Things to do with kids this long weekend in South Africa (May 2025)

The Workers’ Day long weekend in early May 2025 offers a perfect chance for family adventures across South Africa. Whether you’re in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, or Pretoria, there are plenty of kid-friendly events, outdoor activities, cultural experiences, markets, and attractions to keep everyone entertained. Below is a detailed guide – including event dates, locations, descriptions, and pricing – to help you plan a memorable family weekend. We’ve included a mix of free and ticketed options, as well as special seasonal highlights and unique experiences.

Johannesburg (Gauteng)

• Gold Reef City Theme Park (Johannesburg South) – An all-in-one entertainment park featuring 18 thrilling rides and 23 dedicated kiddies’ rides, plus attractions like a 4D theatre and “Jump City” trampoline park (goldreefcity.co.za). This historic gold mining–themed park offers everything from gentle carousels to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, as well as an underground mine tour and on-site museums. Open throughout the long weekend (check online for hours). Price: R295 per person for unlimited rides (one-price-fits-all)​; children under 3 enter free. Tip: arrive early to beat queues, and consider booking tickets online in advance. It’s a full-day outing of “non-stop thrills, laughter and unforgettable memories”​ for kids and adults alike.

• MiFitness Kids Syringa Park (Muldersdrift, Johannesburg area) – A massive outdoor play park – billed as one of Africa’s largest – set in the countryside just outside the city (whatsoninjoburg.com). Kids can romp on one of the world’s largest jumping pillows (300m²), zip along a kids’ zip line, climb an 8m-high pyramid, bounce on giant inflatable obstacle courses, and play on multiple jungle gyms​. There’s even a splash pad for warm days (pack extra clothes), a kiddie bike track, and mini go-karting on site. Parents can relax at picnic spots or grab a treat from the snack shack and gourmet food vendors​. Open: every weekend (Fri–Sun) and public holidays, 9am–5pm (Fri & Sun) and 9am–6pm (Sat & public holidays) – so it will be open all through the May long weekend. Price: R120 per child (ages 2–12) for an all-day pass; accompanying adults enter free​. (Children under 2 must have an adult with them, and adults cannot enter without kids.) This is a pay-once, play-all-day venue – excellent value for a full day of active fun. (Location: Syringa Park, Muldersdrift, ~30 min drive from JHB.)

• Rush Indoor Trampoline Park – “Bonus Break” Special (Greenstone Mall) – If the weather turns or the kids need to burn off energy, head to Rush, Joburg’s premier indoor trampoline adventure park. During the school “extra week of holidays from 28 April to 2 May”, Rush is running a long-weekend special (​whatsoninjoburg.com): pay full price for the first hour (around R160) and get 50% off each additional hour of jumping​. This deal is available 28 April – 2 May 2025 – perfect timing for the long weekend. The park features wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball and basketball jump courts, foam pits, and more. Parents can relax at the café with free WiFi and charging stations while kids leap and flip in a supervised environment (​whatsonincapetown.com​). Venue: Rush Johannesburg (Greenstone Mall, Modderfontein)​. Times: Open daily during holidays (typically 9am–8pm, check exact hours online). Pricing: Standard rate ~R160 per hour (half-price on extra hours during the promo)​. Grip socks are usually required (available for purchase at the park). This is an affordable way to keep youngsters active and happy for hours​.

• Johannesburg Zoo & Zoo Lake (Parkview) – For a more relaxed family outing, the Joburg Zoo and adjacent Zoo Lake park provide a great combo. The Johannesburg Zoo spans 55 hectares and houses hundreds of animals (from big cats and elephants to reptiles and colourful birds) in lush, green surrounds. It’s open 7 days a week, including public holidays, typically from 8:30am to 5:30pm. Entry fees: about R115 for adults, R68 for kids (under 3 free) – check current rates. There are shady picnic spots and kids’ play areas inside, and you can join free educator-led feedings or talks at scheduled times (a fun learning experience). Right across the road is Zoo Lake, a public park with a lake where you can hire rowboats, feed the ducks, or enjoy a picnic for free. The park also has a newly upgraded playground and plenty of open lawn for kids to run around. Cost: Zoo Lake is free to enter and open daily; rowing boat hire costs a small fee (±R20-R40 per half-hour). This duo offers a full day of nature and wildlife in the heart of the city – start at the zoo in the morning and unwind at the lake in the afternoon.

• Family Markets and Green Spaces (Various) – Johannesburg’s weekend markets and gardens are ideal for families looking for a laid-back outing. On Saturday, 3 May, check out the Bryanston Organic & Natural Market (open 9am–3pm) for crafts, wholesome food, and a dedicated children’s corner with activities. Alternatively, the Fourways Farmers Market at Modderfontein Reserve (open Sunday, 4 May from 10am) offers live music, gourmet street food, and plenty of space for kids to play – entry is either free or a nominal R10 donation. For a breath of fresh air, consider a picnic at the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden in Roodepoort, where you can walk to the waterfall and maybe spot the resident Verreaux’s eagles soaring above. Entry to the garden: ~R70 adults, R20 kids. These options are easy on the wallet and let the whole family enjoy Johannesburg’s lovely autumn weather in a relaxed setting.

Cape Town (Western Cape)

• Rush Trampoline Park (Claremont) – Cape Town’s branch of Rush is also running the 28 April – 2 May special, making it a top pick for the long weekend (​whatsonincapetown.com). Kids can jump themselves silly on massive trampolines, play trampoline dodgeball, or dive into foam pits. Cost: From R160 per hour (standard rate) and with the holiday promo, every extra hour is half-price​. Venue: 25 Stegman Rd, Claremont (in Stadium on Main). Times: Tues–Fri 11am–7pm, Sat 9am–8pm, Sun 9am–6pm (open on the public holiday)​. The facility has a café and even work pods for parents. It’s an “easy and affordable” indoor adventure to keep children busy and active​, especially if Cape Town’s weather is chilly or wet.

• Freedom Adventure Park (Canal Walk, Century City) – An indoor adventure park inside Canal Walk mall, featuring South Africa’s first-ever “Ninja Run” obstacle course for kids, plus multiple trampolines, rope courses, zip lines, climbing walls and more​ (whatsonincapetown.com). It’s essentially a giant indoor playground where kids of all ages can run wild. Parents will appreciate the on-site lounge and free private work pods, perfect for catching up on emails while keeping an eye on the kids​. Open: Daily, 9am–9pm​ (including the long weekend). Cost: R150/hour for full access, R85/hour for toddlers (separate soft-play area), or R400 for a full-day pass; non-playing adults enter free​. Look out for any holiday deals the park may run – the venue often has specials on most days​. (Location: Canal Walk Shopping Centre, Level 2, Century City.)

• Two Oceans Aquarium (V&A Waterfront) – A perennial family favorite in Cape Town’s V&A Waterfront, the aquarium offers a fun and educational ocean experience. Kids can marvel at marine creatures from both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans – from waddling penguins and giant sea turtles to ragged-tooth sharks and glowing jellies​. Interactive exhibits include touch pools and a mesmerizing kelp forest tank. For an extra-special experience, consider the “behind-the-scenes” tours or penguin encounters (check the website for scheduling). Opening times: Daily 9:30am–6pm (yes, open on public holidays). Tickets: R250 adults, R185 teens (14–17) and students/pensioners, R115 for kids 4–13, and free for children under 4​. (Tip: If any family members have birthdays in May, they get free entry during their birthday month​, and anyone can get discounted tickets after 3pm.) The aquarium is indoors, making it a great all-weather activity, and the adjoining Watershed market and playground at the Waterfront can round out the day.

• Experience LEGO Mania – If you have any little LEGO enthusiasts, Cape Town has a surprisingly vibrant LEGO scene. Pop into the Canal Walk LEGO Store or Kiddiwinks (a specialty toy store) to spark creativity – some stores have building tables or mini competitions for kids. For more hands-on fun, you could visit Brick Haven in Bellville for second-hand sets or Mini-Me in Diep River where kids can design their own custom mini-figure​​. Consider looking up a local LEGO Robotics League or STEM workshop: Cape Town has LEGO robotics programmes for ages 4–16 that teach problem-solving and engineering in a playful way​. While not a single venue or event, these LEGO-focused activities are a great rainy-day fallback over the long weekend. (Note: Most stores have free entry; workshop prices vary – check FIRST LEGO League on the FIRST SA website for any holiday events​.)

• City Parks, Markets & Museums – Cape Town offers plenty of free or low-cost family outings if you prefer the outdoors. The Green Point Urban Park (next to the Cape Town Stadium) is a fantastic free playground with expansive lawns, a biodiversity garden, and play equipment for all ages. It’s perfect for a picnic and a game of frisbee, with the ocean and Signal Hill as a backdrop. On Saturday or Sunday morning, wander through the Oranjezicht City Farm Market (at Granger Bay) – entry is free, and you’ll find farm-fresh produce, delicious food stalls, and often live music; kids can nibble samples and pet the resident market goats. Culturally inclined families might visit the Iziko South African Museum & Planetarium (Company’s Garden) – it has dinosaurs, mummies, and a digital planetarium show under a dome (weekend planetarium shows are usually late morning and early afternoon). Museum entry: around R30 for adults, R15 for kids. The Company’s Garden itself (free entry) is an attraction – feed the squirrels, enjoy the aviary and touch-garden, or relax at the café with its kids’ play corner. These options provide a nice balance to the high-energy attractions – a chance to slow down and soak up Cape Town’s heritage and nature.

Durban (KwaZulu-Natal)

• uShaka Marine World (South Beach) – Durban’s flagship attraction is a 16-hectare beachfront theme park, combining Sea World aquarium, Wet ‘n Wild water park, Kids World play area, and more (​tripadvisor.com and ​ushakamarine.com). At Sea World, families can explore one of the largest aquariums in the southern hemisphere, set in a shipwreck-themed environment, and watch dolphin and seal shows daily. Next door, Wet ‘n Wild offers water slides and pools (weather permitting), while Ushaka Kids World is a dedicated zone for ages 2–12 with splash pools, giant indoor climbing nets, and cartoon character appearances. Hours: generally 9am–5pm (aquarium) and 10am–5pm (water park) – open Wed through Sun in off-peak, and all days during holidays (check their schedule, but Workers’ Day likely counts as peak holiday). Pricing: You can buy tickets per attraction or bundled. For example, Aquarium-only tickets are ~R117 per person​, while combo tickets (Sea World + Wet ’n Wild) are around R200–R250 for kids and R250+ for adults. Kids under 3 enter free to most areas. Also, the uShaka Kids World play zone has a separate small fee (~R69 per child, R20 per adult)​. With its mix of marine life, slides, and beach vibe, uShaka is a full-day adventure. There are restaurants in the adjoining Village Walk and even evening aquarium events (like shark cage diving for the brave!). Note: Swimwear and towels are a must if hitting the water park, and lockers are available for hire.

  

  

  

• Umgeni River Bird Park (Durban North) – A tranquil oasis for animal lovers, set in an old quarry, this bird park is home to over 500 birds from around the world (from toucans and macaws to cranes and flamingos) (​linkedin.com). The highlight is the free-flight bird show, where talented birds swoop over the audience – shows run at 11am and 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday (and on public holiday Monday if it’s a school holiday)​(linkedin.com). No visit is complete without catching these performances, which are equal parts educational and entertaining​ (lonelyplanet.com). Kids will also enjoy walking through aviaries where lories and parrots fly freely. Open: 9am–4pm daily (closed Mondays outside holidays). Entrance fees: R70 for adults, R46 for children 12 and under​ (toddlers under 3 are usually free). It’s an affordable outing – under R250 for a family of four – and you can easily spend 2–3 hours here. There’s a small café for snacks, or bring a packed lunch to enjoy at the picnic benches amid the lush tropical landscaping. Insider tip: The park is partly shaded, which is great for Durban’s heat, but carry insect repellent as it’s near the river.

• Durban Beachfront & Promenade – One of Durban’s greatest assets is its golden beachfront, which has been revitalized with a long seaside promenade – and it’s completely free. Take the kids for a stroll or bike ride (you can rent bicycles or family pedal-carts along the promenade) and enjoy the public amenities. There are playground areas and splash fountains near uShaka and Battery Beach, outdoor gyms, and even a skate park for older kids. Pools: The beachfront has free public pools (including a shallow paddling pool for little ones at Funworld, although the Funworld amusement park rides are currently closed for redevelopment). Don’t miss Mini Town, a miniature city display with small-scale models of Durban’s landmarks – it’s quirky and fun, especially for younger children (open daily; entry ~R40). You could also treat the family to an ice-cream or famous “Durban bunny chow” (a half-loaf of bread filled with curry) from a beachfront stall – inexpensive and delicious. The beach itself is great for sandcastles or a splash in the warm Indian Ocean. Lifeguards will be on duty as it’s a holiday period, but always stay in the demarcated swim zones. For a cultural twist, look out for the Zulu rickshaw pullers in their vibrant costumes – a short ride in a decorated ricksha is a novel experience (negotiate a price, roughly R50). The Durban promenade atmosphere during a long weekend is festive and safe, with families, joggers, and cyclists out enjoying the autumn sunshine.

• Moses Mabhida Stadium SkyCar & I Heart Market (Stamford Hill) – For a panoramic view of Durban, take the SkyCar to the top of the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium arch. The cable car lifts you 106m above the pitch for a 360° view of the coastline and city – a thrilling yet easy ride for kids and adults. Open: 9am–5pm (weather dependent). Cost: Approximately R70 per person for the round trip. Alternatively, adventurous teens (and parents!) can try the Big Swing, jumping from the arch into the stadium – but that’s probably for the truly brave and is pricey. On Saturday, 3 May, the stadium precinct comes alive with the I Heart Market, one of Durban’s best artisanal markets. Running from about 9am to 2pm under the palm trees, this market features local craft stalls, fashion, jewelry, kids’ clothing, toys, and a mouthwatering array of food. There is often live music or entertainment, creating a fun vibe. Entry to the market is free. It’s very family-friendly – you’ll see lots of kids dancing to music or enjoying gourmet popsicles. Grab brunch from a stall (think artisanal pizza, falafels, or decadent waffles) and relax on the grass while the kids play. Combining the SkyCar and market makes for a great Saturday outing: you get the best view in Durban and a taste of local culture in one go.

• Parks and Nature in Durban – If you need a break from the beach, Durban has lovely green spaces. The Durban Botanic Gardens (adjacent to Musgrave) is Africa’s oldest surviving botanical garden, established in 1849. Entry is free (donations welcome). Stroll among exotic trees, visit the orchid house, and watch kids chase ducks around the pond. You can pack a picnic – there’s ample lawn – or grab a cup of tea at the gardens’ café. Another option is Mitchell Park in Morningside, which has a small zoo (with buck, monkeys, and birds) and a fantastic children’s playground. Mitchell Park entry: R11 adults, R6 children – essentially a token fee. The park’s on-site Blue Zoo restaurant even has a kids’ menu and play area. Both these spots are relatively quiet and ideal for a lazy afternoon. And for those willing to drive a bit further, Phezulu Safari Park in the Valley of 1000 Hills (about 35 minutes from Durban) offers a taste of Zulu culture and adventure: kids can see crocodiles and snakes at the reptile park, enjoy a Zulu dance show, or go on a short game drive to spot giraffe and zebra. Phezulu fees: ~R100 adults, R50 kids for the reptile park/show. This could be a unique addition to your long-weekend itinerary, blending wildlife, culture, and scenic views of the valley.

Pretoria (Tshwane)

• SAAF Museum Airshow (Swartkop Air Force Base, Centurion) – Saturday, 3 May 2025, don’t miss the South African Air Force Museum Annual Air Show, an event that’s especially great for families. Held at Swartkop (now Air Force Mobile Deployment Wing) in Valhalla, Pretoria, this airshow and aviation festival runs for the full day on Saturday (​saairforce.co.za). It’s a spectacular display of both modern and vintage aircraft, with flying demonstrations, aerobatics, and static exhibits of planes and helicopters. You’ll get to see South Africa’s aviation history come alive in the sky – the program typically includes fighter jets, transport aircraft, helicopters, and historic warbirds doing fly-pasts​. There are usually food stalls, kids’ play areas, and opportunities to meet Air Force pilots or climb into a cockpit on the ground. Gates open early (around 7am) and shows often start by 9–10am, running till mid-afternoon. Entry: Amazingly, this event is often free of charge for the public (or occasionally a nominal parking fee per vehicle) – making it a budget-friendly outing. Bring hats, ear protection for young kids (the jets can be loud), and cash for snacks or toy souvenirs. With its mix of “static and flying displays depicting the evolution of military aviation”, the airshow is an absolute thrill – even family members who aren’t aviation enthusiasts will be wowed by the spectacle.

• “Hercules” Musical – Pretoria Youth Theatre (Irene) – Introduce your children to the magic of live theatre with Hercules, a larger-than-life family musical adventure based on the legendary Greek hero’s tale (​whatsoninjoburg.com). This production is filled with catchy songs, humor, and high-energy performances that will captivate kids and parents alike​. Follow Hercules on his quest to become a true hero, joined by funny sidekick Phil, the spirited Megara, and the villainous Hades – it’s a story about learning that “true strength comes from the heart,” delivered in a fun, accessible way​. Dates: The show runs from 25 April to 3 May 2025, with multiple performances scheduled (morning, afternoon, and early evening shows at 10am, 2pm and/or 6pm)​. Venue: Irene Village Theatre, 1 Pioneer Rd, Irene (Centurion)​ – a short drive from central Pretoria, located in a safe estate. Tickets: From R120 per person​, available via Pretoria Youth Theatre’s website or at the door if not sold out. It’s recommended to book in advance for the final weekend shows. This is a wonderful indoor option for the long weekend, sure to leave the family humming the tunes on the ride home.

• National Zoological Gardens – Pretoria Zoo (City Centre) – Make a day of meeting animals at South Africa’s largest zoo. The National Zoological Garden (simply Pretoria Zoo) is an 85-hectare park home to around 9,000 animals from about 700 species (​en.wikipedia.org) – including big cats, primates, bears, reptiles, and a huge aquarium and reptile house. It’s known for its expansive grounds (you can even rent golf carts or use the cable car to get around!). Family highlights include the African savannah enclosures (with giraffes, zebras, and rhinos), the ape enclosure where chimpanzees often put on a show, and the aquarium section featuring fish and sharks​ (pretoriazoo.org). There’s also a dedicated kids’ farmyard where children can see goats, ponies, and other domestic animals. Open: 8:30am–5:30pm daily, including public holidays. Entry fees: Approx. R110 for adults, R80 for kids 2-15 (under 2 free) – and there are family package deals. You can bring your own picnic (there are tables and lawns), or buy snacks inside. Given the zoo’s size, expect a lot of walking – strollers or wagons for little ones can be a plus. The zoo is a great educational outing, and over the long weekend they may offer special feedings or talks (check the schedule at the info desk). For an extra treat, consider booking a behind-the-scenes tour or a ride on the zoo train (small additional cost). Note: Go early to catch animals when they’re most active (midday they might nap), and remember Pretoria’s afternoons can still be warm even in May.

• Irene Village Market (Irene, Centurion) – On Saturday 3 May, head to the grounds of the historic Smuts House in Irene for the Irene Village Market, a long-running art and craft market that takes place on the first and last Saturday of the month. This open-air market has a relaxed farm-style atmosphere under the big oak trees. You’ll find over 100 stalls selling handmade crafts, artwork, clothing, jewelry, and food. For kids, there are often dedicated activities: pony rides, face painting, a petting zoo or jumping castle, and live music to keep the vibe jovial. The market is very family-friendly – many stalls cater to children with toys or sweet treats, and there’s plenty of space for them to run around. Hours: roughly 8am to 2pm. Entrance: Free (with secure parking available for a small fee). While in the area, you can also pop into the Jan Smuts House Museum (the homestead of South Africa’s former Prime Minister) – it’s on the market grounds; a modest entry fee supports its upkeep, and history buffs might find it interesting. An outing to Irene Market is a lovely way to spend Saturday morning – you get a mix of culture, community and outdoor fun, and you might pick up some unique souvenirs or treats.

  

  

  

• Outdoor Fun in Pretoria – The capital city offers several other family outings if you have time. Nature-loving families can visit Rietvlei Nature Reserve (south of Pretoria) for a self-drive mini safari – keep an eye out for rhinos, buffalo, zebras and ostriches; there are picnic spots and fishing spots, and entry is about R70 per adult, R40 per child. If the kids need to burn some energy, Acrobranch Pretoria at Rosemary Hill Farm is an exciting option: it’s a treetop adventure park where you tackle obstacles and zip lines among the trees (courses are tailored by age, including easy routes for young children and more challenging ones for teens and adults). Cost at Acrobranch: ~R150–R200 per person depending on the course. For a mix of play and learning, consider the Sci-Enza Science Centre at the University of Pretoria or the Pretoria National Botanical Garden (which has paved trails for prams and a kids’ play area by the restaurant). Finally, if you’re exploring Pretoria’s city sights, know that many – like the Union Buildings gardens and Church Square – are open and free for strolls, making for a casual history lesson on the go. These additions ensure there’s never a dull moment for your family over the long weekend in Pretoria.

Tips: During this May long weekend (which includes the Workers’ Day public holiday on 1 May 2025), many venues may have special operating hours or holiday promotions – it’s wise to check each attraction’s website or social media for updates before you go. Autumn weather in South Africa can be unpredictable: bring layers for chilly mornings/evenings, sun protection for midday, and always a reusable water bottle.

Many outdoor events and markets are weather-dependent, so have a backup indoor activity planned just in case. Above all, enjoy the quality time – with this array of family-friendly things to do, the kids (and you) are bound to have a blast, creating wonderful memories this long weekend. 

Sources:

• Johannesburg & Pretoria – What’s on in Joburg event listings; Gold Reef City official info​a; SAAF Museum Airshow announcement​; Pretoria Zoo facts (Wikipedia)​; eThekwini Municipality on Umgeni Bird Park​; etc.

• Cape Town – What’s on in Cape Town holiday guide​; Two Oceans Aquarium visitor info​.

• Durban – uShaka Marine World official site​; LinkedIn post (eThekwini) for Umgeni Bird Park​.

• General – Venue official websites and social pages for hours and prices. (All information is current for May 2025 long-weekend planning.)

*** All details and pricing are subject to change and current as at 30 April 2025.