Best Day Trips from Queenstown

Living in Queenstown means being surrounded by jaw-dropping beauty every single day. But as much as I love waking up to Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, one of my favourite things to do is jump in the car and go exploring. Queenstown is perfectly located for some of the best day trips in New Zealand, from peaceful lakes and historic gold-mining towns to dramatic mountain passes and coastal escapes.

Here are my top day trips from Queenstown that you shouldn’t miss – whether you’re visiting for a week or lucky enough to call this beautiful place home.

1. Glenorchy – The Gateway to Paradise

Distance: 45 km | Drive time: ~45 minutes

The drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is hands down one of the most scenic drives in New Zealand. The road winds along Lake Wakatipu with endless photo stops — I promise, you’ll pull over at least three times!

When you arrive in Glenorchy, you’ll find a peaceful little town surrounded by mountains, native beech forests, and crystal-clear rivers. It’s the gateway to the Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, and also a filming location for The Lord of the Rings.

What to do in Glenorchy:

Walk the Glenorchy Lagoon Boardwalk – easy, beautiful, and full of reflections.
Grab a coffee at The Trading Post Café and soak up the quiet vibe.
If you’re into adventure, book a jet boat ride on the Dart River.

2. Arrowtown – Historic Charm and Autumn Magic

Distance: 20 km | Drive time: 20 minutes

A short and easy drive from Queenstown takes you to Arrowtown, a beautifully preserved gold-mining village that feels like stepping back in time.

In autumn, Arrowtown turns into a golden wonderland — the trees glow in shades of orange and yellow, and it’s one of the most photographed spots in the South Island.

What to do in Arrowtown:

Wander the historic main street with its cute shops and cafés.
Explore the Chinese Settlement, where miners once lived during the gold rush.
Walk along the Arrow River Track — it’s peaceful and perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Don’t leave without stopping at Provisions Café for their famous sticky buns (you can thank me later).

3. Wanaka – Lakeside Bliss

Distance: 68 km | Drive time: 1 hour 15 minutes via Crown Range Road

The road from Queenstown to Wanaka over the Crown Range is both thrilling and stunning — it’s the highest main road in New Zealand. The hairpin bends are worth it for the views alone!

Wanaka is relaxed, artistic, and full of natural beauty. It’s a great contrast to Queenstown’s buzz.

What to do in Wanaka:

Visit the famous #ThatWanakaTree (yes, it’s still worth seeing!).
Hike up Mt Iron for panoramic lake views.
Enjoy a lakeside picnic or paddleboard session.
Stop at Cardrona Hotel on the way back — it’s one of NZ’s oldest and most photogenic pubs.
Hike up Roys Peak

4. Te Anau – Gateway to Fiordland National Park

Distance: 170 km | Drive time: 2 hours 15 minutes

If you start early, Te Anau makes an unforgettable day trip from Queenstown. The drive takes you through rolling farmland and mountains, with countless photo stops.

Te Anau is the perfect base for exploring Fiordland National Park, home to world-famous Milford Sound and Kepler Track. Even if you don’t go all the way to Milford (which takes another 2 hours one-way), Te Anau itself has plenty to offer.

What to do in Te Anau:

Visit the Glowworm Caves across the lake.
Walk part of the Kepler Track — the section from the control gates to Brod Bay is perfect for a half-day hike.
Enjoy lunch by the lake — it’s one of the most peaceful places in the South Island.

5. Cromwell & Bannockburn – Wine and Heritage

Distance: 60 km | Drive time: 50 minutes

For wine lovers (and who isn’t one in Central Otago?), this is your spot. The road from Queenstown to Cromwell passes through Gibbston Valley, also known as the Valley of Vines.

What to do in Cromwell & Bannockburn:

Stop at Gibbston Valley Winery for tastings or lunch.
Visit Old Cromwell Town, a historic precinct by the lake.
get some real fruit ice cream at Jackson Orchards
Discover the Bannockburn wineries, like Mt Difficulty and Carrick.

On a sunny day, it’s the perfect combination of history, views, and a good glass of Pinot Noir.

6. Kingston – A Quiet Lakeside Escape

Distance: 47 km | Drive time: 40 minutes

If you want something peaceful and off the beaten path, Kingston at the southern tip of Lake Wakatipu is perfect.

What to do in Kingston:

Walk along the Kingston Flyer track or the lakefront.
Bring a picnic and enjoy the serenity.
In summer, the lake is lovely for a swim.

It’s a simple, authentic Kiwi town that offers a glimpse of what life was like before tourism arrived.

Whether you’re chasing adventure, nature, history, or wine, there’s a day trip from Queenstown for everyone. The best part? Every single journey feels like part of the adventure — with mountain passes, mirror-like lakes, and friendly locals along the way.

So next time you wake up to the Remarkables, grab your camera, fill your thermos, and hit the road. You’ll quickly see why Queenstown is the perfect base to explore the South Island.