How to Have Fun in Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown, New Zealand is best known for its beautiful alpine scenery, stunning views and amazing adventure activities. Located on the South Island of New Zealand, Queenstown is a popular tourist destination for those seeking exhilaration and stunning natural beauty.

But apart from its mesmerizing landscape, Queenstown is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with bars, restaurants and other places to experience the city’s energy until the wee hours of the morning. Here we’ll give you a rundown of some tips and activities to help you experience the best nightlife in Queenstown.

Where to Go Out in Queenstown

When it comes to nightlife in Queenstown, you’ll have plenty of options. Some popular spots include the central downtown area of Lower Beach Street, filled with pubs, clubs and live music venues. For a more laid-back atmosphere, visit Shotover Street, decked with pubs and bars boasting tasty local Kiwi beer (be sure to try Mac’s Gold Lager) and delicious pub food.

North of town is Kelvin Heights, a waterfront area with quieter venues featuring laid-back vibes and incredible views of Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains.

Queenstown Night Activities

One of the best ways to experience Queenstown’s nightlife is to join a Queenstown bar crawl with GetYourGuide. This tour includes a guide and visits five of the city’s best bars and pubs, complete with five free shots and a slice of pizza as you go (https://www.getyourguide.com/queenstown-l498/queenstown-bar-crawl-with-5-free-shots-and-pizza-t335826/?partner_id=UWJ1LS2). Whether you’re looking for a mellow night with beer tasting or a wilder time pub-hopping, you can find it on this tour – perfect for when you’re with a group!

Queenstown is also home to top-notch casino venues with international-standard gaming tables and slot machines. A few well-known casino sites include SKYCITY Queenstown Casino (https://www.skycityqueenstown.co.nz/Casino/) and Red Rock Entertainment (https://redrockqueenstown.co.nz/). Both casinos present an entertainment hub of fun and thrills well into the evening hours – ideal for late-night thrills during your visit!

Important Things to Know

Before heading out on your Queenstown evening adventures, a few important things about local nightlife that you should keep in mind:

• Drinking age: In New Zealand, the legal drinking age is 18.
• Bars close at 3 a.m.: Most bars close at 3 a.m. on week days, however some venues may close their doors as early as 1 a.m.
• Dress code: The dress code in bars is fairly informal – smart casual is usually enough.
• Bring an ID: Make sure you bring photo ID as it may be required at certain places due to the legal drinking age.
• Check club policy: Not all clubs are open to all ages – always check the website or entrance policy in advance.
• Payment: Most bars accept payment by debit/credit cards, cash or EFTPOS.

Conclusion

Queenstown nightlife offers something for everyone – whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping pub crawl, delicious local drinks, or an evening of luck at the casino. Don’t miss out on the excitement of Queenstown when dusk falls – make sure you check out all the options this vibrant city has to offer and book your Queenstown Bar Crawl Tour with 5 Free Shots and Pizza (https://www.getyourguide.com/queenstown-l498/queenstown-bar-crawl-with-5-free-shots-and-pizza-t335826/?partner_id=UWJ1LS2) today!

An Insider’s Guide: How to Have Fun in Queenstown, New Zealand

Queenstown is a picturesque resort town situated on the southern shores of New Zealand’s South Island. It’s known for its stunning mountain views, adrenaline-pumping adventures, and laid-back atmosphere. Here’s your guide to the best things to do, places to eat, and experiences to have in Queenstown.

Local Attractions

Queenstown is jam-packed with activities for people of all ages and interests. Here are some top attractions to check out:

– Skyline Queenstown: Ride a gondola to the top of a mountain for gorgeous views and a variety of fun activities, including luging and stargazing.
– Milford Sound: Take a scenic bus or helicopter tour to see this stunning fjord with towering mountains and cascading waterfalls.
– Lake Wakatipu: Relax on the shore, stroll along the walking trails, or take a boat cruise on this beautiful glacial lake.
– Arrowtown: This charming historic town is just a short drive from Queenstown and features gold rush-era buildings, galleries, and restaurants.

Dining Spots

Queenstown has a thriving culinary scene with a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Here are a few favorites:

– Fergburger: This iconic burger joint is a must-visit for its delicious, juicy burgers and fun atmosphere.
– The Cow: This cozy Italian restaurant serves up delicious wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes, along with a great selection of wines.
– Public Kitchen & Bar: This modern gastropub offers tasty sharing plates and craft cocktails in a lively setting.
– Bespoke Kitchen: This sunny cafe serves fresh, healthy breakfast and lunch dishes, as well as great coffee and baked goods.

Cultural Experiences

Although Queenstown is best known for outdoor adventure, it also has plenty of cultural experiences to offer. Here are a few highlights:

– Toi o Tahuna: This contemporary Maori art gallery showcases the work of local and national Maori artists.
– Kiwi Birdlife Park: Get up close with New Zealand’s iconic birds, including kiwis, and learn about the country’s unique wildlife conservation efforts.
– Queenstown Arts Centre: This community arts center hosts regular exhibits, workshops, and events showcasing local artists and performers.
– Shotover Jet: Experience the thrill of jet boating through the canyons of the Shotover River on a tour that combines adventure and scenic beauty.

Local History

Queenstown has a rich history that dates back to the 1850s gold rush. Here are a few ways to learn more about the town’s past:

– Lakes District Museum: This museum houses exhibits about the gold rush, early Maori settlement, and local history and culture.
– Chinese Settlement: Take a walking tour to see the remains of the Chinese settlement where miners lived and worked during the gold rush.
– TSS Earnslaw: This 1912 steamship still chugs across Lake Wakatipu and offers a glimpse into the town’s transport heritage.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Want to go beyond the usual tourist spots? Here are a few suggestions for unique and offbeat experiences to have in Queenstown:

– Skippers Canyon: Take a 4WD tour or drive yourself to this scenic and historic canyon, where you’ll see rugged landscape and abandoned gold-mining sites.
– Onsen Hot Pools: Soak in a private hot tub with stunning mountain views at this peaceful retreat just a short drive from downtown Queenstown.
– Lake Hayes Loop Track: Take a peaceful hike or bike ride around this tranquil lake, just a 15-minute drive from Queenstown.
– Kiwi Birdlife Park Night Tour: Take a guided tour of the park at night to see the nocturnal behavior of kiwis and other native birds.

Queenstown is a unique and beautiful destination that offers a wide range of experiences to suit any traveler. Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this stunning town.