Queenstown is one of the world's most exciting ski towns, rivalling the likes of Vail and Whistler for entertainment options. There are more than 30 different bars and pubs all within walking distance, which means the action won't stop — even when you do.
But with all those options available, how do you know which bars and pubs to choose? We show you the hottest spots in New Zealand’s best town for après.
The Yacht Club
Its the hippest place to enjoy a champers at the end of a day of skiing, or forgo the slopes altogether and get to this new bar on Steamer Wharf fully-rested!
It's got:
- spectacular views of the Remarkables mountain range
- the best gourmet platters and wines from the region
- operates Sail Queenstown, and you know how much yachties love a drink!
Where: Steamer Wharf
Phone: +64 3 442 7517
The Boiler Room
From 10.30pm onwards this place is crowded with party goers, and the music is always pumping.
It's got:
- one of the most extensive cocktail lists in all of Queenstown
- an attractive young clientele
- everything you need for a genuinely big night — before you know it you'll find yourself pole dancing and singing along to '80s classics
Where: 10 Steamer Wharf
Phone: +64 3 441 8066
Barmuda
Its one of the latest in the Goodbars chain to take over Queenstown, and has now become a local hang-out. While good ol' Bardeaux will always attract locals, especially for the legendary mojitos, Barmuda is definitely the hot new kid on the block.
It's got:
- a massive outdoor fireplace
- the best-looking bartenders (male and female) in Queenstown
- a new cocktail list that's completely unique to Barmuda and which regularly changes
- funky private rooms for big social gatherings
- more locals than your average bowling club!
Where: Searle Lane
Phone: +64 3 442 7300
Website:
Goodbars
Skybar
The only bar in Queenstown set alight! As its name suggests, Skybar is above the action of Queenstown's central Camp Street and is one of the most consistent party spots in town.
It's got:
- cocktails, cocktails and more cocktails — try the house specialty, New Zealand Story, with kiwi fruit, mint, lavender, 42 Below Kiwi vodka and apple juice, served tall over crushed ice, garnished with kiwi fruit and mint
- plenty to eat with a good selection of anti-pasta dishes
- the best-looking new-age fireplace in Queenstown
- bartenders doing more tricks than Bryan Brown and Tom Cruise combined in the movie Cocktail
- a swanky-looking interior that's as hip as you can get
Where: 26 Camp Street
Phone: +64 3 442 4283
Website:
Goodbars
Buffalo Club
For a slightly younger crowd, its hard to go past the Buffalo Club if you want a good all-rounder of a night that starts slow and ends up in a sweat on the dance floor.
It's got:
- five pool tables
- booths to share with your mates — get here early for the legendary happy hour drink specials that go from 5pm to 6pm and again from 10pm to 11pm
- a sunny balcony where you can enjoy a cold beer if you fancy an afternoon session
- big screen TVs with every sports telecast — it's the place to go anytime the All Blacks are playing
- a dance floor for cutting moves
Where: 8 Brecon Street
Phone: +64 3 442 4144
Revolver Bar and Music Club
If you want more than just DJs that play pre-recorded music on your night out, then Revolver is the club for you. It's really lifted the live music scene in Queenstown.
It's got:
- live comedy nights
- the best touring bands to hit Queenstown from both New Zealand and Australia
Where: 54 Shotover Street
Phone: +64 3 441 8911
Website:
Revolver Bar and Music Club
Monty's
This great little bar located close to Lake Wakatipu is a local's favourite on a work night and it's a good place to go for an après ski environment in winter.
It's got:
- an enormous log fire, stone and recycled timber throughout and warm, cosy carpeted floors
- a courtyard best enjoyed in summer — it's the place to sample Monteith's (one of New Zealand's best beers)
Where: 12 Church Street
Phone: +64 3 441 1081
Website:
Monty’s Bar
The Blue Door
In nearby Arrowtown this place can appeal to the older, more sophisticated night owl, or to younger people wanting a less hectic night out.
It's got:
- a roaring fire to sit in front of with your local pinot noir and a pizza delivered from Pesto, next door
- more rustic charm than you can handle, all behind that famous blue door
- another restaurant next door, Saffron, which is a great place to start your evening before coming in for a night of Blue Door ambience
Where: 18 Buckingham Street, Arrowtown
Phone: +64 3 442 0885
Website:
Blue Door
