Discovering Queenstown: On a Rainy Day

We may be biased,... well there's no maybe about it.... we absolutely know that Queenstown’s natural beauty shines in any weather, but we wanted to let you know that even the occasional rainy day won’t dampen the adventure you can have when staying with us at Spinnaker Bay Apartments. With a variety of indoor activities and cozy spots to explore, you can still experience the charm and excitement of Queenstown.

So without further ado, here’s your guide to making the most of a rainy day in Queenstown.  I've tried to keep it concise so you can do your research from here:

Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Queenstown, New Zealand

At this point I should I also admit the the below list is more of a couples or adults list in so far as that we've recommended place to have a few wines or beers etc.   We'll do another post on Discovering Queenstown on a rainy day with a young family.

Explore Local Museums and Galleries

  • The Lakes District Museum: Located in nearby Arrowtown, this museum showcases the rich history of the region, including the gold rush era.
  • Ivan Clarke Gallery: Known for its quirky "Lonely Dog" series, this gallery features unique, locally inspired art.
  • Queenstown Arts Centre: A hub for contemporary art and rotating exhibitions from local artists.

Indulge in Wine and Craft Beer Tastings

  • Queenstown is part of the Central Otago wine region, famous for its Pinot Noir.
  • Gibbston Valley Winery: Tour the wine caves and enjoy a tasting session.
  • Wine Tasting Rooms: Try The Winery in town for tastings without leaving the center.
  • Craft Breweries: Stop by Altitude Brewing or Searchlight Brewery to sample local craft beers.

Relax at a Spa or Hot Pool

  • Onsen Hot Pools: Enjoy private hot pools with stunning views of the Shotover River (book ahead!).
  • Body Sanctum Day Spa: Treat yourself to a massage or facial in a tranquil setting.
  • Hikari Spa: Specializes in Japanese-style treatments for ultimate relaxation.

Visit Indoor Adventure Parks

There are numerous options for indoor activities in Queenstown.  In fact, there's almost as much to do indoors as there is to do outdoors.  So, if nature doesn't play nice, then just know that there is still a lot to do down

  • iFLY Indoor Skydiving: Experience the thrill of skydiving in a wind tunnel—no jumping required!
  • Thrillzone: Offers a variety of VR experiences, laser tag, and escape rooms.
  • Time Tripper: A unique 4D journey through the history and future of Queenstown beneath Lake Wakatipu.

Cozy Up at a Café or Restaurant

Rainy days are perfect for having a 'sit in' in one of our local restaurants or bars and sampling local cuisine:

  • Vudu Café: Known for great coffee, wholesome food, and lakeside views.
  • Fergburger: An iconic stop for one of New Zealand’s best burgers.
  • Bespoke Kitchen: A favorite for brunch lovers with delicious vegan and gluten-free options.

Go Shopping in Queenstown's Boutiques

  • O’Connells Shopping Centre: A mix of local brands and international stores.
  • Remarkables Park Town Centre: Offers a variety of shops and restaurants.
  • Souvenir Shops: Pick up handmade crafts and local products like Manuka honey or Merino wool goods.

Enjoy a Movie or Live Entertainment

  • Reading Cinemas: Watch the latest films in a cozy theater.
  • The World Bar: Known for live music, trivia nights, and delicious cocktails.
  • Queenstown Memorial Centre: Check their schedule for performances, from comedy to live theater.

Take a Scenic Drive

If the rain isn’t too heavy, take a short drive to nearby towns.  Just please, drive safely and if the rain is too hard, or thr roads to wet and/or icy, then stay in and enjoy the spacious lounges in your Spinnaker Bay Apartment!

  • Arrowtown: Explore its charming streets and historic buildings.
  • Glenorchy: The mist adds a magical touch to the journey along Lake Wakatipu.
  • Cromwell:  Theres a great old town

Rainy days in Queenstown offer a chance to unwind & indulge in your comfortable apartment - maybe read a book with the beautiful vistas of The Remarkables in the distance, or explore the town’s vibrant 'indoor' scene -  whether you’re relaxing in a spa, savouring local wines, or discovering our amazing local museum, there’s no shortage of memorable experiences. So grab an umbrella and embrace Queenstown’s rainy-day charm!

 

Image downloaded from Freepik (www.freepik.com).

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