Queenstown: Ice Bar Crawl

Queenstown’s reputation as New Zealand’s adventure capital often overshadows its vibrant nightlife scene. But if you’re looking to experience the town after dark, the Queenstown Ice Bar Crawl offers a lively and well-organized way to explore some of the best party spots in town. This 4-hour tour, priced at just $23 per person, combines great value with an authentic, energetic atmosphere that’s perfect for travelers wanting to make the most of Queenstown’s nightlife.

We love the way this tour makes it easy to hop between top bars, especially with perks like free shots and pizza along the way. The Ice Bar experience itself is a highlight, offering a unique chill (literally) for those looking to cool down in style. Plus, the tour’s lively guides keep the energy high and the fun flowing.

One thing to consider: the tour finishes just after midnight, so if you’re craving a late-night session, you’ll need to keep the party going on your own. Otherwise, this experience is ideal for anyone wanting a fun, social night out without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy group activities, bar games, and a good dose of local fun.

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Key Points

Affordable at only $23 per person for a 4-hour experience
Includes entry to the Ice Bar, normally $30, plus 5 free shots and pizza
Visit 5 of Queenstown’s top party bars with guide-led group
Enjoy drink discounts throughout the night
Participate in bar games and win prizes
Flexible ending time, with the option to keep the night alive

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes the Queenstown Ice Bar Crawl Special?

This tour packs quite a punch for such an accessible price. The combination of curated bar visits, drink discounts, and fun extras makes it a standout for travelers wanting to experience Queenstown’s nightlife without breaking the bank. Let’s explore what to expect at each part of the tour, and what really makes it a memorable outing.

Looking for more options in Queenstown? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting Point: The London Bar at 9:00 PM

The adventure kicks off downstairs at The London Bar, conveniently located at 36 Shotover Street, next door to Fergburger. Meeting there at 9:00 PM means you’re starting the night with plenty of time to get into the party mood. The tour includes skip-the-line access, so you avoid long queues, which is a real perk during peak season.

The guide, whose fluent English makes the whole experience smooth, gives a quick rundown of the night ahead. This is also where you receive your free entry to the Ice Bar, saving you $30 right off the bat. Being able to bypass lineups is a real time-saver, especially in a popular nightlife hub like Queenstown.

First Stop: The Queenstown Ice Bar

The Ice Bar is the main highlight. Known for its icy interior and frosty drinks, it offers a different vibe compared to traditional bars. The ice sculptures, chilled atmosphere, and themed cocktails make it a cool (literally) photo op. The free entry and inclusion in the tour make it accessible without the usual extra cost.

According to reviews, the Ice Bar experience is memorable, with one traveler noting, “It’s such a fun way to start the night, and the Ice Bar’s decor is surprisingly impressive.” Since it’s a unique part of Queenstown’s nightlife, it adds a cool twist (pun intended) to your evening.

Visiting 5 Top Bars in Queenstown

After the Ice Bar, the tour guides you through five of the best party bars the town has to offer. The exact venues can vary but are chosen for their lively atmosphere, good drink selections, and vibrant crowd.

Travelers mention enjoying the drink discounts available all night, which helps stretch your budget and offers a chance to try different cocktails, beers, or spirits. The guides often encourage friendly competition with bar games—some reviews mention winning prizes, which adds an extra layer of fun.

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Food and Drinks: Shots and Pizza

Throughout the evening, you’ll receive five free shots—a fun way to kickstart your night or keep the energy high. The pizza, served at intervals, is appreciated for its simplicity and comfort food appeal, especially after a few drinks. One reviewer said, “The pizza was perfect after a few shots, and it kept us going into the late hours with full bellies.”

There's plenty more to explore in Queenstown

Evening Atmosphere and Group Dynamics

The tour generally keeps a lively, social vibe, with guides actively engaging with the group. The group size tends to be manageable, fostering a fun, friendly environment. As Murray from Canada notes, “The guides were fantastic, making everyone feel included and ensuring we had a memorable night.”

End of Tour and Optional Continued Celebrations

The tour wraps up just after midnight at the last bar, but you’re free to keep the party going on your own. Since Queenstown’s nightlife is thriving, many choose to extend the evening at nearby venues, perhaps even revisiting their favorite spots from the crawl.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

The tour is designed for convenience and value. At $23, it offers a lot for a moderate price, especially considering the included Ice Bar entry, shots, and pizza. The 4-hour length strikes a balance between enough time to enjoy multiple venues without fatigue.

Meeting point is straightforward—downstairs at The London Bar—and the tour runs in the evening, making it perfect for after dinner or pre-weekend party plans.

Bring your passport to verify ID and ensure smooth entry to the Ice Bar and other venues. The tour is conducted in English, with a live guide to keep everything running smoothly.

Cancellation is flexible—up to 24 hours in advance—so if your plans change, you get a full refund, adding peace of mind.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

If you’re after a budget-friendly, social night in Queenstown, this bar crawl hits the mark. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy group activities, lively atmospheres, and trying a variety of local bars without the hassle of planning each step. The mix of free perks and guided visits means you can focus on having fun rather than navigating the nightlife scene solo.

Authenticity is also a highlight. The guides seem genuinely engaged, and the stops are selected for their lively vibe, not just tourist traps. The inclusion of the Ice Bar adds a memorable, cool experience that many visitors wouldn’t want to miss.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Experience?

This Queenstown Ice Bar Crawl delivers excellent value for a night filled with fun, socializing, and a taste of local nightlife. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting an easy introduction to Queenstown’s bar scene, or groups of friends looking for a shared adventure.

Travelers seeking a hassle-free, budget-conscious way to explore multiple venues will find it hard to beat. The tour’s relaxed pace, combined with the welcoming atmosphere and added extras like free shots and pizza, creates a genuinely enjoyable evening.

If you’re after a lively, no-fuss way to experience Queenstown after dark, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember to wear warm clothes for the Ice Bar, and bring your ID!

FAQ

Is there an age restriction for this tour? Yes, you’ll need to bring your passport for ID verification, and the tour is geared toward adults of legal drinking age.

What’s included in the price? The ticket covers the Ice Bar entrance fee (normally $30), five free shots, and pizza throughout the night.

How many bars will I visit? You’ll visit a total of five bars, including the Ice Bar, with the guide leading the way.

Can I extend the night after the tour ends? Absolutely. The tour finishes just after midnight, and Queenstown’s nightlife is vibrant enough to keep going on your own.

Is transportation provided? No, but the meeting point is in the heart of Queenstown, making it easy to walk or grab a short ride afterwards.

What should I bring? A valid passport for ID purposes, and maybe some cash or a card for extra drinks or tips.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers? Yes, many solo travelers join and find the group atmosphere welcoming and fun.

Are drinks discounted at all bars? Yes, there are drink discounts available for the entire duration of the tour.

What if I want to cancel? You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Verdict

The Queenstown Ice Bar Crawl stands out as a fantastic way to kick off your evening with a friendly, affordable, and lively experience. The combination of unique venues, free extras, and a guide who keeps the energy high makes it a worthwhile addition to any Queenstown trip. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this tour offers a memorable night that’s both fun and practical.

For those wanting an authentic taste of Queenstown’s nightlife scene without the fuss, this tour manages to strike a perfect balance between value and entertainment. It’s an easy recommendation for anyone looking to make the most of their evenings in Queenstown.