Places to visit in Queenstown

Queenstown Airport is a gateway for tourism in this part of New Zealand. From extreme sports like skydiving and bungee jumping to more relaxing options like a cruise on Lake Wakatipu or a gondola ride to the peak of Bob's Peak for breathtaking views, Queenstown has something for every type of traveler, no matter the time of year.

Queenstown is also home to some of the country's finest wineries in and around Queenstown, so sightseers can imbibe in vino while taking in the sights. For more information on the excellent travel opportunities in Queenstown or anywhere in New Zealand, please visit getyourguide.com.

TSS Earnslaw: Queenstown Cruise & Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ

A 45-minute cruise across Queenstown's Lake Wakatipu on the classic TSS Earnslaw kicks off and caps off this half-day excursion. Please spend a few hours at Walter Peak High Country Station enjoying their delicious cuisine and entertaining farm demonstration.

Enjoy exploring the many rooms and public spaces aboard this magnificent steamship, which serves as a museum dedicated to her own history. Feel free to visit the engine room and see how our hardworking coal stokers keep this lovely lady of the lake gliding across Lake Wakatipu.

The Colonel's Homestead at Walter Peak is a great place to spend a sunny day in Central Otago, as it looks out over Lake Wakatipu and the breathtaking alpine scenery of Queenstown. The colonial-style building and expansive grounds are reminiscent of a more refined time. You can spend your time here exploring the beautiful gardens that have won awards or interacting with the animals that call the station home.

Salads, vegetables, and succulent local meats cooked on the outdoor rotisserie or grill are some items featured at the BBQ Buffet. A variety of sweets, such as fresh bread and cheese, are available. If you have special dietary needs, the provider needs to know about them.

Queenstown: Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Full-Day Trip

Take a relaxing day trip to the world-famous fiord of Milford Sound to take in its glacial features, wild flora and fauna, and picturesque backdrops.

Start out by getting picked up to board the bus to Te Anau. As you take in the breathtaking views, your driver will fill you in on the history and culture of the area. Wonder at the sights of the rainforest, including its waterfalls and wildlife.

Take the scenery from any of the three indoor and outdoor observation decks. Remember to join the friendly crew at the bow as you pass under Stirling Falls for a refreshing shower in some of the world's purest water.

Tea, coffee, pastries, and espresso are all on the house for the cruise duration. There's a cafe/bar where you can buy more drinks.

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Full-Day Trip by Bus & Boat

Sign up for a guided coach tour to Milford Sound from Queenstown and avoid the stress of driving there yourself. Take it easy as you take the breathtaking views and listen to the insightful guide's commentary. During your 2-hour nature cruise, your knowledgeable local coach driver will point out all of the best sights along Milford Road.

You'll have access to USB charging ports and a comfortable coach during your trip. Be amazed by the native rainforest, spectacular waterfalls, and glacial lakes. Stop in Te Anau on your way to the breathtaking Milford Road in the mountains.

Take pictures while gawking at the breathtaking scenery in Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Knobbs Flat, or Monkey Creek. As you make your way to the visitor center, you can take in breathtaking views of Milford Sound, which was sculpted by glaciers. Grab your cruise and lunch vouchers from the driver, and they'll show you the way to the ship's terminal.

Get out on the water and observe marine life from the comfort of a catamaran. Picnic lunches are delicious, especially when they are freshly prepared. Admire the beautiful scenery and keep your eyes peeled for the local dolphins, seals, and penguins. Listen to the skipper's fascinating commentary in the open wheelhouse.

Feel the full force of the mighty 15,000-year-old Stirling Falls on your face as you close to impressive glacially carved rock walls. When you've had enough of the breathtaking scenery, hop back in the car with your driver and head back to Queenstown.

Queenstown: Scenic Lake Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Tour

Enjoy an interactive glimpse into New Zealand's rural culture on this Queenstown combo tour. Get out on Lake Wakatipu and let the boat take the wheel. Get off at a real farm and take a look around while enjoying some morning or afternoon tea.

Take a boat ride across Lake Wakatipu and head to Walter Peak High Country Farm first. Check out the ship's shops, relax in the sauna, and chat with the captain on the bridge. Use the ship's convenience store to stock up on alcoholic beverages.

Upon reaching Walter Peak, you will be invited to accompany the host on a farm tour. Close encounters with highland sheep, deer, and cattle are possible.

Participate in animal feedings, observe a farming demonstration, and stroll through beautiful lakeside gardens. Indulge in some tasty scones and muffins while sipping tea in the morning or afternoon.

Queenstown: Shotover River and Kawarau River Jet Boat Ride

Experience the thrill of flying through the water at over 100 miles per hour on a jet boat ride that lasts for an entire hour, provided by the world's first commercial jet boat company. Experience two of South Island's most famous rivers while taking panoramic views of the Remarkable Mountains.

Hop on the big yellow jet boat at the Main Town Pier in the middle of Queenstown and set sail. Fasten your seatbelt and brace yourself for the thrill of a high-powered twin-engine boat as it speeds across Lake Wakatipu.

In the Kawarau River, you can reach up to 95 kilometers per hour as you twist and turn past rocks and under bridges.

Hold on to the heated handrails and go for a spin as you race through the shallow channels of the Shotover River at top speed. After 45 kilometers of nonstop excitement, you can relax at the pier and review your footage and pictures.

Milford Sound: Coach and Cruise Day Trip From Queenstown

Plan a day trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound for a lengthy nature cruise. Enjoy a luxurious ride on one of the world's most scenic routes.

Following the group's gathering in a central location in Queenstown, the luxury coach will take them along Lake Wakatipu's shores and through Te Anau's countryside.

Have a rest, and then keep going along the breathtaking Milford Road in the mountains. Stop for photos and stroll a bit along the way. Enjoy the sights of wildlife, waterfalls, and mountains as you cruise leisurely to the Tasman Sea from Milford Sound.

Expert live commentary from a nature guide. Bring your own lunch, or buy food and drinks (cash only) from the vending machines.

Queenstown: Spirit of Queenstown Lake Wakatipu Scenic Cruise

Cruise around Queenstown on the Spirit of Queenstown, an eco-friendly vessel with luxurious amenities, and take in the breathtaking scenery of the Remarkables, Bob's Cove, Cecil Peak, and Mt. Earnslaw.

The open-air observation deck offers breathtaking vistas. You can get some food and drinks at the onboard cafe. Take a relaxing boat ride across the beautiful waters of Lake Wakatipu while listening to the insightful narration of a native guide.