On past trips to Queenstown, I explored the four main ski resorts —Coronet Peak, The Remarkables, Cardrona, and Treble Cone. However, this year I found myself in unfamiliar territory, being 5 months pregnant and unable to ski. Baffled by the question of what on earth I could do there, I gathered tips from locals, friends and colleagues on how to enjoy QTown without setting foot on the snow. After hiring a car at the airport, I explored these 10 incredible destinations.
- Breakfast at Joe’s Garage
On my first trip to Queenstown I stumbled across Joe’s Garage, tucked in a laneway off the main drag. It looked quiet and humble on the outside, but when I opened the door, it was a hive of activity. It has been operating for 20 years for three good reasons — great coffee, delicious meals, and super-friendly staff!
- “Trust the Chef” lunch, Amisfield
- Dinner at Rata
I enjoyed the tastiest mocktail to date (although the wine list looked incredible) and we shared a delicious beef Wellington for our main course. It’s worth visiting just for the big cheese table that gets wheeled over for a spot of dessert! Book ahead as it’s popular, for a very good reason.
- Drive to Glenorchy
Take an easy 10-minute drive from Queenstown and spend an hour in a thermal spa for just $40, with arguably one of the best views in the world. You could honestly spend a whole day here unwinding and relaxing, as there are other services such as massages.
- Walk to the Basket of Dreams
- Cruise around Arrowtown
You can’t go to Queenstown without a morning trip to Arrowtown — a picturesque little town about 20 minutes away. Look for the old Chinese Settlement houses at the end of the street, enjoy a pie at the pub, and do a spot of window shopping at a variety of stores selling local produce, souvenirs and of course, the classic lolly shop.
- Day trip to Wanaka
- Ramen at Tanoshi
When it’s cold outside, a ramen is sometimes the only thing that will heat you up from the inside out. Over four days in Queenstown, we went to Tanoshi three times, and ordered the same pork ramen each time. Yes, it was that good.
- Scones (ok ok, and burgers) at Fergberger
You’ll already know to grab a burger at Fergberger, but if you tiptoe next door to the bakery, you’ll be rewarded with the most incredible baked goods — and just one door up, gelato too. We bought a basket full of bakery goods for our trip to Glenorchy and picnicked on the wharf. Heavenly!
Do you have any more (non-snow related) tips for Queenstown? I’d love to know what other snow-less adventures await!
