Top 10 Things to Do in Pretoria

by Shirley Erasmus

Are you looking for some fun things to do in Pretoria when you’ve got some down-time between school and studies? Good news is we’ve got the best things to do right here!

  • Pack a Picnic

top 10 things to do in pretoria

You’re never too old for a picnic! Pack a few snacks and head over to the Pretoria National Botanical Garden. With almost fifty hectares to explore, you’re bound to find the perfect spot to relax, throw a Frisbee and soak up some vitamin D!

The exciting news is that from May till September, the Gardens are host to the Old Mutual Music in the Gardens. This is a totally unique way to experience our local artists in an intimate setting with family and friends. Gates open at 11h00 and the concerts get underway between 13h00 and 15h00.

Location & Contact:

Telephone: 012 843 5071
Web: https://www.sanbi.org/gardens/pretoria
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun: 08h00-18h00

  • Memorable Markets

top 10 things to do in pretoria

There are many exciting markets to check out in Pretoria, but make sure you experience the Hazel Food Market at least once! The market is an authentic food market and you’ll be pleased to discover that it not only sells all the usual tasty foods to be expected, but also specializes in foods from other countries and cultures!

Location & Contact:

Telephone: 083 554 5636
Web: www.hazelfoodmarket.co.za

  • A night at the Theatre

 

Why not treat yourself and a few friends to a night at the theatre? Atterbury Theatre always has new and exciting shows on offer.

Location & Contact:

Telephone: 012 471 1700
Web: www.atterburyteater.co.za
Opening Hours: By Reservation

  • Join the Empire

top 10 things to do in pretoria

Spend an evening at Arcade Empire. Complete with live music, pizza, Fooze Ball and arcade games! They have been host to many of South Africa’s top bands! Keep an eye on their website for upcoming shows and entertainment.

Location & Contact:

Address: 265 The Highway Street, Pretoria East, 0181
Websitehttps://arcadeempire.wix.com/arcade-empire
Opening Hours: Daily from 11am- 2am.

 

  • Change your Acoustics

 

This is the ultimate place to relax with some live music and a picnic, however it only happens on Sundays once a month. Park Acoustics also hosts an awesome market: ‘Market at Park’ a market which is unique in that it allows designers to showcase their designs in a different atmosphere in the form of a pop-up market where visitors get to shop and see live music in a unique outdoor experience. How awesome!

Location & Contact:

Address: Voortrekker Monument, Pretoria, South Africa
Website: https://www.parkacoustics.co.za/
Opening Hours: Sun from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

6. Go to the Zoo

top 10 things to do in pretoria

Why not visit the zoo for old-times-sake? The Pretoria Zoo is full of historical stories, catch up on some history!

Location & Contact:

Telephone: 012 339 2700
Web: https://www.nzg.ac.za/
Opening Hours: Seven Days a week! (08.30- 16.30)

  • Indulge in South African food

top 10 things to do in pretoria

The Pretoria Boeremark is one of Pretoria’s best kept secrets (well not anymore!). Starting from the very early hours of the morning (think 5am) the ‘sokkie’ music begins and stallholders sell everything from Pap en Kaajins to Vetkoek to organic vegetables. There is nothing like a cup of coffee and a slice of melktert to get your Saturday going!

Location & Contact:

Address: Pioneer Museum, Keuning Street
Website: https://www.pretoriaboeremark.co.za/
Opening Hours: Saturday’s 05am- 14.00

  • High Flyer

top 10 things to do in pretoria

Pretoria is home to the National Air force Museum. This is the place to view some of the Air Force’s retired bombers, fighters and helicopters dating back to the Second World War. Stroll through the hangars which now also house displays of uniforms and weaponry.

Location & Contact:

Telephone: 012 351 2290
Web: https://saafmuseum.org.za/
Opening Hours: Wednesdays, Thursday’s, Friday’s and Saturdays.  (09.00- 15.00)

  • Jacaranda Town

top 10 things to do in pretoria

Pretoria is well known for the gorgeous purple tree known as the Jacaranda. Approximately 55 000 purple -blossomed trees line the streets of the city. Jacarandas bloom in Pretoria at the same time as the end of year exams at the University of Pretoria (popular legend says that if a flower from the Jacaranda tree drops on your head, you will pass all your exams! What better reason could you need to take a walk down the street and marvel at the pretty flowers?).

Opening Hours: November

  • Paintball

top 10 things to do in pretoria

What could be a better stress reliever than a good game of paintball? Point Blank Paintball, in Muldersdrift is, easily accessible from Krugersdorp, Pretoria and Northern Johannesburg. Adrenalin pumping, heart stopping, action packed experience with your friends, work colleagues or just the family.

Location & Contact:

Telephone: (0)82 330 9070
Web: www.point-blank-paintball.com
Opening Hours: By Booking Only.

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