Top 5 things to add to your To Do List in Jozi this Festive Season

Are you visiting Johannesburg, or even if you are a resident, Jozi is one of those cities that is vibrant and energetic all year round. Known as the City of Gold, not just because of the actual gold that was mined in the city, but also for all the amazing opportunities that it offers. There is no shortage of what you can do in this majestic city, so why not be a tourist in your own city this December and try out our list of fun things to do?

Here are our top five places to visit.

Gold Reef City

Gold Reef City is an amusement park packed with thrills in the South of Jozi which is based on the Gold Rush era theme. You’ll find everything from a theme park, to restaurants, movies and hotels. For those who need to burn off some energy, Jump City Trampoline Park is the perfect spot to do just that. For something really different, take the only genuine underground mine tour in Johannesburg or catch a 4-D movie. You’ll have to book your ticket online but check which days and times the theme park is open (it varies during December). If you go on your birthday, you get a special surprise, visit their website for more information.

Apartheid Museum

The apartheid story, which is at the centre of the Apartheid Museum’s exhibits, is the central theme of this historic museum which opened in 2001. you’ll experience the painful truth of South Africa’s history as you walk through the halls. The first of its kind in SA, the Apartheid Museum depicts the emergence and demise of apartheid. The building’s design was conceived on a seven-hectare site by an architectural cooperative made up of several eminent architectural firms. The museum is an outstanding example of design, space, and landscape that gives the world a special view of South Africa.

Military Museum

This war museum was officially opened in 1947 on 29 August adjacent to the Johannesburg Zoo. The purpose was to educate visited about South Africa’s involvement in the Second World War. You’ll learn everything about the First World War right through to the Second World War and the role South Africa played. This site is also the place regular and reserve troops along with veterans in South Africa and around the world consider to be their spiritual and metaphorical homes. Many veteran organizations consider the Museum to be their headquarters. Operating hours daily from 09h00 to 16h30. The entry fee is R22 for adults and children is R11. If you want to attend the Aim show weekend it will cost you R50. Visit the website for more info.

Johannesburg Art Gallery

If you’re a bit of a culture vulture, then the Johannesburg Art Gallery is the place for you. Built over 100 years ago, it is the oldest museum of its kind in the city and boasts a collection of over 10 000 artworks. In addition to robust historical and Southern African cultural collections, the ‘JAG’ as it is affectionately known, also houses a growing contemporary collection. Located in Joubert Park in the city centre of eGoli, this is the largest art gallery on the African continent. Visit their website for more information.

Walter Sisulu Garden

Okay so technically this is not part of Johannesburg, it falls under Mogale City, but it is close enough and breath-taking enough to warrant the drive. Round up some friends, pack a picnic, and get in touch with nature! Established in 1982 on 300 hectares, the garden is home to 240 bird species including the Verreaux’s eagles. The garden has been recognised as the best in the world, on the premises you’ll find a restaurant, gift shops and nursery that sells native South African plants. Entry fee is R40 for students with a student card, R20 for GR 1-12 and adults pay R70. You can purchase your ticket from Web Tickets or Pick n Pay Money Market, or at the gate although they don’t accept cash anymore, card payments only. Visit their website for more info.