3 Must-See Museums in Queenstown and How to Visit

From Odyssey Sensory Maze to Queenstown Arts Centre, there's lots to see in the city.

2 min readMar 5, 2020By Nicole Zimmerman

Galleries to explore in Queenstown in New Zealand

Hi, I'm Nicole!

Nicole R. Zimmerman, born in São Paulo, Brazil and raised (mostly) in Northern California, is a queer Bay Area–based travel journalist, copywriter, and essayist. Nicole has written for Viator/Tripadvisor, Hipcamp, TripSavvy, Grove Collaborative, Insider, and the Los Angeles Times. Her work appears in anthologies such as The Best Women’s Travel Writing and in numerous literary journals including Creative Nonfiction and The Rumpus.

Located alongside shimmering Lake Wakatipu with a magnificent mountain backdrop, Queenstown is better known for its outdoor adventures than its museums. However, artistically minded travelers will find plenty to enjoy in the sweet smattering of local galleries. Here’s where to go to get your art on.

Why you are seeing these recommendations

1. Odyssey Sensory Maze

Art-goers experience a dance mat installation at Odyssey Sensory Maze.

Odyssey Sensory Maze is a must-do.Photo Credit: Odyssey Sensory Maze / Tripadvosor

For a sensory experience.

Make your way through the dozen unique sensory zones that make up this mystery maze. Special lighting effects, unusual scents, optical illusions, and dark spaces challenge and entertain older kids and adults.

How to Visit: Prebook your admission to save time and money.

2. Queenstown Arts Centre

Inside Queenstown Arts Centre.Photo Credit: Queenstown Arts Centre / Tripadvisor

For art classes.

Check out contemporary visual art by local artists in a variety of mediums at this community-based gallery and art studio. In a former high school, the gallery rotates exhibits on a monthly basis. Visit artists at work; take a class; or purchase a painting, a sculpture, or some jewelry or textiles.

How to Visit: Stop by on a private walking tour of Queenstown.

3. The Ivy Box

Ivy covers the exterior wall of The Ivy Box in Queenstown.

The Ivy Box is so-named for a reason.Photo Credit: The Ivy Box / Tripadvisor

For a cozy collection.

Set alongside the Frankton Arm of Lake Wakatipu, this little gem on Park Street is worth a browse. The art collection is small but excellent, and the gallery—housed in a former butcher shop—is a welcoming space for all visitors.

How to Visit: Take a short, scenic walk to the gallery from downtown Queenstown, or rent a bike and cycle the Queenstown Trail.