Best Day Trips from Queenstown: Epic Adventures Beyond the Adventure Capital / Blog

Queenstown is New Zealand's adventure playground—but some of the most stunning locations lie just outside the town limits. Whether you’re chasing alpine views, remote lakes, vineyards, or charming small towns, these day trips from Queenstown are all worth adding to your itinerary. Here’s a detailed guide to my favourite day trips based on personal travel, scenic routes, and unforgettable experiences.

Glenorchy & Paradise (45 mins – 1 hr drive)

One of the most scenic drives in New Zealand, the road to Glenorchy winds around Lake Wakatipu with jaw-dropping mountain and lake views.

Highlights:

Glenorchy’s iconic red boat shed and jetty.
Walk the Glenorchy Lagoon Boardwalk with panoramic reflections of Mt Earnslaw.
Venture further to Paradise Valley—used as a filming location in The Lord of the Rings.
Go horseback riding, jet boating, or take a LOTR scenic safari.

Insider tip: Bring a picnic—there are perfect lakeside spots to relax away from the crowds.

🍇 Gibbston Valley Wine Region (20–30 mins drive)

Nicknamed the "Valley of the Vines," this region is home to some of the best Pinot Noir in the country.

Highlights:

Wine tastings at award-winning wineries like Gibbston Valley Winery, Peregrine, and Chard Farm.
Enjoy lunch at Kinross or Mt Rosa with vineyard views.
Cycle the Gibbston River Trail for stunning scenery and easy access to cellar doors.

Insider tip: You don’t need to drive—many wine tours offer hotel pickups in Queenstown.

🏞 Arrowtown (25 mins drive)

Step back in time in this beautifully preserved gold-mining village with tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and history around every corner.

Highlights:

Stroll the historic main street with cute cafes and local shops.
Visit the Chinese Settlement to learn about early immigrant miners.
Walk or bike the Arrow River Trail for tranquil riverside views.
Don’t miss a meat pie from the Arrowtown Bakery!

Best season: Autumn—when the leaves turn golden and the whole town glows.

Cardrona & Crown Range Road (1–1.5 hrs drive)

Take NZ’s highest main road over the Crown Range to reach the alpine settlement of Cardrona.

Highlights:

Snap a photo at the famous Cardrona Bra Fence.
Visit the historic Cardrona Hotel for lunch or a craft beer in the garden.
Hit the slopes in winter or try mountain carting and biking in summer.

Scenic bonus: The drive itself offers phenomenal views—stop at the Crown Range lookout for one of the best panoramas near Queenstown.

Lake Hayes (15 mins drive)

A short drive but big on serenity, Lake Hayes is ideal for a relaxing walk or picnic.

Highlights:

Walk the 8 km Lake Hayes Track (easy, flat, 2–3 hours).
Incredible reflections on calm days—sunrise and sunset are magical.
Great spot for a refreshing swim or photo stop.

Insider tip: Bring a thermos and some snacks for a peaceful afternoon.

Wanaka (1.5 hrs drive)

One of the most rewarding day trips, Wanaka is a gem in its own right with alpine charm, lakefront beauty, and loads to do.

Highlights:

Visit the famous Wanaka Tree.
Hike Roy's Peak (allow a full day if hiking) or do the easier Mt Iron Track.
Relax on the lakefront with coffee from a local cafe.
Check out quirky attractions like Puzzling World or Cinema Paradiso.

Note: Leave early if you want time to hike and still explore the town.

Te Anau (2 hrs drive)

Gateway to Fiordland, Te Anau is a quiet lakefront town with striking views and outdoor adventures.

Highlights:

Walk part of the Kepler Track or stroll the Lake Te Anau Foreshore.
Visit the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary to see native birds like the takahe.
Take a guided tour to the Te Anau Glowworm Caves.

Combine with: Booking a next-day trip to Milford or Doubtful Sound from here.

Milford Sound (Long Day – 4 hrs each way)

Though it’s a full-day commitment, Milford Sound is worth every second of the journey.

Highlights:

One of NZ’s most famous natural attractions.
Dramatic fjords, waterfalls, and Mitre Peak.
Wildlife spotting and stunning photo opportunities.

How to do it:

Join a coach-cruise-coach tour for a relaxing day trip.
Consider a small-group or fly-cruise-fly option to cut travel time and maximise your time on the water.