Queenstown, New ZealandDiscover the Best of Queenstown
Summary: Our Guide to Queenstown: Top Attractions, Culinary Hotspots, Nightlife, and More. Plus, Tips on Making Connections with the Locals and Finding Fun Recreational Activities
Welcome to Queenstown! If you're planning to move to Queenstown, congratulations on taking the first step towards a new adventure. While there are many things to think about before you leave, such as visas, housing, and transportation, it's important to remember that once you arrive, the fun really begins. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best sites, restaurants, and nightlife that Queenstown has to offer, as well as provide tips on recreational activities and making friends in Queenstown.
Queenstown, is a picturesque town known for its stunning landscapes, adventure activities, and vibrant nightlife. For tourists and locals alike, there are numerous sites of interest to explore in this beautiful destination.
One of the most iconic attractions in Queenstown is the Skyline Gondola, which takes visitors on a scenic ride up to Bob's Peak. From the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the town, Lake Wakatipu, and the surrounding mountains. The Skyline complex also offers a range of activities, including the thrilling Luge ride, stargazing tours, and mountain biking trails.
For nature lovers, a visit to the Queenstown Gardens is a must. This beautifully landscaped park is home to a variety of native and exotic plants, as well as walking trails, a disc golf course, and stunning views of the lake and mountains. Another popular outdoor attraction is the Queenstown Hill Time Walk, a moderate hike that rewards walkers with breathtaking views and an iconic sculpture called the 'Basket of Dreams'.
Queenstown is also the gateway to the world-renowned Milford Sound, a stunning fjord located within the Fiordland National Park. Visitors can take a scenic cruise or kayak tour to explore the dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and unique wildlife of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
For those interested in history and culture, the Lakes District Museum and Art Gallery in nearby Arrowtown offers a fascinating insight into the region's gold-mining past. The charming historic streets of Arrowtown are also worth exploring, with many well-preserved buildings dating back to the 19th century.
Adventure seekers will find no shortage of thrilling activities in Queenstown, from bungy jumping at the famous Kawarau Bridge to jet boating on the Shotover River. The town is also a popular base for skiing and snowboarding, with four ski fields within easy reach, including Coronet Peak and The Remarkables.
The restaurant and nightlife scene in Queenstown is diverse and lively, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets. Some of the most popular restaurants in town include Fergburger, a legendary burger joint with a cult following; Rata, a fine-dining establishment by celebrity chef Josh Emett; and Botswana Butchery, known for its succulent steaks and waterfront location.
For a more casual dining experience, visitors can head to the bustling Queenstown Night Noodle Markets, which offer a variety of Asian street food dishes. The town is also home to several excellent wineries, such as Amisfield and Gibbston Valley, where you can sample award-winning wines and enjoy stunning vineyard views.
Queenstown's nightlife is equally vibrant, with a range of bars and clubs to suit all preferences. The World Bar is a popular spot for cocktails and live music, while Rhino's Ski Shack offers a lively après-ski atmosphere. For a more sophisticated evening, head to The Bunker, a hidden speakeasy-style bar serving craft cocktails and fine wines.
Recreational activities in Queenstown are abundant, with options for adventure, relaxation, and everything in between. Some of the most popular activities include:
- Bungy jumping at AJ Hackett Bungy, the world's first commercial bungy operation, located at the Kawarau Bridge.
- Jet boating on the Shotover River with Shotover Jet or Skippers Canyon Jet, offering thrilling high-speed rides through narrow canyons.
- Skiing and snowboarding at nearby ski fields such as Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Cardrona, and Treble Cone.
- Skydiving with NZONE Skydive or Skydive Southern Alps, offering tandem jumps with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
- Hiking and biking on the numerous trails around Queenstown, such as the Queenstown Hill Time Walk, Ben Lomond Track, and the Queenstown Trail, which connects the town to nearby Arrowtown and the Gibbston Valley wine region.
- Relaxing at the Onsen Hot Pools, a luxurious spa experience featuring private cedar-lined hot pools overlooking the Shotover River.
- Exploring the beautiful landscapes of Glenorchy, a scenic 45-minute drive from Queenstown, with activities such as horse riding, hiking, and jet boating available.
With its stunning scenery, diverse range of activities, and vibrant dining and nightlife scene, Queenstown truly offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals alike.
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Insider Tips from Expats in Queenstown: Making the Most of Life and Connections
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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