What to do in Arthur's Pass

Activities, attractions and tours

Arthur's Pass is one of the few roads connecting the East and West sides of New Zealand's South Island. The road winds it way through a mountain pass with beautiful and dramatic scenery. The area is great for outdoor activities such as hiking, or spotting waterfalls and the Kea (=alpine parrots).
Arthur's Pass is one of the few roads connecting the East and West sides of New Zealand's South Island. The road winds it way through a mountain pass with beautiful and dramatic scenery. The area is great for outdoor activities such as hiking, or spotting waterfalls and the Kea (=alpine parrots).
Arthur’s Pass, New Zealand
During my travels by bicycle in New Zealand, I treated myself to the Tranz Alpine which goes from the west to the east coast of the South Island, or the other way around. This was taken from the train. The yellow flowers called broom (cytisus scoparius) aren't really flowers although beautiful, they are considered a weed and a threat to the native flora and fauna. I also rode in the Coastal Pacific train which borders the eastern coast of the island finishing in the port town of Picton.
As you come out the West Coast side of Arthur's Pass the view of the mountains is spectacular. #LifeAtExpedia

Arthur's Pass Attractions

Let Expedia help you experience the best that Arthur's Pass has to offer! If you’re looking for fun itinerary ideas, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Activities and Tours

Arthur's Pass is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay, and make it a breeze to explore the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Arthur's Pass to make sure that you enjoy your experience to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights.

Arthur's Pass Attractions

Expedia has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. In addition to scheduling local tours, booking reservations and scoring advance event tickets, Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, all on one consolidated travel itinerary, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Arthur's Pass.

Looking for things to do can be time consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Arthur's Pass attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season.

  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

The Annual Vacation Sale

Members save up to 40% on hotels and homes. Plan this year’s big trip and save.
Book now

Recommended things to do in Arthur's Pass

Number of things to do
12
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Arthur’s Pass Day Tour From Christchurch via Castle Hill: CA $185
Top 5 things to do
Half-day tours
With kids

What to do in Arthur's Pass

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Day trip destinations from Arthur's Pass

Misty lake

Lake Pearson

Frequently asked questions

Is Arthur's Pass worth visiting?
From retail therapy to history and outdoor adventures, there are loads of great things to do in Arthur's Pass. Don't forget to experience the area's blend of awesome attractions, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Arthur's Pass?
After you've visited the most popular attractions, spend the rest of your day enjoying the retail and dining scene in Arthur's Pass.
What is the top tourist attraction in Arthur's Pass?
Plan your perfect getaway by taking a look at our list of affordable tours, family-friendly options and other fantastic things to do in Arthur's Pass.
Is three days enough to stay in Arthur's Pass?
Three days is enough for a quick escape to Arthur's Pass — you'll hit the main spots and get a good feel for the local vibe. But if you truly want to soak it all in, book for at least seven to ten days to discover some nearby highlights too.
What are some activities to do in Arthur's Pass with kids?
Whether you're vacationing with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Check out our ideas for what to do in Arthur's Pass with kids.

What to do in Arthur's Pass for adults?
Whether you're a food lover, culture enthusiast or thrill seeker, there are plenty of things to do in Arthur's Pass for adults.
Are there free things to do in Arthur's Pass?
With loads of free things to do in Arthur's Pass, you can discover the area without reaching into your pocket. Soak up the vibes at free events and festivals or stroll through the local neighbourhoods.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia