Johannesburg, often referred to as South Africa’s golden city, promises an adventure that’s brimming with unparalleled experiences.
Offering a plethora of places to visit in Johannesburg, this city perfectly harmonizes the splendor of its historical past with the vibrancy of modern urban life. If you’re wondering about what makes Johannesburg so special, the answer lies in its captivating blend of art, culture, history, and entertainment that appeals to travelers of all tastes.
Whether you’re an explorer at heart seeking adventure or a history buff looking to delve into South Africa’s rich heritage, the many places to visit in Johannesburg provide a mesmerizing escape.
This city is a melting pot where diverse cultures meet and mingle, where creativity blossoms, and where the spirit of discovery is alive and thriving. From its world-class museums and galleries to its lush green parks and unique urban landscapes, there’s something for everyone in Johannesburg.
Places To Go to in Johannesburg
Let us look at a summary of fun places, interesting areas in the city that you need to visit, whether you are a Joburger or just visiting your friends and family.
- The Maboneng Precinct
- Mandela House
- Market Theatre
- The Lion Park
- Wits Art Museum
- Holy Hill
- The Apartheid Museum
- Gold Reef City
- SAB World of Beer
- Zoo Lake
- Mary Fitzgerald Square
- Constitution Hill
- Lindfield Victorian House Museum
- South African National Museum of Military History
- Pilanesberg National Park
The Maboneng Precinct
Once upon a time, the Maboneng Precinct in Johannesburg was a very average and run-down neighborhood. However, thanks to an innovative multi-use urban rehabilitation project, the area has been completely transformed.
The name Maboneng can be translated to mean “place of light,” and the area that was once there has been redeveloped to reflect that meaning. This area of the city is today known for its cool cafes, restaurants, art galleries, hotels, boutiques, and other entertainment hubs, all of which have been cleverly put into one single mix to make this section of the town hip and lively.
One of the most popular places to visit in this area is the Weekly Market on Main Street, which features vendors selling cuisine from across the continent.
Fan of the arts?
Get yourself to Arts on Main and Revolution House, both of which have warehouses that have been converted into art studios, as well as shops where you can purchase pieces of art.
The Bioscope Cinema, upscale hotels, a community center, and a variety of unique shops are some of the additional attractions in the area.
It’s a great place for young people to hang out during a cic and energetic atmosphere while indulging in the African food and drinks that are their personal favourites.
Address: 276 Fox St, City and Suburban
Mandela House
This museum, which can be found on Soweto Street, was formerly the residence of Nelson Mandela, the legendary leader of the liberation movement.
This place is fascinating, and it doesn’t matter if you’re into history or not; a trip here is highly recommended if you find yourself in Johannesburg.
A variety of photographs, paintings, and other artworks depicting the Mandela family are displayed in each of the house’s four rooms. Not only this, but it also displays the honors and distinctions that Nelson Mandela has received during his life.
Address: 8115 Vilakazi Street and Ngakane Street
Market Theatre
Although there are a great number of tourist attractions in and around Johannesburg, the Market Theatre complex is one that you simply must visit if you find yourself in the city.
This venue, which is in a building that was formerly used as a market and has since been renovated, exemplifies the thriving culture of the city by presenting some of the very best plays in its theaters.
Not only this, but in addition to this, it features a bookstore, an art and photograph gallery, a variety of restaurants, and other establishments where you may relax even after the sun has set.
Address: 56 Margaret Mcingana Street, Newtown
The Lion Park
The Lion Park, which can be found in the Gauteng Province of South Africa, is widely regarded as one of the cities of Johannesburg’s must-see attractions.
Although the pride of Transvaal lions is the primary draw for tourists to this park, it is also home to a variety of other species that are native to the continent of Africa.
In addition to having the opportunity to interact with the lions, visitors will also have the chance to participate in other exciting activities, such as going on a safari or taking a tour of the four different lion pride camps.
Address: R512 Pelindaba Rd, Hartbeespoort, Broederstroom
Wits Art Museum
The Wits Art Museum was opened in 2012 and features a significant collection of art from Africa; as a result, it is one of the most interesting sites to visit in Johannesburg.
This location, which is a part of the Wits University Cultural Precinct, features both permanent and rotating exhibitions.
You can spend hours perusing these displays before heading to one of the prominent restaurants in the area for a dinner.
Address: University Corner, Jorissen Street and Bertha Street, Johannesburg
Holy Hill
It is highly recommended that you pay a visit to Holy Hill while you are in Johannesburg because it is home to some of the city’s most breathtaking scenery.
This not-so-popular site in the middle of the city boasts some of the most breathtaking vistas, which are guaranteed to leave you speechless and in wonder of the world around you.
You could sit here for hours or take pictures of the passing moments, and you wouldn’t get tired of either activity. After all, what’s the point of going on vacation if you don’t get to see any amazing sights?
The Apartheid Museum
The Apartheid Museum is one of the sights in Johannesburg that looks like it would be uninteresting to visit but actually is rather interesting.
This museum is the most exciting destination to visit since it portrays the tale of apartheid in the most spectacular way possible using images, artifacts, newspaper clippings, video footage, and other mediums as well.
Do not miss the opportunity to get knowledge about the fight for liberation in South Africa by going to this location.
Address: Northern Parkway & Gold Reef Road, Ormonde
Gold Reef City
Gold Reef City is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in Johannesburg, and it is situated around 8 kilometers away from the heart of the city. There are a lot of things that may transport you to the glory days of this nation, from exciting rides at theme parks to historical displays, and there are so many of them here. You can also go on a tour of the abandoned shaft at Crown Mines to get an idea of the skill level of the gold miners who worked there.
Address: Northern Parkway & Gold Reef Road, Ormonde
SAB World of Beer
This attraction, which can be found in Newtown and is owned by South African Breweries, is one of the most enjoyable locations to visit in all of Johannesburg.
There is a wealth of information to be gleaned here, from the long and illustrious history of the beverage to an examination of its place in the cultural landscape. During the session, you will have the opportunity to take a tour of the entire brewery, view a movie in 3D, sample the renowned beer, and relish the bar delicacies.
Address: 15 Helen Joseph St, Newtown, Johannesburg
Zoo Lake
If you are seeking for romantic spots in Johannesburg, you don’t need to worry about the city failing you because it is home to the bizarre Zoo Lake, which is sure to meet all of your expectations.
This location is a perennial favorite among the people who live in Joburg since it is perfect for activities such as having a stroll, going for a trip on a boat, or even swimming in the pool.
You can also just sit on the other side of the fountain and take in the euphoria of the tranquility if you feel like doing nothing.
Address: Lower Park Dr Parkview, Johannesburg
Mary Fitzgerald Square
The Mary Fitzgerald Square is one of the best sites to visit in Johannesburg that does not cost anything, and it was named after the first female unionist in the country.
According to the general consensus of travelers, anyone who comes here will unquestionably have the best time of their lives.
This plaza is also the beginning of the Jazz Walk of Fame, which is a promenade that honors the most prominent jazz performers in the country and is named after the square itself.
Address: 120 Lilian Ngoyi St, Newtown
Constitution Hill
The fact that Constitution Hill offers breathtaking views of the entire city makes it one of Johannesburg’s most picturesque locations. This website, which was once a prison, now offers interesting details about South Africa’s past.
At its museums such Number Four, Women’s Gaol, and Old Fort, this former jail presents quite provocative displays that represent the horrific treatment of political prisoners and criminals at that time. At the time, these ex-prisoners even included Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela.
The ancient Awaiting Trial building has also been refurbished and converted into the Constitutional Court of South Africa, which stands as a symbol of freedom and works to uphold the rights of the people of this country. This prison has also been converted into a museum.
Address: 11 Kotze St, Johannesburg
Lindfield Victorian House Museum
This “living museum” is one of the strangest and most fascinating places you can visit in Johannesburg. The fact that the current owner of the museum, Katherine Love, dresses up in Victorian clothing to match the ambiance and purpose of the museum, and very courteously shows visitors around the entire place, leading them from room to room of this brilliantly preserved middle-class Victorian house, is something that delights guests who come to see it.
The outstanding collection of 19th and 20th-century Victorian furniture, paintings, and everyday household things that it holds makes it one of the top museums and attractions in Johannesburg. These artifacts all tell stories of the ways in which this culture and legacy is still affecting Johannesburg even now. After your two-hour tour of the exhibits within this museum, you may reward yourself with a high-quality cup of tea on the verandah while taking in the view of Johannesburg.
Address: 72 Richmond Ave, Auckland Park, Johannesburg
South African National Museum of Military History
Those who are interested in hearing tales of past battles and wars in Africa will find the South African Museum of Military History to be one of the most intriguing museums and attractions in Johannesburg.
The museum recounts the history of Africa’s armed engagements over the course of many years. The exhibits that are most noteworthy at this museum are from World War II and include bombers, fighter aircraft, tanks, armaments and ammunition, and even medals.
The exhibit on medicine during war is one of the most popular parts of the museum, and with good reason. Here, visitors may learn about the Zulu people’s traditional technique of healing during the Anglo-Zulu conflict, as well as about the contemporary day remedies that are used on the battlefield.
Pilanesberg National Park
One of South Africa’s most well-known game reserves is Pilanesberg National Park. Due to its astoundingly rich ecosystems, a diverse range of wildlife, and its lush location smack in the middle of the Lowveld vegetation and the Kalahari Desert, the park not only provides wildlife enthusiasts with the opportunity to see Africa’s Big Five, but also serves as one of the most scenic locations in Johannesburg.
In addition to seeing lions, rhinos, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards in this park, visitors may also see African wild dogs, zebras, sable antelopes, and more than 300 different species of birds. However, you shouldn’t just depend on these photographic conceals.
You must choose the full-day Pilanesberg National Park private trip with an expert safari guide if you want to guarantee that you see the majority of animals at the appropriate time and location.
Address: Bojanala, North West
Conclusion
Travelers looking to experience the thrill of new discoveries, or the serenity of beautiful landscapes will find places to visit in Johannesburg that exceed all expectations. Its invigorating blend of urban energy and natural beauty provides a setting that’s ripe for exploration, relaxation, and everything in between. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo journey of self-discovery, Johannesburg will welcome you with open arms.
Don’t miss out on the chance to explore one of the world’s most dynamic cities. The places to visit in Johannesburg are not just destinations; they are experiences that will leave you enriched, enlightened, and longing for more.
With its rich tapestry of experiences, Johannesburg stands as a testament to human creativity, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between man and nature. Pack your bags and prepare to be enthralled by the unforgettable places to visit in Johannesburg; this is one journey you’ll want to embark on again and again.
