OUR 5 QUEENSTOWN MUST DO’S (FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS)

Queenstown has a way of making first-timers feel like they’ve landed in the middle of a postcard… with a side of adrenaline. If you fly in, the approach to Queenstown Airport alone is enough to get your holiday off to an unforgettable start.

And if you’re only here for a few days and you want the “can’t-miss” experiences (the ones you’ll still be talking about on the flight home), these are our five Queenstown must do’s.

We’ll share what each one is, where to go, how to get there, who it suits, what to watch out for, and the cost considerations—so you can plan with confidence.

1) CRUISE LAKE WAKATIPU ON THE TSS EARNSLAW (OPTIONAL BBQ LUNCH OR DINNER)

Why it’s a must do

The TSS Earnslaw is Queenstown’s iconic vintage steamship—launched in 1912 and still cruising Lake Wakatipu like it owns the place (because, honestly, it kind of does). It’s relaxed, scenic, and wonderfully “Queenstown.” If you want something classic and easy that still feels special, this is it. And those views of Queenstown take on a whole different perspective from out on the lake.

Where it is + how to get there

• Departure point: Steamer Wharf (right in Queenstown town centre, on the lakefront).
• Getting there: Walk from most central Queenstown accommodation. If you’re staying further out (Frankton, Arrowtown), drive or bus/taxi into town and park in paid carparks nearby (arrive early in peak seasons).

What you’ll do

• Cruise across Lake Wakatipu with mountain views the whole way (snow capped in the cooler months from around April to October).
• Consider the add-on: Visit Walter Peak High Country Farm for a delicious BBQ lunch or dinner (often the highlight), plus time to explore the gardens and farm setting.

Pros

• Very easy to do (no intense physical effort).
• Great for all ages—families, couples, older travellers.
• Works well in any season (it’s a true year-round activity).
• The BBQ meal option adds a “complete experience” feel.

Cons

• It’s popular, so sailings can book out (especially evenings and holidays).
• Weather can affect the lake conditions—rarely a deal-breaker, but bring a jacket.
• If you’re looking for high adrenaline, this is more “heritage/relax/take in the scenery.”

Seasonal considerations

• Summer evenings are magic on the lake; shoulder seasons can be crisp but beautiful.
• In winter, dress warm—lake air is cold once the sun drops.

Suitability (age/medical)

• Generally suitable for all ages.
• Good option for anyone who wants minimal walking.
• If you’re sensitive to motion, the lake is usually calm but not always glassy.

Cost factors (what affects price)

• Cruise-only vs cruise + BBQ meal (lunch/dinner is more).
• Family pricing is often better value than individual tickets.
• Premium times (like dinner) can cost more and book out faster.

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CRUISE AND BBQ LUNCH OR DINNER - BOOK NOW

2) DAY TRIP TO MILFORD SOUND (COACH-CRUISE OR FLY-CRUISE)

Why it’s a must do

Milford Sound is one of those places that just makes us go quiet. The towering cliffs, huge waterfalls, rainforests and deep dark water, give us a “this can’t be real” feeling. All we want to do is stare. That's what it's like.

If you do one big day trip from Queenstown, make it this (please read the important note below about getting there). Located in the World Heritage listed Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound was once described by famed English author Rudyard Kipling (the "Jungle Book") as the "Eighth Wonder of the World". And when you get there you will understand why.

The two main ways to do it

A) Coach + cruise (most common)

• You’ll travel by coach from Queenstown, stop at scenic points along the way, then take a Milford Sound cruise.
• Long day, but excellent value and very straightforward. Great local commentary.
• Coaches depart and return from central Queenstown.
• The drive to Milford Sound takes around four and a half hours one way.

B) Fly + cruise (or coach one way, fly the other)

• Scenic flight over Fiordland (and often over glaciers/peaks depending on the route) plus the cruise.
• More expensive, but saves time and adds a huge wow-factor.

Where it is + how to get there

• Milford Sound is in Fiordland National Park, about a full-day journey from Queenstown.
• Best way: Book a tour that includes transport (driving yourself is possible, but not recommended from Queenstown. It’s a big day with possible winter driving considerations - see note below).

Pros

• Milford Sound is genuinely world-class scenery.
• Tour operators handle logistics, stops, and timing.
• The drive here, particularly the road after Te Anau, is one of the World's great drives, with scenery that is hard to beat. We predict that you will return with a sore neck from constantly "looking up" at the peaks and waterfalls.
• Coach tours are cost-effective.
• Fly-cruise options reduce time on the road and are unforgettable.

Cons

• Coach days are long at around 13 hours (expect an early start 6-6.30 am and late return 7- 7.30pm).
• Weather can change quickly; flights can be delayed/cancelled if conditions are unsuitable. Allow some flexibility in your schedule just in case.
• If you’re prone to car sickness, the roads into Fiordland can be winding (sit near the front, take precautions).

Seasonal considerations

• Rain is not “bad” here—it's actually great! Waterfalls appear everywhere and it can be spectacular. We are constantly amazed by the dozens (maybe hundreds) of waterfalls, not only at Milford Sound, but on the sheer cliffs near the Homer Tunnel.
• Winter: fewer crowds and dramatic scenery, but roads can be icy and daylight is shorter.
• Summer: longer days and more tour availability, but busier.
• You may need to book your tour many months in advance during peak periods like the summer months (Dec-Feb).
• Be sure to pack a spray/rain jacket and layers. It can get chilly in the winter months (June-August). Insect repellent is also handy - our "midges" love groups of people.

Suitability (age/medical)

• Coach-cruise suits most ages, but be ready for a long seated day. There will be several stops along the way there, but usually only one stop on the way back. Check with the individual operator.
• Fly options may have age/weight restrictions depending on aircraft, and weather sensitivity.
• If you have mobility challenges, most cruises are accessible, but confirm with the operator (gangways/boarding can vary).
• If pregnant or with certain medical conditions, flying may require a quick check with your provider/operator.

Cost factors

• Coach-cruise is usually the best-value Milford option.
• Fly-cruise is premium-priced; “fly one way” can be a nice compromise.
• Add-ons: food, premium seating, or upgraded cruise vessels can affect cost.
• Booking early in peak season often gives you better choice of departure times.

Important Warning

Because the drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound takes between 4 and 5 hours each way, we strongly recommend that you do not attempt the drive from Queenstown yourself in one day. The road is sealed and well maintained, BUT, it's very winding, and often affected by rain and snow in the cooler months. Accidents involving tourists occur almost daily, and we don't want you to be another statistic.

If you are staying in Queenstown, PLEASE take an organised coach/cruise, or fly/cruise combo. But if you feel that you want to drive, please stay the night before and after your cruise in the town of Te Anau. From there it's only a couple of hours to Milford Sound, so much less stressful.

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3) SKYLINE GONDOLA TO BOB’S PEAK (PLUS LUGE + STRATOSFARE SUNSET DINNER)

Why it’s a must do

The Skyline Gondola is the easiest way to get a “big view” in Queenstown. From the Skyline Base in Brecon Street (15 minutes uphill walk from the town centre), it's just a few minutes in the gondola and you’re up on Bob’s Peak. 

At around 450 metres above town, the views are breathtaking, and we can't imagine that there would be many visitors to Queenstown that don't have their own favourite "hero shot" from up there.

Your view stretches over Lake Wakatipu, the town, and those jagged Remarkables mountains. Add a few rides on the luge for laughs, or book dinner at Stratosfare for one of the best sunset experiences in town. We recommend booking a window table to maximise the views.  Watching the light shift over the lake and mountains while you eat is mesmerising.

Where it is & how to get there

• Base terminal: Brecon Street, Queenstown (a 15 minute walk uphill from the centre). There's a pay to use parking station next to the base terminal. 

What you can do up top

• Skyline Gondola ride (up and down).
• Luge: gravity-powered carts on scenic tracks (multiple rides available).
• Stratosfare Restaurant: buffet-style dining with panoramic windows.
• Have a light meal at the Market Kitche Cafe.
• Stargazing tours at night.
• Pick up a momento at the gift shop.
• Access to walking and bike trails.

Pros

• Huge views with minimal effort.
• Easy to tailor: quick gondola trip, or spend hours up there.
• Luge is genuinely fun for groups and families.
• Great in most weather; even cloudy days can look dramatic.

Cons

• Can be busy, especially late afternoon/sunset and school holidays.
• If you don’t love heights, the gondola ride can feel a bit exposed (it’s safe, but you’ll notice the height).
• The restaurant is popular—book ahead for prime times.

Seasonal considerations

• Sunset times change a lot through the year—winter sunsets are earlier (nice if you don’t want a late night).
• In winter, bring warm layers—temperatures drop fast at elevation.

Suitability (age/medical)

• Gondola: suits almost everyone. Probably not suitable if you have a fear of heights.
• Luge: Great for kids, teens, adults—there are height/age rules and tandem options for smaller children (operator will advise). Not ideal if you have back/neck issues or certain injuries—there’s some bumping and turning.
• Stratosfare: suits everyone, including non-adrenaline travellers.

Cost factors

• Tickets vary depending on gondola-only vs gondola + luge rides (more rides = better value per ride).
• Dining is a separate cost, but packages are usually available; sunset dinner is premium demand.
• Family passes and combo deals can reduce overall spend.

THINGS TO DO AT SKYLINE

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4) JETBOAT RIDE: SHOTOVER JET OR KAWARAU JET

Why it’s a must do

Jet boating is a Queenstown classic—fast, loud, thrilling, and ridiculously scenic. You’ll skim over shallow water, whip through tight bends, and yes… usually do a signature 360-degree spin.

The jetboat was invented by a very clever New Zealander, Bill Hamilton, who needed a way to navigate the shallow rivers on his farm. His invention enabled him to skim through water barely a few inches deep, and every time we ride a jetboat, we can't believe where these things can go. On one ride on the Kawarau Jet we raced up the river towards a shallow section where the river flowed over some stones. We were waiting for the skipper to turn, but he just kept going!

The Shotover Jet is perhaps our best known jetboat experience, and takes you on a thundering, twisting ride along the Shotover River, and through the Shotover Canyons. They get pretty close to the walls of the canyon, but the skipper has complete control of the boat, and their signature spins are a highlight.

 For a real wilderness experience, the Dart River Wilderness adventure is something else. The picture above probably tells the story as well as any words. The adventure takes you into Mt Aspiring National Park, where you hear about local Maori legend, and visit famous movie set locations.

Your two big choices (and a third "wilderness experience")

A) Shotover Jet

• Famous for dramatic canyon walls and narrow river runs.
• Feels intense and “wild.”

B) Kawarau Jet

• Wider river, big open speed runs, and often a slightly smoother feel than the canyon ride.
• Still thrilling, just different scenery and vibe.

C) Dart River Jet

• A longer (and more expensive) ride, but a real wilderness feel.

Where they are + how to get there

 Shotover Jet: Departs from Arthur's Point, around 15 minutes drive from town, or you can add transport by them from the town centre.

Kawarau Jet: Departs from the main town pier in central Queenstown next to Time Tripper.

Dart River Jet: Departs from either the Station Building in Central Queenstown. From here they will take you to the departure point near Glenorchy (around 45-60 minutes drive). Or you can drive yourself to Glenorchy and meet at their base. We recommend going with them. Sit back. relax, and enjoy the views and commentary on the way.

Pros

• High-adrenaline with an “only in Queenstown” feel.
• Short experience that still delivers maximum excitement.
• Great photos and bragging rights.

Cons

• You will get splashed (more in some conditions than others).
• It can be physically jarring—hold on tight.
• Not ideal if you want a calm, quiet experience.

Seasonal considerations

• All run year-round, but winter is cold on the water (dress warm; operators provide gear. Beanies are great for keeping the head warm. Caps can blow off).
• River conditions can affect operations; occasionally trips are modified or delayed for safety.

Suitability (age/medical)

• Typically suitable for older kids through to adults, but minimum height/age rules apply (check when booking).
• Not recommended for those with certain neck/back problems, serious heart conditions, recent injuries/surgeries,
• and often pregnancy (most operators restrict this).
• If you’re unsure, ask the operator directly—they’ll be very clear.

Cost factors

• Prices vary by operator, duration, and whether transfers are included. Generally, the Dart River adventure is more expensive but offers a longer experience.
• Photo/video packages can add to the total.
• Combo deals (e.g., jetboat + other activities) can be good value.

BOOK THE SHOTOVER JET

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BOOK THE DART RIVER JET

5) BUNGY JUMP OFF THE HISTORIC KAWARAU BRIDGE

Have you ever considered a bungy jump? Many years ago, we were talking to some friends, and the conversation turned to bungy. None of us were daredevils, and the though of throwing ourselves off a bridge, secured by what we imagined was a giant rubber band, just didn't appeal. But after a few choice beverages, our courage grew, and we made a pact that when we had a chance, we would jump.

So, back in the late 1990's, we (Kim and Dave) both decided that the historic Kawarau Bridge would be our choice. As our day came closer, we made a conscious decision to not over think what we were about to do, worried that if we thought about it too much, we would change our minds.

And so one day, we rocked up, paid our money, and jumped. 43 metres from a bridge over the Shotover River.

To say it was the thrill of a lifetime is an understatement. Firstly, conquering our fears was a pretty big deal for us.

We roped up, and shuffled over to the edge. Our guide was excellent and did all he could to help ease our nerves. He told us to look up the gorge and to swan dive towards a point in the distance.

So we did. And were overwhelmed by the experience. We were aware of spectators watching and cheering. There was none of the "jerking" of the bungy cord (we were warned about this by people who had not actually jumped), just a very gradual and gentle recoil after reaching the bottom. Sure the trip down was pretty rapid, and we remember thinking, as the river approached,  we hope we don't get wet (they asked us if we wanted to and we said no). The descent was a mixture of closed eyes, open eyes, a little fear, and several screams of uncertainty.

Then finally a realisation that it was over, and we had just done something we never thought we would. An amazing experience, and something that we are glad we had recorded, just to prove our exploits to our doubting friends and family.

Why it’s a must do

If Queenstown is the adventure capital, then the Kawarau Bridge Bungy is the “birthplace” experience. This is the original commercial bungy site, and jumping from a historic bridge over turquoise water is as iconic as it gets.

Where it is + how to get there

• Location: Kawarau Bridge, State Highway 6, between Queenstown and Cromwell.
• Getting there: Drive (roughly 20–30 minutes from central Queenstown, depending on traffic).

Pros

• The most iconic bungy in the region—amazing story + setting.
• The bridge jump height is a great “first bungy” for many people: big thrill without being the tallest.
• You can usually watch jumpers for free if you’re not jumping (great for groups).
• The satisfaction of knowing that you did it.

Cons

• It’s scary (that’s the point, but still worth saying).
• You may have to wait your turn at peak times.
• If you’re not jumping, you’ll still spend time there—plan it into your day.
• Expensive, particularly with add ons like video/photos.
• No refunds if you pay then change your mind.

Seasonal considerations

• Year-round activity.
• Winter can be cold on the bridge—dress warmly.
• Summer can be hot and busy—morning visits can be less crowded.

Suitability (age/medical)

• Great for adventurous teens and adults (age/weight limits apply—check with the operator).
• Not suitable for certain medical conditions including: heart problems, high blood pressure (depending on severity),
• neck/back injuries, pregnancy.
• If you’ve got any medical concerns, treat this one seriously and get operator guidance.

Cost factors

• Bungy is a premium activity; pricing depends on: jump type/options, photo/video packages, transport/shuttle add-ons.
• If you’re on a budget, consider going as a spectator—still a fun, high-energy stop.

BOOK YOUR KAWARAU BRIDGE BUNGY NOW

A SIMPLE WAY TO PLAN YOUR FIRST QUEENSTOWN TRIP (WITHOUT OVERTHINKING IT)

If you’re here for 3–5 days, this is a smooth order:

• Day 1: Skyline Gondola + luge + sunset dinner at Stratosfare.
• Day 2: Milford Sound day trip (coach-cruise or fly-cruise).
• Day 3: TSS Earnslaw cruise + BBQ lunch/dinner (perfect “recovery day”).
• Day 4: Jetboat (Shotover or Kawarau) + explore town.
• Day 5: Kawarau Bridge Bungy (or spectate if you want the vibe without the jump).

NEED SOME HELP?

If you tell us your travel month, how many days you have, and who you’re travelling with (kids, parents, thrill-seekers, etc.), we can suggest the best order and which options (coach vs fly, Shotover vs Kawarau, luge rides, and the ideal sunset dinner time) to match your pace and budget.