Queenstown: Minus 5 Ice Bar Experience with Drink Options

Thinking about adding a splash of chilly fun to your Queenstown trip? The Minus 5 Ice Bar offers a cool escape from the Southern Hemisphere’s adventure hub — without needing to brave the Antarctic poles. This ice-themed experience is a popular choice, bringing you inside an intricately carved icy world where you can sip cocktails in a freezing, fabulous setting.

What makes this ice bar stand out? First, the handcrafted ice sculptures and architectural details are genuinely impressive — over 18 tonnes of crystal-clear ice have been carved into a stylish, frosty landscape. Second, the drinks are included, offering you two beverages of your choice served in authentic ice glasses — a fun, photogenic touch. Third, the ability to capture endless photos of the sculptures and your experience makes it perfect for social media or just keeping cool souvenirs.

A minor consideration is the small size of the venue, which some reviews mention as feeling a bit cramped, especially when busy. If you’re sensitive to cold or prefer more spacious venues, it’s worth planning accordingly.

This experience suits travelers looking for a quick, unique activity — whether you’re a couple, a small group of friends, or even families with kids (who can enjoy the mocktail options). It’s especially appealing if you want a lively, interactive break from sightseeing, or a fun way to warm up with a drink in a frosty atmosphere.

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Key Points

Authentic Ice Sculptures: Over 18 tonnes of hand-carved ice create a stunning, Instagrammable environment.
Inclusive Drinks: Two drinks, cocktails or mocktails, served in ice glasses enhance the fun.
Short but Sweet: The 1-hour duration hits the perfect balance between fun and avoiding the cold fatigue.
Friendly Staff & Guides: Many reviewers highlight engaging, knowledgeable staff that add to the atmosphere.
Photogenic Experience: Plenty of opportunities for photos, with staff happy to take shots or let you snap away.
Limited Space: The venue can get crowded, so early or off-peak visits might be more comfortable.

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Exploring the Cold: What To Expect

Walking into the Minus 5 Ice Bar feels like stepping into a frosty fantasy. Located at Queenstown’s popular Steamer Wharf, the process begins with cheerful check-ins where staff fit you into warm gear — cozy jackets, gloves, and boots if needed. The provided gear ensures you stay warm enough during your icy adventure, although reviews suggest bringing your own gloves for extra warmth is a good idea, especially because the ice glasses can make your fingers freeze.

Once suited up, your host — who’s usually friendly and knowledgeable — will give you a quick briefing about the environment. You then step through the doors into a world carved from crystal-clear ice, where everything from the furniture to the bar itself is meticulously crafted from ice. As you enter, you’ll notice the dazzling sculptures, lighting effects, and intricate details that make the space feel like a miniature Antarctic wonderland.

The main highlight? Enjoying your two included drinks in ice glasses — often cocktails like the Pirates Plunder or mocktails — while marveling at the ice sculptures and taking photos. Reviewers mention that the cocktails are not only fun but also well-made, adding to the overall enjoyment. Staff are happy to take photos if you prefer not to carry your camera, and plenty of guests talk about capturing amazing shots of the sculptures and their icy surroundings.

Throughout the experience, the music and lively atmosphere keep the vibe upbeat, with some staff even singing and dancing, making it more than just a cold room.

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The Ice Sculptures and Atmosphere

The attention to detail in the sculptures earns consistent praise. Guests note the craftsmanship, with many pointing out the bar, furniture, and sculptures are truly impressive works of art. The lighting heightens the icy glow, creating a magical ambiance that feels both surreal and fun.

Some reviews mention how the environment can get crowded quickly, especially when larger groups arrive. While the space is designed for about an hour, some guests leave early to avoid feeling cramped or cold for too long.

Drinks and Refreshments

The two included drinks are a key part of the experience. Whether you opt for cocktails or mocktails, the drinks are served in clear ice glasses, adding a unique tactile element — your hands get cold quickly, so gloves are recommended. Reviewers frequently mention how the cocktails are delicious and well-presented, with some favorites being fruity or themed drinks like the Pirates Plunder.

If you’re feeling extra thirsty or want to try more, extra drinks can be purchased, but keep in mind that the experience encourages moderation given the cold environment. Be aware that alcohol is not served on certain days like Anzac Day before 1 pm, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday — only mocktails are available then.

Photographers are on hand, either staff or you with your camera, to help you get those perfect icy shots. Many guests love showing off their icy glasses and sculptures, making this a memorable photo opportunity.

Comfort and Practical Tips

The temperature inside hovers around -5°C, but you won’t feel cold thanks to the provided gear. Still, many reviewers suggest bringing your own gloves for extra warmth and comfort, especially since holding ice glasses can make your fingers numb quickly.

The jackets are warm, and staff do a good job of fitting you with the right gear, but because the space is compact, moving around can be a little snug during busy times. Arriving early or during off-peak hours can make your visit more relaxed.

The experience is ideal for people who want a fun, quick activity — it’s not designed for hanging out for hours. The strict 1-hour limit keeps the experience lively but not exhausting. You might find that the environment’s cold and intimacy make it less suitable for those who prefer sprawling venues or extended stays.

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Pricing and Value

At around $29 per person, this experience offers a reasonably priced way to enjoy a beautifully crafted ice environment with drinks included. Many reviews highlight the good value for money, especially considering the art, atmosphere, and photo opportunities.

Compared to larger, more elaborate tours, this is a straightforward activity that delivers on the fun and novelty front without breaking the bank. The inclusion of two drinks makes it a bit more special — a nice touch that keeps the experience light-hearted and memorable.

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Who Will Love It?

This activity is perfect for those seeking a quirky, brief distraction while in Queenstown. It suits couples, small groups, or families with kids (who can enjoy mocktails), as well as anyone wanting a unique photo and some fun storytelling.

If you love ice sculptures, playful environments, and enjoy trying quirky drinks, you’ll find plenty to love here. Just be prepared for the cold, and consider how much space and time you want — it’s best as a quick, lively experience rather than a long stay.

The Sum Up

The Minus 5 Ice Bar in Queenstown offers an engaging, visually stunning escape into a frosty world without the need for a trip to the Arctic. The craftsmanship of the ice sculptures and the fun of drinking from ice glasses add plenty of memorable moments, especially for those who enjoy a lively, visually striking environment.

Good value, friendly staff, and the chance to capture fantastic photos make this a worthwhile addition to your Queenstown itinerary — especially if you’re after something a little different. It’s a short but sweet experience that works well for all ages and interests, making it an easy pick for a fun break in the middle of your busy sightseeing schedule.

If you’re a fan of interactive, photogenic activities with a playful atmosphere, then this icy adventure is likely to leave you with lasting memories. Just remember to dress warmly, arrive early to beat the crowd, and bring your camera for those incredible ice sculpture shots.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children? Yes, children can enjoy the mocktail options, but minors must be accompanied by a guardian.

What should I wear? The venue provides warm jackets, gloves, and boots if needed. However, bringing your own gloves might keep your fingers warmer, especially when holding ice glasses.

How long does the experience last? It lasts for about an hour, which is perfect for a quick, fun activity without getting too cold.

Can I take photos inside? Absolutely. You can bring your camera, or staff will happily take photos for you — many reviews highlight the great photo ops.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible? Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

Are extra drinks available? Yes, additional beverages can be purchased — though the experience includes two drinks in the ticket price.

What is the temperature inside? It ranges from about -5°C to 10°C, but you will be provided with enough gear to stay warm.

What day of the week is it available? The experience is generally available in the afternoon, evening, and at night, with flexible scheduling.

Is it noisy inside? The atmosphere is lively with music and chatter, but the space can get crowded, especially during peak times.

Do I need my passport? Yes, a valid ID like a passport is required to enter the venue, per New Zealand liquor laws.

In summary, the Minus 5 Ice Bar in Queenstown is a lively, photogenic, and fun-filled experience that offers incredible ice sculptures, great drinks, and a unique environment. It’s best suited for those who want a quick, entertaining activity that adds a splash of cold fun to their New Zealand adventure.