Top 3 rainy day activities in Queenstown
Queenstown is famous for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures, but even the most stunning destinations experience rainy days. The good news? A little rain doesn’t mean your trip is ruined—in fact, it’s the perfect excuse to slow down and enjoy some of the region’s finest indoor experiences.
Here are the top three must-visit destinations for a cozy, indulgent, and unforgettable rainy day in Queenstown.
1. Kinross Winery – The Ultimate Wine Experience
Why Visit Kinross on a Rainy Day?
✔ The best wine experience in New Zealand
✔ Cozy, welcoming atmosphere with expert wine hosts
✔ Delicious food paired with stunning wines
✔ Sheltered indoor seating with scenic vineyard views
When the rain starts falling, there’s no better place to escape than Kinross Winery, nestled in the heart of Gibbston, Central Otago’s premier wine-growing region. As the Home of Central Otago Wine, Kinross offers an unparalleled tasting experience, showcasing wines from five of the region’s most celebrated producers: Hawkshead, High Garden, Kinross, Valli, and Wild Irishman.
Indulge in a World-Class Wine Tasting
Step into the warm and inviting Cellar Door, where expert wine advisors will guide you through a tasting journey of Central Otago’s finest wines. Whether you prefer a bold Pinot Noir, a crisp Riesling, or an elegant Chardonnay, you’ll discover the true essence of this world-renowned wine region.
Enjoy a Long Lunch in the Bistro
After your tasting, head to the Kinross Bistro for a relaxed, delicious lunch. The menu celebrates fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients, designed to pair beautifully with the wines you’ve just enjoyed. From hearty platters to seasonal specialties, every dish is crafted with care, making it the perfect way to spend a leisurely afternoon.
2. Cardrona Distillery – Craft Spirits & Whisky Tastings
Why Visit Cardrona Distillery on a Rainy Day?
✔ Engaging, educational, and delicious
✔ Warm up with a whisky tasting
✔ Scenic drive through the Crown Range
For those who prefer whisky, gin, or vodka, a visit to Cardrona Distillery is a must. Located between Queenstown and Wanaka, this family-owned distillery produces small-batch spirits of exceptional quality.
Take a Guided Distillery Tour
Step behind the scenes and learn about the meticulous craft of distilling premium spirits from pure alpine water, New Zealand-grown grains, and hand-selected botanicals. The guided tour offers an in-depth look at the entire process—from fermentation to barrel aging—followed by a tasting of their signature spirits, including the award-winning 'The Source' Gin and 'Just Hatched' Single Malt Whisky.
Savour a Long Lunch at Cardrona Distillery
After your tasting, settle in for a relaxed and delicious lunch at Cardrona Distillery. Their menu showcases fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients,designed to complement their handcrafted spirits. Enjoy beautifully curated small plates, from freshly shucked oysters to Ōra King Salmon, all crafted to enhance your dining experience. Pair your meal with a signature cocktail or a smooth whisky, making it the perfect way to unwind and soak in the cozy atmosphere.
3. Dorothy Browns – A Boutique Cinema Experience in Arrowtown
Why Visit Dorothy Browns on a Rainy Day?
✔ Cozy, intimate setting with plush seating
✔ Fantastic wine and cheese selection
✔ A curated selection of films for every taste
If there’s one thing better than a cozy cinema on a rainy day, it’s a luxurious boutique cinema with plush seating, fine wine, and homemade treats—and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Dorothy Browns in Arrowtown.
Unwind with a Film in Style
This charming art-house cinema offers a carefully curated selection of films, from blockbusters to independent and foreign films. Forget crowded multiplexes—Dorothy Browns is all about comfort and atmosphere, complete with fireplaces, armchairs, and vintage decor.
Sip Wine & Enjoy a Cheese Board
Enhance your movie experience with a glass of Central Otago Pinot Noir and a delicious cheese platter from the on-site bar. It’s the perfect way to unwind and escape the rain in a setting that feels like home.
