Surrounded by majestic mountain ranges and serene lake views everywhere you turn, Queenstown draws in thousands of visitors from near and far.
But this town is more than a picturesque postcard.
Unmistakably a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and unhinged adrenaline junkies, it’s just as much a place for foodies, craft beer fans and culture lovers looking to get their thrills.
From the head of the lake in Glenorchy to Queenstown’s bustling centre and the charming pockets of Frankton, we’ve never been more excited to showcase the best places to eat, drink, shop and explore in one of the South Island’s greatest destinations.
Beyond freefalling and speeding through the Shotover, Queenstown is home to a community of friendly locals ready to show off endless experiences worthy of your itinerary. Taste world-class gin or dine at award-winning wineries, browse independent boutiques and one-of-a-kind retail villages, work your way around the local craft beer scene and enjoy leisurely brunches perched on the edge of Lake Whakatipu.
Whether you’re living around the corner or visiting from far-off shores, our curated guide will open your eyes to the neatest nooks and crannies of Queenstown. So buckle in – this is guaranteed to get your heart racing.
Shop and Stare: 9 Boutiques & Art Galleries to Explore in Queenstown
Best Queenstown Walks & Where to Treat Yourself Afterwards
The Queenstown region is a hiker’s paradise, with an abundance of tracks etched into its incredible landscape. From easy-going paths skirting the lake’s shores, to rugged alpine terrains and serene trails through native bush, we’ve put together 10 of our favourite picturesque walks for every level. And because no good adventure is complete without a culinary indulgence (we’re not talking about the muesli bar stashed in your pocket), we’ve paired each trail with some delicious recommendations, including great coffee, flaky pastries, crafty brews and hearty meals. So lace up your boots and let’s get going…
One of the Locals: The Insider's Guide to Queenstown
Forget about Google recommendations. If you’ve been hosted by locals while visiting a city, you’ll appreciate their access to authentic experiences that may have otherwise slipped under your radar.
What’s Good in Queenstown: Meet the businesses making a difference
When wonderland is the place you call home, there’s a lot worth protecting and preserving. A collective of Queenstown locals are rolling up their sleeves and changing the way they do business to keep the towering mountains, pristine lakes and rich soils of this well-visited land in pristine condition. There’s no doubt this community is in it for the long haul – and their efforts are already making a huge difference in the region.
The Best Places to Wine & Dine in Queenstown
In the heart of Queenstown Lakes where gardens, farms and lakes thrive with first-class produce, Queenstown was destined to be a haven of culinary delights. From hatted restaurants to under-the-radar eateries, scenic beer gardens to renowned wineries, exploring this town’s hospitality scene is just as thrilling as any bungy jump. With so much on the menu, we recommend extending your stay by a few more days to get a taste of it all.
Explore our Directory
View AllSeletti Concept Store
A bold and ever-evolving destination for fashion-forward shoppers, Seletti’s flagship store is located amongst the heritage buildings of Buckingham Street in Arrowtown.
Artbay Gallery
Set along Queenstown’s picturesque lakefront, Artbay is an award-winning gallery housed in a historic cottage.
Astor Bristed
In our opinion, few towns offer a more beautiful backdrop for showcasing great works by New Zealand artists.
Flora Fauna
Wander down Church Street in the heart of Queenstown and the sight of a flirtatious peacock or a flight of iridescent butterflies will lead you into the home of Flora Fauna...
Rifters Tasting Room
Nestled in the historic (and utterly charming) Dudley’s Cottage on Buckingham Street in Arrowton, Rifters Tasting Room is home to some of Aotearoa’s best...
Mora Wines and Artisan Kitchen
“Mora” means to linger or pause in Latin, and believe us – this is the place to do just that.
Blue Door Bar
Who would’ve thought an old, weathered doorway sporting peeling blue paint could cause such a stir? Arrotown's Blue Door Bar is a hidden speakeasy-style bar,...
odd saint
Residing in a wistful schist stone building on the corner of Camp Street, odd saint is a neighbourhood eatery for those who worship great food and great service.
Atlas Beer Cafe
Tucked away behind Steamer Wharf on the edge of Lake Whakatipu, Queenstown’s Atlas Beer Cafe prides itself on maintaining a small footprint while going big on the...
Mt Rosa
A little off the beaten track in Gibbston, proudly stands the home of Mt Rosa – a wine label and cellar door that has played a pivotal role in shaping the...
Sherwood
With wellbeing, community and sustainability intertwined into each offering, visitors run away to Sherwood Queenstown to renew their body, spirit and mind through food,...
Yonder
Come as you are. The neon-lit invitation above Yonder’s entranceway is more than just an aesthetic.
The World Bar
Not all adventures in Queenstown require a tent, carabiner or dehydrated food (thankfully).
Mrs Woolly’s General Store
As iconic as the red shed or the stunning views at the head of the lake, Mrs Woolly’s General Store has become a cornerstone attraction in Glenorchy, offering a bit of...
Remarkables Market
Inside The Red Barn on Hawthorne Drive in Frankton, just around the corner from the airport, the beloved Remarkables Market takes flight each Saturday from October through...
The Fork and Tap
Gracefully perched on the corner of Buckingham Street, this beloved Arrowtown pub opens its doors each day, ready to greet groups of old friends and connect new ones.
