There are so many breathtaking places to see and fun things to do in Queenstown. This amazing place has been at the top of my bucket list for ages.
Finally, for my mum’s 70th birthday, we decided it was the perfect place for a meaningful and heartfelt celebration.
This trip holds a deep emotional significance for us. Since our father’s recent passing, this will be our mother’s first birthday without him, so we wanted it to be special.
Things to Do in Queenstown for Families
Queenstown isn’t just for adventure lovers. It’s a fantastic place for families too. And of course, if we’re going, the kids are coming along! Here are some fun things to do in Queenstown with the family:
1. Take the Coach Bus to Milford Sound
I have done very thorough online research to plan our Queenstown itinerary, and every forum, Facebook page, and Instagram post says never bring your young kids, especially toddlers, to Milford Sound by coach.
Well, it goes to show every child is different because our kids totally winged this 12-hour trip!
For starters, the bus with an all-glass roof was amazing! The panoramic roof gave us uninterrupted views of the sky, towering mountains, and surrounding scenery, making the journey feel like an attraction in itself.
Secondly, the coach we booked made many stops along the way so everyone could stretch their legs and take photos of the scenery. Make sure you get off at every stop so the kids don’t get bored.
We booked our Milford Sound Tour through Klook. The tour includes complimentary pickup and drop-off at central locations in Queenstown, the coach and boat ride, lunch with unlimited tea and coffee and several scenic stops along the way.
Videos and photos never did justice to how breathtaking Milford Sound is. You have to actually be there to soak in all its beauty.
To be honest, I hesitated after reading all the advise about not bringing young kids to this tour, but trust your instinct, mummas! We know our kids better. It was definitely one of the best experiences we’ve had in Queenstown!
2. TSS Earnslaw Round-Trip Boat Ride
Cruising across Lake Wakatipu on the historic TSS Earnslaw is a must-do Queenstown experience, with its stunning alpine scenery. The round-trip journey takes you to Walter Peak High Country Farm.
TSS Earnlaw is a beautifully preserved vintage steamship. What makes it special is that it’s still powered by its original coal-fired steam engines, which you can actually see in action down in the engine room.
You can imagine how amazed the kids were when we walked into their engine room!
The journey itself is just as memorable as the destination, with panoramic mountain views and open-air decks.
3. Have a BBQ Lunch at Walter Peak Farm
We enjoyed a lovely barbecue lunch that was included in our boat ride, made even more special with a complimentary happy birthday song and dessert from the staff, and my mum blowing her birthday candle!
Such a thoughtful touch that made the experience even more memorable!
The tour ended with an engaging sheep-shearing demonstration and farm show, which was very entertaining.
We booked our tickets in advance through Klook, which is very convenient if you are travelling with a big family of all ages. The tour has many options to choose from. We opted for the round-trip TSS Earnslaw ride, which included the BBQ lunch.
Book your TSS Earnslaw Cruise HERE!
4. Relax at Onsen Hot Pools
I keep on saying this to everyone, and I will say it again: Soaking in the Onsen Hot Pools is one of the best things to do in Queenstown!
I was sceptical at first, given it did cost a lot, and thought it might just be an overrated experience. Turns out, you really have to experience it to believe it.
I was speechless the moment the door opened to our private hot pool overlooking the mountains and the river. It felt so magical, like everything just slowed down.
We went early in the morning, and personally, it is the most peaceful and dreamy time to soak up the views.
Our experience was next-level luxury. Everything from start to finish felt like five-star, the elegant reception and the attention to every detail. This experience is definitely worth every dollar you paid for!
We booked directly through their website as I find it easier to find available dates.
5. Do the Gondola and Luge Ride
One of the highlights of our Queenstown family trip was riding the Skyline Gondola and trying the luge. We chose the ticket package that included the gondola ride plus three luge rides, which was perfect for getting the full experience.
The luge was so much fun and an instant favourite with the girls. They absolutely had a blast racing down the tracks. And to make it more memorable, everywhere you look is picture-perfect, overlooking the city with its beautiful lake and mountains.
It was an activity we all enjoyed together and definitely one of the most memorable parts of our time in Queenstown.
6. Stay Somewhere with Stunning Lake and City Views
Wake up to breathtaking views every day in Queenstown. The place we stayed at boasts amazing scenery from every part of the house, so much so that we never wanted to leave!
Imagine looking out the bedroom window, prepping in the kitchen, or having coffee on the balcony, and then having this amazing view of the lake and the city, with sparkling city lights at night, every single day!
Now that is the holiday I always dream of. We booked ours through booking.com.
Book that place with spectacular views, and I can guarantee it will be worth it!
Where we stayed in Queenstown ⤵️
Click here to check availability and book your stay.
Things to Do in Queenstown City Centre
Queenstown city centre is full of life and offers plenty to see and do for all ages.
7. Shop for Souvenirs
Walking around Queenstown city centre without any plans brought us to different souvenir shops. Each shop has different things to offer at reasonable prices. We bought t-shirts, mugs, keychains and fridge magnets.
It is an enjoyable activity, especially if you have extra time to spare.
8. Enjoy Desserts at Patagonia
This is one of those must-do things in Queenstown for anyone with a sweet tooth. We treated ourselves to a selection of rich desserts and creamy ice cream, and it was absolutely worth it.
On the second floor, you can sit with a view or watch the staff make desserts through a glass window.
With so many indulgent flavours to choose from and a cozy spot to enjoy them, it’s the perfect sweet treat after a day of exploring the town.
9. Eat at Fergburger
I really thought this was just hype, given I am not a burger person, but after trying their Tropical Swine and Sweet Bambi, both hubby and I can honestly say it was the best burger we’ve had in our entire lives.
The queue was not too long, and the wait was not that bad as we went there a little after 10 AM.
If you do not try Fergburger when in Queenstown, you are definitely missing out!
10. Lindt Hot Chocolate and Ice Cream
For some reason, we keep coming back to this place during our Queenstown holiday.
It could be because we always walk past Lindt on our way home. Or it could be just an enjoyable place to sit back, watch the town pass you by, while staying warm with a nice cup of hot chocolate.
We incidentally discovered how good their ice cream is when we ordered some for the kids. Trust me, it’s a must-try!
11. Cookie time
No visit to Queenstown city centre is complete without stopping by Cookie Time, a local favourite known for its warm, freshly baked cookies. The place features fun, colourful interiors and a playful atmosphere.
It’s a perfect place to grab a treat while strolling along Queenstown city centre, or if you are looking for a post-lunch dessert.
We also bought some to take home and share with close family and friends back in Australia.
12. Shop Whittaker’s Chocolate
Do not leave Queenstown without stocking up on Whittaker’s chocolate. It’s one of the creamiest, smoothest, and best-quality chocolates I’ve ever tasted, with a huge variety of delicious flavours that are well worth trying.
My personal favourites are Creamy Milk and Berry & Biscuit. They’re absolutely addictive!
I also noticed that Whittaker’s is significantly cheaper to buy in New Zealand than in Australia, making it the perfect souvenir or treat to take home.
Free Things to Do in Queenstown
There are also plenty of free things to do in Queenstown, from scenic lake walks to stunning viewpoints that showcase the town’s natural beauty. It’s a great destination where you can enjoy incredible experiences without spending a dollar.
13. Stroll and Have a Picnic at the Esplanade
One of the best free things to do in Queenstown is to stroll along the Esplanade and enjoy a relaxing picnic by the lake.
You can sit for hours taking in the breathtaking views of the crystal-clear water framed by snow-capped mountains, or try the variety of food sold by stalls along the esplanade.
It’s also a great spot for people-watching as visitors and locals pass by, adding to the area’s lively yet calm vibe. With its wide open space, kids can safely run around and get entertained by lots of ducks swimming along the lake.
If slow days are what you’re after, this is the perfect place to unwind.
14. Walk the Queenstown Gardens Trail
This is one of the most memorable things to do in Queenstown for us, as a family, and to think it’s free!
This is a very easy 2-kilometre walking track suitable for all fitness levels, perfect for slowing down and enjoying nature.
Along the way, you’ll pass manicured gardens, rose beds, and open green spaces with stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. Every turn will take your breath away.
15. Let the Kids Enjoy the Queenstown Lakefront Playground
After all the walking, it’s good to stop by the Queenstown Lakefront Playground to let the kids drain all their energy while you can relax on nearby benches or grassy areas, soaking in Queenstown’s natural beauty.
Located right by the lake, it offers a fun and safe space where kids can climb, slide, and explore while surrounded by stunning mountain and water views.
16. Stroll Around Queenstown Gardens
Queenstown Gardens is one of the best free places to visit in Queenstown, perfect for a relaxed stroll surrounded by nature.
You can wander through beautifully maintained gardens while taking in peaceful lake views and the stunning mountain backdrop.
It’s an easy, scenic walk where you can simply slow down, enjoy the fresh air, and soak up the natural beauty all around you.
17. Sit Back and Relax at Village Green
We happened to walk past here on our way to the Lindt Cafe. Village Green is a small park at the heart of Queenstown. It is one of the best free places to visit, especially for families looking to relax.
The kids love running around the spacious open lawn. The running water, ducks and birds are enough to entertain them, while adults can sit back and soak up the sunshine.
Day Trips from Queenstown
There are plenty of other things to do just outside Queenstown, making it easy to turn your visit into a memorable day trip. From scenic drives to nearby towns and nature spots, there’s even more to explore beyond the city centre.
18. Road Trip to Glenorchy
A road trip to Glenorchy is an absolute must when visiting Queenstown, with one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand.
The journey hugs the edge of Lake Wakatipu, offering endless photo-worthy stops along the way where you can pull over, take in the views, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Once you arrive, don’t miss a stop at the iconic Red Shed, a charming little spot perfect for a quick break and a bite while soaking up the lakefront views.
We also missed out on the Glenorchy Animal Experience, as it only operates during certain months, but it’s definitely something we’d love to come back for next time.
19. Road trip to Arrowtown
Arrowtown offers a charming step back in time with its historic gold-mining village feel. You can wander along the quaint streets and explore boutique shops and cafes.
We didn’t have enough time to fully explore, as it was just a stop along the way during our road trip. Still, we made sure to visit Provisions Cafe for its amazing coffee and hot chocolate, which was a highlight.
We would definitely love to come back to this lovely little town, as it looked like a very promising place to explore properly and enjoy at a slower pace.
20. Day Trip to Cardrona
A day trip to the iconic Cardrona Hotel from Queenstown is a must, located approximately an hour’s drive away.
We stopped here for lunch and wished we could stay longer. The menu can be quite expensive, but it was worth it to be there and enjoy the experience. You will be charmed once you step inside, with its rustic character, cosy atmosphere, and picture-perfect mountain backdrop.
They have an outdoor fireplace area, as well as enclosed seating to keep you warm and comfortable, plus a playground for kids to enjoy, making it a great stop for families.
While in the area, it’s also worth stopping by the famous Cardrona Bra Fence, a quirky roadside installation that has grown into a symbol of support and awareness for breast cancer.
21. Road Trip to Wanaka
A road trip from Queenstown to Lake Wanaka is an unforgettable experience, with one of the most breathtaking drives in New Zealand.
I couldn’t emphasise this enough, but make sure you are wide awake and have your phones ready when you are driving towards the lake, as it is just BREATHTAKING.
We did set out to find the famous Wanaka Tree, but unfortunately didn’t manage to spot it, as by that time we were already quite tired from the journey, so make sure you do your research beforehand.
There are also plenty of other places to explore in Wanaka aside from the lake itself, including the beautiful Wānaka Lavender Farm and salmon fishing experiences, both offering a peaceful way to enjoy the region.
The Wrap Up: Things to Do in Queenstown for Families
Queenstown truly offers something for everyone, from breathtaking scenic drives to relaxing lakefront strolls. Every turn was breathtaking. Every stop was memorable.
From our family trip, we can definitely say it is not just for adventure seekers. It’s also for those wanting to slow down, relax, and take a breather.
This is purely a personal trip to support our mother during a milestone and an emotionally significant time. Queenstown felt like the ideal place to spend time together, reflect and create new memories.
