If you’re looking for a destination that’s scenic, relaxing, adventurous and family-friendly, Queenstown ticks all the boxes. Here's everything we loved, plus a bunch of tips if you're thinking of going with your own little explorer/s.
Queenstown might be known for adrenaline junkies and couples’ getaways - but it’s an amazing family destination too. There’s a waterfront beach that kids love (ducks included!), with an awesome playground and beautiful alpine scenery all around. It's postcard-perfect and packed with so many delicious eateries.
Even better, under 2's fly free, and many of the top activities are free or super cheap for kids under 4 - a massive bonus!
Skyline Gondola & Luge - The gondola ride is free for kids under 5, and tandem luging was only $5. My daughter absolutely loved this - and the sweeping views over Queenstown are incredible!
Milford Sound Cruise - We joined a Southern Discoveries tour and under 4's cruise for free! One of the best day trips we’ve done - totally unforgettable. You can read more about that here.
Underwater Observatory (with KJet) - For just $10 a child (under 3's are free), this unique spot lets kids view ducks, massive eels and a dinosaur show - all from below the waterline.
The Remarkable Sweet Shop - A hit for kids and adults alike! Sample free fudge and browse shelves of colourful international treats.
Alpine Aqualand - This indoor pool complex has everything: a heated toddler area, whirlpool, slides and just $4 entry for kids. Great for rainy days or a chill afternoon.
Queenstown has no shortage of family-friendly food spots. Here are some of our favourites:
Patagonia Chocolates - For hot chocolates, ice cream and hand-crafted chocolatey goodness.
Balls and Bangles - Epic donuts, bagels, treats galore.
Cookie Time - Epic sundaes and colourful milkshakes. What more could a kid want?
Sal’s New York Pizza - Huge slices and affordable, great for sharing.
Fergburger - The iconic Queenstown experience. Burgers so big you can easily split one - $20 for a meal that feeds two.
Ferg Baker & Ferg Gelato - Best pies, Boston cream donuts, and of course, dreamy gelato.
If you're travelling as a group, like we did on our first trip, I recommend staying at Koura Apartments. It was spacious, had three bedrooms and was perfect for sharing.
For our recent trip with just my mum and daughter, we stayed at Copthorne Lakeview, and I’d absolutely recommend it. It’s a comfortable, affordable and family-friendly hotel with plenty of space - we had two bedrooms, a separate lounge and kitchen, and a beautiful balcony view overlooking the lake and mountains.
It was only a 10-minute walk downhill into the centre of town, but just a heads-up - the walk back is pretty steep (though totally manageable… and probably a good thing after all the delicious food we ate!).
Babysitting Services in Queenstown
Need a night off? On our first Queenstown trip with the whole family, we hired a babysitter through Queenstown Babysitting for one evening so the four of us adults could enjoy a relaxed, later dinner out - followed by a couple of drinks at the casino! They came highly recommended, and we were really impressed with the service. Our sitter did an awesome job putting both toddlers to bed, and it gave us peace of mind knowing they were in good hands. If you’re looking for a little grown-up time during your Queenstown stay, I highly recommend them!
Queenstown is beautiful year-round, but it can get very busy during ski season and peak holiday times. Personally, I love visiting in autumn when the trees are golden and glowing, or in early winter (June) for those cosy, snowy mountain vibes - the whole town feels like a winter postcard!
Queenstown is one of those rare places that truly has something for everyone - and yes, that includes toddlers! From gondola rides to ice cream adventures, lake walks to cosy cafes, it’s a destination we’ll keep coming back to as a family.
If you’re considering a trip and wondering whether to take your little one - my advice is to do it! Queenstown is packed with free or low-cost activities for under 4s, and the memories you’ll make are worth every second.
Planning your own trip soon? Let me know in the comments or over on Instagram - I’d love to hear your Queenstown tips too!
Happy Travels,
Krysti
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