Queenstown Tourist Attractions

Queenstown, known as the adventure capital of the world, offers a dramatic mix of alpine scenery, high-octane sports, and relaxing natural landscapes. Here are the top tourist attractions in and around Queenstown:

Skyline Queenstown

Tourist attraction

Skyline Queenstown provides panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountain ranges. Accessible by the famous gondola, it serves as an adventure hub for visitors of all ages.

• Panoramic Views: Enjoy sweeping sightlines over the town and lake from Bob's Peak.

• Skyline Luge: Race down gravity-fueled tracks with scenic mountain backdrops.

• Dining & Activities: Features mountaintop dining options alongside access to hiking and mountain biking trails.

Lake Wakatipu

Lake Wakatipu is a lightning-bolt-shaped glacial lake that anchors Queenstown's landscape, offering a backdrop for water activities and scenic cruises.

• Historic Steamship: Sail aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a vintage coal-fired steamship operating on the lake.

• Water Sports: Popular for kayaking, paddleboarding, and lakeside walks along the shore.

Shotover Jet Queenstown

Tourist attraction

Shotover Jet Queenstown delivers high-speed jet boat rides through narrow canyon walls along the Shotover River.

• Canyon Navigation: Speeds through tight rock formations and shallow waters.

• 360-Degree Spins: Signature maneuver that delivers full adrenaline thrills.

Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge

Tourist attraction

Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge is globally recognized as the historic birthplace of commercial bungy jumping.

• Bungy Jumping: Experience a 43-meter drop over the Kawarau River.

• Spectator Viewing: Viewing platforms allow visitors to watch jumpers without participating.

Queenstown Gardens

Queenstown Gardens offers a peaceful retreat located on a peninsula just a short walk from the town center.

• Botanical Walks: Trails winding past heritage-listed trees, rose gardens, and lakeside vistas.

• Recreation: Features a popular 18-hole disc golf course and lawn bowls area.

The Remarkables

Mountain peak

The Remarkables mountain range towers over the region, offering seasonal activities and panoramic viewpoints.

• Winter Snowsports: Home to The Remarkables Ski Area Click to open side panel for more information for skiing and snowboarding.

• Summer Trails: Popular for high-altitude hiking, mountain climbing, and sightseeing.

Arrowtown

Arrowtown is a historic gold-mining town situated about 20 minutes northeast of Queenstown.

• Gold Rush Heritage: Explore preserved heritage buildings along Buckingham Street and the historic Chinese Settlement.

• Seasonal Colors: Famed for vibrant autumn foliage and cozy cafes.

Milford Sound / Piopiotahi

Natural feature

Milford Sound / Piopiotahi located in Fiordland National Park, is a popular full-day trip destination from Queenstown.

• Scenic Fiords: Features towering rock faces, cascading waterfalls like Stirling Falls, and abundant marine wildlife.

• Cruises & Flights: Accessible via scenic coach tours, boat cruises, or small plane flightseeing tours.