Top Rated Attractions in Johannesburg

Take a break from the busy city life and enjoy an family-outing at Emmarentia Dam. Spread across 18.53 acres (7.5 hectares) of land, this dam is popular picnic spot amongst tourists and locals alike and is equipped with barbecue facilities for you to enjoy a hearty meal with your loved ones. The dam is surrounded by several botanical gardens and boasts of splendid vistas. Besides, this spot usually sees flocks of migratory birds and is popular destination amongst the avid bird-watchers and photographers. Emmarentia Dam has a canoe club nearby where you can enjoy water-sport activities and also houses a tea room for you to relish a quick bite with some refreshments. Even your furry-friend can accompany you here as this is a well-known dog-walking area.

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.

Gallery Momo is a refined art gallery for contemporary art which was launched in the year 2003, with an aim to provide a platform for young artists. The gallery is now a vibrant center in the contemporary art world with exhibits of various art forms ranging from photography and sculptures to paintings and sketches by established artists. A haven for contemporary art, visit their website for exhibition schedule and more details.

Catch the predatory Nile Crocodile at its menacing best, at this fantastic park located in Fourways. The sprawling park provides a natural habitat to a host of reptiles including numerous species of snakes, giant spiders and other creepy crawlies. Visitors even get an opportunity to get up close and hold baby crocodiles; under close supervision of course. Facilities at the park include the Boma restaurant serving food and beer as well as a shop offering unique crocodile souvenirs and other related products like crocodile oil lotion and meat products. Definitely not for the squeamish, the park provides a fascinating insight into the much feared as well as loved kingdom of reptiles.

Meaning a place of light, Maboneng is an urban neighborhood that has been privately developed in eastern Johannesburg CBD. With several independent retail, restaurants and entertainment venues as well as loft apartments, offices, hotel, a museum and creative factory spaces, the place is a thriving cultural hub.

Experience the forest from a whole new angle with Acrobranch, one of a number of outdoor adventure parks, which offers a number of exciting activities like canopy walks, bungee jumping and zip lines. Located in the James and Ethel Gray Park, this particular facility has one of Africa's longest zip lines which makes its way through the forested canopy of the park. Zip down the rope from tree to tree across their various zip lines or show off your climbing skills on their various obstacle courses which include everything from monkey bars to Tarzan swings. Separate obstacle courses are also available for kids and teenagers.