Top 21 Things to Do in Queenstown, New Zealand

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Discover the top 21 things to do in Queenstown, New Zealand. From adventure activities and scenic attractions to vegetarian and vegan restaurants near every experience.

Queenstown is widely known as the Adventure Capital of New Zealand, but it is also a destination of breathtaking alpine scenery, lakefront beauty, world-class food, and unforgettable day trips. Located on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range, Queenstown offers something for every type of traveller—thrill-seekers, families, nature lovers, and food enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re visiting for a short stay or planning a full South Island itinerary, these are the top 21 things to do in Queenstown, including vegetarian and vegan dining options near each attraction.

1. Ride the Skyline Gondola for Panoramic Views

The Skyline Gondola is one of the most iconic attractions in Queenstown, taking visitors high above the town for spectacular views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. At the top, you can enjoy scenic lookouts, walking tracks, and the famous luge rides. It’s a must-do experience, especially at sunset, when Queenstown glows beneath you. Many travellers combine this with other alpine adventures through My Holidays Diary Queenstown tours.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Bespoke Kitchen (10 min walk downhill), Yonder (Queenstown Mall), Patagonia Chocolates (vegetarian-friendly treats).

2. Explore Queenstown Gardens

Queenstown Gardens offer a peaceful escape just minutes from the town centre. Located on a small peninsula extending into Lake Wakatipu, the gardens feature walking trails, rose gardens, large trees, and stunning lake views. This is an ideal spot for a relaxed stroll, picnic, or a casual game of frisbee golf.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Vudu Café & Larder (excellent vegan options), Eichardt’s Bar vegetarian plates, Yonder Café.

3. Cruise Lake Wakatipu

A scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu allows you to experience Queenstown’s beauty from the water. The historic TSS Earnslaw steamship is a favourite option, offering lake crossings and farm visits. The calm waters and mountain reflections make this one of the most relaxing things to do in Queenstown.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Odd Saint (vegetarian-focused menu), The World Bar (vegetarian options), Erik’s Fish & Chips (vegan chips).

4. Visit Arrowtown Historic Village

Just a short drive from Queenstown, Arrowtown is a charming historic gold-mining village filled with preserved buildings, boutique shops, and riverside walking tracks. In autumn, the town becomes especially beautiful with golden leaves lining the streets.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Provisions of Arrowtown (vegetarian-friendly café), The Fork and Tap (plant-based options), Postmasters Cottage Café.

5. Experience Bungy Jumping at Kawarau Bridge

Queenstown is the birthplace of commercial bungy jumping, and the Kawarau Bridge Bungy is the most famous spot. Even if you don’t jump, watching thrill-seekers leap into the gorge is an exciting experience.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
AJ Hackett Café (vegetarian snacks), Gibbston Valley cafés nearby with vegetarian options.

6. Take a Jet Boat Ride on Shotover River

Jet boating through the narrow canyons of the Shotover River is one of Queenstown’s most thrilling activities. High speeds, sharp turns, and dramatic cliffs make this an unforgettable adventure.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Bespoke Kitchen, Balls and Bangles (vegetarian street food), Yonder.

7. Enjoy Queenstown Hill Walk

The Queenstown Hill Walk is a popular hiking trail offering panoramic views over the town and lake. The walk is moderately challenging but rewarding, especially at the summit viewpoint.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Vudu Café, Devil Burger (vegan burger options), Patagonia Chocolates.

8. Visit Gibbston Valley Wine Region

Gibbston Valley is one of New Zealand’s most famous wine regions, known especially for Pinot Noir. Many wineries offer cellar doors, vineyard walks, and tastings. This area is easily explored via My Holidays Diary wine and food tours.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Gibbston Valley Winery Restaurant (vegetarian menus available), Kinross Winery Bistro.

9. Explore Milford Sound on a Day Trip

A Milford Sound day trip is often described as the highlight of a South Island visit. Towering cliffs, waterfalls, and mirror-like fjords make this a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Queenstown is the most popular base for Milford Sound tours.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby (Queenstown before/after tour):
Odd Saint, Bespoke Kitchen, Yonder.

10. Walk Along Frankton Arm Lakeside Trail

This scenic lakeside trail connects Queenstown with Frankton, offering flat, easy walking or cycling with stunning lake views. It’s ideal for families and casual walkers.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
The Boatshed Café, Frankton Arm Tavern (vegetarian meals), Café Society.

11. Go Paragliding Over Queenstown

Paragliding provides a bird’s-eye view of Queenstown’s dramatic landscape. Launching from high above the town, you’ll glide peacefully over Lake Wakatipu before landing near the lakefront.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Yonder, Bespoke Kitchen, Vudu Café.

12. Discover Skippers Canyon

Skippers Canyon is a remote and historic gorge accessed by one of New Zealand’s most dramatic roads. Guided tours are recommended, and the scenery is raw and breathtaking.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Queenstown town centre eateries such as Odd Saint and Bespoke Kitchen.

13. Visit Onsen Hot Pools

The Onsen Hot Pools offer a luxury bathing experience overlooking the Shotover River canyon. Private cedar tubs and incredible views make this perfect for relaxation after adventure activities.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Cargo Brew Hall (vegetarian dishes), Frankton cafés nearby.

14. Explore Moke Lake

Moke Lake is a hidden gem near Queenstown, ideal for photography, walking, and picnics. The calm water and mountain reflections make it a peaceful escape from busy attractions.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Bring picnic food from Bespoke Kitchen or Vudu Café.

15. Try Luge Rides at Skyline

The Skyline Luge is fun for all ages, combining gravity-powered rides with scenic views. Multiple tracks allow beginners and experienced riders to enjoy the experience.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Stratosfare Restaurant vegetarian options, Queenstown Mall eateries.

16. Visit Ben Lomond Track

Ben Lomond is one of the most challenging and rewarding hikes in Queenstown. From the summit, you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of the Southern Alps.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Post-hike meals at Odd Saint or Bespoke Kitchen.

17. Explore Queenstown Mall

Queenstown Mall is the heart of shopping, dining, and nightlife. Street performers, boutique stores, and lake views make it lively day and night.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Devil Burger (vegan), Balls and Bangles, Yonder.

18. Take a Scenic Helicopter Flight

Scenic helicopter flights allow you to land on snow-covered peaks and see remote alpine areas inaccessible by road.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Town centre cafés and Odd Saint restaurant.

19. Visit Glenorchy Scenic Village

Glenorchy, at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu, is famous for dramatic scenery and film locations. It’s a popular photography and nature stop.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Glenorchy Café (vegetarian-friendly), picnic options.

20. Experience Nightlife & Live Music

Queenstown’s nightlife is energetic and fun, with live music venues, bars, and late-night dining.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
The World Bar, Yonder late-night menu, vegan street food options.

21. Take a Queenstown Day Tour

Day tours from Queenstown include Milford Sound, Mount Cook, wine tours, and adventure experiences. Booking through My Holidays Diary Queenstown tours allows you to explore more while travelling comfortably.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Multiple tour-friendly cafés in Queenstown CBD.