The 20 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 14 thrilling rides, 9 Family rides, 20 dedicated kids rides.

Just a short drive from Johannesburg, the Donkey Dairy offers a hands-on, slow-paced escape where kids can learn, explore, and connect with animals in a truly memorable way.

Families are invited to cuddle, taste, and play, with activities ranging from bottle-feeding adorable baby animals (like miniature goats, camels, and even alpacas) and tasting nutrient-rich donkey milk (I highly recommend trying the donkey milk) to gentle donkey rides and scenic hikes through the surrounding countryside. There’s also a well-stocked farm shop filled with wholesome goodies to take home (try the donkey milk ice cream), plus plenty of opportunities for up-close animal encounters.

With a shaded picnic area and a selection of tasty food on offer, it’s the kind of feel-good day out that ticks all the boxes: fresh air, happy kids and a break from the city rush.

Address: Portion 23 of the farm Boschfontein, Magaliesburg. 

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

Bounce offers an adrenaline playground suitable for kids and adults.

Johannesburg has several Bounce venues, one in Fourways Mall, the other in Midrand at Mall of Africa, and another one at East Point Shopping Centre in Boksburg. 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. 

 Address: Fourways Mall, 11 Ruby Close L030, Fourways. 

Ultra World is a powerhouse edutainment centre that combines physical play, sensory fun, creative tech and learning all under one roof. Activities include interactive smash walls, trampolines, a sensory gym, LED drawing, mini bumper cars, rock climbing, arcade games, and more, with sessions from just R50 for 30 minutes or R100 for 1 hour of play.

Grip socks are available on-site, and with backup power during loadshedding, the fun never stops. Whether it’s a weekday outing or weekend treat, Ultra World is a budget-friendly paradise for kids and parents alike.

Address: Top Floor, Entrance 5, Cradlestone Mall

Looking to burn off some excess energy? Total Ninja Park is a supervised activity and fitness venue and the largest inflatable obstacle course in Africa. If you're a fan of shows like Ninja Warrior or Wipeout on TV, this is your chance to feel like a participant.

Kids (and adults, we don't judge) can climb, balance, jump, and swing across different obstacles like ninjas. The Warped Wall is a must-try for every aspiring Ninja to conquer! The best part? An all-access 1-hour ticket for adults and kids older than 4 will only set you back R160. Kids under 3 pay R80 for an hour of fun. 

Address: Corner Modderfontein and Hereford Rd, Stoneridge Centre, Edenvale

Entrance 6, Shop 267, Northgate Mall, Northumberland Ave

With over 1,200 square metres of smooth skating space, Roller Skate Arenas is the ultimate destination for non-stop fun. Whether your kids are total beginners or little pros on wheels, they’ll love the upbeat vibe, great music, and wide-open space to glide, spin, and zoom.

There’s no time limit, so you can skate to your heart’s content, and spectators get in free. Kids can hire skates on site or bring their own gear. If you're a first-timer, the rink offers free support frames to help build confidence on wheels, and protective gear is available for extra peace of mind.

It’s the kind of activity that gets the whole family moving (and laughing) and let’s be honest, parents might just rediscover their inner skater, too. Access without skate hire will set you back R80, and R100 with skate hire.  

Address: Parking Level 2, Near Entrance 5, Westgate Shopping Centre. 

Northgate Ice Rink has been a winter favourite for generations, and it’s still the ultimate spot for kids (and grown-ups) to glide, spin and wobble their way across the ice. Whether you're a seasoned skater or stepping on the rink for the first time, it's a thrilling, affordable day out for the whole family.

Expect a lively atmosphere, upbeat tunes, and plenty of laughter as kids burn off energy in this chilly wonderland. Skate rentals are available, and skate-sharpening is on hand for the pros.

The Northgate Ice Rink is always running specials, and honestly, that's the best part! With Sunday Night Madness, you pay only R100 for entry and skate hire from 7:30 pm to 10 pm. Tuesday nights offer the same great deal. It’s the perfect way to end the weekend with a bang.

Address: Northgate Shopping Centre, Northumberland Road
Northriding

One of Gauteng's biggest shopping and dining destination, Mall of Africa, has a huge fun park. The park is suitable for kids of all ages, and 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. 

 Address: Magwa Cres, Waterval 5-Ir, Midrand.

Turn curiosity into hands-on fun at Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, where science comes alive for kids of all ages. Now we know you're thinking, why would anyone want to do science during the school holidays? But this interactive hub is packed with engaging exhibits (more than 350 maths, science, and technology exhibits, to be exact), experiments, and holiday programmes that make learning feel like play.  

From coding and robotics to physics, maths and engineering concepts, it’s an inspiring day out that proves school holidays can be both fun and brain-boosting.

Address: Corner of Miriam Makeba and Helen Joseph, Newtown 

The Bothongo Wonder Cave is one of Gauteng’s most impressive natural attractions. Set within the Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, this guided experience descends deep into a vast limestone cavern filled with dramatic rock formations, ancient stalactites and stalagmites, and a fascinating geological backstory.

It’s equal parts adventure and education, perfect for curious kids who love a bit of awe-inspiring learning. It's a steep, narrow descent into the cave, but at least you won't have to crawl on your belly to enjoy the wonders of this cave (no shade to the Sterkfontein caves), so even if you're a bit claustrophobic, you can still enjoy this experience. 

Address: Kromdraai Road 520 Kromdraai

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 per child and can be purchased at the venue. It opens Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. 

Address: Portion 61, Driefontein Farm, Clinic Rd, Muldersdrift.

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 enjoyable activity, as visitors learn interesting facts about the various animals.  

Children under the age of three are admitted free of charge. Children from three to twelve years old pay an entrance fee of R78, and anyone from twelve years old pay an entrance fee of R132. 

Visitors are allowed from 8:30 am until 4 pm; however, gates close at 5:30 pm.

 Address: Jan Smuts Avenue, Parkview, Johannesburg.

School holidays are the perfect excuse to swap screens for stage lights. Taking the kids to the theatre is a magical way to spark imagination. From colourful musicals and puppet shows to interactive performances, there’s something for every age. In Johannesburg, favourites include the Market Theatre in Newtown, the Teatro at Montecasino, and the Joburg Civic Theatre for family-friendly productions.

The shared excitement of a live show, the stunning sets, and the energy of an audience all make it an unforgettable outing that’s a world away from home entertainment.

Mzansi Happy Island is a vibrant water park made for kids (and adults) who love to splash, slide and swim. With colourful water features, slides and play zones designed for different ages, it’s an easy win on hot holiday days.

Book your tickets online and expect big laughs (and big thrills, as some of the slides are not for the faint of heart), soaked swimsuits, and hours of high-energy fun. Just remember the sunscreen and a change of clothes.  

Address: 106 Lake View Dr, Muldersdrift, Krugersdorp

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

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

The park offers picture-perfect spots for a perfect setup for picnics.

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

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

 Address: Olifants Rd, Emmarentia, Randburg.

The Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve is a full day of fun. Just outside Joburg, this family-friendly reserve offers guided game drives where kids can spot rhinos, lions, giraffes, zebras, and more in a safe, open environment (you also have the option to do self-drive safaris).

There's a range of activities and entertainment, from snake shows and predator feeding to kids' activity areas, the Cradle Bike Park, and even a swimming pool. The Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve has something for everyone. 

It might be a classic school-holiday activity, but going to the movies still hits differently, especially in an age where streaming rules our lives. There’s something undeniably magical about the big screen: the lights dimming, the smell of popcorn in the air and the shared excitement of watching a story unfold alongside a room full of people.

From animated blockbusters to family-friendly adventures, a cinema trip is an easy, feel-good outing that turns an ordinary day into a proper holiday moment. We're spoilt for choice with cinema experiences; you can catch something at your local mall or, better still, look out for a pop-up drive-in experience with Drive In SA. 

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

The venue has a vast play area for the kids.

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

The aqua park offers the perfect activity for thrill-seekers. It features an adrenaline-pumping obstacle course and a dam, where canoe enthusiasts 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 daily. 

Address: Southward Dr, Olifantsfontein 410-JR, Olifantsfontein. 

Who said school holidays have to be dull? Entertain the whole family at Braaifesta in Boksburg.

The eatery, which opened in November 2024, has a 600m2 trampoline park, skyrocket, carnival games, selfie booths, a human claw machine with guaranteed prizes, and arcade games. So, kids are in for a treat.

What's cool is that kids can also celebrate their birthday parties at the venue. 

The restaurant, which has a tranquil setting, also caters to adults. It serves braai meat with its famous traditional salads, chips, paper, potato bakes, and braai broodies.

 Address: 12 Fobian Street Hughes Boksburg, Boksburg.