by Saira Lortan
Are you even a Joburger if you haven’t visited Commissioner Street? Before Sandton, Rosebank, and Hyde Park, Joburg CBD was the original 'it-girl' of places to be. Commissioner Street is one of Joburg’s oldest streets, packed with history and iconic hangouts.
What's The Story?
When it was announced that gold mining would be allowed in 1886, Captain Carl von Brandis, a gold commissioner born in Germany, came to Joburg and set up a tent to use as his office. That very spot and its surrounds would later become Commissioner Street. Not only was this the birthplace of Joburg CBD as we know it today, but it was also the place where the first movie in South Africa was shown in May 1896, at the Empire Palace of Varieties. Talk about iconic, hey?
Commissioner Street is now home to many office buildings, banks, shops, and eateries. Let’s explore some of the things to do on and around this historic street. Before you set out on your adventure, make sure you’re wearing your most comfortable pair of tekkies. The best way to see and experience this street is on foot!
Carlton Centre
The Carlton Centre was the tallest building in Africa for 46 years, from its opening in 1973 to 2019. The building is made up of an underground shopping mall with over 180 stores and a multi-level car park.
The 50th and top floor of the Carlton Centre is known as the “Top of Africa”. It provides spectacular 360° views of Joburg, and even of Pretoria on a clear day. If you want more views than a viral TikTok video, then be sure to grab some footage from the top floor.
Details: 150 Commissioner Street, Marshalltown, Johannesburg | 011 308 1331Photo: Gandhi Square Precinct website.
Collectors’ Treasury Bookshop
Collectors’ Treasury is more than a bookstore; it’s a historical institution. Founded in the 1970s by the Klass family, it's grown to be the largest used and rare bookstore in the Southern Hemisphere. Collectors’ Treasury consists of EIGHT floors of books, vinyl, prints, records, maps, and many more collectables.
If your grandad is always humming a tune from an old-timey record, here's where you might find an original copy. The store is stacked from floor to ceiling with interesting artefacts, so this is an ideal spot if you have time to kill. It'd take you days to explore all they have to offer.
Details: 0783607749 (Whatsapp) | [email protected] | Facebook | Instagram | Yaga StorePhoto by Collectors’ Treasury on Facebook.
The Rand Club
If Johannesburg had a formal living room, it would be The Rand Club. Founded in 1887, this historic members’ club is just off Commissioner Street and has watched the city grow from gold rush chaos to modern-day hustle.
This is where early mining magnates once debated the future of the city, and that sense of importance still lingers in the air. Today, it’s home to elegant dining rooms and a beautiful library. This gorgeous spot is a reminder that Joburg has always had layers.
Details: [email protected] | WhatsApp Enquiries: 064 005 3128
Gandhi Square
This historic square is located just a few blocks from Commissioner Street. It's existed since 1900, and was renamed after Mahatma Gandhi in 1999. You'll find the famous 2.5m tall statue of Gandhi in the square, along with several other statues and historical artefacts.
One of its main functions is serving as the central bus terminus for Metrobus. Gandhi Square also features many shops, banks, restaurants, and businesses. This iconic precinct is a must-visit for those wanting experience authentic Joburg.
Details: [email protected] | Facebook | Instagram
Small Street Mall
Some of you may travel on Commissioner Street to work every day. In those moments, you might be trying to hold back tears because you’ve been wearing the same shoes for three days in a row. Why not take a sho't left to the Small Street Mall? It's a short trip away from the Carlton Centre, and features hundreds of clothing and shoe stores.
Not only is it affordable, but it’s also a vibe. Speakers line the storefronts, blasting African beats, and every friendly store owner wants to offer you a better deal than the store next door.
Address: 98 Pritchard Street, Johannesburg, 2000Photo by Chun-jin (u/randsmart) in r/johannesburg; Reddit.
Feature image source: Jeqe Management website.
