A Guide to Queenstown Party Nights
The Queenstown Nightlife Guide for Serious Relaxers and Party Animals
By day, Queenstown is one of the most energetic and adventurous spots in New Zealand. Guess what; things don’t slow down at night. Tired tourists exhausted from adrenaline and action during the day need to save some energy reserves for night time adventures. Whether you are young or old, a party animal or a nana, Queenstown by night offers something for everyone.
Don’t let Queenstown’s reputation as a party town put you off venturing into central Queenstown when night falls. While there are plenty of options for letting your hair down, there are also plenty of alternatives and family-friendly options.
So whether it's dining, drinking, soaking or sailing, here are some of Queenstown’s best night time activities.
STARGAZING AT SKYLINE GONDOLA
At the top of Skyline Gondola, you’ll find one of the most spectacular views over Queenstown. But if you venture a little further, you can take spectacular views of the galaxy! Queenstown’s clear, big night skies provide the perfect setting for stargazing. Skyline Gondola provides top-of-the-line telescopes and an expert guide to take you through the hidden world high above us. From a specially-constructed area above the gondola, you can take in the celestial views of the Southern Cross, The Milky Way, nebulas, planets and galaxies.
QUEENSTOWN'S COOLEST EXPERIENCE
Just in case Queenstown isn’t "cool" enough for you, there are two ice bar experiences to cool things down a bit. Below Zero Ice Bar is located in Searle Lane, and Minus 5 Ice Bar is located in Steamer Wharf. Both allow you to venture into the ‘ice box’for a chilly drink in ice glasses of course) served amongst stunning ice sculptures and animal skins. Warm jackets are provided in case you didn’t pack for Antarctic conditions.
SUPERSTAR CHEFS
If you’re on the celebrity hunt, your best bet may be to visit some of Queenstown's celebrity chef restaurants. Josh Emmett is a Michelin-star chef and judge on MasterChef NZ and runs both Rata and Madam Woo. Rata takes inspiration from the southern landscapes and provides a uniquely ‘southern’ dining experience. Madam Woo serves up the flavours of Chinese and Malaysian street food and is famous for its Hawker Rolls.
Across town, you’ll find MasterChef judge Simon Gault’s Jervois Steakhouse. Serving up mouth-wateringly good steaks and a truely satisfying dining experience, ’JSH’ has quickly become a Queenstown must-do.
THE BEST TABLE IN QUEENSTOWN
Looking for the best table in Queenstown? Head to the lake. Queenstown's best dining setting is free, suitable for any age and is located on the pebbly beach of Lake Wakatipu. Our recommendation is to grab some take away Fish & Chips and enjoy one of the best sunsets in the southern hemisphere. Just keep an eye on the seagulls.
GET OUT ON THE WATER
The majestic ‘lady of the lake’, the TSS Earnslaw, sets out each evening for an evening cruise to Walter Peak High Country Farm. This stunning cruise allows you to take in the sunset from the water before heading ashore for a hearty farm-style meal at the Colonel’s Homestead.
THE ULTIMATE IN RELAXATION
Head out to Arthur’s Point for one of the most relaxing evening activities in Queenstown. The Onsen Hot Pools overlooks the Shotover River Canyon and offers a tranquil, natural setting for some serious relaxing. Stunning any time of day, the hot pools take on a special kind of magic by night. Onsen Hot Pools is open until 11 pm each night and provides complimentary transport from Queenstown.
MILLION DOLLAR DINING VIEWS
Queenstown sits snugly along the shores of Lake Wakatipu, giving many of its restaurants a ringside seat to the spectacular landscapes on display. Some of the best options for sunset drinks and waterfront dining are found at Steamer Wharf where you also have the best spot for watching the TSS Earnslaw puff her way across the lake.
Atlas Beer Café is Queenstown’s home of craft beers and boasts an enviable lakeside spot and tasty tapas.
Public Bar & Kitchen serves up exceptional New Zealand cuisine in a funky setting with views to salivate over.
Eichardt’s Bar at the iconic Eichardt's Private Hotel is one of Queenstown’s most loved buildings and most loved cocktail spots. For a luxurious experience, savour a decadent cocktail or a local Pinot Noir amongst the cosy sofas, open fireplace and stylish decor.
And when you need a big night out... If you still have plenty of energy left and are looking to dance the night away Queenstown offers a limitless supply of bars and clubs with live music, DJs and drinks specials. Queenstown’s steady stream of tourists means that every night is Friday night! Check out pumping nightlife on Shotover Street, Searle Lane and The Mall for fun that will take you into the wee hours.
And at the end of it all, you will always have Ferg Burger open until 2 am
Enjoy!
Updated August 2024