Are you tired of always going to the same old spots, drinking the same old drinks and seeing the same old crowd wherever you end up? Joburg is a massively intricate and large city with a variety of things to see and do.
Planning dates within the ‘known’ can easily negate the magic. That is why we set up a brief list of date ideas in Johannesburg to help introduce new venues and concepts to the hermits and homebodies, or those regulars always frequenting the same places.
Have we missed any of your favourite spots? Please let us know in the comments below or email [email protected]
Cracker Zac’s
Cracker Zac’s is a bowling venue in Johannesburg that draws inspiration from the retro age of grown-up bowling alleys of America. This fun and exciting spot is here to make bowling cool again. Forget uninspiring interiors and lacklustre food – their outposts in Rosebank, Johannesburg and Menlyn, Pretoria come fitted with tasteful furnishings and glowing golden lights.
The menu includes easy bar classics and a solid range of pizza, which all washes down well with any of the beer taps pouring local favourites or cocktails available at the bar. A range of games are on standby, and lanes can be booked on an hourly basis for groups of up to six people. Some of the popular attractions include Hyper Bowling and Augmented Reality Darts to take your social gatherings to the next level.
Cost: R50pp once-off cover charge. Credits can be purchased at the entrance
When: Monday to Thursday, 12pm to 11pm. Friday & Saturday, 12pm to 12pm. Sunday, 12pm to 10pm
Where: Rosebank – 50 Bath Ave, Rosebank, Johannesburg | Menlyn – Menlyn Park Shopping Centre, Atterbury Road, Lois Ave, Menlyn, Pretoria
Acrobranch
This award-winning adventure park needs no writer to gloat about its successes. The sheer fact that it possesses the ability to open shop in nine different locations is evidence enough.
From as far and wide as the Garden Route to Garsfontein, Acrobranch has made its name known to the adrenaline-seeking jungle climbers and tree-swinging sliders of today.
Acrobranch is the perfect date for sporty couples looking to show off their grit, guts and gumption. A test of climbing ability, mobile ingenuity and courage regarding heights is the main factor of this date idea.
Where: 27 Club St, Senderwood, Germiston
When: Wed – Sun: 9am – 5pm
Website: acrobranch.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 086 999 0369
Facebook: @Acrobranch | Instagram: @acrobranchza
THE BIOSCOPE
Previously based in Maboneng, The Bioscope is Joburg’s very own independent cinema currently situated in 44 Stanley, Milpark. ‘What is an independent cinema?’ I hear you asking your digital screen. Essentially, it means that the cinema is independently owned, resulting in the freedom to screen movies of their choosing.
Generally, these screenings are focused on locally produced content. So technically, by supporting this local cinema featuring a locally produced film, you’ll be feeding two birds with one scone.
The Bioscope isn’t limited to one purpose though. It also acts as a stage for stand-up comedians, live music, and inspirational or educational talks. We recommend following their Instagram page to remain clued up on the latest news, events and gatherings happening throughout the months to come.
Where: 44 Stanley Ave, Milpark, Johannesburg
When: Mon – Tue: 10am – 4pm | Wed – Fri: 10am – 9pm | Sat: 9am – 9pm | Sun: 9am – 6pm
Website: thebioscope.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 061 900 4457
Facebook: @thebioscopecinema | Instagram: @thebioscope
Do a wine tasting at Gerakaris Family Wines
Founded in 2009 by Kath Gerakaris, this boutique winery sources its grapes from a farm in the Swartland, Western Cape, and then completes the wine-making process in Craighall Park.
The winery focuses on five types of wines. These are two Chenin Blancs and three Syrahs. Guests can taste these five wines on their visit to the Gerakaris Family Wine Farm for as little as R100 per person. In addition to the tastings, the guests are served cheeseboard platters constructed to complement the wines and accent the flavours. The cheeseboard platters also serve as a showcase for four local cheese producers and a bowl of Cape Olives to boot.
The venue houses a small garden to ensure a cosy and intimate setting. So, we highly recommend that visitors book in advance to claim their space and avoid looking silly in front of their dates.
Where: REEA Complex, Marlborough Ave, Craighall Park, Johannesburg
When: Wed- Fri: 12:30pm – 5pm | Sat:11am – 4pm | Sun: 11am – 2pm
Website: gerakaris.co.za | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 072 638 7636
Facebook: @GerakarisFamilyWines | Instagram: @gerakariswines
WALTER SISULU GARDENS
Founded in 1982, this luscious bit of land is the result of the Roodepoort and Krugersdorp city councils. It is currently home to more than 240 species of birds, which include the Black Eagles that have set up a lovely nest next to the waterfall for the past 30 years.
With an abundance of sparse open spaces to enjoy a spot of lunch, Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens is arguably the most popular place for picnickers and hikers. It is also a prime spot for book readers to lounge under trees, or birdwatchers to tick some more avian friends off their list.
Stroll through some of the most beautiful cycad gardens, and self-guided trails, then end your walk with a photo in front of the iconic waterfall as evidence of your date’s success.
Where: Malcolm Rd, Poortview, Roodepoort
When: Sun – Tue: 8am – 5pm | Wed – Sat: 8am – 6pm
Website: sanbi.org | Email: [email protected] | Tel: 012 843 5000
Facebook: @WalterSisuluGardens | Instagram: @sisulu_garden
ZOO LAKE
Opposite the Johannesburg Zoo, there is an enormous manmade lake surrounded by a stunning park. The park, Zoo Lake, is the perfect answer to city dwellers needing to escape the concrete jungle without trekking too far out. A simple 15-minute drive will guarantee you the opportunity to unwind in the quintessential picnic format.
Depending on the route one chooses to take, the average time a walker spends around the lake is an estimated two hours at most. This can then be followed by a quaint picnic or row on the lake. Or, if you prefer the classic modern-day method of consuming food whilst sitting at a table, then low and behold as the deities of opportune favour you, there is a restaurant on the premises as well.
Being one of Joburg’s most popular and most importantly, safest parks, we would recommend that you attend this green gem during the weekends to fully experience what Zoo Lake has to offer.
Where: Parkview, Randburg
When: All Hours
Website: zoolake.org
Facebook: @ZooLake | Instagram: @friendsofzoolake
