Top 20 Queenstown Attractions (2023)
Queenstown is a gorgeous resort town that is located in the south-west of New Zealand’s South Island. Whether you are looking for some extreme outdoor adventure or a laid back trip, Queenstown has it all. Come and discover the worlds best natural landscape as we list out the top 20 attraction to visit in Queenstown.
1. Arrowtown
Situated in the valley, Arrowtown is a picturesque historical village with plenty of stories to uncover. A former gold mining town, this is one of the city’s top tourist attractions that exudes a tranquil ambience. The town is most beautiful during Autumn as the entire place is covered in gold and red foliage. The town is bustling with people, parades and a variety of stalls set up solely in April for the Autumn Festival celebration.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
2. Beach Street
Located within the city, Beach Street is where you will find many hotels overlooking Lake Wakatipu. Not only not, it is also the place to be if you are itching for some shopping. The streets are lined with local retail chain stores, boutiques selling locals handicrafts and even some quaint restaurants. Chocolates and wines are abundant here and are the perfect souvenir to bring home.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
3. Ben Lomond
Ben Lomond is a popular hiking destination that sits in the heart of the city. Just a short drive away, this mountain stands at 1,748 metres and offers two hiking pit stops; The Saddle and the summit of Ben Lomond. Though the journey from The Saddle to the peak takes another 2 hours, the view is worth it as it offers a magnificent panoramic view of the town, Lake Wakatipu and also Arthur’s Point.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
4. Coronet Peak Ski Area
Opens all year round, Coronet Peak Ski Area offers something for everyone across all season. During the summer months, you can take a ride up to the peak and catch a glimpse of the gorgeous aerial view of the mountain. It also offers an exhilarating mountain biking action if adventurous cycling is what you are looking for. The best experience takes place during winter when the peaks turn white, and people come far and wide to ski at New Zealand’s first commercial ski field.
Operating Hours: Daily, 11:00am – 6:30pm
Ticket Price(s): From NZ$30 onwards
5. Creative Queenstown Arts and Crafts Markets
Located at the Beach Street, this place comes alive every Saturday with colourful arts, creative crafts and visited by lively crowds. Facing the scenic Steamer Wharf, this place guarantees an enjoyable shopping experience for all. You can also find fresh produce and delicious tasting foods here every Saturday morning. Come and meet these friendly stall owners and learn of their story and a taste of New Zealand’s culture.
Operating Hours: Saturday, 9:00am – 12:30pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
6. Gibbston Valley
Also known as the Valley of the Vines, Gibbston Valley is a charming vineyard in the slopes of a mountain. The climate is cooling, perfect for growing grapes that produce one of the best wines in New Zealand. There are plenty of tours available, but you must not miss out visiting the wine caves. This highlight are a series of caves dug beneath the ground, storing plenty of wine casks here.
Operating Hours: Saturday, 10:00am – 5:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
7. Glenorchy
Just 45 kilometres away from Queenstown, you will reach this scenic suburban town that offers some of the best outdoor activities. Famed for its beautiful natural landscape, it is no wonder why it is a popular spot for filming; which can be seen in the movie the Lord of The Rings and Narnia. Encompassing mountains, valley, the Dart River and farm sheds; why not explore the area by horse trekking, you will be able to travel to more areas for a more fulfilled adventure.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
8. Jack’s Point
Home to a gorgeous mountain and lake view, Jack’s Point is a famous site for avid golfers. Spanning across 14.2 hectares of land, you will find a world-class golf course with occasional sheep grazing around the area. This area also offers a stunning hiking trail to Mountain Remarkables or why not explore Lake Wakatipu through cycling around the area.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
9. Lake Wakatipu
The best place to soak in all of Queenstown has to offer will have to be at Lake Wakatipu; the longest river in New Zealand. This Queenstown gem is set in the middle of the town, enchanting visitors with its beauty. The lake is a playground for a variety of activities ranging from paddle boating, para flight, river cruises and the exhilarating Hydro Attack. It is an exhilarating experience to be seated in a giant enclosed jet ski where you will be jet across the lake at 80 kilometres per hour before plunging down underwater.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
10. Milford Sound
Milford Sound is situated within Te Wahipounamu, which is acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Perfect for nature lovers, Milford Sound is an iconic nature trail in New Zealand that is home to rich floras and faunas. The area is also blessed with magnificent peaks and waterfalls, where visitors are left in awe of how lovely Mother Nature is. Within the vicinity, you can also stop by Milford Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory for a better understanding of this grand forest.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
11. Moke Lake
This hidden gem is located 10 minutes drive away from the town and is a small peaceful lake perfect from camping. Set with mountain as the background, the place has a calming effect, as though the scenery is enveloping you. The stroll around the lake takes approximately 2.5 hours, but you can opt to either cycle or kayak to uncover more of this beautiful place.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): NZ$15 per night
12. Mount Aspiring National Park
One part of Te Wahipounamu, Mount Aspiring National Park is one of the most pristine national parks in New Zealand. Its uncontaminated beauty captures many visitors’ interest to wander through the mountains, wilderness and stunning blue pools. To fully discover Mount Aspiring National Park, one will require a few days, but it will be an excursion you will never forget.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): From NZ$146 onwards
13. Queenstown Gardens
Named as one of the best gardens in Queenstown, Queenstown Gardens is located not too far from the city. Occupied within this 14.75 hectares of land are gorgeous flowers and exotic plants; all designed in beautiful landscaping. Besides than offering a variety of walking trails, you will find outdoor activities facilities suitable for all ages such as BMX biking, skateboarding, lawn balls and kids playground too.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
14. Queenstown Hill Walk
Perched in the heart of the city, Queenstown Hill Walk is a two hours hiking trail that offers a marvellous panoramic view of the surrounding area. Trekking through a scenic pine trail, you will also get to see the infamous Basket of Dreams sculpture that is made of steel. Don’t worry as the walk up to the summit is easy and is suitable for first-time hikers as well.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
15. Queenstown Mall
Queenstown Mall offers a wonderful shopping experience in the centre of the city. Set in the outdoors, this mall appeals to all, as there are plenty of shops selling a variety of items ranging from premium to mass brands. Why not rest at any of the al-fresco restaurants or cafes that are found in this vicinity.
Operating Hours: Sunday, 10:00am – 8:00pm | Monday – Saturday, 10:00am – 9:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
16. Remarkables Market
A vibrant market that is only opened from October – April is an ideal place for people watching. People from all walks of time visit this place for a fun time picking flowers, fresh produce, artisan handicrafts and many more. There is also a section for children to have fun while parents stroll around the market. It gives out a very nice feeling, being surrounded by mountains while shopping for daily groceries.
Operating Hours: Saturday, 9:00am – 2:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Free
17. Shotover River
For a change of pace, why not visit Shotover River for an adventurous rafting experience. Just 7 kilometres drive away, this magnificent 75 kilometres raging rapid will have you spinning and fishtailing in this jet boat ride. The journey ends with a smooth ride in the shallow waters where you will get a better chance to appreciate nature; the towering cliffs and rock walls.
Operating Hours: Daily, 7:30am – 7:30pm
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
18. Skippers Canyon
Skippers Canyon was a gold mining road in the past. Now people visit this place for its history and the scenic route next to the Shotover River. Before signing on this tour, we would not recommend people with the fear of heights to participate. The journey through the canyons are high and narrow; one wrong move, you will have the risk of falling from the cliff. But don’t worry, they are experienced drivers. Another highlight you cannot miss is the Skippers Bridge, a 315 metres long bridge, suspended 100 metres above waters.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
19. Skyline Queenstown
Skyline Queenstown is the most popular attraction in the city. With just a gondola ride away, this facility offers visitors a magnificent view of Queenstown and the surrounding areas. When you reach the top, there are myriads of activities that await you and a restaurant that is known for whipping out the best of New Zealand and various International dishes. Instead of taking the gondola back to the city, why not sign up for a thrilling, fast-paced trip downhill through the Skyline Luge.
Operating Hours: Daily, 9:00am – 9:00pm
Ticket Price(s): Subject to tour rates.
20. Wanaka
You will remember passing by this place from your journey to Mount Aspiring National Park. It is a scenic and quiet resort town that offers a breathtaking view of the lake and the mountainous backdrop. This place provides adventure, nature trailing, themed attractions and plenty of Instagrammable spots. Some of the attractions you should look out for, while you are here are the Puzzling World, Lavender Farm and the Toy Museum. Here you will come across an unusual sighting of a willow tree that stands alone in the Lake Wakana that is a popular place trending in social media.
Operating Hours: Daily, 24 hours
Ticket Price(s): Free
Surrounded by mountains, it is a magical place offering a wide variety of activities. From mountain trekking to whitewater rafting, no matter what holiday pace you are at, Queenstown will be able to satisfy you. Do take note that the best time to visit Queenstown is during Autumn and Winter, that is when this place shines the most.