Best things to do in Queenstown

So, you've just wrapped up an epic hiking adventure in Queenstown, legs are sore, heart is full, and now you're wondering, "What's next?" Lucky for you, the adventure doesn’t have to end with your Hiking New Zealand adventure. Queenstown is a paradise for post-hike activities, whether you want to keep the adrenaline flowing, explore charming nearby towns, or simply kick back and relax. Here are the best things to do after your hiking tour in Queenstown.

More Hikes (If You’re Up for It!)

Can’t get enough of the great outdoors? There are plenty of shorter hikes you can tackle post-tour:

• Queenstown Hill Time Walk: A moderate 2-3 hour return hike (5 km / 3.1 mi) with panoramic views of Queenstown and Lake Whakatipu. Elevation gain: 500 m (1,640 ft). Easily accessible from Queenstown, just a short walk or drive to the trailhead.

• Ben Lomond Track: If you still have some energy left, hike to the Ben Lomond Saddle (or all the way to the summit for the truly ambitious!). 
  The trail starts from the Skyline Gondola station, accessible via a gondola ride or a hike up the Tiki Trail.

To the Saddle: 3-4 hours (7 km / 4.3 mi) one way, elevation gain: 800 m (2,625 ft).
To the Summit: 6-8 hours return (14 km / 8.7 mi), elevation gain: 1,438 m (4,718 ft).

• Mt Crichton Loop Track: A scenic 2-hour loop (6 km / 3.7 mi) that takes you through beech forests, past waterfalls, and even an old miner’s hut. Elevation gain: 260 m (853 ft). The trailhead is located on the Glenorchy-Queenstown Road, about a 10-minute drive from Queenstown.

• Lake Alta Track: A short but rewarding alpine hike (1.75 km / 1.1 mi one way) starting from The Remarkables ski field, leading to a stunning glacial lake. Elevation gain: 200 m (656 ft). To get there, drive about 40 minutes from Queenstown up The Remarkables access road.

• Moke Lake Track: A gentle yet scenic hike (6 km / 3.7 mi loop) that circles the beautiful Moke Lake. Elevation gain: minimal. Just a short 20-minute drive from Queenstown along Moke Lake Road. A perfect spot for a peaceful nature escape.

• If you’re looking for a light option, consider taking the Skyline Gondola up Bob’s Peak to enjoy breathtaking views without the extra effort!

Visit Historic Arrowtown

A short 20-minute drive from Queenstown, Arrowtown is a must-visit. This charming gold rush-era town is filled with history, boutique shops, and fantastic eateries. Wander through the tree-lined streets, visit the Lakes District Museum to learn about the area’s rich past, or take a peaceful walk along the Arrow River, where gold miners once tried their luck. If you’re here in autumn, you’re in for a treat—the golden foliage makes for an unforgettable sight!

Arrowtown is also home to some fantastic hiking trails if you still have some energy left:

• Sawpit Gully Track: A moderately challenging 2-3 hour (4.5 km / 2.8 mi) loop track that takes you through beech forests, past historical mining remnants, and up to stunning views of the Wakatipu Basin. Elevation gain: 400 m (1,312 ft). The trail starts near the Arrowtown Chinese Settlement.
• Big Hill Trail: A more challenging 4-5 hour return hike (14 km / 8.7 mi) that follows an old gold-mining route, offering incredible views over Arrowtown and the surrounding mountains. Elevation gain: 800 m (2,625 ft). The trail begins from Bush Creek.
• Arrow River Trail: A scenic and relatively easy 1-2 hour (4.2 km / 2.6 mi) walk along the Arrow River, perfect for those looking for a more relaxed hike. Minimal elevation gain. This trail starts right in town and follows the river through peaceful surroundings (you can even stop for a swim!).

Relax and Rejuvenate

After days of trekking through rugged terrain, treating yourself to some relaxation is well deserved. Here are a few great ways to unwind:

• Onsen Hot Pools: These private hot pools overlook the Shotover River, offering a stunning and tranquil escape. It's best to book early, as the pool spaces sell out long in advance.
• Spa and Massage Treatments: Queenstown is home to a variety of spas offering deep tissue massages, facials, and more to soothe those post-hike muscles.
• Queenstown Gardens: If you prefer a quiet moment in nature, take a stroll through these beautifully landscaped gardens along the lake.

Adventure Activities

Queenstown is called the adventure capital of the world, and with good reason! There’s no shortage of thrilling activities to get your heart racing.

• Skydiving: Take the ultimate leap with a tandem skydive over Lake Wakatipu and The Remarkables.
• Bungy Jumping: Try the iconic Kawarau Bridge Bungy (the world’s first commercial bungy jump) or go for the Nevis Bungy, New Zealand’s highest at 134m (440ft)!
• White Water Rafting: Navigate the wild rapids of the Shotover or Kawarau Rivers for an adrenaline-pumping experience.
• Jet Boating: Zoom through narrow canyons at high speeds on the famous Shotover Jet or KJet.
• Paragliding: Soar above Queenstown for unbeatable aerial views.
• Canyon Swing: Experience a massive freefall before swinging through a dramatic canyon.

Explore on Two Wheels: Bike Tours & Trails

Queenstown is a fantastic place for cycling, with a mix of easy lakeside trails and more challenging mountain biking routes. Here are some great options:

• Lake Wakatipu Ride: A scenic, relaxed ride along the lakefront.
• Arrow River Bridges Trail: A stunning and relatively easy ride from Arrowtown to the Kawarau Suspension Bridge (famous for bungy jumping).
• Queenstown Bike Park: If you’re up for an adrenaline rush, try downhill mountain biking at the Queenstown Bike Park.
• Rent a bike from one of the many local providers or join a guided bike tour for a hassle-free experience.

Souvenir Shopping & Local Crafts

Take home a piece of Queenstown with some locally made products and unique souvenirs:

• Creative Queenstown Arts and Crafts Market (Saturdays): Browse handcrafted goods, jewelry, and artworks made by local artisans.
• The Bead Shop: Create your own jewelry or pick up a unique, handcrafted piece.
• Remarkables Market (Saturdays, seasonal): A great spot for local crafts, artisan foods, and handmade gifts.

Sip and Savour on a Winery Tour

Queenstown is at the gateway to the world-renowned Central Otago wine region, famous for its Pinot Noir. A winery tour is the perfect way to celebrate your hiking achievements while enjoying breathtaking vineyard landscapes. Some top picks include:

• Gibbston Valley Winery: Home to New Zealand’s largest wine cave and some truly exquisite wines.
• Chard Farm: A picturesque winery with a rustic charm and stunning river gorge views.
• Many tour companies offer half-day or full-day winery tours with transport included, so you can fully enjoy the experience without worrying about driving.

Getting to Queenstown Airport

When it’s time to head home, getting to Queenstown Airport is easy:

• By Car: Just a 15-minute drive from central Queenstown, with rental car drop-offs available at the airport.
• Public Transport: The Orbus service offers an affordable and convenient ride to the airport.
• Shuttle Services: Several shuttle companies provide door-to-door airport transfers.
• Taxi or Rideshare: Uber and local taxis are readily available if you prefer a direct trip.

Whether you want to relax, explore, or indulge in local flavours, Queenstown has no shortage of things to do after your hiking tour. So go ahead and treat yourself to a soak in the hot pools, sip world-class wine, or embark on another adventure. No matter what you choose, your post-hike experience in Queenstown is bound to be just as memorable as your hike itself!