Things to do in Pretoria: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
Menlyn Park Shopping Centre, Pretoria
Overview: Menlyn Park Shopping Centre is one of the largest and most upscale shopping malls in Africa, offering a wide range of international brands, dining, and entertainment options.
History: Originally opened in the late 1970s, the centre has undergone multiple expansions and a major renovation completed in 2016 to transform it into a world-class retail destination.
Since When: Functioning as a major retail hub since 1979.
Review: Visitors consistently rate it highly for its extensive variety of shops, modern design, and clean, secure environment.
When to Go: Weekdays are ideal for a quieter shopping experience, while weekends offer more entertainment and events.
How to Go: Easily accessible via major highways and public transport, with ample parking for those driving.
What to Do: Shop from global and local brands, watch movies, dine at top restaurants, and enjoy rooftop activities.
Free or Paid: Free entry; activities, parking, and entertainment may require payment.
Kolonnade Shopping Centre, Pretoria
Overview: Kolonnade Shopping Centre is a family-friendly retail complex in Pretoria known for its convenient layout and variety of popular chain stores and restaurants.
History: The centre was developed in the 1990s to cater to the growing suburbs of northern Pretoria.
Since When: Opened in 1995.
Review: Customers appreciate its accessibility, wide range of retailers, and relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere.
When to Go: Mornings on weekdays are best for stress-free shopping and quick errands.
How to Go: Located along Sefako Makgatho Drive, easily reachable by car or local minibus taxis.
What to Do: Shop for essentials, grab a meal, catch a movie, and access banking or medical services.
Free or Paid: Free entry; paid parking may apply during peak hours.
Brooklyn Mall, Pretoria
Overview: Brooklyn Mall is an elegant and upmarket shopping centre situated in one of Pretoria’s most affluent suburbs, known for fashion boutiques and gourmet dining.
History: Established to serve Pretoria’s eastern suburbs, it has grown into a stylish lifestyle destination for both shopping and leisure.
Since When: In operation since 1989.
Review: Praised for its clean, stylish setting, excellent restaurants, and niche boutique stores.
When to Go: Ideal for a late afternoon or weekend outing to combine shopping and dining.
How to Go: Conveniently located in Brooklyn Circle, accessible by car and near bus routes.
What to Do: Shop high-end fashion, enjoy fine dining, visit art exhibitions, or attend events.
Free or Paid: Free entry; paid parking applies.
The Grove Mall, Pretoria
Overview: The Grove Mall is a modern, family-oriented shopping centre that combines retail, entertainment, and leisure under one roof in Pretoria East.
History: Developed to cater to the expanding residential areas in the east of the city, it has become a favorite local destination since opening.
Since When: Opened in 2009.
Review: Known for its clean environment, excellent cinema, and ice rink, making it popular among families.
When to Go: Visit during weekdays for a quieter shopping experience or weekends for entertainment activities.
How to Go: Located on Lynnwood Road with direct access from the N1 highway and available public transport.
What to Do: Watch movies, go ice skating, shop from national brands, and enjoy fast or sit-down dining.
Free or Paid: Free entry; entertainment activities and parking may be paid.
Menlyn Maine, Pretoria
Overview: Menlyn Maine is a cutting-edge mixed-use precinct that includes high-end retail, offices, hotels, and green spaces, billed as Africa’s first green city.
History: Conceived as a sustainable urban development, Menlyn Maine integrates eco-conscious design with business and leisure spaces.
Since When: Development began in 2010, with continual expansion into the mid-2020s.
Review: Highly rated for its upscale atmosphere, modern architecture, and premium dining and shopping options.
When to Go: Best visited in the evenings or weekends for its nightlife and dining venues.
How to Go: Centrally located in Pretoria East with easy access via the N1 highway and ride-hailing services.
What to Do: Shop at boutique stores, enjoy rooftop bars, dine at gourmet restaurants, and attend business or leisure events.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; retail and lifestyle experiences vary in cost.
Sunnypark Shopping Centre, Pretoria
Overview: Sunnypark Shopping Centre is a vibrant urban retail complex in Pretoria Central offering a wide range of fashion, food, and services catering to a diverse shopper demographic.
History: Originally constructed in the late 1980s, the centre was significantly upgraded and relaunched in 2009 to meet modern retail standards.
Since When: Operated in its current form since 2009.
Review: Visitors find it convenient and accessible, with an improving variety of stores and good public transport links.
When to Go: Visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy quicker service.
How to Go: Easily accessible via taxis, buses, and pedestrian routes in central Pretoria.
What to Do: Shop for affordable fashion, grab a quick meal, catch a movie, and access essential services.
Free or Paid: Free to enter, with paid activities such as cinema or parking.
National Zoological Gardens, Pretoria
Overview: The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa is a world-renowned zoo and conservation facility spanning 85 hectares and housing thousands of animal species.
History: Established in 1899, it has grown into one of the most significant zoological research and education centres in Africa.
Since When: Open to the public since 1913.
Review: Widely praised for its size, variety of animals, and naturalistic habitats, though some parts need upkeep.
When to Go: Best visited in the early morning or late afternoon, especially during spring or autumn.
How to Go: Located in central Pretoria, it is easily reached by car, bus, or local taxi services.
What to Do: Explore animal exhibits, enjoy guided tours, visit the aquarium and reptile park, and picnic on the grounds.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with additional fees for cable car and guided experiences.
Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria
Overview: Loftus Versfeld Stadium is one of South Africa’s most iconic sports venues, hosting major rugby and soccer matches along with concerts and events.
History: Originally established in 1906 and redeveloped several times, it played a major role in both national and international sports.
Since When: Functioning as a modern stadium since its major expansion in the 1980s.
Review: Highly regarded for its vibrant atmosphere during matches and its central location within the city.
When to Go: Best visited during scheduled rugby or soccer matches or when hosting special events.
How to Go: Easily accessible via public transport, ride-hailing apps, and ample event-day parking.
What to Do: Attend sporting events, stadium tours, or live concerts and enjoy the electric crowd energy.
Free or Paid: Paid access depending on the event or activity.
Maropeng: Official Visitor Centre for the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, Pretoria
Overview: Maropeng is an award-winning, interactive museum and visitor centre exploring the origins of humanity located near Pretoria in the Cradle of Humankind.
History: Designed to promote palaeoanthropological awareness, it was constructed as part of UNESCO’s World Heritage initiatives in South Africa.
Since When: Opened to the public in 2005.
Review: Visitors are impressed by its educational value, immersive exhibits, and stunning architecture.
When to Go: Ideal during weekdays and school holidays for both families and educational groups.
How to Go: Reachable by car from Pretoria via the N14 or R563 highways; guided tours also operate.
What to Do: Explore exhibits, take guided cave tours, view ancient fossils, and enjoy interactive displays.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with different ticket options for museum-only or combined experiences.
Aerial Cableway Hartbeespoort, Pretoria
Overview: The Aerial Cableway Hartbeespoort is a scenic cable car experience offering panoramic views of the Magaliesberg Mountains and Hartbeespoort Dam.
History: Originally built in 1973, it was closed for years before being revamped and reopened with modern amenities in 2010.
Since When: Reopened and modernized in 2010.
Review: Highly rated for its smooth ride, spectacular views, and family-friendly attractions at the top station.
When to Go: Best enjoyed on clear days in spring or autumn for ideal weather and visibility.
How to Go: Located about an hour’s drive from Pretoria via the R511, with parking available on-site.
What to Do: Ride the cable car, dine at mountaintop restaurants, walk the Dassie Loop, and enjoy playgrounds and markets.
Free or Paid: Paid entry for the cableway, with additional costs for food and attractions at the summit.
Pretoria National Botanical Gardens, Pretoria
Overview: The Pretoria National Botanical Gardens is a serene 76-hectare urban oasis showcasing South Africa’s diverse indigenous flora and natural landscapes.
History: Established in 1946, the gardens originally served as a research space for the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI).
Since When: Open to the public since the late 1940s.
Review: Visitors praise its peaceful atmosphere, well-maintained trails, and biodiversity ideal for families and nature enthusiasts.
When to Go: Best visited in spring and early summer (August to November) when most flowers are in bloom.
How to Go: Easily accessible via car or taxi from central Pretoria, with ample on-site parking.
What to Do: Walk through themed gardens, picnic in designated areas, spot birdlife, and explore educational displays.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with modest fees for adults and concessions for children and pensioners.
Woodlands Boulevard Shopping Complex, Pretoria
Overview: Woodlands Boulevard is a stylish suburban shopping mall offering a premium retail and entertainment experience in Pretoria East.
History: Launched in the early 2000s, the complex has steadily expanded to include luxury retailers and modern conveniences.
Since When: Opened in 2004.
Review: Customers enjoy the clean layout, wide variety of shops, cinemas, and relaxed atmosphere.
When to Go: Visit on weekday mornings to enjoy quieter shopping hours and quick service.
How to Go: Accessible by car via Garsfontein Road or public minibus taxis servicing Pretoria East.
What to Do: Shop for fashion and electronics, dine at cafés, watch movies, and attend seasonal events.
Free or Paid: Free to enter, with paid parking depending on duration of stay.
Wonderboom Junction, Pretoria
Overview: Wonderboom Junction is a large shopping mall in northern Pretoria combining retail stores, eateries, and lifestyle services under one roof.
History: Developed to serve the expanding residential and industrial communities in the Wonderboom area.
Since When: Operational since 2009.
Review: Visitors appreciate the spacious design, convenient location, and broad store selection for daily needs.
When to Go: Ideal to visit on weekday afternoons or early Saturdays for a less crowded experience.
How to Go: Located near the N1 and Sefako Makgatho Drive, easily reachable by car or public transport.
What to Do: Grocery shopping, fashion browsing, casual dining, and personal services like salons and banking.
Free or Paid: Free to enter, with free and paid parking options available.
Voortrekker Monument, Pretoria
Overview: The Voortrekker Monument is a national heritage site and massive granite structure commemorating the Voortrekkers’ historic journey and contributions.
History: Completed in 1949, it was constructed to honor Afrikaner pioneers who participated in the Great Trek during the 1830s and 1840s.
Since When: Open to the public since December 1949.
Review: It is widely admired for its historical significance, panoramic views, and architectural grandeur.
When to Go: Best visited in the morning to avoid heat and crowds, especially during South African holidays.
How to Go: Located in southern Pretoria, it’s reachable via the N1/N14 highways or via tour shuttles.
What to Do: Explore the monument and museum, enjoy guided tours, and hike the surrounding nature reserve.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with separate rates for adults, children, and vehicles.
Parkview Shopping Centre, Pretoria
Overview: Parkview Shopping Centre is an upmarket and family-friendly mall offering a curated mix of fashion, lifestyle, and dining in Pretoria East.
History: Opened in the 2010s, the mall was developed to cater to the growing residential hubs around Moreleta Park and Garsfontein.
Since When: Operational since 2012.
Review: Shoppers enjoy its relaxed atmosphere, high-end design, and safe, family-oriented environment.
When to Go: Visit during weekday mornings for relaxed shopping and ample parking.
How to Go: Located off Garsfontein Road, it’s easily accessible by car with well-maintained parking facilities.
What to Do: Dine at premium restaurants, shop at boutique stores, and attend seasonal markets and events.
Free or Paid: Free entry, with secure paid parking available.
Pretoria Boeremark, Pretoria
Overview: Pretoria Boeremark is a lively and authentic farmers’ market offering fresh local produce, artisanal foods, and traditional South African fare.
History: Established to promote community agriculture and entrepreneurship, it has grown into a cherished weekly event among locals.
Since When: Operating since 1994.
Review: Highly rated for its friendly vendors, quality products, and vibrant early-morning atmosphere.
When to Go: Best visited on Saturdays from 5:30 AM to 9:30 AM for the freshest selection and full market vibe.
How to Go: Located in Silverton, it’s best accessed by car, with ample parking on-site.
What to Do: Shop for fresh produce, enjoy boerewors rolls, sip local coffee, and interact with community farmers.
Free or Paid: Free entry, with purchases paid individually.
Upside Down House, Pretoria
Overview: The Upside Down House is a quirky and photogenic attraction where everything—from furniture to fixtures—is mounted upside down for an immersive illusion.
History: Modeled after similar tourist concepts worldwide, it was created to offer a fun family-friendly photo experience.
Since When: Open to visitors since around 2020.
Review: Popular among families and social media users for its whimsical setting and entertaining experience.
When to Go: Visit on weekdays or early mornings on weekends to avoid long photo queues.
How to Go: Located near Hartbeespoort, it’s easily reached by car from Pretoria in under an hour.
What to Do: Take creative photos, explore the tilted rooms, and enjoy the adjacent eateries and attractions.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with ticket prices varying by age group.
Hartbeespoort Dam Snake and Animal Park, Pretoria
Overview: The Hartbeespoort Dam Snake and Animal Park houses a wide range of reptiles, mammals, and birds in an educational zoo setting near the dam.
History: Founded to educate the public about reptiles and wildlife, it has expanded to include exotic animals and conservation programs.
Since When: Established in the early 1970s.
Review: Visitors appreciate the close-up animal encounters and informative live shows, although some call for facility upgrades.
When to Go: Best to visit in cooler months (April–September) to enjoy outdoor enclosures comfortably.
How to Go: A scenic 45-minute drive from Pretoria via the R511 road to Hartbeespoort.
What to Do: Attend snake shows, tour enclosures, take boat rides, and enjoy lakeside views.
Free or Paid: Paid entry, with optional extras like boat cruises and snacks available at additional cost.
Menlyn Maine Central Square, Pretoria
Overview: Menlyn Maine Central Square is a modern lifestyle and retail hub blending boutique shopping, fine dining, business facilities, and green urban spaces.
History: Developed as South Africa’s first green city precinct, it represents a fusion of sustainability, luxury, and live-work-play philosophy.
Since When: Opened in 2016 as part of the larger Menlyn Maine development.
Review: Well-regarded for its elegant design, top-tier restaurants, and upscale, relaxed environment.
When to Go: Ideal to visit in the evening for fine dining or during weekends for leisurely shopping.
How to Go: Located in Menlyn, Pretoria, accessible via Atterbury Road and major public transport routes.
What to Do: Shop high-end fashion, dine on outdoor terraces, attend events, and relax in landscaped courtyards.
Free or Paid: Free entry, with paid basement parking available.
Groenkloof Nature Reserve, Pretoria
Overview: Groenkloof Nature Reserve is a historic conservation area offering hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing near the heart of Pretoria.
History: Declared by President Paul Kruger in 1895, it is South Africa’s first official game sanctuary.
Since When: Protected since 1895, open to the public for recreation in the 20th century.
Review: Loved for its challenging trails, scenic beauty, and close proximity to the city, though basic facilities are noted.
When to Go: Best visited in early mornings or late afternoons year-round, especially in spring and autumn.
How to Go: Located south of Pretoria CBD, it’s easily reached by car via the Fountains Circle.
What to Do: Hike or bike the marked trails, view game like zebra and giraffe, or picnic in designated areas.
Free or Paid: Paid entry per person and per vehicle.
Castle Gate Shopping Centre, Pretoria
Overview: Castle Gate Shopping Centre is a contemporary lifestyle mall in Pretoria East, featuring a mix of retail stores, restaurants, and leisure spaces within an eco-conscious design.
History: Developed by Atterbury Property, Castle Gate was envisioned to serve the expanding residential and business community of Pretoria East.
Since When: Officially opened in November 2020.
Review: Praised for its clean, modern design and wide variety of stores and eateries, making it a popular shopping and social destination.
When to Go: Best visited on weekday afternoons for a quieter experience or weekends for events and family activities.
How to Go: Located on Solomon Mahlangu Drive, easily accessible via the N1 and major local roads by car.
What to Do: Shop major brands, enjoy outdoor dining, take kids to play zones, and attend seasonal events.
Free or Paid: Free entry with paid parking facilities.
Burgers Park, Pretoria
Overview: Burgers Park is a tranquil, Victorian-style public garden and green space in central Pretoria, offering shade, walking paths, and historic ambiance.
History: Originally laid out in the late 19th century and named after President Thomas François Burgers, it is Pretoria’s oldest public park.
Since When: Established in 1892.
Review: Appreciated for its peaceful setting and historic charm, though safety and upkeep are occasional concerns.
When to Go: Best visited in the morning or early afternoon during spring and autumn for optimal weather.
How to Go: Centrally located, it’s accessible via taxi, Gautrain bus, or a short walk from Pretoria CBD.
What to Do: Stroll among old trees and flowerbeds, relax on benches, and admire the park’s statues and fountains.
Free or Paid: Free entry to all visitors.
Little Paris Hartbeespoort, Pretoria
Overview: Little Paris in Hartbeespoort is a romantic, Parisian-themed attraction complete with a miniature Eiffel Tower, boutique shops, and a French-style café.
History: Built as part of the French Toast Coffee Café complex, it was inspired by the film “French Toast” that was shot there in 2015.
Since When: Opened to the public in 2015.
Review: A favorite for couples and social media enthusiasts for its charming décor and unique photo opportunities.
When to Go: Best visited on weekday mornings or early weekends to avoid crowds and secure a relaxed table.
How to Go: Located about an hour’s drive from Pretoria via the R511 towards Hartbeespoort.
What to Do: Pose by the Eiffel Tower replica, sip coffee in the café, explore themed shops, and leave a love lock.
Free or Paid: Free to enter, but purchases and certain features may incur costs.
Brooklyn Mall – Brooklyn Square, Pretoria
Overview: Brooklyn Mall and its adjacent Brooklyn Square offer a premium shopping and lifestyle experience with upscale retail, fine dining, and entertainment in Pretoria.
History: Developed to serve the affluent Brooklyn suburb, the mall has become one of Pretoria’s most elegant retail landmarks.
Since When: Established in the late 1980s and continually modernized since.
Review: Well-regarded for its curated mix of luxury brands, gourmet food, and relaxed ambiance.
When to Go: Ideal to visit in the evenings or on weekends for dining and social outings.
How to Go: Located on Veale Street, it’s accessible via bus, car, or Uber from anywhere in Pretoria.
What to Do: Shop fashion and lifestyle brands, watch films at the cinema, or relax at stylish cafés.
Free or Paid: Free to enter with paid underground and street parking available.
Chameleon Village, Pretoria
Overview: Chameleon Village is a vibrant craft market and leisure venue near Hartbeespoort offering African art, curios, restaurants, and family entertainment.
History: Created to celebrate local culture and craftsmanship, it evolved into a diverse marketplace and weekend destination.
Since When: Operating since the early 2000s.
Review: Popular for its wide selection of handmade goods, laid-back setting, and family-friendly vibe.
When to Go: Weekends are best for full vendor presence and a festive atmosphere.
How to Go: Located just off the R511 near Hartbeespoort, about 45 minutes’ drive from Pretoria.
What to Do: Shop unique crafts, enjoy live music, eat local food, and explore the reptile park or maze.
Free or Paid: Free to enter, with specific attractions and purchases at individual cost.
Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve, Pretoria
Overview: Bothongo Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve is a family-friendly wildlife reserve near Pretoria offering close encounters with a wide variety of animals including rhinos, lions, cheetahs, and endangered species in a natural habitat.
History: Originally established as the Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve in 1985, it was renamed in 2020 after being acquired by the Bothongo Group to enhance conservation and tourism.
Since When: Functioning as a wildlife reserve since 1985.
Review: It receives high praise for its well-maintained enclosures, engaging animal feedings, and excellent picnic facilities, making it a great day trip for families.
When to Go: Best visited during the dry season (May to September) when animals are more visible and weather is mild.
How to Go: Located in the Cradle of Humankind area, it is easily accessible by car via the R540 from Pretoria.
What to Do: Participate in guided game drives, visit the WonderCave, interact with animals in the Cub World, and enjoy a day of braais and picnics.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with additional costs for certain attractions and activities.
Hennops Hiking Trail & MTB Trail, Pretoria
Overview: Hennops offers scenic hiking and mountain biking trails through gorges, river crossings, and bushveld landscapes just outside Pretoria.
History: The trails were developed on a private farm to provide outdoor enthusiasts with access to safe and scenic natural terrain.
Since When: Open to the public since the early 2000s.
Review: Widely praised for its well-marked routes, suspension bridge crossings, and combination of nature, history, and exercise.
When to Go: Ideal in cooler months from April to September to avoid extreme heat and for clearer skies.
How to Go: Located 30–40 minutes west of Pretoria via the R511 and Hennops River Road, accessible by car.
What to Do: Choose between three hiking trails or mountain biking routes, explore caves, and picnic by the river.
Free or Paid: Paid entry per person, with rates varying for hikers and bikers.
Union Buildings Gardens, Pretoria
Overview: The Union Buildings Gardens are the beautifully manicured terraced gardens surrounding South Africa’s executive government offices, offering views, statues, and serene walking paths.
History: Designed by architect Sir Herbert Baker in the early 20th century, the gardens have long served as a symbol of national pride and public gathering.
Since When: Open to the public since the completion of the Union Buildings in 1913.
Review: Loved for its peaceful atmosphere, iconic Nelson Mandela statue, and panoramic views of Pretoria.
When to Go: Best visited in the mornings or late afternoons during spring and autumn when the gardens are in full bloom.
How to Go: Centrally located in Pretoria and easily accessible by car, taxi, or walking from many city areas.
What to Do: Take a self-guided tour through the gardens, admire national monuments, and enjoy photo opportunities at the Mandela statue.
Free or Paid: Free to enter and open to the public daily.
Lory Park Zoo, Pretoria
Overview: Lory Park Zoo is a compact yet diverse zoo and owl sanctuary in Midrand, near Pretoria, focused on wildlife education and conservation.
History: It started as a small bird park in the late 1990s and gradually expanded to house a wide variety of mammals, reptiles, and birds.
Since When: Opened to the public in 2000.
Review: Highly regarded for its clean facilities, friendly staff, and interactive experiences, especially popular among children and school groups.
When to Go: Best visited on cooler weekdays for a quieter and more personal experience with the animals.
How to Go: Situated between Johannesburg and Pretoria, it’s about 30 minutes’ drive via the N1 highway.
What to Do: Explore animal enclosures, attend educational talks, and enjoy hands-on experiences with tame species like lemurs and owls.
Free or Paid: Paid entry with affordable rates for adults and children.
Hartbeespoort Dam Wall, Pretoria
Overview: The Hartbeespoort Dam Wall is a historic and architectural landmark set against the majestic Magaliesberg mountains, serving as both an engineering marvel and scenic destination.
History: Constructed between 1916 and 1923, the wall was built to provide irrigation water to the surrounding farming areas and now also supports tourism.
Since When: Completed and operational since 1923.
Review: Visitors admire the stunning views from atop the dam, but traffic congestion and limited parking can be a drawback during peak times.
When to Go: Best visited early in the morning on weekdays to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the views.
How to Go: Approximately 45 minutes from Pretoria via the R511 or R104 roads by car.
What to Do: Walk or drive over the dam wall, enjoy the nearby shops and eateries, or take photos of the sweeping valley views.
Free or Paid: Free to visit the dam wall, but nearby activities may have costs.