Fodor's Expert Review International Antarctic Centre

Ever since Captain Robert Falcon Scott wintered his dogs at nearby Quail Island in preparation for his ill-fated South Pole expedition of 1912, Christchurch has maintained a close connection with the frozen continent. You can experience a small taste of the modern polar experience here. Bundle up in extra clothing and brave a simulated storm with temperatures of minus 25 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes. Or take a ride on the Hägglund vehicle used to get around the ice. The 4D extreme theater show of life at New Zealand's Scott Base is superb, and the Penguin Encounter lets you get up close with some blue penguins, the smallest penguin species.