Top 24 Exciting Things to Do in Midrand, South Africa

The Montecasino, a spectacular Italian-inspired complex, is a must-see when visiting Midrand. Here you can not only try your luck at gambling, but also enjoy numerous restaurants, theaters and cinemas. Opt for a tour of the magical Bird Garden, a hidden gem that offers amazing bird encounters. The illusion of an old-time marketplace is a perfect backdrop for photo shoots and an insider's tip. Just a 20-minute drive away is the Lion Park, where you can admire the wild animals of Africa. You should not miss it!

Gold Reef City theme park brings the Gold Rush era of the 1880s to life with thrilling roller coasters, water rides and impressive historical exhibits. Get your adrenaline pumping on the Tower of Terror or descend into a realistic gold mine for an unforgettable experience. While you're in the area, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Peter Matkovich-designed Kyalami Country Club golf course, another gem in Midrand. Experience a fascinating lion show at Lion Park, just 13 kilometers away - a safari-like encounter that is sure to thrill you.

Delve deep into the past at Maropeng, the gateway to the Cradle of Humankind. Explore the history of mankind in fascinating exhibits and discover life-size hominid fossils. Be captivated by the dramatic scenery and underground boat ride! This interactive journey is not only enlightening, but incredibly rewarding. After exploring Maropeng, be sure to visit the nearby Sterkfontein Caves for an unparalleled underground adventure. Not many people know that groundbreaking archaeological discoveries have been made in these caves!

Embark on a shopping spree during your Midrand trip and visit the majestic Mall of Africa, the largest shopping complex on the continent. Indulge in an eclectic mix of retail stores, enjoy a delicious selection of restaurants, and delight in the captivating art installations found throughout the mall. Extend your fun-filled day by exploring the enchanting Lory Park Zoo, just a short 10-minute drive from the mall. It's truly a complete package of entertainment, food and fun!

The Apartheid Museum in Joburg, just 26 km from Midrand, is a revealing journey into South Africa's racially divisive past. The exhibits, captivating footage and first-hand accounts make for an emotional experience. Locals often say, "This is the place everyone should visit at least once," as the museum allows you to fully understand South Africa today. Nearby is the equally captivating Gold Reef City, a theme park built on an old gold mine - perfect for relaxing after a moving journey through history.

Imagine a tranquil green oasis in the midst of the urban hustle and bustle - the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens offer just that! It is a magnificent mosaic of fauna and flora - an ideal place to relax and explore. Marvel at the Japanese-style garden, arboretum, and rose garden, which together are home to thousands of species. It's not just a stopover, it's an experience. Nearby is the Emmarentia Dam - a perfect picnic spot that also offers rowing and windsurfing. This is tranquility and vitality in one place.

Immerse yourself in the wild heart of Africa at Lion & Safari Park. Just a stone's throw from Midrand, you can see majestic lions, giraffes, zebras and other animals up close. Feel the thrill during a guided game drive or a safari on your own, where lions often rest in the shade of your vehicle. Also, don't miss the opportunity to feed a giraffe - a gentle giant that leaves a lasting impression. Nearby, you can take a refreshing hike amidst the tranquil landscape on the Hennops Trail.

Take a trip to Zoo Lake to relax in Midrand. This man-made lake is a popular gathering place and offers boating opportunities and a picnic-friendly atmosphere. You can spot local birdlife, including herons, geese and ducks. Don't miss the majestic African sunset while relaxing on the shore. Pro tip: In September, attend the annual Jazz on the Lake concert. The Johannesburg Art Gallery, with a fantastic collection of African and European art, is just a short drive away.

Discover the secrets of human evolution in the "Cradle of Humankind", a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to about 40% of the fossils of human ancestors, some of which are over three million years old! Join guided tours to explore the Sterkfontein Caves, where remarkable fossils have been discovered.

Lory Park Zoo is a must-see in Midrand and offers an incredible up-close experience with wild animals. Get ready to feed and interact with birds and lemurs in person. The encounters with the young animals are heart-stoppingly cute and offer something different from the typical zoo visit.

Exploring Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve is a must for nature lovers visiting Midrand. This tranquil oasis spans 100 acres and offers an enchanting mix of upland grasslands, a babbling brook and a wide variety of species, including zebra, springbok and porcupine. End a leisurely hike at Rademeyers Restaurant, a gem hidden deep within the reserve. Since the reserve is only 30 minutes from Pretoria's botanical gardens, it's an ideal day trip for two.

Experience a moving part of South Africa's history at the Hector Pieterson Memorial. This memorial commemorates Hector Pieterson, a 13-year-old boy whose life was cut short during the 1976 Soweto Uprising. The sensitive and poignant memorial provides a vivid picture of the country's past struggles. Located in Orlando West, Soweto, it is just a short drive from Midrand.

A beacon of tranquility and one of the largest mosques in the southern hemisphere, the Nizamiye Mosque in Midrand is a marvel of Ottoman-inspired architecture. With its ornate carvings and luminous stained glass windows, it captivates every visitor. Don't miss the authentic Turkish tea and pastries at the adjacent Ottoman-style restaurant. With its colorful murals, its beauty transcends religious boundaries. Just minutes away is Lory Park Zoo, a hidden gem where you can interact with exotic animals. Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Midrand!

A trip to Northcliff Ridge Eco Park in Midrand, South Africa, is a life-changing experience. It is the perfect blend of nature and spectacular views. The park is located on the second highest natural point in Johannesburg and offers 360-degree views. The park is unusual and fascinating as it houses an original World War II radar station. Just next door is Melville Koppies, a valley rich in archaeological history. The Koppies are a Stone Age site and an incredible scenic walk that makes a visit worthwhile. So if adventure calls, look for it on Northcliff Ridge.

Visit Croc City Crocodile & Reptile Park in Midrand for an exciting encounter with South Africa's fascinating reptiles. The park is home to not only crocodiles, but also a variety of other exotic reptiles, including snakes and turtles. Take selfies with a baby crocodile or hold a non-venomous snake. For the adventurous, there is the world's first crocodile cage dive. Just a few steps away, you can continue your adventure at the nearby Montecasino Bird Gardens and experience colorful birdlife. That's a double dose of nature!

A visit to Rietvlei Nature Reserve in Midrand is like a trip to an African wilderness paradise. It offers a fantastic opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy Mother Nature. Here you can spot a variety of wildlife, including buffalo, cheetah, zebra and more than 200 species of birds. A fun insider detail is the secret picnic area overlooking the serene dam, perfect for a quiet lunch. Nearby, you'll find the Irene Village Market, where you can shop after your safari.

Riversands Farm Village is a must-see in Midrand - an unexpected, diverse oasis in the middle of the city! This family-friendly village offers a unique mix of craft stores, delicious food stalls and outdoor activities. A farmer's market is held here every Sunday, offering fresh produce and homemade crafts. Be sure to enjoy the live music and quaint, relaxed atmosphere. Tip: Try the craft beers from local breweries. Nearby, you can visit the famous Nizamiye Mosque - a spectacular example of Turkish architecture.

A trip to the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve in Midrand is like jumping into the heart of nature. The sprawling reserve offers a branching network of hiking trails that wind through diverse landscapes filled with indigenous African fauna and flora. A hidden gem of the region, it is also home to numerous historical sites that reflect early Johannesburg life. Just a short drive from here are the iconic Orlando Towers, a must-see for thrill seekers.

Visit Kyalami Corner and experience a blend of urban sophistication and local charisma in Midrand. This shopping district is teeming with stores, eateries and entertainment options. You can eat delicious bunny chow, a spicy local delicacy, at the sidewalk cafes. Just around the corner is the Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit, which provides adrenaline rushes. Don't miss the weekly night markets where you can sample local handicrafts and food under the starry African sky. This is a real treat for culture lovers and shopaholics.

Chameleon Village, a kaleidoscope of vibrant African colors, tastes and sounds. This place offers an unparalleled African market experience with a variety of crafts, art, fashion and food to discover. Haggle with artisans working on site, savor the flavors of traditional African dishes, or relax in a tranquil beer garden. In addition to its commercial appeal, Chameleon Village is also home to unique attractions like a reptile park and a brewery. Nearby attractions include the scenic Hartbeespoort Dam and the impressive Magaliesberg Mountain Range. It's an experience not to be missed.

Gillooly's Farm" in Midrand is no ordinary park, but a paradise for nature lovers, picnickers and birdwatchers. This tranquil spot tops the list of visitors thanks to its gem-like dam, flocks of geese, lush greenery and beautiful walking trails. For those looking for more excitement, there are also thrilling water sports options.

A hidden gem awaits you in Midrand - Liliesleaf Farm, a pivotal site in South African history. Once a secret hideout for anti-apartheid activists, it is now an award-winning cultural monument. It houses a fascinating collection of artifacts and "voices from the past" exhibitions that bring poignant stories to life. Be sure to visit Nelson Mandela's "camouflaged" home. As you depart, stop by the nearby Mall of Africa for an unparalleled shopping and dining experience!

Immerse yourself in history at the Jan Smuts House Museum. This charming farmhouse is a time capsule dedicated to the life of the world-famous statesman. It's filled with Smuts' personal artifacts and offers an in-depth look at his rich heritage. The tranquil tea garden, popular with locals, serves as a relaxing oasis. Don't miss wandering through the native, sprawling field that surrounds the museum - a true hidden gem. The nearby Irene Village Market offers a fascinating array of arts and crafts, making your visit to Midrand an unforgettable cultural experience.

Definitely worth a visit is the distinctive Wits Art Museum! Located in Midrand, it displays an impressive collection of African art gathered over several decades across the continent. Admire the impressive variety of artifacts, ranging from ancient sculptures to contemporary prints.