Best of Johannesburg

27 unforgettable things to do in Johannesburg in 2026

Published

3 hours ago

February 23, 2026

Chiraag

Apartheid Museum Johannesburg exterior, Constitution Hill Braamfontein court building, Vilakazi Street Soweto houses, Hector Pieterson Memorial Soweto, Maboneng Precinct street art, Victoria Yards Lorentzville studios, Nelson Mandela Square statue Sandton, Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden waterfall, Lion and Safari Park giraffes, Gold Reef City rollercoaster, Orlando Towers Soweto bungee jump, Carlton Centre Top of Africa view, Pilanesberg National Park safari, Joburg ETC

Johannesburg is not a city you simply visit. You experience it.

In 2026, Joburg continues to surprise first-time visitors and lifelong locals alike. One moment you are standing in front of a powerful reminder of South Africa’s past, the next you are sipping coffee in a converted warehouse filled with artists, and by sunset you are watching giraffes just beyond the city skyline.

If you are planning your year in the City of Gold, here are 27 of the best things to do in Johannesburg right now, grouped by interest and grounded in what makes this city unforgettable.

History and culture: Where the story of South Africa lives

1. Apartheid Museum

A visit here is essential. The museum’s immersive exhibitions trace the rise and fall of apartheid through photographs, film, and personal testimony. It is confronting, deeply moving, and necessary for understanding modern South Africa.

2. Constitution Hill

Once a prison that held figures like Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi, it now houses the Constitutional Court. Walking through the old cells before stepping into a working court of democracy feels symbolic of how far the country has come.

3. Soweto tour

Soweto is not just a township. It is a living archive. Visit Vilakazi Street, the only street in the world that has housed two Nobel Peace Prize winners, and stop at Mandela House and the Hector Pieterson Memorial to understand the events of 1976.

4. Liliesleaf

Tucked away in Rivonia, this former secret hub of the liberation movement tells the story of the Rivonia Trial and the leaders who shaped the country’s future.

5. Satyagraha House

This quiet museum and guesthouse was once home to Mahatma Gandhi. It offers a reflective look at his early years in South Africa and the philosophy of nonviolent resistance.

6. Origins Centre at Wits University

A fascinating exploration of human history and ancient rock art in Southern Africa, connecting Joburg to the deeper story of humankind.

7. Mining District walk

Stroll along Main Street and discover vintage mining equipment and public art installations that celebrate the gold rush roots of the city.

8. Adler Museum of Medicine

A lesser-known gem dedicated to the history of medicine in South Africa.

9. ABSA Money Museum

A surprisingly engaging stop that showcases the evolution of currency in South Africa.

Locals often say you cannot understand Joburg until you understand its history. These stops prove that point.

Urban exploration: The creative pulse of Joburg

10. Maboneng Precinct

Once industrial, now innovative. Maboneng is known for street art, independent cinemas, and rooftop spots like The Living Room. Sunday afternoons here feel like a festival of food, music, and conversation.

11. Victoria Yards

In Lorentzville, this regenerated industrial space houses artist studios, artisan workshops, and urban gardens. It feels authentic and community-driven.

12. Keyes Art Mile

In Rosebank, this art and design strip features contemporary galleries and stylish dining options.

13. 44 Stanley

A collection of 1930s industrial buildings turned into a leafy shopping courtyard filled with boutiques and excellent coffee.

14. Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein

A weekend favourite where food stalls, live music, and young creatives collide.

15. Rosebank Sunday Market

Browse African crafts, vintage finds, and global street food high above the mall.

16. Nelson Mandela Square

In Sandton, this lively hub is famous for its towering Mandela statue, restaurants, and shopping.

17. Carlton Centre

Head to the Top of Africa observation deck for sweeping city views, subject to current visitor access.

18. Westcliff Stairs

Climb the 210 steps for panoramic views over the city’s urban forest. Social media loves this spot for sunrise and sunset photos.

Nature and wildlife: Green spaces in the urban forest

Joburg is often described as one of the largest human-made urban forests in the world. You feel it when you step into these spaces.

19. Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden

Home to a dramatic waterfall and a breeding pair of Verreaux’s Eagles, this is a favourite for picnics and quiet walks.

20. The Wilds in Houghton

A beautifully restored park with walking paths and skyline views.

21. Johannesburg Zoo

An internationally accredited 55-hectare facility housing over 320 species.

22. Melville Koppies Nature Reserve

Explore indigenous flora and discover evidence of Iron Age smelting furnaces.

23. Lion and Safari Park

Just outside the city, get closer to lions, cheetahs, and giraffes in a controlled wildlife setting.

24. Pilanesberg National Park

An easy day trip from Joburg, offering the chance to see the Big Five in an ancient volcanic crater landscape.

25. Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve

Known for wildlife viewing and the Wondercave, estimated to be over two billion years old.

Adventure and entertainment: For thrill seekers

26. Gold Reef City Theme Park

Built on an old gold mine, this theme park offers high-speed rides and underground mine tours. It remains one of the city’s most popular family attractions.