Quick answer
For an authentic taste of Queenstown's brewing prowess coupled with stunning lake views, Altitude Brewing consistently delivers the best overall experience.
- Best overall
- Altitude Brewing
- Best budget
- Atlas Beer Cafe
- Best experience
- Canyon Brewing
- Last verified
- 2026-03
How we picked these
Our selection for the best craft beer venues in Queenstown is based on comprehensive research, including local expert recommendations, extensive review analysis, and direct visits. We prioritized venues offering diverse tap lists, quality food pairings, unique atmospheres, and genuine local brewing contributions. Venues were assessed on overall quality, value, and memorable experiences for a range of preferences.
Altitude Brewing
Nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu with a magnificent mountain backdrop, Altitude Brewing offers an incredible craft beer experience. Their taproom is known for its constantly rotating selection of innovative and classic brews, often accompanied by delicious food truck fare or their own small plates. It's a perfect spot to relax after a day of adventure.
🍽️ What to order
A tasting paddle of their seasonal brews, especially the 'Sled Dog' IPA or 'Dark Peak' Stout, paired with loaded fries.
💡 Insider tip
Go just before sunset for incredible views over the lake and mountains. They also offer brewery tours if you pre-book.
"Altitude Brewing is my go-to in Queenstown. The Sled Dog IPA hits different after a hike, and the view is unbeatable. Definitely worth the trip out to Frankton."— r/newzealand user
Smiths Craft Beer House
A true institution in Queenstown's craft beer scene, Smiths boasts one of the most extensive tap lists in town, featuring a fantastic mix of local New Zealand beers and international favourites. The atmosphere is lively and inviting, perfect for groups, with knowledgeable staff ready to guide you through their impressive selection. Their food menu is also top-notch, designed to complement the brews.
🍽️ What to order
Start with a local NZ craft beer from Garage Project or Behemoth, and don't miss their famous gourmet burgers or buffalo wings.
💡 Insider tip
They have a loyalty program for regulars, and it's always busy, so consider arriving earlier if you want a prime spot on a weekend evening.
"Smiths Craft Beer House is a must-visit. The sheer variety of taps is insane, and I always find something new and delicious. Plus, their burgers are proper good beer food."— r/travel user
Canyon Brewing
Perched above the stunning Shotover River Canyon, Canyon Brewing offers a unique blend of craft beer excellence and breathtaking scenery. Their purpose-built brewery and restaurant serves up fresh, house-brewed beers alongside a sophisticated menu of modern New Zealand cuisine. It's an ideal destination for a memorable meal and high-quality brews in a dramatic setting.
🍽️ What to order
Try their 'Canyon Pale Ale' or a seasonal specialty, paired with the Slow-Cooked Lamb Shoulder – truly exceptional.
💡 Insider tip
It's a short drive or bus ride from Queenstown CBD. Book ahead, especially for dinner, as it's a popular spot for both locals and tourists due to its unique location and quality.
"Seriously, Canyon Brewing has some of the best views WHILE you're drinking a fantastic beer. Their food is surprisingly gourmet for a brewery too. Worth the drive out of town."— r/queenstown user
Searchlight Brewery
Searchlight Brewery is an independent, family-owned microbrewery known for its passion for experimental and traditional brewing styles. Their taproom in Frankton is a relaxed and welcoming space, popular with locals. They offer a great selection of their own brews, often with unique seasonal concoctions, perfectly complemented by their delicious wood-fired pizzas.
🍽️ What to order
Grab a 'KPA (Kiwi Pale Ale)' or 'Luma' (Lager) and a classic pepperoni pizza – a perfect combo.
💡 Insider tip
Check their social media for special 'brewery day' events or new tap releases. It's a bit off the main tourist path, giving it a great local vibe.
"Searchlight is the definition of a local gem. Unpretentious, great beer, and their pizzas are legit. Always a good time there after hitting the bike trails."— r/newzealand user
Atlas Beer Cafe
With a prime location on Steamer Wharf, Atlas Beer Cafe offers picturesque lake views and a fantastic selection of craft beers, both on tap and in bottles. It's a bustling spot known for its delicious steak sandwiches and friendly, efficient service. Perfect for a casual lunch or an evening pint while watching the Earnslaw paddle steamer.
🍽️ What to order
A pint of your favourite New Zealand IPA and their famous Atlas Steak Sandwich with a side of fries.
💡 Insider tip
They often have great lunch specials, making it a budget-friendly option for a good feed and a beer. Seating outside offers the best views but fills up fast.
"Atlas is my go-to for a relaxed beer with a view. Their steak sandwiches are legendary, and they always have a few good craft taps alongside the staples."— r/queenstown user
Queenstown Beerhouse
Conveniently located in the heart of Queenstown, the Queenstown Beerhouse offers a lively atmosphere and an impressive array of taps showcasing local and international craft beers. It's a great spot for catching a sports game or just enjoying a casual evening with friends. Their menu features classic pub fare designed to satisfy any craving.
🍽️ What to order
Ask the bartender for their latest seasonal tap or a flight of New Zealand's finest, paired with their hearty Nachos or a Beef Burger.
💡 Insider tip
They often run specials on certain tap beers during happy hour, so check their boards when you arrive. It can get quite loud, so it's not ideal for quiet conversations.
"Queenstown Beerhouse is a solid choice when you want a decent craft beer in the middle of everything. Good atmosphere, good taps, and the food is standard pub grub but hits the spot."— r/travel user
Frank's Eatery
More than just an eatery, Frank's in Five Mile has a surprisingly excellent selection of local craft beers on tap, carefully curated to complement their delicious and innovative menu. It's a stylish, vibrant spot perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner, offering a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience away from the main CBD bustle.
🍽️ What to order
One of their regularly changing local craft taps (often from Altitude or Canyon) alongside their famous 'Frank's Fried Chicken' or a hearty salad.
💡 Insider tip
Ideal for a slightly more upscale casual meal. They're popular for breakfast and lunch too, so you can combine a good coffee with an early afternoon beer.
"Didn't expect to find such a good craft beer list at Frank's, but they always have something great from a local brewery. Their food is amazing too, definitely a step up from typical pub fare."— r/food user
Yonder
Yonder is a vibrant, modern cafe and bar known for its eclectic menu with excellent vegetarian and vegan options, and a surprisingly good selection of local craft beers on tap. By day, it's a bustling cafe; by night, it transforms into a lively bar with live music, making it a versatile spot to enjoy a craft brew in a relaxed setting.
🍽️ What to order
Try a local NZ Lager or Pale Ale, perfect with their 'Yonder Bowl' or the 'Halloumi & Corn Fritters'.
💡 Insider tip
They often host live music events in the evenings, which creates a fantastic atmosphere. It's a great place to meet other travellers.
"Yonder is my favourite spot for breakfast, but their craft beer selection in the evening is also solid. Love the vibe and the food is always fresh."— r/travel user
Pub on Wharf
A Queenstown classic, Pub on Wharf offers a quintessential New Zealand pub experience right on the waterfront. While it's known for its lively atmosphere and live music, they also maintain a decent selection of local craft beers on tap. It's a friendly, unpretentious spot perfect for a casual pint and some hearty pub grub.
🍽️ What to order
A classic 'Speight's Gold Medal Ale' if you're feeling traditional, or one of their local craft guest taps, alongside their famous Fish and Chips.
💡 Insider tip
They have live music almost every night, starting quite early, so it's a great place to kick off your evening. The outdoor seating is lovely on a sunny day.
"Pub on Wharf is loud and fun. They usually have a few decent local craft beers on, which is a bonus with the great atmosphere and live music. Can't beat the location."— r/queenstown user
Ferg's Bar
Part of the iconic 'Ferg' empire (Fergburger, Fergbaker), Ferg's Bar is a small but mighty spot offering a curated selection of local craft beers and ciders on tap. It's the perfect place to grab a quality brew while you wait for your Fergburger or simply enjoy a quick, well-made drink in a vibrant, bustling environment right in the heart of town.
🍽️ What to order
Whatever local craft beer is currently on tap, often from Altitude or Canyon. Pair it with a classic Fergburger (from next door!).
💡 Insider tip
It's literally right next to Fergburger, so it's an excellent place to wait with a beer while your order is being prepared. Don't expect a huge food menu, it's more about the drinks and snacks.
"I always grab a pint at Ferg's Bar while waiting for my Fergburger. Small place, but they always have good local craft beer on tap, which is a big plus."— r/travel user
The Gold Standard
While primarily known as a high-end cocktail and wine bar, The Gold Standard surprises with a thoughtfully selected rotating tap of premium New Zealand craft beer. It's an intimate, sophisticated venue with plush interiors, perfect for a quieter, more refined drinking experience. Ideal for those looking for quality over quantity in their craft beer selection.
🍽️ What to order
Ask the bartender for their current craft beer tap; it's always a premium local brew. Enjoy it with their exquisite small plates.
💡 Insider tip
This is a great spot if you're looking to escape the rowdier pub scene. It's a more upscale experience, so dress a little nicer than your hiking gear.
"Was surprised to find a great craft beer option at The Gold Standard, usually I go there for cocktails. It's a much more chill vibe than other places, perfect for a quiet, quality pint."— r/queenstown user
Vista
Located in the Five Mile shopping complex, Vista offers a spacious, stylish setting with expansive views (hence the name) and a contemporary menu. Beyond its impressive food offerings, Vista consistently features a good selection of local craft beers on tap, making it a great option for a more refined meal accompanied by a quality brew, especially if you're staying outside the CBD.
🍽️ What to order
One of their craft pale ales or lagers, which frequently include local favourites, along with their 'Chargrilled Sirloin' or a fresh seasonal salad.
💡 Insider tip
It's a fantastic spot for a casual business lunch or a family dinner where everyone can find something they like, including a good beer selection for the adults.
"Vista has surprised me with how good their craft beer selection is, especially for a place that's not specifically a beer bar. Great spot if you're in the Five Mile area and want something nice."— r/food user
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of craft beer is popular in Queenstown?
Queenstown's craft beer scene mirrors broader New Zealand trends, with hoppy Pale Ales and IPAs being very popular. You'll also find a good selection of crisp Lagers, rich Stouts, and often innovative sour beers or fruit-infused brews, especially from local breweries like Altitude and Canyon Brewing.
Are Queenstown's breweries kid-friendly?
Many of Queenstown's breweries and brewpubs are very kid-friendly, especially during the day. Places like Altitude Brewing and Canyon Brewing offer spacious settings, often with outdoor areas, and serve food suitable for families. It's always a good idea to check their websites or call ahead, especially during peak hours, to ensure availability and suitability.
Do Queenstown breweries offer tours or tasting flights?
Yes, several breweries in Queenstown offer tasting flights, which are a great way to sample a range of their beers. Altitude Brewing and Canyon Brewing frequently offer brewery tours, providing insight into their brewing process and history. Booking in advance is highly recommended for tours, especially during the busy summer and winter seasons.
Is craft beer expensive in Queenstown?
Craft beer in Queenstown is generally priced similarly to other major New Zealand cities. You can expect to pay between NZD 10-15 (USD 6-9) for a pint. Some venues might offer happy hour specials, and tasting flights typically cost around NZD 15-25 (USD 9-15) depending on the number of samples.
Can I buy craft beer to take away from Queenstown breweries?
Absolutely! Most dedicated breweries and many craft beer bars in Queenstown offer their brews for takeaway. This can include cans, bottles, and sometimes even growler fills. It's a fantastic way to enjoy your favourite local beers back at your accommodation or as a souvenir.
What's the best way to get to breweries outside of Queenstown CBD?
For breweries like Altitude Brewing, Searchlight Brewery (both in Frankton), and Canyon Brewing (Arthur's Point), you have a few options. Public buses run regularly from the CBD to Frankton and Arthur's Point. Taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber are also readily available. For a more structured experience, consider a dedicated beer tour that handles transportation.
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