon Brewing’s scenic beer garden at Arthurs Point, where bold, creative beers meet locally sourced cuisine with stunning river views. The brewery collaborates with Central Otago farmers to showcase true regional flavors in their innovative seasonal brews.

For guided experiences, book Cargo Collective’s brewery tours featuring sensory adventures with beer and food pairings.

Complete your evening at Searchlight Brewery, where owner-brewer Lewis crafts exceptional IPAs and Porters.

Pair any brewery visit with Queenstown’s famous Fergburger for the ultimate local experience combining craft brewing excellence with iconic eats.

Explore Arrowtown’s Gold Rush Heritage on a Day Trip

Just 19.5 kilometers east of Queenstown lies Arrowtown, where you’ll discover New Zealand’s most authentic gold rush town frozen in Victorian-era splendor. Walk historic Buckingham Street to explore over 60 original buildings from the 1860s gold rush, including miners’ cottages, shops, and the old jail built from local schist stone.

Don’t miss the Chinese Settlement by Bush Creek—New Zealand’s best-preserved Chinese mining community. The restored huts and Ah Lum’s store reveal the harsh realities faced by Cantonese miners who arrived in 1865. Bilingual signage tells their compelling story of discrimination and perseverance. The Chinese settlement remained active until 1928, serving as a vital part of the town’s economic recovery after the initial gold rush declined.

Follow heritage walking trails along the picturesque Arrow River, where Jack Tewa first discovered gold in 1862, sparking the rush that drew 7,000 miners to this remote valley.

Discover Native Wildlife at Kiwi Birdlife Park

While many visitors focus on Queenstown’s adrenaline activities, you’ll find an equally enthralling experience just minutes from the city center at Kiwi Birdlife Park. This family-owned sanctuary houses over 20 endangered New Zealand species across 5 acres of native bush, including the iconic kiwi and ancient tuatara.

You’ll explore at your own pace using multilingual audio guides, ensuring you don’t miss vital conservation insights.

The daily 30-minute Conservation Show features live-flight demonstrations with endangered birds, while specialized nocturnal houses let you observe kiwis in their natural habitat simulation. Meeting the passionate animal keepers provides additional insights into the dedicated care and conservation efforts protecting these remarkable species.

Your visit directly supports active breeding programs that release kiwis back into the wild.

Located on Brecon Street, it’s a 5-10 minute walk from Queenstown’s CBD and offers flexible booking with free 24-hour cancellation.

Unwind at Onsen Hot Pools Above Shotover Canyon

After experiencing Queenstown’s high-octane adventures, you’ll discover genuine serenity at Onsen Hot Pools, where private cedar tubs perch dramatically above Shotover Canyon’s rugged landscape.

Each naturally-heated tub accommodates four adults at 38.5°C, offering unobstructed alpine vistas during your 60-minute soak.

Book the mineral-infused pools with magnesium for enhanced detoxification, or choose the new oval tubs with expansive river-view decks.

You’ll receive complimentary snacks and drinks with each session.

Take advantage of the free shuttle service from Queenstown—it’s only ten minutes to this cliffside sanctuary.

Combine your soak with Onsen Day Spa treatments for complete rejuvenation. This New Zealand owned retreat has been providing its unique kiwi twist on Japanese bathing traditions since opening in 2007.

Evening sessions provide spectacular sunset views and stargazing opportunities.

Expect to pay NZD $97-117 per adult.

Advanced booking’s essential due to limited availability.

Taste Central Otago Pinot Noir in Gibbston Valley

Twenty minutes from Queenstown’s bustling center, Gibbston Valley reveals New Zealand’s most prestigious Pinot Noir terroir. Here, schist soils and extreme altitude create wines that rival Burgundy’s finest.

You’ll discover elegant, mineral-driven wines with vibrant cherry and plum flavors. These characteristics are enhanced by the region’s intense diurnal temperature variation that preserves essential acidity.

Visit Felton Road for internationally acclaimed expressions, or explore Mt Difficulty and Rippon for consistently exceptional bottles. The continental climate at 200-400 meters elevation produces concentrated fruit with silky textures and balanced tannins. This unique terroir benefits from receiving less than 300mm of annual rainfall, creating ideal conditions for concentrated grape development.

Taste these wines slightly chilled at 14-16°C to appreciate their aromatic complexity.

Book cellar door experiences that include terroir tours—you’ll understand how schist soils and extreme UV exposure create Central Otago’s distinctive character while enjoying stunning mountain backdrops.

Drive the Scenic Route to Glenorchy and Beyond

Beyond Queenstown’s adventure-packed center, the 46-kilometer drive to Glenorchy ranks among New Zealand’s most spectacular scenic routes. It hugs Lake Wakatipu’s pristine shores while revealing dramatic alpine vistas at every turn. You’ll navigate sharp curves and narrow sections through Mount Aspiring National Park, so drive cautiously and allow 45-50 minutes without stops.

Plan a leisurely 3-4 hour journey with essential stops at Bob’s Cove for turquoise waters and beech forest walks, Bennetts Bluff for panoramic Southern Alps views, and Sunshine Bay’s accessible 4-kilometer trail. Along the route, you’ll encounter Twelve Mile Delta Campground, which features the Ithilien Camp—a Lord of the Rings filming site complete with a fire pit.

Glenorchy itself—dubbed the “Gateway to Paradise”—offers cafes and serves as your launching point for the renowned Routeburn Track. Pack your camera; the photographic opportunities toward Cecil and Walter Peaks are extraordinary.

The Sum Up

You’ve got eleven incredible experiences waiting in Queenstown, but don’t try cramming them all into a rushed itinerary. Pick three to five activities that match your adventure level and interests—you’ll enjoy them more deeply. Book popular experiences like bungy jumping and hot pools in advance, especially during peak season. Remember, Queenstown’s real magic isn’t checking boxes; it’s about finding those perfect moments between the adrenaline rush and stunning alpine scenery.