


Stables Restaurant & Wine Bar offers a welcoming retreat for families exploring the historic gold rush village of Arrowtown, just outside Queenstown. This charming eatery serves up hearty, generous portions in a relaxed atmosphere, with a dedicated kids' menu that makes dining out with little ones stress-free and enjoyable.
Visit during lunch on weekdays for a quieter experience, or early dinner around 5:30pm before the evening rush. Autumn (March-May) offers spectacular golden foliage displays throughout Arrowtown, making the entire village visit memorable.
Pricing is mid-range ($$) by New Zealand standards. Street parking is available on Buckingham Street and in nearby public car parks. The restaurant accommodates high chairs and dietary requirements with advance notice.
Open year-round. Arrowtown is particularly stunning in autumn (March-May) when the trees turn golden, and bustling in winter (June-August) due to nearby ski fields. Spring (September-November) brings blossoms and milder weather, perfect for exploring the village before or after dining.
Arrowtown is a delightful historic gold rush village just 20 minutes from Queenstown, offering families easy riverside walks, gold panning activities, and charming streets to explore. Kids love the old-world buildings, the Arrow River trail perfect for spotting fish and skipping stones, and the sense of adventure that comes with exploring a real 1860s settlement with restored miners' cottages and heritage sites.
Step aboard the TSS Earnslaw, a beautifully restored 1912 coal-fired steamship affectionately known as the 'Lady of the Lake,' for an unforgettable cruise across the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Wakatipu. Kids will be mesmerized watching the engine room in action with its gleaming brass and working pistons, while the whole family enjoys breathtaking views of Queenstown's dramatic mountain scenery. This authentic vintage experience combines history, engineering wonder, and natural beauty into one magical journey.
Sticky Fingers Trampoline Park is an indoor wonderland for bouncing, jumping, and burning off energy, rain or shine. With dedicated zones for different activities including dodgeball courts, foam pits, and multiple trampoline areas, this Queenstown attraction keeps kids active and entertained while parents can relax knowing their children are safe in a supervised environment.
Ben Lomond Track offers families multiple hiking options ranging from easy forest walks perfect for young children to challenging summit climbs for adventurous teens. The lower sections provide accessible nature experiences with stunning Lake Wakatipu views, while families can turn back at any point, making it flexible for different fitness levels and ages. The track showcases New Zealand's remarkable alpine scenery right from Queenstown's doorstep.