Things To Do
in Queenstown
Queenstown, Tasmania sits perched on a rugged hillside along the West Coast, surrounded by dramatic peaks and lush temperate rainforests. The town has a rich copper-mining heritage that shaped its architecture and culture, now paired with a frontier-town vibe and stunning natural scenery. Visitors come for dramatic landscapes, scenic drives, and easy-access hiking that reveals intimate views of rivers and gorges.
In all seasons, Queenstown offers a raw, authentic Tasmanian experience with friendly locals and small-town charm.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Queenstown and check into your accommodation. Take some time to settle in and refresh after your journey. Afterward, enjoy a relaxed breakfast at a local café to savor the charming atmosphere.
Explore the beautiful Lake Wakatipu by taking a leisurely stroll along its shores. This scenic walk provides stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Capture some memorable photos of the breathtaking landscapes.
Dine at a local restaurant that specializes in regional cuisine. Indulge in dishes featuring freshly sourced ingredients from the area. Cap off the evening with a delightful drink at a cozy pub.
Start your day with a thrilling gondola ride up to the Skyline Queenstown. Enjoy panoramic views of the town and the remarkable Remarkables mountain range. Consider grabbing breakfast at the top while soaking in the scenery.
Engage in some adventure activities like luging down the designated tracks or biking through the trails. Experience the exhilaration of Queenstown's adrenaline-pumping options that cater to all levels. Take a break at the café to refuel with some quick snacks.
Unwind with a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu as the sun dips below the horizon. Marvel at the changing colors of the sky reflecting on the water's surface. Enjoy a relaxed dinner on board, immersing yourself in the tranquil beauty of the lake.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $4-6 |
| 🍷Glass of wine | $8-15 |
| 🧭Public transport fare | $2-4 per trip |
| 🏨Accommodation (mid-range) per night | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and accessible trails
- Relaxed pace of life and friendly locals
- Remote location with limited dining options compared to bigger towns
- Seasonal closures for weather can affect accessibility
Places to Visit in Queenstown
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic viewpoint overlooking the surrounding ranges and historic mining landscape; dramatic sunset shots are common here.
Wide overlook along the river gorge offering striking rock faces and river reflections, especially photogenic at dawn or dusk.
Food in Queenstown
Queenstown Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasonal regional seafood including trout or other fresh catches and shellfish, often served with crusty bread and lemon.
Must-Try!
Grilled or pan-seared wallaby served with roasted vegetables and a berry glaze or local chutney.
Pies, tarts, or tarts featuring Tasmanian blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries, often finished with vanilla cream.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local stalls offering seasonal produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat snacks; a good place to sample fresh fare.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly greeting such as G'day or Hello is common; politeness is valued and directness is appreciated.
Respect queues, give way to elders, and follow local smoking restrictions; keep noise considerate in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Queenstown
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not required in Australia; you may round up the bill or leave a small tip for exceptional service.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours and generally mild to warm days; keep an eye on possible sudden showers and winds along exposed ridges.
Cooler days with vivid autumn foliage; comfortable for hiking and scenic drives, though weather can be unpredictable.
Cold with possible frost and occasional snowfall on higher elevations; some roads can be icy, so check conditions and carry warm layers.
Milder temperatures with blooming flora; showers are common—carry a light rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
Queenstown at Night
Hiking in Queenstown
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy riverside trail along the Queen River with scenic gorge views.
Moderate to challenging trails with alpine scenery and mining heritage scenery.
Airports
How to reach Queenstown by plane.
Regional airport with domestic flights; best access via road transfer to Queenstown.
Another regional option with limited services.
Larger regional hub with broader connections; approx. a few hours by road.
Tasmania's main international gateway; longer drive but frequent flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Small, tight-knit community with a mining heritage; mix of families, retirees, and seasonal workers.
Year-round visitors seeking nature, history, and a relaxed west coast experience.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local and regional sport with clubs and matches during season.
Sommer sport with local clubs; typical weekend fixtures.
Seasonal on higher peaks during winter; nearby resorts offer runs and snow play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Queenstown.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common; look for veggie pies, salads, and seasonal vegetables, and ask for substitutions as needed.