Before you book, note that Skyline Queenstown will be closed from April 23rd to July 1st, 2023 as they make the switch to a new and improved gondola.
Heading up to spend a few hours at Skyline Queenstown is a popular activity in Queenstown.
You get some great views, it’s easily accessible, and there are activities and attractions to suit everyone. It’s easy to see why it’s one of the most popular things to do in Queenstown.
While you can see Skyline from town, it’s a bit confusing about what exactly it is, what you do there, why you should go, etc. So I’ve written this guide to help you make the most of your Queenstown Skyline visit.
1. About Skyline Queenstown
Skyline Queenstown is 450 metres above Lake Wakatipu, and is a noticeable landmark from all across town.
The facility dates back to the 1960s when a chalet was first built on Bob’s Peak (where the current building is). The chalet opened in 1964, when there was only a road that could take tourists up. But a few years later the gondola was up and running, making access to Skyline Queenstown much easier.
Since then the facilities have continued to improve, with the luge being built in 1968, and the gondola capable of taking mountain bikes up since 2011.
2. How to get to Queenstown Skyline?
The most common way to get to Skyline Queenstown is by the gondola.
You can also get there via the Tiki Trail which is a hiking trail starting close to the bottom of the gondola. It’s less than 2km long, but with over 400 metres of elevation gain, it’s not a gentle hike…though it’s just a warm up if you’re going on to hike the rest of the way up Ben Lomond, or mix and match other awesome Queenstown hikes.
For those who love mountain biking, you can pedal up the access road which starts on Lomond Crescent. This is not an easy ride up the hill, hence even the most seasoned of mountain bikers usually pop their bikes on the gondola.
3. How much does Skyline Queenstown cost?
If you hike up and down the Tiki Trail,t explore around Skyline Queenstown and take in the viewpoints, it’s free!
But most people are going to go up and down via the gondola, and usually do the luge or the bungy. Here are some prices:
Gondola Only:
- $46 for adults
- $32 for children 6 to 14 years
- Under 6’s are free
- There are also family passes available.
Gondola + 3 Luge rides:
- $73 for adults
- $51 for children 6 to 14 years
- $5 for preschoolers 2 to 5 years
- Again there are family passes available, and there are options for various amount of luge rides.
Other things you can buy tickets for are mountain bikes, dinner reservations at Stratosphere, guided walks up to the Ben Lomond summit/saddle, and stargazing.
Visit the Skyline website for full pricing details.
4. Do you need to book in advance?
You don’t have to, but it’ll help you avoid the queues if you’ve got your tickets booked in advance. So yes, if possible, you should book them online. Just make sure to check the opening hours for the days you’re planning on visiting.
5. When is the best time to visit Skyline Queenstown?
On the Skyline website, they state their busiest period is from 10am to 2.30am, so if you prefer smaller crowds, look to go first thing or a bit later in the afternoon.
6. Is Skyline Queenstown open all year round?
Yes, 365 days a year (except for the two months or so they’re closed in 2023 while they open the new gondola).
7. What are the Skyline Queenstown hours?
The opening hours for the different Skyline Queenstown experiences change from week to week, so it’s best to go straight to the opening hours page to get the closing times for that week.
At minimum you can expect the gondola to be open from 10 am to 6.30 pm.
8. Is there parking available at Skyline Queenstown?
No. You’ll need to park in Queenstown and make your way to the bottom of the gondola from there. If you’re staying in town, it’s usually easier to walk there anyhow.
If you’re struggling for a car park and want an easy option, the Man Street carpark is a close paid option.
9. What are the best things to do at the Queenstown Skyline?
Well, the luge is pretty awesome. If you’ve been on a luge before you’ll know how sneaky fun it is, but I really enjoyed this so I can see why it’s the most popular activity at Skyline (besides the gondola).
Personally, I love the Tiki Trail to get to Skyline Queenstown, but I’m in a big minority there 😉
10. What facilities are at the Skyline Queenstown?
At the base of the gondola where you can buy tickets, there’s not much else, other than the photo booth where you can buy gondola photos when you get to the bottom and toilets.
At the top of Skyline Queenstown, there’s toilets, a gift shop, the Stratosphere Restaurant (bookings recommended), and the Market Kitchen Café which do pizzas, curries, and burgers to name a few options. There’s coffee and tea of course as well.
There’s plenty of space to take in the views from around the building as well.
11. Can you visit Skyline Queenstown for free?
Yeap, as mentioned, you can hike up the Tiki Trail, or bike up the Access Road and explore the facilities while you’re up there.
You could even take a picnic to enjoy on the bench in the middle of the luge area. If you don’t mind spending a few dollars, grab a coffee from the cafe and enjoy the view from inside.
12. Is Skyline Queenstown suitable for children?
Yes. Everyone can ride the gondola up to Skyline Queenstown. All but the youngest of kids (those under 2) can enjoy the luge, and of course, everyone’s welcome to dine at the restaurant, so your kids will have fun at Skyline Queenstown.
13. Is Queenstown Skyline worth it?
I guess so as it’s so popular. I feel like the gondola plus luge passes are a better deal than just paying for the gondola. If you’ve only got one or two days in Queenstown and want to get some awesome views, going to Skyline Queenstown isn’t a bad shout at all. It all depends on your priorities and budget.
Skyline Queenstown gets hundreds of visitors a day going up the gondola to experience the various activities they have on offer.
It’s a part of the furniture in Queenstown tourism, so they know how to wow you if you make the journey up Bob’s Peak.
Hey, it’s Jub here. I’m the guy behind Chur New Zealand, helping you have the best time hiking, trekking, walking…whatever you want to call it…in NZ. I’m based in Queenstown and am always out and about exploring trails, old & new. If you have any questions, reach out.