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Best Things to do in Queenstown (2026)

Queenstown built its reputation on adrenaline, and the classic experiences are still the ones most visitors want. The Kawarau Bridge Bungy, where AJ Hackett opened the world's first commercial bungy in 1988, is about 25 to 35 minutes' drive from town, and spectators can watch from a free viewing deck. Shotover Jet has been running jet boats through the Shotover Canyons at Arthurs Point since 1965, with a free shuttle from Shotover Street.

Balance the thrills with calmer outings. Onsen Hot Pools, also at Arthurs Point, has private cedar tubs above the Shotover River, while the TSS Earnslaw, a coal-fired steamer from 1912, sails from the Steamer Wharf to Walter Peak High Country Farm. A drive along the lake to Glenorchy takes in film locations, walking tracks and one of the world's Dark Sky Sanctuaries.

Book the popular activities ahead, especially Onsen, which releases sessions months in advance, and Shotover Jet between October and March. Weather can postpone jet boats, cruises and flights, so schedule the most important activities early in your stay and keep a flexible day. Most operators offer shuttles from the town centre, which saves parking hassles.

5 places · Updated November 12, 2026

Our top 3 things to do in Queenstown

  1. Kawarau Bridge Bungy Bungy jump and swing, Gibbston ValleyAJ Hackett's original 43-metre bungy from the 1880 Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge, where the world's first commercial bungy jump took place in 1988.
  2. Shotover Jet Jet boat ride, Arthurs PointA 25-minute high-speed jet boat ride through the narrow Shotover Canyons at Arthurs Point, run since 1965 and owned by Ngāi Tahu.
  3. Onsen Hot Pools Private hot tubs and day spa, Arthurs PointCedar-lined hot tubs perched above the Shotover River at Arthurs Point, booked by the hour for exclusive use, with a day spa and free shuttle from town.

Thing to do

2. Shotover Jet

Jet boat rideArthurs Point

A 25-minute high-speed jet boat ride through the narrow Shotover Canyons at Arthurs Point, run since 1965 and owned by Ngāi Tahu.

View details — Shotover Jet

Thing to do

3. Onsen Hot Pools

Private hot tubs and day spa$$$Arthurs Point

Cedar-lined hot tubs perched above the Shotover River at Arthurs Point, booked by the hour for exclusive use, with a day spa and free shuttle from town.

View details — Onsen Hot Pools