The 7 best things to do with kids during school holidays in Johannesburg

For endless fun and excitement for kids and families in and around Johannesburg, look no further than Gold Reef City Theme Park. Voted the city’s most loved and coolest entertainment destination, it offers something for everyone. Thrill-seekers will be spoiled for choice with a wide range of adrenaline-pumping rides and attractions.

Set against the backdrop of the gold rush era, the park features six adrenaline-pumping thrill rides, seven family-friendly rides and 21 dedicated kids' rides.

Gauteng's biggest shopping and dining destination, Mall of Africa, has a huge fun park. The park is suitable for kids of all ages, even adults can take part in some of the fun activities. 

Toddlers can enjoy rides and swings, while older kids can enjoy other adrenaline-filled activities such as the Crazy Wave, Giant Wheel and the new Break Dancer. 

Tickets start from R20 depending on the ride. There are also water activities, so don’t forget to pack a costume.

The park is open every day of the week. 

The park is a kiddies' paradise with countless fun activities.

Whether it’s a regular family outing or a birthday bash, MiFitness Kids Park guarantees a full day of giggles, thrills, and unforgettable memories.

One of the park’s biggest drawcards is its massive 300m² jumping pillow — one of the largest in the world! Whether bouncing, climbing, sliding, or swinging, your little adventurers won’t want to leave MiFitness Kids Park.
Other highlights include:

Slides and swings

Giant foam Lego blocks

See-saws and spring riders

Mini tar road with mini bikes

Face painting

Water play activities — don’t forget swimwear or a change of clothes.

Tickets are R120 and can be purchased at the venue.

Spending time outdoors surrounded by animals can be fascinating and refreshing for both young and old. 

Get the best animal adventure at the Johannesburg Zoo.

The Zoo was established in 1904, more than a century ago, and continues to be a popular tourist destination for both outsiders and those within the city.

Kids will have fun interacting with a variety of animals. 

The popular zoo is home to thousands of animals, making it a go-to destination for all animal fanatics.

Visiting the zoo is also an educational and fun activity because visitors learn interesting facts about the different animals.  

Children under the age of three do not pay an entrance fee. 
Children from three years until twelve pay an entrance fee of R74 and adults from twelve pay an entrance of R126. 

Visitors are allowed from 08:30 until 4pm, however, gates close at 17:30.

Beautiful landscapes, diverse plant life, and opportunities for learning and recreation awaits your little one at the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens. 

Not only are there beautiful scenes, birds and flowers, but the park is a good place for children to have fun. 

The park offers picture-perfect spots for a great set-up for picnics.

Your children can tag their furry friends along for a walk. The park is popular among dog walkers. However, dogs on leash have designated areas.

Entrance is free of charge. The garden is a place of immense beauty and tranquillity, an escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

Looking for a fun-filled, epic experience? Then Grande View—Prime View Adventure & Leisure is the place to go. It is located in the suburban area of Midrand and offers endless fun activities suitable for all ages.

The venue has a vast play area for the kids.

There are three water activities - aqua park, canoes, slides and pools.

The aqua park offers the perfect activity for thrill-seekers. It has an adrenaline-pumping obstacle course and a dam where those who love canoeing can have the time of their lives.

It has a picturesque backdrop and it is a place to go for anyone who is looking to have fun. Beautiful outdoor and indoor views of the dam surround it. 

You can also have a family picnic at the venue. 

The whole family can enjoy delicious food at the Prime Restaurant or the cafe. The restaurant often has specials, and the prices on the menu are reasonable. From a hearty meal to something light, there are options for any stomach. 

The park has inflatable slides, wiggle bridges and runways. 

It also has a swing, jumping pillows, and a trampoline.

Entrance is free and the venue is open all the days of the week. 

As Danny Go would sing, ‘It’s bouncing Time’!

Bounce offers an adrenaline playground suitable for kids and adults.

Johannesburg has two Bounce venues, one in Fourways Mall and the other in Midrand at Mall of Africa. Adults and kids can both go bananas without an inch of guilt as they unleash their ample energy.

The venue has several sections and activities that cater for different ages. 

Apart from the trampolines, Bounce is the ultimate party venue. Party packages start from groups of ten people and the prices vary depending on the age of the person celebrating the birthday and how many people they are bringing. The party package has jump sessions, and a party room where one can get to celebrate with a goodie bag, food, and drinks. 

Even if you don't have a party, the venue has a store where you can buy sweet treats such as chips, popcorn, sweet, colddrink or slush. 

 Entrance fee is from R104 - R199.