Need Travel Inspiration? You’re in the Right Place! Part 3 of 24
Welcome to our 24-part travel series designed to help you plan the perfect getaway—no matter the month. Whether you're dreaming of a sun-soaked beach escape, a cozy mountain town, or a city packed with flavor and culture, we've got you covered.
Each post in this series will spotlight one U.S. destination and one international gem, carefully chosen based on where the weather is at its absolute best that month.
We’ll break it all down for you—month by month—with can’t-miss attractions, delicious eats, and helpful travel tips to help you picture (and plan!) your next great adventure.
So whether you're looking to travel now or just need a dose of wanderlust, bookmark this series and come back each month for fresh destination ideas.
Queenstown, New Zealand
Adventure, Wine, and Summer Vibes
When February rolls around in the Southern Hemisphere, Queenstown shines at its absolute best. With long, sunny days, temperatures in the 60s–70s °F, and a landscape where glacial lakes meet jagged alpine peaks, it’s no wonder this town is called the adventure capital of the world. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline highs, sipping world-class Pinot Noir, or simply soaking up lakefront views, Queenstown is the kind of place where every day feels like an epic highlight reel.
Why February?
Summer Sweet Spot – February brings warm weather and fewer crowds than December/January, making it perfect for hiking, road-tripping, and lake adventures.
Best for All Styles of Travel – Thrill-seekers can bungee jump, jet boat, or paraglide, while chill-seekers can explore vineyards, scenic drives, and cozy cafes.
Festival Season – Keep an eye out for local food, wine, and arts events that pop up this time of year.
3–5 Day Itinerary Ideas + Activities
If Queenstown is the adventure capital of the world, then the Skyline Gondola is its front-row seat. You can’t really say you’ve seen Queenstown until you’ve seen it from 450 meters above the town, gliding smoothly in your gondola with Lake Wakatipu sparkling below and the Remarkables mountain range looking—well, remarkable. It’s the kind of view that makes you forget to blink.
But the ride up is only half the story. At the top, you step out into a world that feels like equal parts postcard and playground. Sure, you could linger over a coffee (or a cheeky glass of local wine) at the Stratosfare Restaurant while soaking up those panoramic views—but why stop there? This is Queenstown, after all.
The Luge: Imagine a go-kart mixed with a toboggan, add a downhill racetrack twisting through alpine scenery, and you’ve got the recipe for pure, unfiltered joy. Whether you’re a first-timer gingerly steering your way down the scenic track or a thrill-seeker racing your friends on the advanced one, you’ll end at the bottom grinning ear to ear, instantly ready for “just one more run.”
Spoiler: there’s always one more run.
The Luge
Imagine a go-kart mixed with a toboggan, add a downhill racetrack twisting through alpine scenery, and you’ve got the recipe for pure, unfiltered joy. Whether you’re a first-timer gingerly steering your way down the scenic track or a thrill-seeker racing your friends on the advanced one, you’ll end at the bottom grinning ear to ear, instantly ready for “just one more run.”
And the best part? You don’t have to be an adrenaline junkie to love it. Families, couples, solo travelers—it’s the kind of activity that works for everyone, from wide-eyed kids to adults rediscovering their inner child. Add in the option for night rides, where the luge lights up under the stars, and you’ve got yourself a bucket-list-worthy Queenstown experience.
So, whether it’s your first time in Queenstown or your fiftieth, the Skyline Gondola and Luge never gets old. It’s the perfect mix of breathtaking views, laughter-filled fun, and just enough adrenaline to keep you coming back for more.
2. Wine Tasting in Gibbston Valley
Just a 25-minute drive from Queenstown, Gibbston Valley (nicknamed “Valley of the Vines”) is a wine lover’s paradise and one of the most scenic wine regions in New Zealand. Famous for producing some of the world’s best Pinot Noir thanks to its unique alpine climate, this area offers not only exceptional wines but also jaw-dropping views of rugged mountains and rolling vineyards. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just here for the vibes, Gibbston Valley is the perfect spot to sip, swirl, and soak up the good life.
The crown jewel of the region, Gibbston Valley Winery is home to New Zealand’s largest wine cave, where you can enjoy guided tours while sipping world-class Pinot Noir underground. Their Cellar Door is warm and welcoming, with self-guided tasting boards featuring flights of four wines that make for a relaxed and fun introduction. Pair your wines with small plates or linger over lunch in the vineyard restaurant.
Pro tip: book a wine cave tour ahead of time for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Perched on a dramatic hillside overlooking the Kawarau River, Chard Farm feels like stepping into a Tuscan postcard. This family-owned pioneer in the valley has been producing cool-climate wines since the 1980s, with Pinot Noir as their shining star. Their intimate cellar door offers a personalized tasting experience that makes you feel like part of the family.
Pro tip: the drive up to the estate is an adventure in itself—don’t forget your camera!
Kinross is a true hub of the Gibbston Valley wine scene, acting as the cellar door for five boutique Central Otago wineries (including Coal Pit, Hawkshead, Valli, Wild Irishman, and Domaine-Thomson). This means one stop = a whole tasting tour of the region. The on-site bistro, cottages, and garden setting make it a dreamy spot for a long afternoon of sipping and snacking.
Pro tip: try their Pinot Noir alongside a local cheese platter—perfection!
Playful, approachable, and proudly unpretentious, Mt Rosa Wines is known for its welcoming vibe and bold flavors. Their cozy converted woolshed tasting room is as rustic-chic as it gets, and the staff are passionate about making wine accessible and fun. While Pinot Noir is the highlight, don’t miss their rosé or aromatic whites on a sunny day.
Pro tip: order one of their famous mulled wines if you visit outside of summer.
3. Jet Boating on the Shotover River
Strap in, hold on, and get ready to scream-laugh your way through one of Queenstown’s most iconic thrills. The Shotover Jet isn’t just a boat ride—it’s a daredevil’s dance with the river.
Picture this:
A sleek red jet boat blasting through narrow canyons, skimming just inches from jagged rock walls, and whipping into full 360° spins that leave your stomach in your throat (in the best way possible). The sheer skill of the drivers will blow your mind—they maneuver those boats like they’ve made a secret pact with the river itself. It’s pure adrenaline, pure Queenstown, and something you’ll never forget.
The journey to Glenorchy is almost as good as the destination itself. Just 45 minutes north of Queenstown, the road hugs Lake Wakatipu the entire way, with mountain peaks and turquoise waters that seem too perfect to be real. By the time you reach Glenorchy, you’ll feel like you’ve driven straight into Middle-earth—because you kind of have (several Lord of the Rings scenes were filmed here). The town itself is tiny, charming, and the perfect spot to slow down. Pop into Mrs Woolly’s General Store for artisan coffee, homemade fudge, and quirky Kiwi souvenirs before wandering down to the lakefront for a photo op you’ll want to frame. It’s an easy day trip that packs in nature, scenery, and just the right touch of small-town charm.
If you’re after a short hike with maximum reward, Bob’s Cove is your spot. Just a 20-minute drive from Queenstown, this track takes you through native bush, across a swing bridge, and down to jewel-toned water that practically begs you to take a dip. The walk itself is gentle, making it perfect for families or anyone who wants a nature fix without breaking too much of a sweat. Bring a picnic, take a swim, or just sit on the rocks soaking in the peace. On a sunny day, the cove is so turquoise it feels like you’ve stumbled upon Queenstown’s own little Mediterranean hideaway.
Queenstown is the birthplace of commercial bungee jumping, so if you’re ever going to do it, this is the place. The Kawarau Bridge—the world’s first commercial bungee site—is where the madness began. Standing on the platform, 43 meters above the emerald river, you’ll feel your heart pound louder than the cheering crowd waiting below. Then comes the leap. That split second of freefall is pure, unfiltered terror mixed with the biggest rush of your life. You can dip into the river, bounce around mid-air, or just go for the classic straight dive—it doesn’t matter how you do it, the bragging rights are all yours.
Not all Queenstown adventures involve an adrenaline spike. Sometimes the best way to experience this region is by slowing down and letting the scenery work its magic. Step aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a century-old steamship that still chugs gracefully across Lake Wakatipu. With its gleaming brass, polished wood, and live piano music, the Earnslaw feels like a trip back in time. Grab a drink from the bar, wander the decks, and watch the Remarkables shift colors as the sun moves across the sky. You can even combine the cruise with a farm visit for sheepdog shows and a hearty meal. It’s relaxing, it’s nostalgic, and it’s one of the most elegant ways to take in Queenstown’s beauty.
When the sun dips behind the mountains, Queenstown puts on another kind of show—this time above your head.
Thanks to its clear skies and low light pollution, stargazing here is nothing short of magical. In February, the Milky Way stretches across the heavens like a glittering river, and you can spot constellations from both hemispheres. If you really want to make the most of it, join a guided stargazing tour.
Expert astronomers point out galaxies, nebulae, and planets while you’re wrapped in blankets, sipping hot cocoa under the alpine night sky. It’s humbling, awe-inspiring, and the perfect way to end a Queenstown day.
Where to Eat & Drink
🍳 Breakfast & Brunch
Bespoke Kitchen – Creative smoothie bowls, avo toast, and wholesome bites with a stylish vibe.
Vudu Café – A lakefront spot known for epic pancakes and hearty brunch plates.
Yonder – Bright and modern with coffee cocktails and plant-friendly dishes.
🍽️ Dinner & Nightlife
The Bunker – Intimate, candlelit fine dining; lamb and venison are musts.
Blue Kanu – Polynesian-Asian fusion in a lively, colorful setting.
Public Kitchen & Bar – Laid-back lakeside dining with hearty Kiwi comfort food.
Clink Bar & Restaurant (Arrowtown) – Worth the short drive for cozy vibes and craft cocktails.
🍦 Sweet Treats
Patagonia Chocolates – Artisanal ice cream, handmade truffles, and lakeside views.
Mrs Ferg Gelateria – A local favorite; don’t miss hokey pokey flavor.
🍷 Wine & Cocktails
Amisfield Bistro & Cellar Door – Legendary long lunches paired with Central Otago Pinot Noir.
Perky’s Floating Bar – Drinks on a docked boat = quintessential Queenstown evening.
Pro Travel Tips for February
💡 Book Early – February is peak season. Secure your hotels, wine tours, and adventure activities ahead of time.
💡 Pack Smart – Bring layers! Evenings can dip into the 40s, especially near the lake or on higher-altitude hikes.
💡 Driving is Worth It – Rent a car to explore Arrowtown, Glenorchy, and local wineries at your own pace.
💡 Beat the Crowds – Go early for popular activities (like Skyline Gondola or bungee jumping) to enjoy them with fewer people.
💡 Stay Hydrated – The sun is strong, even when it feels cool. Sunscreen and water are non-negotiable.
Final Thoughts
Queenstown in February is all about balance—you can chase thrills in the morning, sip wine at golden hour, and still catch a quiet lakeside sunset to end the day. With endless adventure at your doorstep, award-winning dining, and landscapes straight out of a fantasy film, it’s the kind of place you’ll leave already planning your return.
