Family-Friendly Things to Do in Queenstown (That Adults Will Love Too)
Deer Park Heights - An amazing family activity in Queenstown.
Queenstown might be famous for its high-speed thrills and adventure tourism, but it’s also an incredible place to slow down and connect as a family. Whether you're travelling with little explorers, curious tweens, or teens in need of a digital detox, the region is packed with thoughtful, family-friendly experiences that go beyond the usual. It’s not just about keeping kids entertained—it’s about creating shared moments. Slowing down. Exploring together. Making space for wonder (and the occasional hot chocolate break). Here are some of our favourite ways to experience Queenstown as a family—without compromising on quality, calm, or connection.
1. Soak Together, Side by Side
For families looking for a gentle way to recharge, Bathe by Aluume offers private hot pools designed for all ages 5 and up. Opening soon at the base of Bob’s Peak, our alpine pools are a chance for the whole family to relax, unwind, and take in the scenery. No screens, no rush—just warm water, fresh air, and time together. Kids love the novelty of having their own private pool, and parents love the space to breathe. Sessions are designed with calm in mind, so while it’s family-friendly, it’s also incredibly peaceful. Whether you’re soaking after a busy day on the mountain or starting your morning slow, it’s a grounding ritual that suits all ages.
2. Lakeside Walks and Secret Bays
Queenstown has no shortage of walks, but some are especially suited to younger legs (and parents pushing prams). The Sunshine Bay Track is an easy, flat lakefront trail just a few minutes from town, ending at a quiet little beach perfect for skimming stones or a spontaneous splash. Bob’s Cove is another local favourite—short, scenic, and just adventurous enough for kids to feel like explorers. You’ll walk through native bush, spot birds, and arrive at a clear bay that looks like something from a postcard. Pro tip: Pack snacks, let the kids lead, and don’t worry about the clock.
3. Skyline Gondola + Luge
If your crew likes a bit more action, the Skyline Gondola and Luge is a family classic—and for good reason. The gondola ride alone is worth it, with sweeping views over Queenstown, Lake Whakatipu, and The Remarkables. At the top, you’ll find a range of kid-friendly activities, but the luge is the real highlight. With beginner and advanced tracks, it’s safe, fun, and lets everyone feel a little bit brave. There’s even a café with decent coffee and epic views for parents to recharge.
4. Picnic at Moke Lake
A little off the beaten path but absolutely worth it, Moke Lake is a scenic, quiet spot ideal for a family picnic. Surrounded by mountains and far from the bustle of town, it’s a chance to pause and enjoy nature in its raw, unfiltered beauty. Bring a blanket, a thermos of something warm, and let the kids run wild in open space. There’s a loop track around the lake if you’re feeling energetic, or you can simply sit by the water and soak it all in.
5. Rainy Day Magic: Art, Ice, and Play
Even when the weather turns, Queenstown has indoor options that keep spirits high. The Ice Arena in Queenstown Gardens is a fun spot for beginner-friendly skating—and they have penguin-shaped skating aids for little ones. For hands-on creativity, SITE Trampoline and BASE Jump Park offer safe spaces to burn energy, while Odyssey Sensory Maze provides a quirky, immersive experience for curious minds (best for kids 8+). Or for something slower, check out the new Te Atamira arts space—home to workshops, exhibitions, and music performances that often include family-friendly programming.
6. Farm Visits + Wildlife Encounters
A short drive from town, Walter Peak High Country Farm offers a slice of rural life with a stunning lake cruise to get there. Kids can feed animals, watch sheep shearing, and enjoy a classic Kiwi BBQ—all in one afternoon. Kiwi Park is another must-visit, giving families the rare chance to see New Zealand’s famous nocturnal bird up close, along with tuataras and native forest creatures. These are the kinds of experiences that sneak in a bit of education while still being fun—and they create stories your kids will tell for years.
7. Unwind, Your Way
Sometimes, the best family activity is one that gives everyone a little breathing room. Queenstown has plenty of cafés with kids' menus, playgrounds with lake views, and shops full of local treats (because sometimes a fudge stop is the activity). And when the grownups need a reset, Bathe by Aluume offers evening soak sessions that feel like a warm exhale. Swap turns, book a babysitter, or bring the whole family and just float for a while.
Queenstown, Together
Family travel doesn’t have to mean compromise. In Queenstown, you’ll find shared experiences that feel intentional and nourishing—not rushed or noisy. Whether it’s a quiet moment in the forest, a burst of laughter on the luge track, or a peaceful soak under the sky, this is a place where family time feels easy.
Bathe by Aluume – Opening Soon
Our private hot pools are designed for families with children 5 and up, offering a calm, natural setting to reconnect and recharge. Keep an eye on @aluumewellness or visit aluume.com to be first to know when bookings open.
Because wellness doesn’t have to wait until the kids are older—it starts right now, together.
