With the frequently vaunted claim of making more millionaires than anyone else, this casino is well patronized by locals and tourists alike. A full house of slot machines, Blackjack, Roulette, Poker and Crap tables, with lots more besides, will cater for most tastes. The food on offer is always good, and staff members are close at hand to assist customers. Open, for all intents and purposes, all day every day, the casino is conveniently located next to a retail shopping complex, a gym facility as well as cinemas and coffee shops.
An early Twentieth Century house takes your children back in time, to watch (mostly) kids' Classic plays. You can also see every room decorated with old sets, costumes and pictures both photographic and impressionistic. The National Children's Theater is run by an award-winning executive director. About 120 patrons can occupy the theater on floor-mats or chairs, the latter if you're over a certain age. Casts are sent out, too, if a theater loving school can't afford its own journey. This is sheer entertainment, as well as educational theater. There are also interactive theater workshops if your kid hankers after being either a professional walk-on or a Star. Call ahead for hours.
Formerly known as Sandton Square, this hub of city life in Johannesburg was renamed Nelson Mandela Square in 2004 to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the birth of South Africa's democracy. Also the home of the Nelson Mandela statue, which was unveiled when the square was renamed, the square serves not only as a tribute to the famed president's historic efforts to bring peace to the nation but also a focal point where visitors and locals alike can contemplate the country's turbulent past. An Italian-style piazza full of shops, restaurants, and galleries, located near world-class hotels and the city's financial district, this is a must-see for any visitor to Johannesburg.
This is one of the most popular gardens in the province, situated west of Johannesburg, with a magnificent waterfall and resident Black Eagles. The gardens are well patronized by plant lovers, birders, the general public who come to enjoy the tea garden and those who patronize the Sunday Picnic Concerts. A ring road runs through the lush area and is an easy walk of about an hour. A telescope is set up to grant a glimpse of the eagles. The nursery sells a variety of indigenous plants, and children enjoy the vast lawn areas where people can enjoy a picnic or simply relax.
The South African National Museum of Military History comprises one of the most comprehensive collections pertaining to South Africa's role in various armed conflicts over the years. Aircraft, armored carriers, artillery, small arms, uniforms and war art are all on display, documenting the country's military involvement throughout the world. The museum's shop sells refreshments and an impressive range of books. Free video shows for visitors are offered on weekends and public holidays, while the action playground is sure to keep children entertained. A reference library, conference and function facilities are also available.
The Apartheid Museum best reflects the history of South Africa's apartheid days. Under the able guidance of Nelson Mandela, the country has strongly braved the weathers of racial discrimination, and this museum stands as a reminder of those stories and experiences. Photographs, film footage and artifacts displayed in the 22 exhibition areas will take one through the journey of the nation's struggle. If you're in Johannesburg, do not miss an opportunity to gain insight into this integral part of South Africa's history.
This warehouse of photojournalism will please amateur and professional photographers alike. With a definite slant towards documenting the technological advances of photography down the years, the museum nonetheless has lots to offer for those less interested in the nitty-gritty of shutter mechanisms and lens specifications. Enjoy a privileged glimpse into bygone eras of evolving photographic skill and technique at Bensusan Museum.
This is the biggest and busiest movie-spread in South Africa: 16 cinemas that you get into through quick ticketing, and which, seat-wise, range from 51 to 316. Films swiftly move in and out owing to popularity. If you have the right card you can phone-book and then swiftly swipe for your tickets once you get there. Kids and pensioners pay less, weekends are more expensive and most of the food is junk!
The 1896-built Windybrow Theater is a fine example of Victorian architecture and provides a pleasant stage for theater artists and its practitioners. It is housed inside a former mining center, which is now declared as a national monument and serves as a fine cultural institution for performing arts. With a seating capacity for 250 people, the main theater of the hall has a revolving stage and is a regular venue for various theater performances. Equipped with state-of-the-art sound technology and infrastructure, the theater proves to be a unique stage for an institution that aims to nurture the development of theater groups in Africa.
Bernie Stanko Oriental Art Gallery creates a platform that encourages the mixing of art styles and culture. Located in the bustling locality of Parktown, this art gallery is know for its selection of pieces that come from all parts of the Orient. Art enthusiats can delve into the many unique styles of artists from countries such as India, China and Japan among others. Its regular exhibitions cause quite the stir in the African art community and is thus a must try while in Johannesburg. For more details on the space and scheduled events, do call ahead.
Johannesburg South Africa Temple is one of the 147 LDS churches from around the world and is one of the earliest temples constructed in the country. Initially a commercial property of financiers and mining giants, this church was built in 20th Century and continues to impress its visitors with its charming architecture. The contemporary architecture of the church is complemented with spacious and elegant interiors and its signature six tall spikes get it noticed even from a distance. Nestled in the city of Johannesburg, this church is now surrounded by beautiful mansions from 18th Century, commercial complexes, schools and hospitals.
With the growing population of Tamil devotees in Johannesburg, The Johannesburg Melrose Shree Siva Subramaniar Temple was established in the 19th Century. Initially just a small shack-like structure, the temple was majorly renovated during the late 20th Century. However, its present structure dates back to the renovations in 2011 and is dedicated to Lord Muruga (Lord Karthikeya). With around 20,000 devotees coming in every year to offer their prayers, this is one of the most popular temples in South Africa. Besides, the regular prayers and services, The Johannesburg Melrose Shree Siva Subramaniar Temple hosts several cultural festivities and performs weddings with the Tamil ceremonies.