If you have money to spare while traveling through Queenstown, it is an incredible place for anyone who knows how to have a good time. From outdoor adventure to funky bars and restaurants, it really has it all. Having said that, being a poor wanderer like myself in this city was not so bad. In fact, it was wonderful. I made the most of my time here despite being broke. If you're on a budget here's some recommendations;
Free Fun In Queenstown
Queenstown Gardens and Frisbee/Disc Golf - There is an 18 hole course in the Gardens which offers fantastic views over the lake. The gardens themselves are beautiful and it's worth going to visit the huge plaque in memorial of the brave explorer, Robert Falcon Scott, who died of starvation and hypothermia while exploring the Antarctic regions in 1912.
Sit by the Lakefront - Grab a coffee, sit on the stone wall in front of the lake and marvel at the sight in front of you. No matter what the season, this view could never be anything but jaw-dropping. Grab some bread and feed the ducks, enjoy the buskers, admire the slackliners, watch the paragliders doing swirls in the sky. There's also some interesting landmarks like the one below. And of course If you enjoy people watching, there will no doubt be plenty of characters to feast your eyes on.
Icehockey - In winter there is a local league. Go to the stadium at the back of the gardens to enjoy great team spirit and atmosphere. I was really taken aback at the skill of some of the players. Great watching!
Walk - There are endless walks in Queenstown. Each one as lovely as the next. Some of my favourites include Sunshine Bay, the Gondola walk (watch the zipliners as you do it), the walk to Frankton along the lake and Queenstown Hill. They each make for amazing photo opportunities and clean, fresh air in the lungs.
Watch bunjee jumpers at Kawarau Bridge - I was lucky enough to work at a function at AJ Hackett Bunjee one day. Unfortunately being out of pocket meant I couldn't jump myself but I had great fun watching! This bridge was originally the only road into Queenstown and has been described as a 'model structure in both design and workmanship'. The area has a lot of interesting history. Worth a visit!
Good Value Food, Bevs and Dancing
Searle Lane - Cheap drinks, Live games on their big screen TV, great dancing after 11.30pm, pool table, VERY good-looking staff. Need I say more? Become a member which is free and you'll get at least 5 free drinks a week. GRAND!
Cowboys - 10 dollar MASSIVE pints, free pizza and nibbles without request, huge cosy fire and a mechanical bull. I chose here as a day time, 'lets go for one' kind of bar. Beware of potential night-time activities that can occur here; namely drinking 15 cheap tequila shots and getting flung off the bull, as has happened to friends. I wont go into detail.
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| Barnesy in Cowboys |
1876 - 4 Dollar drinks. A favourite amongst us young folk without a parade of backpackers. Trendy vibe and relaxed atmosphere.
Brazz - 10 dollar all day, full breakfast. So, so worth it! Delicious coffee too.
Cookietime - Delicious delicious delicious half-price cookies from 5-6pm. Their hot chocolate is also wonderful!  |
| Cookietime |
