The perfect playground is all about kids having a chance to explore, play, and burn off some energy. We’ve rounded up the best playgrounds in Johannesburg that will be the peak of a family outing and let the little ones play to their hearts’ content.
MiFitness Kids Syringa Park
At 7000m2, MiFitness Kids is regarded as the grandest play park in South Africa and features the most epic jungle gym ever seen.
Bring the kids to Syringa park any weekend and let them explore various features including one of the largest jumping pillows in the world (300m2), a kindy playground, a zip line, four large playgrounds, an 8m climbing pyramid, a giant inflatable soccer pitch, a large jungle theme jumping castle, a mega obstacle course jumping castle, and a giant target.
There’s also a splash pad (make sure the little ones bring an extra set of clothes and towels), a snack shack stocked with snacks, drinks and the best soft serve in town, Syringa Park’s 14 gourmet vendor restaurants, and go-kart racing, which is not included in the ticket price and can be organised with Epic Karting.
Camping chairs and picnic blankets are welcome on the premises, and children under the age of two must be accompanied by an adult. Adults are not allowed entry on their own. The space offers an expansive and diverse range of activities for children. Situated within a secure area, parents can rest assured knowing that their children can play freely and safely.
Note that the play park hours differ from Syringa Park’s operating hours, and no pets are allowed into the playground.
Cost: Free entry
When: Friday and Sunday from 9am to 5pm. Saturday and Public holidays from 9am to 6pm. Closed from Monday to Thursday
Where: MiFitness Kids Syringa Park, Portion 61, Driefontein Farm, Driefontein Rd, Muldersdrift
Website: www.mifitness-kids.co.za/mifitness-kids-syringa-park | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 072 015 2926
Delta Park
In addition to 104 hectares of grassland and woodland and walking trails, Delta Park features an open-access children’s playground located near the main entrance.
The playground includes jungle gyms, swings, and slides suitable for children of different ages, with a smaller jungle gym for eager toddlers.
Additionally, parents enjoy sensory trails and bird-viewing hides located throughout the park for those more interested in the local flora and fauna.
Cost: Free entry
When: Daily, 6am to 6pm
Where: 77 Craighall Rd, Victory Park, Randburg
Website: jhbcityparksandzoo.com
James & Ethel Gray Park
James and Ethel Gray Park in Birdhaven is a beautiful, well-maintained park and bird sanctuary offering panoramic views over the city. The space is great for picnics, dog walking, jogging, cycling or just chilling. On the odd occasion, you might spot a group of yogis doing yoga sessions on the grass.
As for the little ones, James & Ethel Gray Park features two children’s playgrounds equipped with jungle gyms, swings, slides, and a small bike/tricycle track inside the play area.
Cost: Free entry
When: All hours
Where: Edgewood Avenue &, Melrose St, Birdhaven, Melrose
Website: www.jamesandethelgrayparkfoundation.org | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 011 435 4727
Mushroom Farm Park
Located in Sandton, the Mushroom Farm Park is one of the few playgrounds in Johannesburg catering to children of all ages, making it one of the most popular weekend destinations in the northern suburbs.
The playground encourages active, physical play with climbing nets, obstacle courses, and slides.
Cost: Free entry
When: Daily, 6am to 6pm
Where: Mushroom Farm Park, Cnr Rivonia Rd and Daisy St, Sandown, Sandton
Tel: 010 900 3219
George Hay Park
Located in the heart of Parkview, George Hay Park features a playground that caters to all ages and is one of the few places that’s also quite inclusive.
In addition to baby swings, small and big slides, a baby seesaw, monkey bars, and a merry-go-round, the playground also features a wheelchair-friendly swing inspired by 7-year-old Lily.
Additionally, there is a small basketball court and a rustic tree house for the kids to explore.
Cost: Free entry
When: Daily, 6am to 6pm
Where: George Hay Park, Parkview, Randburg
Tel: 011 712 6600
Zoo Lake
One of the most popular spots in Joburg, especially for families, is Zoo Lake.
The venue features lots of things to do with the kids including two large jungle gyms and play areas for smaller and older kids, while ice cream sellers and vendors roam the place, selling kids’ toys.
Cost: Free entry
When: Daily, 6am to 6pm
Where: Zoo Lake Park, 60 Jan Smuts Ave, Forest Town, Randburg
Forest Fun Park
A spacious 2-hectare outdoor playground in Pretoria East, Forest Fun Park invites families to enjoy a play site featuring slides and swings, whilst surrounded by lush greenery.
Kids are invited to explore the treehouses, navigate the jungle gyms, enjoy the swings, roundabouts, and dive into the dedicated sandpit.
Thanks to its location and fauna, the park is a great spot for family outings, birthday celebrations and even weddings.
Cost: Free entry
When: Daily, 6am to 6pm
Where: Tierpoort
Website: forestfun.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 082 336 0893
Joburg restaurants with outdoor play areas
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