Adventure At Your Fingertips

Picnic Spots In and Around Parktown for a Sunny Weekend

There’s something about a warm Joburg weekend that makes staying indoors feel like a missed opportunity. The sun is out, the weather is warming up and suddenly a picnic blanket, a basket packed with snacks and a few hours on the grass sounds like exactly what you need.Luckily, Parktown puts you close to some of the city's best outdoor spaces. Whether you're planning a family afternoon, a relaxed date, meeting friends or simply want to get outside without driving too far, there are plenty of places nearby where you can settle in, enjoy the sunshine and make a day of it. From lakeside lawns and botanical gardens to walking trails, birdlife and plenty of space to explore, we've rounded up five picnic spots in and around Parktown worth knowing about. We've also included one option a little further out for when you feel like making more of a day of it.Why Parktown Is A Great Base For A PicnicParktown might be known for its historic homes, leafy streets and city views, but its location also makes it a handy starting point for a day outdoors. From Emmarentia and Zoo Lake to Delta Park and further out towards Modderfontein, some of Joburg's best-known green spaces are within easy reach.And when the weather is doing its thing, there's really no need to overcomplicate a weekend. Pack a few snacks, grab a blanket and find somewhere to sit in the sunshine. Whether you're heading out with the kids, meeting friends, taking the dogs for some fresh air or simply want a slow afternoon outside, these spots offer different ways to enjoy a sunny Joburg day.5 Picnic Spots In and Around Parktown Worth Your BlanketZoo LakeZoo Lake is one of those Joburg spots that has been a weekend favourite for generations. Set around a large lake in Parkview, it has plenty of space for picnicking, as well as walking paths, a children's play area, boat rides and canoeing. There's also Moyo on the lake if you'd rather grab something to eat while you're there. JCPZ specifically lists a picnic area among the park's facilities, and it's also dog friendly, making it a good option if the whole family includes a four-legged member.It can get lively on sunny weekends, which is part of the appeal. Pack a blanket, bring something to eat and settle in for a relaxed afternoon, with walking paths, activities and plenty of space to enjoy the park.Johannesburg Botanical Garden & Emmarentia DamFor a picnic with a little more room to spread out, head to the Johannesburg Botanical Garden and Emmarentia Dam. The 81-hectare gardens have large grassy areas where people regularly picnic, along with beautiful themed gardens including the Rose Garden and Herb Garden. The dam adds another dimension to the outing, with canoeing, sailing and kayaking taking place on the water.It's a particularly good choice for families because there's plenty of space to walk around after lunch, while the gardens give you something to explore beyond simply sitting on the grass. There are also plenty of spots to find a quieter corner if you're looking for a slower afternoon.Do keep in mind that the Botanical Garden has specific rules for visitors. Open fires, braais and gas braais are not permitted, along with gazebos, alcohol and loud music. Dogs are also only permitted in designated areas.Delta ParkIf you'd rather combine your picnic with a bit of nature, Delta Park offers a different kind of outdoor experience. The 104-hectare park is made up of grassland and woodland, with walking trails, three dams, bird hides and the Florence Bloom Bird Sanctuary. There are also picnic spots, including quieter areas in the southeastern corner of the park.It's a good option when you don't want your afternoon to be all about sitting on a blanket. Bring your picnic, explore some of the trails, look out for birdlife and find a spot to settle down when you're ready for lunch. The park's more natural setting also makes it feel a little removed from the city, despite being surrounded by Joburg's northern suburbs.James & Ethel Gray ParkTucked away in Birdhaven, James & Ethel Gray Park is another lovely green space for a relaxed outdoor afternoon. The 36-hectare park follows the Sandspruit River and has indigenous vegetation, neat lawns and meandering walkways, along with ablution facilities.While it isn't a formal picnic park in the same way as Zoo Lake or the Botanical Garden, the spacious lawns and outdoor setting make it suitable for a casual picnic. The park is also used for outdoor gatherings and picnic-style events, so it can work well when you're looking for somewhere a little quieter. Pack your own food and blanket, find a comfortable spot on the lawns and combine your picnic with a walk through the park.Modderfontein ReserveIf you're happy to venture a little further from Parktown, Modderfontein Reserve is a good option when you want your picnic to feel more like a day in nature. The 265-hectare private regional open space has grassland, hills, dams and the Modderfontein Spruit, giving you plenty of room to explore before or after lunch.The reserve has a designated picnic spot at Dam 3, also known as Fish Eagle Dam, with picnic lapas, an ablution block and braai facilities. There is an entrance fee, and the reserve is open daily from 06:00 to 18:00. Picnic facilities have limited capacity, so it's worth planning ahead if you're visiting with a larger group.What To Pack For Your PicnicA good Joburg picnic doesn't need to be complicated. Pack a blanket or camping chairs, plenty of water, snacks or lunch, sunscreen and something to keep the kids entertained. If you're bringing the dogs, don't forget water for them and remember to check the specific park's rules before you go.It's also worth checking the weather forecast before setting off. Joburg's sunny days can change quickly, particularly as spring thunderstorms become more common, so having a backup plan is never a bad idea.If you're planning to braai, make sure you choose a spot where braais are actually permitted. The rules vary between parks, so don't assume you can bring a portable braai just because there's a large grassy area.Make A Weekend Of ItOne of the nice things about picnic spots around Parktown is that you don't have to spend the whole day travelling to get outdoors. You can grab breakfast or coffee nearby, spend a few hours at the park, then head home or continue exploring the surrounding suburbs.For a classic family picnic, Zoo Lake or Emmarentia are easy options. Delta Park is ideal if you'd like to add a little more nature and walking to your afternoon, while James & Ethel Gray Park offers a quieter green-space outing. And when you're in the mood for something that feels more like an escape from the city, Modderfontein Reserve gives you plenty of space to slow down and spend the day outside.So next time the Joburg weather is looking good, pack the picnic, grab your blanket and make the most of the sunshine.FAQsWhat are the best picnic spots near Parktown?Some of the picnic spots in and around Parktown include Zoo Lake, the Johannesburg Botanical Garden and Emmarentia Dam, Delta Park, James & Ethel Gray Park and Modderfontein Reserve.Which picnic spots are dog friendly?Zoo Lake is dog friendly and is specifically listed by JCPZ as having both a picnic area and dog-friendly facilities. Other parks have different rules around dogs, so check the regulations for the specific park before visiting.Can I braai at these picnic spots?Rules differ between parks. Modderfontein Reserve's designated picnic area at Dam 3 has braai facilities, while the Johannesburg Botanical Garden does not permit open fires, braais or gas braais.What should I bring to a picnic?Bring a blanket or chairs, food, water, sunscreen and anything you'll need for the kids or dogs. It's also a good idea to pack a rubbish bag so you can leave your picnic spot clean.

The Best Dance Classes in Joburg Right Now

There’s more to dancing than learning a few steps. It’s a workout, a way to switch off after a long day, a chance to meet new people and, sometimes, simply an excuse to put your phone down and have some fun.And you don’t have to be a trained dancer to join in. Across Johannesburg, dance studios cater to complete beginners, adults getting back into dance after years away, children taking their first ballet class and anyone who simply wants to try something new. From Latin and Ballroom to Ballet, Contemporary, Hip Hop and Line Dancing, there’s plenty to choose from.For kids, dance can also be a great way to develop coordination, balance, confidence and creativity while having fun and making friends. Whether you’re looking for a new way to keep fit, want to build confidence, need an activity for the kids or have always secretly wanted to learn Salsa, we’ve rounded up some dance studios around Joburg worth knowing about.Why Try Dance Classes In Johannesburg?There’s a reason dance remains such a popular way to get moving. Unlike a traditional gym workout, you’re learning steps, remembering combinations and moving to music while you exercise. For adults, it can be a fun way to improve fitness and coordination without feeling like you're simply counting reps or watching the clock. It can also be a great way to meet people and do something completely separate from your usual work and family routine.You also don't need to arrive knowing what you're doing. Many dance schools cater for beginners, and some offer trial lessons so you can get a feel for the class before signing up. Whether you're picking up dancing for the first time, returning to something you loved years ago or finally trying the style you've always wanted to learn, there's no reason to wait until you're “good enough” to start.For children, dance brings together movement, creativity and structure. Regular classes can help develop coordination, balance, musicality and body awareness, while also encouraging confidence, discipline and perseverance. And then there's the fun part. Kids get to make friends, learn new skills and, as they progress, work towards performances, examinations or competitions.The Best Dance Classes In Joburg Right NowFive6seven8 Dance Studio, RandburgWant to try something completely different every week? Five6seven8 Dance Studio in Ferndale on Republic, Randburg, has more than 27 dance styles under one roof. That means you’re certainly not short of options. The studio caters for everyone from preschoolers and kids to teens and adults, and also offers wedding dance lessons and dance parties.The adult programme includes styles such as Afro Beat, Argentine Tango, Ballet, Ballroom, Barre Time, Belly Dancing, Bollywood, Burlesque, Contemporary, DanceFit, Hip Hop, Kizomba, Latin, Lindy Hop, Line Dancing, Musical Theatre, Salsa, Shuffling, Sokkie, Tap, West Coast Swing and Zumba. If the thought of committing straight away feels like a lot, the studio also offers a free trial, making it easy to put on your dancing shoes and see what you think.Dancelot, BedfordviewThink you need to arrive with a partner to learn Ballroom or Latin dancing? Not at Dancelot. The Bedfordview studio has been around since 1975 and offers group and private lessons, as well as wedding dance lessons and Salsa and Bachata classes.The group classes are open to beginners and experienced dancers, and you don't need a partner or a contract to join. You can work on styles including Jive, Foxtrot, Boogie, Waltz and Cha Cha Cha, with Line Dancing also available. Dancelot also has locations in Kensington and Eastgate, so if you're based in the east of Joburg, you have a few options for fitting dance into your week.The Dance Academy SA, FourwaysLooking for a dance school where your child can grow with their dancing, or perhaps somewhere you can try a class yourself? The Dance Academy SA is based at Prison Break Market in the Fourways and Kyalami area and offers classes for both children and adults.Its programmes include Ballet, Contemporary, Modern, Lyrical, Acro, Hip Hop and Pilates. Ballet starts from the age of 2.5, while adult ballet is available at all levels. Contemporary and Modern classes cater to different age groups too, giving younger dancers the chance to progress as they get older. Trial classes are also available if you want to see whether the studio feels like the right fit before signing up.The Dance Collective, BryanstonIf your child is showing a real interest in dance and you're looking for something with a more structured training pathway, The Dance Collective in Bryanston is worth exploring. Based at Naturally Yours Health Centre on Main Road, the studio offers Royal Academy of Dance Ballet and Modern Dance for children from the age of three.The Modern programme includes Contemporary, Jazz and Lyrical, with classes for Minis, Kids, Juniors and Seniors. Ballet follows the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus, with students able to work towards examinations as they progress. The studio also offers private dance lessons tailored to a child's individual needs and skill level. Trial lessons can be booked too, which is useful if you're still figuring out whether your little one has found their thing.Evolution Dance, RandburgIf you've always wanted to learn Salsa but have never quite made it onto a dance floor, Evolution Dance at Sherwood Place on Bram Fischer Drive in Randburg could be a good place to start. The studio caters for absolute beginners through to advanced performers, with faculties covering Latin and Ballroom, Line Dancing, Modern and Ballet.The Latin and Ballroom programme includes Waltz, Salsa and Tango, with both social and competitive training available. Group classes are offered for singles and couples, while private lessons are another option if you prefer more individual attention. The studio also hosts monthly social evenings for registered students, giving you a chance to actually use those new moves outside class.And if the first step feels a little intimidating, Evolution Dance makes it particularly easy to test the waters. Your very first lesson is free, with no pressure or obligation to continue. There are also wedding dance lessons and entertainment options if you're dancing for a particular occasion.Ilanga Youth Dance Co., KensingtonFor a child who really wants to develop their dancing, Ilanga Youth Dance Co. in Kensington takes a more focused approach. Based at 15 Nymphe Street, the studio focuses on developing young dancers through technical training, artistic expression, musical understanding and personal growth.The studio is led by Fiona Brown, who is trained in Cecchetti Ballet, Modern and Tap and is a full-time teaching member of the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing. Students have achieved success in examinations, eisteddfods and international competitions, while the studio also places emphasis on confidence, discipline and helping young dancers develop skills that extend beyond dance. Ilanga also has a second location at 30 Shilingford Road in Henley on Klip.DanceIt Studios, GlenandaIf your child has caught the competition bug, DanceIt Studios in Glenanda is worth exploring. Established in 1984, the school offers dance training for different ages and skill levels, with a strong focus on competitive Dance Sport, examinations and helping dancers progress. It also offers pathways for dancers interested in progressing towards teaching qualifications.For younger dancers, there are syllabus-based examination classes in Tap, Modern and Hip Hop from Tiny Tots aged four, with examination pathways also available in Ballet and Acrobatic Dance. For those who want to take their dancing further, DanceIt's Competition Squad offers high-performance training for local and international competitions.The Dance Junction, RisparkFor families in Johannesburg South looking for structured dance training without travelling across the city, The Dance Junction on Bambi Road in Rispark has been part of the local dance community since 1983.The studio specialises in Ballet, Modern and National Dance, with its Ballet programme starting from the age of three and continuing through to students pursuing a teacher qualification. Contemporary is also available, while dancers can take part in medal examinations in Ballet, National and Modern Dance.There is a real sense of progression here too. Students can work towards examinations and participate in competitions such as the National Eisteddfod of South Africa Dance competition and Dance Academy of South Africa Dance awards. For families looking for a studio where children can develop their skills and potentially take their dancing further, it's an option worth exploring.How To Pick The Right Dance Class For YouStart with location and hours. The best dance class is ultimately the one you can actually get to consistently, especially when you're fitting it around work, school runs and everything else on the calendar. A studio close to home, school or work can make it much easier to turn dance into something you stick with rather than another thing you meant to get around to.Then think about what you actually want from dance. If you're looking for a fun way to keep active, social dance or fitness-focused classes could be a good fit. If your child is interested in more structured training, you may want to look at schools offering examinations, performances or competitions. And if you've always wanted to try a particular style, start there. Sometimes the best class is simply the one you've been curious about for years.It's also worth checking whether the class is aimed at beginners and whether you need a partner. If you're unsure, a trial class can be a great way to meet the instructor, see how the class works and decide whether you enjoy it before committing. For children, it's equally important to see whether the teacher's approach and the class environment suit your child's personality.Finally, check the current timetable and class details directly with the studio before attending. Dance schools can update their schedules and programmes each term, so it's worth confirming the details before you head out.Ready To Give It A Go?Whether you're looking for a new hobby, an after-school activity, a way to get fitter or simply something that gets you out of your usual routine, there are plenty of ways to get moving in Joburg.Pick the style you've always wanted to try, find a studio that works for you and book that first class. You might just discover that dancing becomes the part of your week you look forward to most.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat are the best dance schools in Johannesburg?Johannesburg has dance schools catering to a wide range of ages, styles and experience levels. Five6seven8 Dance Studio in Randburg is a good choice if you want lots of styles under one roof, while The Dance Collective offers a more structured Ballet and Modern pathway for children. The Dance Academy SA caters to both children and adults, Dancelot focuses on Ballroom and Latin dancing, and studios such as DanceIt and Ilanga offer options for young dancers who want to progress further.Where can adults learn to dance in Johannesburg?Adults have plenty of options, including Five6seven8 in Randburg, Dancelot in Bedfordview and Evolution Dance in Randburg. Depending on the studio, you can try everything from Ballet and Contemporary to Latin, Ballroom, Salsa, Line Dancing and more. Many classes cater for beginners, so you don't need to have danced before.Are there dance classes for children in Johannesburg?Absolutely. Many of the studios in this guide offer children's classes, with some starting from as young as three. Children can choose from styles such as Ballet, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Modern, Acro and more, while some schools offer structured examination and competition pathways as they progress.Where can couples take dance classes in Johannesburg?If you're preparing for a wedding, Dancelot, Five6seven8 and Evolution Dance all offer wedding dance options. Ballroom, Latin and Salsa are also great styles for couples who simply want to learn to dance together. Private lessons can be particularly useful if you're working towards a specific routine or first dance.

The Sandton Food Weekend Every Joburg Foodie Needs

From your first coffee of the morning to a long Sunday brunch, Sandton has plenty to keep you eating well throughout the weekend. You can start with breakfast or coffee, spend a few hours exploring Sandton City and Nelson Mandela Square, stop by a food market and then settle in for dinner at one of the area’s restaurants. There are also plenty of newer restaurants to try, along with familiar favourites, so you can put together an itinerary that suits your mood, whether you’re planning a weekend with friends, a date or simply want to explore more of what Sandton has to offer. Here’s how we’d plan a relaxed food-filled weekend in Sandton.Saturday: Start With CoffeeStart your Saturday with a good coffee before getting into the rest of the day. Naked Coffee at Sandton City is a convenient option if you’re already heading to the mall. The kiosk is on Level 4 and serves coffee alongside options such as banana bread, with quieter seating available nearby. Korner Restaurant at ONOMO Hotel offers another setting, with plenty of natural light and a relaxed, modern interior. You could also head to Bootlegger in Grayston or Seattle Coffee at The Marc if you’re looking for another coffee stop.If you’re planning your weekend around coffee, have a look through our guide to Best Coffee Shops In Sandton For Remote Work 2026 for more options.Saturday Lunch: Italian Comfort Food At PolpettaFor lunch, make your way to Polpetta for Italian-inspired comfort food. It’s a convenient stop in the middle of a day spent exploring the area, particularly if you’re looking for a sit-down meal before continuing with your afternoon. Sandton has a mix of established restaurants and newer openings, so you can also use lunch as an opportunity to explore some of the different dining options around the area.If you’re looking beyond Sandton, our guide to Melville’s culinary scene is another useful read for planning a food-focused Johannesburg outing.Spend The Afternoon At Sandton CityAfter lunch, give yourself a few hours to browse Sandton City. You can shop, grab another coffee or simply wander through the mall before deciding where to eat next. The Sandton City food court is useful if everyone in your group wants something different, with Asian and Indian quick-service options alongside other choices.Another stop worth adding is Food Lovers Market Sandton. If you enjoy browsing food counters or picking up something for later, it’s an easy addition to an afternoon in the area, while the cheese counter is also worth a look.Try One Of Sandton’s New RestaurantsSandton’s restaurant scene continues to change, so you can also use the weekend to try one of the newer additions to the area. MIRA at Sandton Sun brings Portuguese and Mozambican influences to the menu, with fresh seafood, premium meats, flame-grilled peri-peri chicken, Portuguese steak, sushi and freshly baked Portuguese bread. At The Marc, Kora combines a six-course tasting menu with beverage pairings and live musical performances, while Flute takes an Afro-fusion approach with dishes such as a plantain roll with spicy mayo and Ndolé with peanuts and prawns. Annexe Bistro is also located at The Marc, with breakfast and lunch options.For another look at what’s new in the area, read our guides to The Best New Sandton Restaurants Worth Booking In 2026 and Best New Restaurants In Sandton 2026.Saturday Dinner: Make It A Proper Night OutWhen it’s time for dinner, Sandton gives you plenty of options depending on the type of evening you have planned. Signature Restaurant is located on Rivonia Road and serves an upscale menu in a sit-down setting. Saint Restaurant at The Marc offers another option, with a modern setting and service from midday until 10:30pm, while The Bull Run on Maude Street in Sandown serves grilled fare and operates daily from noon until 22:30.This gives you a few different areas and styles of dining to choose from, depending on where you’ve spent your afternoon and what kind of dinner you’re after. If you have a particular restaurant in mind, it’s worth checking opening times and booking ahead.Sunday: Brunch, Browsing And A Long LunchSunday is a good opportunity to slow things down and make brunch part of the day. Second Story at Sandton City serves elevated breakfast classics and coffee in a stylish but relaxed setting, while Riverside Cafe and Bistro in Bryanston offers outdoor tables surrounded by trees. PABLO at the Mint Hotel takes a different approach, with a Levantine-inspired menu that includes dishes such as green shakshuka with leeks, spinach and feta, as well as harissa tofu, alongside cocktails and boozy brunch options.Most brunch spots in the area open between 8am and 9am on weekends, with kitchens generally running until around 2pm or 3pm. If you’re planning a bottomless brunch, it’s worth checking availability ahead of time. For more ideas, browse our guide to The Best Brunch Spots In Sandton.Take A Walk Around Nelson Mandela SquareAfter brunch, take some time to walk around Nelson Mandela Square. The square is surrounded by restaurants, shops and cafés, so you can easily combine a wander with another coffee or something sweet. If you’re interested in exploring the area further, our guide to Experience Bespoke Shopping At Nelson Mandela Square has more ideas for what to see and do.Nelson Mandela Square is also home to Tang Sandton, located at Shop 120. The restaurant is open daily from noon until 23:00, so it can also be an option if you decide to stay in the area for a later lunch or dinner.Sunday Lunch: Saint Or The Bull RunIf you’d rather have a proper lunch before ending the weekend, Saint Restaurant and The Bull Run are two options to consider. Saint is at The Marc on Rivonia Road, while The Bull Run is on Maude Street in Sandown, so either can work depending on where you’ve spent the morning and whether you want to stay around The Marc or move towards Sandown.You could also keep the afternoon open and decide where to eat based on where you are after shopping and exploring. The area has enough restaurants, cafés and food options that you don’t necessarily need to plan every meal days in advance.Should You Add Rosebank To The Weekend?If you have more time, Rosebank is close enough to add to your Johannesburg food weekend. Both areas have their own collection of restaurants, cafés and shopping destinations, so you could easily split your time between them rather than trying to fit everything into Sandton alone.Our guides to Brunch In Rosebank, Johannesburg and Is Rosebank Stealing Sandton’s Crown? can help you decide how to plan the two areas into the same weekend.Plan Your Sandton Food WeekendThe nice thing about a food-focused weekend in Sandton is that you can mix and match. Start with coffee, spend a few hours shopping or browsing, stop for lunch, try one of the newer restaurants and leave plenty of time for a longer dinner or Sunday brunch. You don’t have to follow the itinerary exactly either. Use it as a starting point and swap restaurants and activities around depending on where you’re staying and what you feel like doing.Just remember that some restaurants and tasting-menu experiences require reservations, while mall restaurants, cafés and food-market options give you more flexibility. If you’re planning to visit somewhere specific, check its opening hours before heading out.Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat can I do in Sandton for a food-focused weekend?You can combine coffee shops, brunch, restaurants, Sandton City, Food Lovers Market and Nelson Mandela Square into a weekend itinerary. The area also has several newer restaurants to explore.Where can I have brunch in Sandton?Options include Second Story at Sandton City, Riverside Cafe and Bistro in Bryanston and PABLO at the Mint Hotel. Most brunch venues open between 8am and 9am on weekends.Are there new restaurants in Sandton?Yes. MIRA, Kora, Flute and Annexe Bistro are among the newer restaurant additions covered in our 2026 guides.Where can I get coffee in Sandton?Naked Coffee, Korner Restaurant, Bootlegger in Grayston and Seattle Coffee at The Marc are among the coffee spots to consider.Can I visit Sandton without planning every meal?Yes. Sandton City’s food court, Food Lovers Market and its cafés give you options where you don’t necessarily need to plan ahead. For restaurants with limited seating or tasting menus, it’s better to check availability and book where necessary.