There are lots of hidden gems in Johannesburg just waiting to be explored. The good thing is that it does not have to cost a fortune. Here is our picks:
Zooklake
Where: Cnr Jan Smuts Avenue and West World Street, Parkview
Price: Free
Contact: 011 483 1017
Zoo Lake. Picture: Gauteng Tourism.
This park lights up during the festive season. It is a perfect spot for picnicking, a boat ride or a game of frisbee. It is home to the Coronation Fountain, a Johannesburg heritage symbol. The park was donated by Bait and Co in 1904, with the it being divided into a public park and zoological garden. There are onsite restaurants for everyone to enjoy.
Sci-Bono Discovery Centre
Where: Mariam Makeba St and Helen Joseph Street, Johannesburg
Price: Children and pensioners: R32, Adults: R48, family of four: R140
Contact: 011 639 8400.
Sci-Bono Discovery Centre. Picture: Supplied.
Nothing says family fun than a visit to the Sci- Bono Discovery Centre, known as South Africa's largest science centre. The centre showcases a collection of interactive science and technology exhibits. Known as one of the most popular leisure and educational destinations in Gauteng, it will be an ideal destination for science and tech buffs.
Gold Reef City
Where: Northern Park and Data Crescent, Ormonde
Price: R210 for adults, R130 for children under 1.3 metres in heights. Family pack, includes 2 adults, 2 children under under 1.3 metres in heights: R535
Contact: 011 248 5000.
Gold Reef City. Picture: Tsogo Sun.
While a bit more pricey compared to the other attractions on the list, no visit to Johannesburg is complete without a visit to Gold Reef City. Known as one of the biggest theme parks in South Africa, it boasts Africa's tallest, biggest and fastest thrill rides. It is located on an old gold mine , which closed down in 1971. Some of the attractions include the anaconda, dream boat, golden loop, miner's revenge and the tower of terror.
City Sightseeing Johannesburg
Where: Oxford Road, Rosebank, Johannesburg, 2196
Price: R200pp, R100 for children aged 5-17, children under 5 is free.
Contact: 086 173 3287
City Sightseeing bus in Johannesburg. Picture: City Sightseeing.
Brought to Johannesburg this year, this must do tour showcases some of top sights and attractions. The ticket includes the Green City Tour that shows you the suburbs in a way you've never seen them and the City Tour through Joburg CBD. On board, family members can enjoy audio commentary in 15 languages.
Jozi X adventure centre
Where: Cnr Main and Sloane, Bryanston, 2191
Jozi X adventure centre. Picture: Supplied.
For those who love a bit of adventure, why not visit Jozi X adventure centre? A day of fun and thrills is what promises young and old. Some of the activities include zorbing, mountain boarding, the big air krush kushion jump, bubble soccer and big wheel trike drifting.