Johannesburg, the vibrant and bustling city in South Africa, is not only renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes but also for its wide array of indoor activities. Whether you’re a local resident or a traveler seeking refuge from the scorching sun or unpredictable weather, Johannesburg has something to offer for everyone. From world-class museums and art galleries to immersive escape rooms and adrenaline-pumping trampoline parks, the city is a treasure trove of indoor entertainment options.
Indulge in the fascinating history and heritage of South Africa by exploring the captivating exhibits at the Apartheid Museum or delving into the world of art at the Johannesburg Art Gallery. If you’re up for an adventure, challenge your problem-solving skills in thrilling escape rooms or unleash your inner child at the indoor trampoline parks, where bouncing and acrobatics take center stage.
Whether you’re seeking intellectual stimulation, thrilling experiences, or simply looking for a fun time indoors, Johannesburg has you covered. Get ready to discover a wealth of indoor activities that will keep you entertained and enthralled in the vibrant heart of this magnificent city.
Indoor Activities In Johannesburg
Visit the Apartheid Museum
The Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg offers a powerful and immersive experience that delves into South Africa’s history of racial segregation and oppression. Through thought-provoking exhibits, multimedia presentations, and personal testimonies, the museum provides a comprehensive understanding of apartheid and its impact on the country. The museum is one of the top museums in Johannesburg you can visit.
Visitors can explore the museum at their own pace, taking in the harrowing stories and visuals that depict the struggle for freedom and equality. The Apartheid Museum serves as a stark reminder of the importance of tolerance, human rights, and social justice. It is a must-visit for those seeking to gain a deeper understanding of South Africa’s complex past and the resilience of its people in the face of adversity.
Explore the Johannesburg Art Gallery
The Johannesburg Art Gallery (JAG) is a cultural gem that houses an impressive collection of art from local and international artists. With over 9,000 artworks, including paintings, sculptures, prints, and ceramics, JAG offers a diverse range of artistic styles and periods. Visitors can admire works by prominent South African artists like Gerard Sekoto and William Kentridge, as well as pieces by renowned international artists.
The gallery also hosts temporary exhibitions, showcasing contemporary art and emerging talent. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply appreciate creativity, a visit to JAG provides a unique opportunity to engage with the vibrant art scene in Johannesburg and appreciate the power of visual expression. The Johannesburg Art Gallery is marked as one of the best tourist places in Johannesburg you can visit with your family.
Go shopping at Sandton City
Located in the heart of Sandton, Johannesburg’s affluent business district, Sandton City is a premier shopping destination offering a world-class retail experience. Spanning four levels, the mall is home to an extensive array of local and international brands, luxury boutiques, department stores, and specialty stores. From high-end fashion and accessories to electronics, homeware, and beauty products, shoppers can find everything they desire under one roof. Sandton City is one of the places to visit in Johannesburg for free, without paying any amount of money.
Sandton City also boasts a variety of dining options, ranging from trendy cafes to upscale restaurants, ensuring visitors can refuel and relax during their shopping spree. Whether you’re in search of the latest fashion trends or simply want to indulge in some retail therapy, Sandton City offers a sophisticated and diverse shopping experience.
Visit the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre
The Sci-Bono Discovery Centre is a hands-on science museum that aims to inspire curiosity and ignite a passion for science and technology. Located in the Newtown precinct of Johannesburg, this interactive space features a range of engaging exhibits, workshops, and demonstrations. Visitors can explore various scientific principles through interactive displays, experiments, and immersive experiences. Sci-Bono Discovery Centre is also the best place to visit in Johannesburg for a weekend.
The museum covers a wide range of scientific disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, robotics, and astronomy. It offers a fun and educational environment for children and adults alike, promoting a deeper understanding of the world around us. Whether you’re launching a rocket, dissecting virtual organisms, or exploring the wonders of the universe, a visit to the Sci-Bono Discovery Centre promises an exciting and enlightening experience for all ages.
Watch a live performance at the Joburg Theatre
The Joburg Theatre is the largest theatre complex in South Africa and a hub for world-class performing arts. Located in Braamfontein, it consists of several venues, including the Mandela Theatre, the Fringe Theatre, and the Space.com Theatre. The theatre showcases a diverse range of productions, including musicals, plays, ballets, and opera. From international touring shows to local productions, the Joburg Theatre offers a vibrant and dynamic cultural experience.
Visitors can enjoy performances by talented actors, dancers, musicians, and opera singers, bringing captivating stories to life on stage. With its grand architecture, state-of-the-art facilities, and a rich lineup of performances, the Joburg Theatre is a must-visit destination for theater enthusiasts and those seeking an evening of entertainment and artistic excellence.
Challenge yourself with Escape Room games
Escape rooms have gained popularity worldwide as thrilling and immersive group activities, and Johannesburg offers a variety of options to test your problem-solving skills. These interactive adventures involve being locked in a themed room and working together with your team to solve puzzles, find hidden clues, and ultimately escape within a set time limit. From mysterious detective stories to thrilling horror scenarios, escape rooms offer a unique and adrenaline-pumping experience for participants.
They require teamwork, critical thinking, and effective communication to overcome challenges and unlock the mysteries. Whether you’re seeking a fun activity with friends or a team-building exercise with colleagues, escape rooms in Johannesburg provide an exciting opportunity to engage your mind and immerse yourself in a captivating adventure.
Try indoor rock climbing
If you’re looking for an exciting physical challenge, indoor rock climbing facilities in Johannesburg offer thrilling experiences suitable for climbers of all skill levels. These dedicated centers feature artificial rock walls with varying degrees of difficulty, allowing climbers to test their strength, agility, and problem-solving abilities. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, these indoor climbing gyms provide a safe and controlled environment to learn and improve your climbing techniques.
Trained staff members are available to offer guidance and ensure safety. Climbing sessions can be enjoyed individually or as part of a group, making it a fantastic activity for friends, families, or team outings. Indoor rock climbing not only offers a great workout but also provides a sense of accomplishment as you conquer the challenges presented by the walls.
Enjoy a game of bowling
Bowling is a classic indoor activity that guarantees hours of fun and friendly competition. Johannesburg is home to several bowling alleys where you can gather your friends or family and enjoy a few rounds of this popular game. These modern facilities offer well-maintained lanes, comfortable seating, and a lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned bowler or a novice, bowling is a social activity that can be enjoyed by all ages and skill levels.
Many bowling alleys also provide additional entertainment options, such as arcade games, pool tables, and food and beverage services. So, lace up your bowling shoes, grab a ball, and get ready to strike and spare your way to victory in Johannesburg’s bowling alleys. Enjoying a game of bowling is one of the best indoor activities in Johannesburg.
Visit the South African National Museum of Military History
Located in Johannesburg’s suburb of Saxonwold, the South African National Museum of Military History offers a comprehensive exploration of the country’s military heritage. The museum showcases an extensive collection of military artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, armored vehicles, aircraft, and memorabilia. Visitors can gain insights into South Africa’s involvement in significant conflicts, such as World War I, World War II, and the South African Border War.
Exhibits highlight the bravery and sacrifices made by the country’s military personnel throughout history. The museum also features interactive displays, dioramas, and audio-visual presentations, providing a compelling and educational experience. Whether you have a personal interest in military history or simply want to learn more about South Africa’s past, a visit to this museum is both informative and thought-provoking.
Discover history at the Museum of African Design (MOAD)
The Museum of African Design (MOAD) is a contemporary art and design museum located in the Maboneng Precinct of Johannesburg. With a focus on African creativity, the museum showcases diverse works that explore design, architecture, fashion, and visual arts from across the continent. MOAD hosts rotating exhibitions that highlight the talent, innovation, and cultural richness of African artists and designers.
Visitors can expect to see thought-provoking installations, cutting-edge designs, and thoughtfully curated displays that celebrate Africa’s creative spirit. The museum also offers workshops, talks, and events that foster dialogue and engagement within the artistic community. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious about the dynamic design landscape of Africa, MOAD provides an inspiring space to explore and appreciate contemporary artistic expressions.
Have fun at Gold Reef City Theme Park
Gold Reef City Theme Park is a popular entertainment destination that combines thrilling rides, attractions, and historical experiences. Located on the site of a former gold mine, the park offers a unique blend of adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, family-friendly rides, and interactive exhibits that highlight Johannesburg’s rich mining history. Having fun at Gold Reef City Theme Park is one of the best indoor activities in Johannesburg.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, such as the Tower of Terror, Anaconda, and the Giant Wheel. The park also features live shows, street performances, and a replica of an old mining town where visitors can learn about the city’s gold rush era. With its mix of exhilarating rides and cultural experiences, Gold Reef City Theme Park guarantees a day of excitement and entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Play laser tag
Laser tag is a thrilling and action-packed game that combines strategy, teamwork, and adrenaline-fueled fun. Johannesburg boasts several dedicated indoor arenas where you can engage in exciting laser tag battles with friends or family. Equipped with laser guns and wearing special vests, players navigate through darkened mazes or futuristic battlegrounds, attempting to tag opponents and accumulate points.
The immersive experience, complete with flashing lights and sound effects, creates an atmosphere of high-energy excitement. Laser tag is suitable for all ages and can be enjoyed by both small and large groups. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, a corporate team-building event, or simply seeking an exciting activity, laser tag in Johannesburg offers an immersive and competitive experience that will leave you wanting more.
Visit the Johannesburg Zoo
The Johannesburg Zoo is a popular attraction that allows visitors to get up close and personal with a wide variety of animal species. The zoo houses over 320 different species, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and many more. In addition to outdoor exhibits, the zoo offers indoor enclosures where visitors can observe animals such as reptiles, amphibians, and nocturnal creatures.
These indoor displays provide a fascinating insight into the diverse world of wildlife. The zoo also offers educational programs, guided tours, and animal encounters, allowing visitors to learn about conservation and the importance of protecting endangered species. Whether you’re a nature lover, a family with children, or simply looking for a relaxing day surrounded by animals, a visit to the Johannesburg Zoo offers an enjoyable and educational experience.
Relax at a spa
Johannesburg boasts a wide range of luxurious spas that provide a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. These tranquil oases offer a variety of spa treatments, including massages, facials, body wraps, and beauty therapies. Whether you need a soothing massage to unwind or a comprehensive wellness retreat, the spas in Johannesburg provide professional services in serene and opulent settings.
Highly trained therapists ensure a personalized experience tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Many spas also offer additional amenities, such as steam rooms, saunas, hydrotherapy pools, and relaxation lounges, allowing you to indulge in a complete spa experience. A visit to a spa in Johannesburg is the perfect way to pamper yourself, relieve stress, and revitalize your body and mind.
Attend a cooking or art class
If you’re looking to learn new skills and explore your creative side, attending a cooking or art class in Johannesburg is a fantastic option. Numerous culinary schools and cooking studios offer a range of classes, from basic cooking techniques to specialized cuisines and baking workshops. Participants can learn from experienced chefs, acquire valuable culinary knowledge, and enhance their culinary prowess.
Similarly, art schools, studios, and galleries offer various art classes and workshops, including painting, drawing, sculpture, and pottery. These classes cater to all skill levels, providing a supportive environment for participants to express their creativity and develop their artistic abilities. Whether you have a passion for food or a love for the arts, attending a cooking or art class in Johannesburg offers an enriching and hands-on experience that allows you to explore new horizons and unlock your creative potential.