Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 64 travelers

Family-Friendly 7-Day Itinerary in Queenstown

Saturday, September 30: Arrival and Queenstown Gardens

Welcome to Queenstown! Begin your trip by exploring the beautiful Queenstown Gardens in the morning. Take a leisurely stroll through the well-manicured gardens, enjoy the serene lake views, and have a picnic with your family. In the afternoon, visit the Kiwi Birdlife Park where you can learn about New Zealand's unique bird species. In the evening, take a gondola ride up Bob's Peak to enjoy panoramic views of Queenstown and have dinner at the Skyline Restaurant.

  • Queenstown Gardens: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Kiwi Birdlife Park: $20 per adult, $10 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Bob's Peak/Skyline Gondola: $44 per adult, $23 per child, 2-3 hours
Sunday, October 1: Milford Sound Day Trip

Embark on an unforgettable day trip to Milford Sound. Take a scenic coach ride through the stunning Fiordland National Park, stopping at picturesque viewpoints along the way. Cruise through the majestic Milford Sound, marvel at the towering waterfalls, and spot seals and dolphins. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the breathtaking natural beauty. Return to Queenstown in the evening and relax.

  • Milford Sound Coach Tour: $175 per adult, $87.50 per child, 9-10 hours
  • Milford Sound Cruise: $90 per adult, $45 per child, 1.5-2 hours
Monday, October 2: Arrowtown and Gibbston Valley

Spend the morning exploring the charming historic town of Arrowtown. Take a leisurely walk along the Arrow River, visit the Chinese Settlement, and enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the local cafes. In the afternoon, head to Gibbston Valley, known for its wineries. Take a wine tour, indulge in wine tastings, and enjoy the scenic vineyard views. Return to Queenstown in the evening and have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant.

  • Arrowtown: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Gibbston Valley Wine Tour: $60 per person, 2-3 hours
Tuesday, October 3: Thrilling Activities

Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping day! Start your morning with a jet boat ride on the Shotover River, experiencing thrilling spins and breathtaking scenery. Afterward, head to the Kiwi and Birdlife Park to see more of New Zealand's unique wildlife. In the afternoon, visit the Fear Factory, a haunted house attraction suitable for families. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Below Zero Ice Bar, where you can enjoy icy drinks and admire the ice sculptures.

  • Shotover Jet Boat Ride: $149 per adult, $79 per child, 1.5-2 hours
  • Kiwi and Birdlife Park: $20 per adult, $10 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Fear Factory: $25 per person, 1 hour
  • Below Zero Ice Bar: $30 per adult, $15 per child, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, October 4: Skyline Luge and Lake Wakatipu Cruise

In the morning, take a thrilling ride on the Skyline Luge, a gravity-fueled toboggan on tracks. Enjoy multiple rides and compete with your family. Afterward, take a relaxing cruise on Lake Wakatipu, soaking in the stunning mountain views. Learn about the history and geology of the area while enjoying afternoon tea onboard. Return to Queenstown in the evening and have dinner at a lakeside restaurant.

  • Skyline Luge: $55 per adult, $43 per child, 2-3 hours
  • Lake Wakatipu Cruise: $69 per adult, $30 per child, 1.5-2 hours
Thursday, October 5: Kiwi Haka and TSS Earnslaw Cruise

Immerse yourself in New Zealand's Maori culture with a morning visit to the Kiwi Haka Cultural Show. Enjoy traditional performances, learn Maori songs and dances, and deepen your understanding of Maori heritage. In the afternoon, hop aboard the iconic TSS Earnslaw steamship for a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu. Visit Walter Peak High Country Farm and enjoy a farm tour, sheep shearing demonstration, and afternoon tea. Return to Queenstown in the evening.

  • Kiwi Haka Cultural Show: $45 per adult, $10 per child, 1-2 hours
  • TSS Earnslaw Cruise: $68 per adult, $35 per child, 3-4 hours
Friday, October 6: Outdoor Adventures

Spend your last full day in Queenstown enjoying outdoor adventures. Start with a scenic hike in the Ben Lomond Track, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. In the afternoon, visit the Queenstown Ice Arena and have a fun-filled time ice skating with your family. Wrap up your trip with a relaxing lakeside picnic dinner, reminiscing about the wonderful experiences you've had in Queenstown.

  • Ben Lomond Track: Free, 4-6 hours
  • Queenstown Ice Arena: $20 per adult, $15 per child, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Paradise Trust, a beautiful scenic location used as a filming location for movies like "The Lord of the Rings." Take a guided tour and explore the stunning landscapes. Another popular attraction loved by locals is the Onsen Hot Pools, where you can relax in private hot pools while enjoying panoramic views of the Shotover River.

Make sure to check Kayak.com for the latest hotel and flight prices to plan your trip to Queenstown!

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version