10 Things to Do in Queenstown

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

Among the best activities you can do in Queenstown are taking a Lord of the Rings tour, discovering 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 history 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 trip around the city, delving into the New Zealand landscapes that were used as natural settings 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 most 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 inspiration for the creation of Rivendell in the films. Visitors can marvel at the beauty of the fjord, surrounded by towering mountain peaks and lush waterfalls, while immersing themselves in the atmosphere of Middle-earth.

In addition to its natural landscapes, Queenstown is also home to the famous Weta Workshop film studio, where the special effects and replicas of the characters and settings from The Lord of the Rings were created. During the tour, you can explore the complex and have the opportunity to see up close the artefacts used in the films, including the iconic costumes, weapons and accessories.

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

A tour of the wineries in central New Zealand allows you to explore the beauty of the vineyards, surrounded by majestic mountains and crystal-clear lakes. You will have the opportunity to learn about the winemaking process, from harvesting the grapes to bottling, with guided tours by expert winemakers who share their passion and knowledge.

During the tour, you can taste a variety of award-winning wines, including the renowned Pinot Noir, a speciality of the region. If you consider yourself a wine connoisseur, you can 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 dining 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 excursions from Queenstown.

Visiting Glenorchy from Queenstown will allow you to discover a world of stunning natural beauty. Located 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 will travel along a scenic road that winds along the lake, offering postcard-perfect panoramic views. As you approach Glenorchy, the landscape becomes even more impressive, with lush forests, snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear rivers surrounding you at every turn.

Once in Glenorchy, you will have the opportunity to explore its rustic and relaxed charm. The small town boasts picturesque architecture and cosy cafés and local craft shops. From there, you can also visit Paradise, another colonial town with quiet streets that will transport you back to the region's historic past.

The real gem of Glenorchy is its natural environment. The region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, 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 are planning 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 seeking thrills and spectacular scenery.

The helicopter tour begins in Queenstown, where passengers are taken to the heights on an exciting aerial journey. As the helicopter rises above the imposing peaks of The Remarkables, a panorama of snow-capped mountains, lush valleys and crystal-clear lakes will unfold before you , creating an unforgettable visual spectacle.

During the tour, you will have the opportunity to land at strategic points and enjoy open views. Whether exploring glaciers, walking along scenic trails or simply enjoying the fresh mountain air, every moment offers a unique connection with Queenstown's wild nature.

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

If you want to enjoy an alternative experience during your visit to Queenstown, you can opt for a visit to the Fear Factory haunted house. Located in the city centre, this attraction draws those seeking a dose of adrenaline and excitement in a sinister and mysterious setting.

At Fear Factory, you will be greeted by a chilling atmosphere and an environment that will make your hair stand on end. The tour will take you through dark corridors and creepy 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 to the 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 mazes to encounters with supernatural creatures, every step in this place 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 dangerous situations. These experiences provide an even greater level of immersion, where time is running out and the pressure is mounting. Are you ready for this terrifying challenge?

Experiencing Time Tripper in Queenstown will allow you to 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 really at the bottom of the lake. Throughout the tour, you will encounter prehistoric creatures, explore sunken 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 additional information about the scientific and archaeological discoveries made in the area, adding an educational element to the experience.

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

One of the most popular ways to explore the lake is on a scenic cruise. On board a boat, you can enjoy spectacular views as you sail across the calm waters. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to admire the stunning landscapes, including The Remarkables mountains and the picturesque shores of the lake, 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 across the lake will allow you to immerse yourself in its tranquillity and get a closer perspective of the beauty that surrounds it. In addition, you can enjoy the feeling of freedom and connection with nature as you glide smoothly over the water.

If you prefer a more exciting experience, you can also opt for a speedboat ride. These thrilling excursions take you at full speed across the lake, giving you an adrenaline rush and the opportunity to enjoy the panoramic views in an exciting way.

Taking a cruise to Walter Peak in Queenstown is an experience that combines the scenic beauty of Lake Wakatipu with New Zealand's rural hospitality, but it will take you even further, as you will discover one of the most famous peaks in the region. 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 cruise to Walter Peak begins in Queenstown, where you will board a traditionally restored steamboat. As this cruise sails through the waters of the lake, you can relax and enjoy the panoramic views of the mountains and picturesque coastline.

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

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

Exploring the gold rush era in Arrowtown is a fascinating journey into the past that will transport you to a time full of adventure and excitement. Located just outside Queenstown, Arrowtown is a charming historic town that preserves its mining heritage in every corner.

In Arrowtown, you can immerse yourself in an atmosphere that evokes the gold rush era. The restored wooden buildings and old shops recreate the atmosphere of those days when fortune hunters came to the region in search of precious metals. It is as if time has stood still, allowing visitors to experience an authentic immersion in history that you will not want to miss, even if you plan to visit Queenstown in three days or less.

The walk along the Arrow River is an unmissable experience for those who want to explore the traces of the gold rush. There you can pan for gold on the riverbanks, reliving the excitement of those adventurers who tried their luck more than a century ago. It is a reminder of the tenacity and determination of the pioneers who fought for their fortune in this challenging environment.

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

Queenstown is mainly famous for its breathtaking scenery and exciting activities. Contemplating the panoramic views of the city from the Hensman Road lookout is an unforgettable experience that will take your breath away.

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

Snow-capped mountains frame the landscape, while the ever-present Lake Wakatipu, one of New Zealand's largest lakes, glistens in the sunshine. The changing colours of the water, from deep blues to turquoise greens, will add a touch of magic to the scene. From there, you can also gaze at the horizon and take part in zip-lining, one of the most popular activities in the region.

The view from the Hensman Road lookout is especially impressive at sunset, when the sun paints the sky with golden and pink hues. The city comes alive as the lights slowly come on, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. At that precise moment, you will be able to fully appreciate the beauty of Queenstown and understand why it is considered one of the most beautiful destinations in the world.