10 Exciting Johannesburg Family Adventures to Experience!

Joburg is a city brimming with energy, fresh ideas, and a fast-paced lifestyle that draws visitors from all over the world. With its mix of rich history, modern attractions, and diverse culture, there's something for every family member to enjoy. 

The holiday season in our beloved Jozi is the perfect time to explore the city, with countless options that cater to different interests and age groups. What’s even better is that many of these experiences are surprisingly affordable, making them great options for family bonding on a budget. 

Here are some top picks for adventurous family-friendly activities to enjoy in Joburg!

#1 GOLD REEF CITY

Gold Reef City is the perfect place to give your teens an adrenaline rush! With wild roller coasters, jaw-dropping water log rides, and an immersive 4D theatre experience, there’s never a dull moment. When the hunger hits, there are plenty of delicious dining spots to refuel, or you can unwind with a movie. It’s a full day of fun, all for an entrance fee of R265 per person.

#2 FRENCH TOAST KOFFIE KAFEE

For the teens who love a good selfie, French Toast Koffie Kafee is a must-visit! With delicious sweet treats, French cuisine, stunning views, and a laid-back vibe, this little slice of Paris in Gauteng offers an unforgettable experience. 

Local tip: buy and sign a lock on-site for free entry to Little Paris and attach your lock to the Love Bridge for a fun and lasting memory!

#3 THE NEED FOR SPEED

If your teen’s been mastering those PlayStation racing games, why not take the excitement to the next level and try it out in real life at one of the many go-karting venues around Johannesburg? Whether you’re after an indoor or outdoor track, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few recommendations to get the adrenaline pumping:

Kyalami Karting - Situated in Kyalami

Karting 4 Kids – Situated in Fourways

The Karting Track (Zwartkops Raceway) – Situated just outside Centurion

# 4 MAGALIESBERG CANOPY TOURS

Zipline through one of the oldest Mountain Ranges in the World, situated in the Magaliesberg Biosphere Reserve. With 11 treetop platforms, you'll zip through the air for about 2.5 hours, all while soaking in breathtaking views. Just 1.5 hours from Johannesburg or an hour from Pretoria, this is the perfect adventure for the whole family (ages 6 and up). It’s an exhilarating experience, hair-raising in the best possible way!

#5 TAKE A HIKE

There’s nothing like spending time in nature to recharge after a hectic school term. Gauteng and Pretoria are home to some beautiful hiking trails that cater to all fitness levels, making them perfect for a day out with the family. Whether you're looking for a calm stroll or a more challenging hike, you’ll find a trail to suit your pace and level of adventure. 

Here is a list of some of the most popular trails:

Cradlemoon (Cradle of humankind)

Hennops hiking trails (Pretoria)

Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens (Roodepoort)

Kings Kloof (Muldersdrift)

Van Gaalen Cheese Farm ( Hartebeespoort Dam)

Lonehill Koppies & Nature Reserve ( Sandton)

#6 LASER TAG AND TENPIN BOWLING

For an action-packed day out with friends, laser tag and tenpin bowling are a must-try! You’ll find these activities at places like Montecasino in Fourways, Silverstar Casino on the Westrand, and Menlyn in Pretoria. They’re perfect spots for friends to meet up, challenge each other, and just let loose.

#7 BREAK THE ICE

The ice rink is always a go-to during school holidays! It’s the perfect way to cool off and have fun with friends. Whether you’re in Johannesburg, Kempton Park, Centurion, or Pretoria, you’ll find a rink nearby. (Northgate, Festival Mall, Forest Hill, and The Grove are all awesome spots to show off your skating skills or learn something new). If you’re not a fan of the cold, don’t worry! For a warmer twist, you can head over to Rollercade in Menlyn Mall (Pretoria) or Bryanston for some roller-skating fun.

# 8 BOUNCING OFF THE WALLS

The Bounce trampoline arenas dotted around Johannesburg and Pretoria are the perfect spot to burn off that extra energy after a busy school term. With everything from trampolines and bounce walls to dodgeball and ball pits, it’s a high-energy, vibrant environment that’s all about fun and is definitely a stress-buster you won’t forget!

#9 MAROPENG AND STERKFONTEIN CAVES

Take a fascinating journey through the stages of human evolution at Maropeng, where you can explore interactive exhibits, a vortex tunnel, and even an underground boat ride. Then, head over to the Sterkfontein Caves, one of South Africa’s most famous heritage sites, known for discoveries like the famous ‘Mrs Ples’. These caves, rich in history with stunning rock formations and an underground lake, are only 40 minutes from Johannesburg. 

Local’s Tip: Grab a combo ticket for both Maropeng and the Sterkfontein Caves to enjoy a discounted rate.

#10 TEST YOUR SHOT @ ADVENTURE GOLF

Adventure golf is fun for all ages! Surrounded by jungle-inspired greenery and rivers, these outdoor mini-golf courses in Fourways, Randburg, and Greenstone promise plenty of laughs and family-friendly fun. Whether you're looking for a morning outing or a fun evening activity, they’re open from 9 AM to 10 PM, making it an ideal spot for any time of day– just don’t lose your ball in the water!

No matter your interests, Johannesburg has something for everyone, making it the perfect place to create unforgettable memories with family and friends. From outdoor adventures to exciting indoor activities, take advantage of all that Joburg has to offer—because the best moments are often the ones you least expect!