A theme park built around a recreated gold-rush mining town south of central Johannesburg, with roller coasters, water rides and gentler rides for younger children. Ride height limits apply.
A large hands-on science centre in Newtown, central Johannesburg, with interactive exhibits on science, technology and the human body. Indoors and suited to mixed ages, it can easily fill half a day.
Johannesburg's city zoo in the leafy northern suburbs, with large animals from Africa and beyond across spacious grounds. Mostly outdoors with plenty of walking, so plan breaks for younger children.
A UNESCO World Heritage area about an hour northwest of Johannesburg, where fossils of early human ancestors were found. The Maropeng visitor centre and nearby Sterkfontein Caves make a full day best suited to older children.
Important but emotionally serious; best for mature teens.
A former prison complex in Braamfontein, now home to South Africa's Constitutional Court and museums on the country's struggle for democracy. Content is serious, so it best suits older teens with some preparation.
Bird gardens at the Montecasino complex in Fourways, with walk-through aviaries, a bird show and a few small mammals. Entirely outdoors and compact, it suits a gentle half-day with young animal fans.
A wildlife park north-west of Johannesburg where families can drive or take a guided tour through lion and antelope enclosures. Allow for the drive out of the city.
A transport museum in Pioneers' Park in southern Johannesburg with old buses, trams, steam engines and other vehicles. A good stop for children who love vehicles of all kinds.
A botanical garden in Roodepoort on the western edge of Johannesburg, with a waterfall, lawns and walking paths, and well known for nesting Verreaux's eagles. Great for picnics and a slower outdoor day.