Make the Most in the Adventure Capital of the World: Queenstown, New Zealand

Hiking: Queenstown is home to incredible hikes of all levels! My favorite was the Ben Lomond Summit, but there are plenty of others to choose from like the Queenstown Hill Walk.

Skyline Gondola: Take a ride up the Skyline Gondola for incredible views of the city surrounded by lakes and mountains. At the top you can take in views at the café sipping hot chocolate, ride the luge or continue on for a hike to the top of Ben Lomond Summit. There are so many options here!

Wine Tasting in Central Otago: The southernmost wine region in the world with the best Pinot Noirs nestled in the middle of the mountains. Spend the day on the Wine Hopper Bus so you can relax and not worry about having to drink and drive.

Hot Springs: Spend the day relaxing in Onsen Hot Pools with incredible views!

Bungee Jumping: Queenstown is the adventure capital of the world! So who wouldn’t want to jump off of a bridge for fun? There are so many options for where and how to do this safely!

Walk Around the Lakefront: on Saturdays there is a cute market with dozens of local artists right next to a bunch of food carts and storefronts. Sit on the side of the lake and watch boats go by or just relax and take in the views.

Shotover River Jet: get your adrenaline rush in with the Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Ride. Be sure to wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet!

Paragliding: what a better way to take in views than paragliding? G Force Paragliding is located at the top of the Skyline Gondola. Switch it up by taking a different way down than you came up!

Day Trips:

Milford Sound: About a four hour drive from Queenstown or a 30-minute helicopter ride away, a cruise through the Milford Sound is an absolute must when in New Zealand! While it is far, it is worth the ride. Whether you rent a car and stop at every viewpoint along the way (trust me, there are many) or do an organized coach trip, you will not regret this day trip!

Wānaka: A two-hour or so drive north of Queenstown lies a beautiful city between two lakes and countless mountains. See the famous #ThatWanakaTree, enjoy delicious food overlooking Lake Wānaka, or take a hike. One of New Zealand’s most famous hikes is Roys Peak Track but Mount Iron Track is a shorter, easier hike that still has incredible views.

Arrowtown: A cute, gold rush town only a few minutes from Queenstown by car. You can spend the day getting there by mountain bike or taking an organized day tour.

Fergburger: One of the most famous burgers in all of New Zealand. There will likely be a long line outside, but don’t worry it moves pretty fast!

Botswana Butchery: Located in a historic cottage, Botswana Butchery offers luxurious dining with incredible lakefront views. Definitely try the lamb here!

Boardwalk: Boardwalk boasts the most incredible lake and mountain views. With an array of cocktails and delicious food options ranging from meat to seafood, you will not be disappointed here.

Margo’s: Trust me, Mexican food in Queenstown wasn’t what I was planning on eating, but you won’t regret eating here!

Patagonia Roastery: I’ll admit, I went here because of the name Patagonia (one of my favorite places on Earth!) but I ended up with the best hot chocolate in Queenstown here. From pastries to ice cream, from coffee to hot chocolate, stop here for a cute cafe vibe and a delicious treat!

BlueKanu: Home to great food, cocktails and ambiance! Come here for a taste of the Pacific ocean and some of the best seafood around.

Nest Bar and Kitchen: Located just up the hill in Fernhill, Nest Bar and Kitchen is a great contemporary restaurant with incredible views and a set menu. A must try!

The World Bar: If you want delicious bar food (burgers, mac and cheese, etc) with cheap cocktails and beers, here is your place! With live music and a mix of locals and tourists, you are bound to have a great time!