Queenstown is famous for being New Zealand’s adventure capital, but it’s also a treasure trove of unique experiences that go beyond adrenaline. Whether you want a relaxing cruise, a thrilling jet boat ride, or a scenic flight over snow-capped peaks, Queenstown offers something for every type of traveler. We especially love the Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise, which combines stunning scenery with a hearty meal and farm show—making it a perfect blend of nature and local flavor.
From day-tripping to Milford Sound by coach or plane, to sampling Central Otago wines, Queenstown’s tours bring out the best of the region’s natural beauty and cultural richness. If you’re after adrenaline, the zipline and jet boat adventures are among the most exciting in the world, with guides who know how to keep it fun and safe. We’ve rounded up the top experiences below to help you choose the right adventure for your trip.
1. Queenstown: Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ & Lake Whakatipu Cruise
Discover Queenstown’s ultimate dining experience at Walter Peak High Country Farm, where you can enjoy a cruise, a gourmet BBQ buffet, and farm shows all in one. The Lake Whakatipu cruise offers a scenic sail on your choice of vessel, followed by lakeside dining on the farm’s grounds. Highlights include watching a farm dog show that illustrates life on a working farm and savoring afternoon or morning tea in a historic woolshed. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours and has a high rating of 4.8/5 from over 2,300 reviews, reflecting its popularity for combining scenery with authentic farm experiences. It’s especially suited for those wanting a relaxed, scenic day with good food and local charm. The only downside might be the limited time for exploring the farm beyond the show and meal.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for travelers seeking a mix of scenic cruising, hearty local food, and a peek into farm life—great for families and those wanting a taste of rural New Zealand.
2. Queenstown: Milford Sound Coach & Cruise Full-Day Trip
For around $144, this full-day trip takes you from Queenstown across the Fiordland National Park to Milford Sound. The coach & cruise combines spectacular scenery—think waterfalls, rainforests, and towering cliffs—with a relaxing cruise through one of New Zealand’s most famous fjords. The journey is narrated by guides with plenty of local stories and insights, making the 12-hour day both scenic and informative. Reviews highlight the comfort of the coach and the beauty of the cruise, with many noting it’s a must-do for first-timers. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full day out without the hassle of organizing transport or multiple bookings.
Bottom Line: A no-fuss way to see Milford Sound, ideal for those who prefer a guided day trip with plenty of time to appreciate the area’s natural wonders.
3. From Queenstown: Milford Sound Full-Day Trip by Plane & Boat
This premium experience offers the best of both worlds: stunning aerial views plus a scenic cruise. For $395, you enjoy return flights over the mountains and lakes, landing right at Milford Sound, where you’ll board a 2-hour cruise with Mitre Peak Cruises. The plane & cruise tour ensures you see the fiord’s dramatic cliffs and waterfalls from above, then get up close during the cruise, with water, wildlife, and waterfalls as your backdrop. The flights use guaranteed window seats, and reviews rave about the breathtaking views and friendly pilots. Best suited for travelers wanting a luxurious, scenic adventure with photo-worthy moments.
Bottom Line: A pricier but truly unforgettable way to experience Milford Sound, perfect for those craving spectacular aerial views and intimate wildlife encounters.
4. Small-Group Zipline Adventure in Queenstown
Zip through the forest on the world’s steepest tree-to-tree zipline with this small-group adventure, rated a perfect 5.0/5 from nearly 870 reviews. It lasts about 2 hours and offers three different courses, including one with a 68-foot (21-meter) drop. The guides are experts at making sure everyone feels safe and gets the most out of the experience. You’ll enjoy panoramic mountain and lake views as you fly through the canopy, with options suitable for families or adrenaline lovers. Safety gear is included, and the guides’ humor and local knowledge make the trip even more enjoyable. The zipline is a hit for all ages, especially those who love a thrill.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a heart-pumping adventure with incredible vistas, this zipline tour hits all the right notes—ideal for families and thrill-seekers alike.
5. Queenstown ATV Quad Bike Adventure Tour
For those who want to get off-road and see the landscape from a different angle, the ATV quad bike offers a guided ride through 650 acres of rugged terrain just five minutes from Queenstown. The tour lasts around an hour, with a safety briefing and a route that includes hill climbs, forest trails, and stunning views over the Shotover River and the Southern Alps. Small groups ensure personalized attention, and all gear is included, making it accessible for beginners. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the breathtaking scenery, even in rainy weather thanks to provided wet-weather gear.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventure lovers wanting a quick, fun ride in beautiful surroundings—suitable for all skill levels and weather conditions.
6. Queenstown: Shotover River and Kawarau River Jet Boat Ride
For a quick hit of adrenaline, the jet boat ride is a classic Queenstown experience. In just about an hour, you’ll soar across Lake Wakatipu and rip through the Shotover and Kawarau rivers with 360-degree spins. The high-speed ride is operated by a Kiwi-owned company, and all-weather heated handrails keep you comfortable even in cooler weather. It’s a fun, exhilarating activity that’s suitable for all ages, with expert drivers who know every twist and turn. Many say this is a must-do for thrill-seekers.
Bottom Line: An adrenaline rush in a short time, ideal for those wanting a taste of Queenstown’s famous jet boating with guaranteed excitement.
7. Milford Sound Flight and Cruise ex Queenstown (incl Lunch)
This deluxe half-day tour combines the thrill of a scenic flight with a cruise, all with included lunch. For $459, you take a 35-minute flight over the Southern Alps, with panoramic views of Mt. Pikiratahi, the Hollyford Valley, and Lake Wakatipu, ending with a cruise that explores Milford Sound’s waterfalls and Mitre Peak. The flight guarantees window seats, and the cruise provides close-up encounters with waterfalls and wildlife. Many reviewers highlight the seamless organization and breath-taking scenery during the flight and cruise, making this a popular choice for travelers who want a comprehensive, luxurious experience.
Bottom Line: A premium combo for those who want to see Milford Sound from both air and water with comfort and style.
8. Premium Small-Group Wine Tour, 4 Wineries, Lunch from Queenstown
Taste your way through Central Otago’s renowned vineyards on this small-group wine tour. Over about 5.5 hours, visit four boutique wineries, enjoy tastings, and indulge in a gourmet lunch with a glass of wine at a scenic vineyard restaurant. The tour limits groups to 12 people, ensuring a personal experience. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the scenic drive through the lush valleys. It’s especially suited for wine lovers who want to learn about New Zealand’s famous Pinot Noir and other local varieties.
Bottom Line: Excellent for wine connoisseurs or travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate day with superb views and excellent wine.
9. From Queenstown: Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Day Trip
This 12-hour coach trip focuses on the scenic journey and a 2-hour Milford Sound cruise. The coach & cruise is popular for its comfort and knowledgeable guides, taking you through Fiordland’s rainforest to the fjord’s edge. Many reviews note the stunning scenery along the drive and the quality of the cruise. It’s a no-fuss option for travelers who want to see Milford Sound but prefer not to fly or want a more affordable full-day experience.
Bottom Line: A reliable, scenic way to see Milford Sound, perfect if you’re on a budget or prefer coach travel over flights.
10. Award-Winning Premium Wine Tour Queenstown Tasting at 4 Wineries
For approximately 6 hours, this award-winning wine tour takes you through four of the region’s best wineries. You’ll explore behind the scenes in the cellars, sample a variety of local wines, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with round-trip transport. Reviewers commend the knowledgeable guides and the quality of tastings. It’s ideal for those who want a deeper dive into New Zealand’s wine scene and enjoy some spectacular scenery along the way.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine lovers wanting a comprehensive, premium experience with expert insights and a relaxed pace.
11. Queenstown: Shotover River Extreme Jet Boat Experience
For pure adrenaline, the extreme jet boat experience lasts between 25 minutes and 1.5 hours. You’ll speed through Shotover Canyon with high-speed spins and tight turns, all driven by expert drivers who know every twist. Many reviews highlight the incredible thrill and the scenic canyon scenery. It’s a great choice for adventure junkies looking for a quick, heart-pumping activity.
Bottom Line: A short but intense ride for those wanting a maximum adrenaline rush with fantastic canyon views.
12. Milford Sound Day Tour with Scenic Cruise from Queenstown
This 4.5-hour trip combines a scenic coach journey with a 1-hour 45-minute cruise into Milford Sound. Many travelers appreciate the small group size and the stunning views along the drive, passing through lush rainforests and towering cliffs. The cruise itself offers close-up views of waterfalls, wildlife, and the dramatic fjord landscape, making it an easy-to-book option for those who want to maximize scenery without flying.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, scenic day trip suited for those who want comfort and natural beauty in a shorter timeframe.
13. Queenstown: TSS Earnslaw Cruise of Lake Whakatipu
Step aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw for a classic 1.5-hour cruise on Lake Wakatipu. Built in 1912, this Edwardian steamship offers a charming way to see the surrounding mountains and learn about New Zealand’s maritime past. The onboard museum and the opportunity to visit the engine room add a unique touch, making it perfect for history buffs and families alike looking for a relaxed, scenic ride.
Bottom Line: A charming, laid-back cruise that combines history and scenery—great for a leisurely afternoon.
14. Queenstown: Queenstown Lake Cruise and Walter Peak Farm Tour
Combine a scenic lake cruise with an authentic farm tour at Walter Peak. This 3.5-hour experience offers stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and a chance to see high-country farming up close. The farm tour includes live demonstrations, farm animals, and a delicious afternoon tea. Many comments praise the friendly farm atmosphere and the well-organized cruise, making it ideal for those who want a mix of scenery, education, and good food.
Bottom Line: A balanced experience that combines scenic cruising with rural charm and farm life—perfect for families or rural culture enthusiasts.
15. From Queenstown: Skippers Canyon Jet Boat Ride
For a more remote adventure, the Skippers Canyon Jet Boat takes you through one of the most spectacular canyons in New Zealand. This 3-hour tour covers breathtaking scenery along Skippers Road, famous for its challenging switchbacks and gold mining history, before launching into the narrow, fast-flowing Shotover River. With expert guides navigating the rapids, it’s perfect for those wanting a mix of history, scenery, and adrenaline.
Bottom Line: An adventurous way to see the most dramatic canyon scenery with a dose of history and high-speed thrills.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these incredible experiences, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you want a relaxed day with great food, the Walter Peak Gourmet BBQ is top-tier. Interested in Milford Sound? Both the coach and flight options offer unique perspectives—compare the full-day coach and plane & cruise, depending on your budget and desire for aerial views.
For thrill-seekers, the zipline, Jet Boat, and Extreme Jet rides provide adrenaline-packed options. Wine enthusiasts should look at the small-group wine tour or premium tasting, both offering intimate tastings and scenic drives through vineyards.
Consider your travel style: whether you prefer a full-day adventure, a quick thrill, or a relaxing cruise with cultural touches, Queenstown’s diverse tours promise memorable experiences. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular activities like helicopter flights or small-group tours.
Queenstown’s array of tours ensures everyone finds a way to enjoy its remarkable scenery and excitement. Whether you’re after a scenic cruise, a heart-pumping jet boat ride, or a wine tasting, this guide helps you pick the best options for your trip. With so many choices, plan ahead and book early to secure your spot—it’s a destination that rewards those who prepare.