Located in the Lower South Island, Queenstown sits on the shores of Lake Wakatipu and is renowned for its adventure sports and recreational activities. There is no shortage of things to do in Queenstown to suit your needs whether its an action-packed experience, sightseeing tour or something to entertain the kids over the weekend. At RedBalloon we understand that no two people are the same which is why we offer a range of Queenstown activities to suit every personality type, no matter what their interests are.

With over 130 experiences to try in Queenstown, we’ve got something for everyone. If you’re a local who is looking for what to do in Queenstown on the weekend, you’ll find offers like winery tours or bike tours. If you’re visiting the city from interstate or overseas, you may be looking for an experience that shows you all the attractions like the scenic skyline gondola ride or for something you’ve never done before like bungy jumping! Whatever you’re aftering RedBalloon offers a great range of fun and unique things to do in Queenstown.

What is Queenstown best known for?

Queenstown is renowned for being one of the best adventure capitals in the world. It  is home to some of the most exciting adrenaline activities and outdoor adventures including bungy jumping, skydiving, white water rafting and jet boating just to name a few. It is also a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders with its beautiful ski fields including The Remarkables and Coronet Peak which are located close to the city centre. However regardless if you visit in Winter, Queenstown is busy all year round with plenty of outdoor activities available in the warmer periods.

What can you do in Queenstown?

Find amazing Queenstown activities to keep you busy whilst your visiting or to keep you entertained if you’re a local looking for something to do. Calling all adrenaline junkies… there are plenty of experiences you have to try in Queenstown that will leave you wanting to feel the rush all over again! Try one of the multiple bungy jumps and swings available in the region including at Nevis which has New Zealand’s highest bungy jump at 134 metres. You’ll experience an incredible 8.5 seconds of free fall in this once in a lifetime activity. Or if you’re up for the country’s highest flying fox at 182 metres followed by an extreme free fall swing from 109 metres, then you’ll love the Shotover Canyon experiences.

There are plenty of day trips or tours on offer in Queenstown that are the best ways to discover this amazing city. Explore the region and some the best wineries with a self-guided bike tour or if you feel the need for speed, jump on a Harley Davidson and take a tour of the area in style. For something a little different, enjoy a guided segway tour of Queenstown which will take you across the fascinating terrain whilst learning about the city and its culture. If you’re after just a classic walking tour we also offer a great range of day tours and trips to surrounding areas where you can explore on foot. We also offer plenty of day trips to Milford Sound from Queenstown which we highly recommend as this is one of the most picturesque attractions you can see in the South Island.

One of the most breathtaking things you can do in Queenstown is take a scenic flight. With the beautiful snow capped mountains and Southern Alps surrounding the city there is no better vantage point to take in panoramic views then from up high. Scenic flights are offered all year round and often include a scenic alpine landing which is an experience you will remember for years to come.

The Shotover River offers a variety of activities that are worth checking out, especially if you’re looking for things to do in Queenstown with kids. Some of the must-do experiences include jet boat rides, flying foxes and giant swings, private hot pools and white water rafting just to name a few. With all these experiences you’ll keep not only the kids but the adults entertained all day long.

What is the coolest thing to do in Queenstown?

Queenstown is famous for its experiences, particularly those that you’ll find hard to do anywhere else. We have pulled together our top picks of the coolest things to do in Queenstown which we are sure you’ll want to add to you to-do list ASAP.

1. World’s first catapult: The Nevis catapult is the biggest in the world and the newest adventure for all thrill seekers! You will be propelled 150 metre up and out across the Nevis Valley experiencing up to 3Gs of force as you reach speeds of almost 100kms an hour in 1.5 seconds flat. It is definitely a bucket list worthy experience that will give you bragging rights to all your friends.

2. Submersible shark thrill ride: enjoy leaps, dives, side rolls and tight g-force turns in this incredible adrenaline-inducing thrill ride. You will travel up to 80kph above water in this unique water experience that will be unlike anything you have done before and is something you can only find in NZ.

3. Milford Sound cruise: Known for towering Mitre Peak, rainforests and waterfalls, Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural attractions that should definitely be explored by boat. Travel from Queenstown on a luxury coach before hopping on a cruise unlike any other. You’ll enjoy some of the most breathtaking views in the country and be sure to keep an eye out for the local animals including penguins, dolphins and seals.

4. Bungy jumping: one of the most popular experiences you can do Queenstown is a bungy jump. There are plenty of locations available including the iconic Kawarau Bridge - the world’s first commercial jump site. You’ll feel the adrenaline rush as you tackle a jump from any of the locations and wherever you choose to do it, you’ll also be met with incredible views.

5. Heliski Day with Lunch and Transfers: If you consider yourself a snow sports lover then this is one of the coolest experiences you can do in Queenstown. Heli-skiing is exhilarating and can be enjoyed with 8 of your friends as you soak up the views of the Southern Alps. This is definitely worth ticking off your bucket list.

There are plenty of amazing things to in Queenstown that you can find on RedBalloon. Throughout the year we also offer plenty of Queenstown activities deals so make sure you keep your eyes  peeled for these. Whether you’re looking for something to do on the weekend or your visiting the city and want to try amazing experiences you’ve never done before, our range of Queenstown deals and experiences will keep you busy!