As the summer months start to roll in, it’s the perfect opportunity to plan your sunny holidays in one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations. Queenstown, nestled between the shimmering Lake Wakatipu and the majestic Southern Alps, is a paradise for adventure seekers and families alike. With its rich history as a gold mining town in the 1800s, Queenstown has transformed into a vibrant hub known for its breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating activities.
Today, it offers many options, from adrenaline-pumping bungee jumping and skiing to serene lakeside picnics and leisurely hikes – there are countless things to do in Queenstown. You can savour culinary delights at endless eateries, each with its unique twist, all while soaking in some of the country’s most stunning views.
While many guides highlight the must-see attractions, this blog will take you off the beaten path to explore hidden gems and local favourites that truly capture the essence of Queenstown. Whether you want to dine with a view, cycle along scenic trails, or discover tranquil spots away from the crowds, keep reading to uncover the best ways to enjoy your summer in this breathtaking region.
Best Summer dining spots in Central Queenstown
Summer is the perfect time to bask in the sun and enjoy a cold beverage and meal outside. Lucky you, Queenstown has some of the best spots to do so. Whether you’re grabbing food to go or dining on a patio with a view, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings.
Start your culinary adventure at Odd Saint, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and delicious dishes on their sunny patio. Devil Burger is a local favourite for a casual meal, serving up gourmet burgers that are perfect for grabbing and heading to the beach.
If you’re after something lighter, Hustl Café offers fresh, healthy options with outdoor seating that invites you to relax in the sun. For a more upscale experience, consider Wakatipu Grill, which features stunning views of the lake and mountains—perfect for a leisurely lunch.
Craft beer lovers can unwind at Canyon Brewing or Altitude Brewing, both of which offer outdoor spaces to enjoy a refreshing drink.
Whether dining al fresco or packing food to enjoy by the lake, Queenstown’s outdoor dining scene combines excellent food, beautiful views, and that laid-back summer vibe, making it an experience not to be missed!
Cycle trails – an exciting activity to do in Queenstown for free
Cardrona Bike Park
With over 150km of offroad biking trails in the Queenstown area, there is something for every skill level, from thrill-seekers to those simply out for a little cruise. If you find yourself as one of the former, then the Cardrona Bike Park is the place for you. With some of the longest vertical descents, it is also the highest bike park in New Zealand, so it naturally features some spectacular views. The entire park is accessible via gondola, making the uphill climbs short-lived and the fun descents numerous.
Gibbston River Wine Trail
If you are after an easy cycle track that includes wining and dining, look no further than the Gibbston River Wine Trail. Not much sounds more amazing than exploring some of the most epic vineyard scenery in all of New Zealand on a sunny day. The track starts at the Kawarau Bridge, from where you will follow the signs for the Gibbston River Trail. Make sure to stop at the Gibbston Valley Winery, where you will find New Zealand’s largest wine cave, a cheese shop, and a great restaurant. As you continue, you will pass Peregrine Winery, which does a fantastic wine tasting, Mt Rosa, and Brennan Wineries. Finally, the trail heads back to Kawarau Bridge where you will have completed this awesome bike trail.
Arrow River Bridges bike trail
If you are keen to start your ride earlier on in the day, then why not start in the historic town of Arrowtown, where you can follow the Arrow River Bridges bike trail. This excursion will take you along the river, to the Southern Discoveries Suspension Bridge, and past Whitechapel Country Lane – a perfect spot for some photos. This track will also lead you across the 80-metre Edgar Suspension Bridge, which has incredible views down the gorge. Finally, ride through the Barfoot Tunnel and end your ride at the Kawarau Bridge, where you could continue to the Gibbston River Wine Trail if you fancy making your ride a whole day excursion.
Explore Queenstown from above
Skyline Gondola
Why don’t you take your exploring to new heights and check out Queenstown from a bird’s eye perspective? Head to the Skyline Gondola, just a five-minute walk from central Queenstown and soak in some of the region’s best views. From here, you’ll see The Remarkables mountain range, Coronet Peak, and across Lake Wakatipu to Cecil and Walter Peak. With many more activities and food options to explore at the top, there is heaps to do to entertain the entire family. While quite a popular Queenstown tourist attraction, we guarantee it will be worth your time.
Lake Alta
Ready for a bit more of a hidden gem adventure? Then, head over to the Remarkables Ski Field, where you can explore some spectacular views from Lake Alta. The around one-hour hike up to the lake is especially appealing during the summer months, as you can cool off and take a dip in the refreshing water once you reach the top. While the hike may be a bit more challenging, you will be lavishly rewarded with breathtaking photo opportunities that will leave anyone jealous.
Summer picnic in the park
Prep your picnic basket
Summer in Queenstown is the ideal time for a picnic, and with so many local eateries to choose from, you can easily curate a delicious spread. Start at Fergbaker for freshly baked bread and tasty pies, then head to Pedro’s House of Lamb for their irresistible slow-cooked lamb and scalloped potatoes – perfect for sharing.
For local delicacies, visit Raeward Fresh Deli for cheeses and meats and Taste & Savour in Frankton for ready-made salads and regional wines. Don’t miss Frank’s Pantry for grab-and-go options and Gibbston Valley Cheese for tasty bites. For a sweet treat, stop by Patagonia Chocolates for handcrafted delights.
Queenstown Gardens
With your picnic basket packed, head to the Queenstown Gardens. This tranquil spot on Lake Wakatipu is perfect for spreading your blanket and enjoying stunning views. After enjoying your meal, explore the gardens filled with exotic and native plants, or challenge your friends to a game of frisbee golf. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or follow the Frankton Track for a longer hike.
Prepare your stay with Bachcare Baches
To really get the local feel of the area, make sure to book your stay in one of the countless stunning holiday homes available. Baches offer incredible flexibility, with your own kitchen, multiple spaces for the whole family, and space to store all your summer fun essentials. Check out some incredible spots right here!
All-year round Seasonal Queenstown tips
While we just explored how magical Queenstown can be in the summer months, this place has so many other experiences to offer throughout the entire year. If you want to check out more Queenstown travel tips and must-do activities, continue reading here.
