What have you got planned for your next date? If you say another night in at home catching up on series or re-watching the entire Harry Potter saga or an afternoon visiting to the park, then you need to read this. It’s time to do something a little more exciting, fun, and even interesting with that special someone. Keep you eye on this page for some great date ideas to try, we’ll be adding something new, interesting and unique every month.
Dates are supposed to be creative and fun, which is why we have come up with this list of local date ideas to get you out and about and exploring the city. Now that the research has been done, take your pick, mix-n-match experiences, and plan the perfect date. These will all be ideal for evening dates and even daytime excursions.
Museum of Illusions
Museum of Illusions is a unique and exciting experience that provides visitors with a fun, interactive and educational immersion that challenges perceptions and inspires creativity. Featuring an unrivalled variety of extraordinary exhibits that use optical illusions, visual tricks, and hands-on interactive displays to create a playful environment, nothing is ever quite as it seems.
Adventure Freaks
Keen on some adventure? Step into a world of nonstop action at Adventure Freaks. They offer a diverse range of activities designed to cater to everyone’s sense of adventure. Take a spin on our exhilarating go-kart track, where you can unleash your inner speed demon and race your friends and family. For a truly unique experience, try their drift trikes, offering controlled drifting and unmatched excitement.
Verdicchio at Montecasino
Be teleported to Italy with Verdicchio. Here, you can wine, dine and indulge a little. This restaurant offers a romantic atmosphere, along with exquisite cuisine, fine wines, and the company of your date. What more do you need for a lovely evening out with your sweetheart? Also, don’t forget to book one of their amazing wine pairing evenings!
Bunny Hop Haven
Looking to do something outdoors? The Bunny Hop Haven is the perfect place to get some fresh air and enjoy adorable furry and feathered little critters. This destination is a home for rescued and surrendered exotic pets and small farm animals. Here, you can expect to find rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, turkeys, ducks, goats, pigs and tortoises. Spend the day feeding the sweet animals on this property then enjoying a picnic.
The City Beach Club
For stunning views of the Joburg CBD, beach vibes, great tunes and refreshing cocktails, The City Beach Club is a must-visit for you and your sweetheart. This hot spot is open on Saturdays and Sundays, with ticket sales available from Tuesday before the upcoming weekend. It’s a lovely spot that you need to visit.
Joburg’s Romantic Restaurants
Looking to treat that special someone to a romantic night out? Wondering which restaurants in Joburg will set the mood for your romantic evening out with your date? Then look no further! Check out these fabulous date night spots in the city. You can thank us later.
Joburg’s Upcoming Festivals
Why not plan a date at one of Joburg’s exciting upcoming festivals? There is something for all tastes, from music and dance fests to foodie delights and cultural fiestas. Be sure to get your tickets ASAP before they sell out. If you and your interest both love attending festivals, then this is a great idea!
Quad Biking Experiences
Are you and your sweetheart adventure seekers? Then why not get your adrenaline pumping with a fun-filled and action-packed quad bike experience in the city? There are so many different destinations you can visit to spend a day quad biking along trails, circuits and bushveld. Click here to see a list of quad biking adventure spots in, near and around Johannesburg.
Do A Unique Joburg Experience With Micro-Adventure Tours
For a unique date idea in Joburg, why not experience a tour to Joburg like no other with Micro-Adventure Tours? They boast extensive knowledge of the Johannesburg CBD, ensuring that you see all the beauty, history, and culture our beloved city has to offer. They offer a wide selection of tours to choose from, including Graffiti Cycle tours; Jozi Coffee & History Walking tours; Jozi Night Rooftop tours; and much more. Not only will you see Joburg through a whole new perspective, but you’ll get to experience it with your sweetheart and spend quality time with them. Book your tour as soon as possible as space is limited for each tour.
Take a Stroll Through The Montecasino Bird Gardens
Why not enjoy a day outdoors admire beautiful feathered creatures at the Montecasino Bird Gardens. Here, you’ll get to view stunning birds, all boasting their beautiful and vibrant feathers. Don’t forget to stop over at the snake and amphibian enclosures. Also, a must when you visit is take a stroll through the aviary! There’s also a bunch of mammals wandering through the enclosures. Feeling peckish or thirsty? then head to the Flamingo Cafe, relax, and admire the pretty pink flamingoes strutting and preening in the distance.
Enjoy Amazing Views At Harties Cableway
Head to Harties and enjoy the stunning views as you ride up the Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway. And once at the top, you and your partner can have a lovely lunch, sip on something refreshing, and just enjoy a experience together. Grab a tasty pizza from the Pizza Shack. Or sit down at the self-service 360 Degrees restaurant while admiring the views of Harties and beyond. Also, once you’ve had your fill of food and sights, there are plenty of other destinations nearby that you can visit to make your date extra special.
Enjoy These Date Night Specials!
Grab a bite to eat with your sweetheart at one of these Joburg restaurants offering date night specials! This is a lovely way to wind down, relax, converse with your partner and delight your taste buds. There’s sure to be the perfect special to suit your tastes and budget. This is the ideal solution if you’re tight on cash but still want to go out for a treat together. A few places offering date night specials includes Café del Sol Classico, Turn ‘n Tender, The Local Kitchen Co, Nikos, Ponta Portuguese Inspired Restaurant, and Hussar Grill.
How About A Wine Tasting?
Are you and your partner vino lovers? Wine tasting might be a great date idea for you! Joburg offers plenty of wine tasting destinations, all you have to do is decide which one (or few) you want to visit and experience. Click here to see our list of wine tasting spots in and around the city. The list includes venues such as Siwela Wines in Harties, Eighteen 13 Wine Shop & Tasting Room and the Indaba Hotel, Spa and Conference Centre in Fourways, and The Tasting Room in Pretoria. Enjoy!
Pick Your Own Flowers At Akanaka Blooms
Located out in Meyerton, south of Joburg, you’ll find the lovely Akanaka Blooms. They’re a small flower farm that grows seasonal farm fresh flowers for florists, homes, hotels, events and businesses. And, for a unique date idea, why not take a drive here and pick the perfect flower with that special someone on a beautiful Saturday morning? Entry cost is R30 per person* and R150 per flower pick*. Please note that the costs are subject to change at any given time. It’s sunflower season (Summer month from November to March), so this is the perfect opportunity to visit this beautiful flower plant and have a wonderful day surrounded by cheerful yellow sunflowers. Follow them on Facebook to keep in loop with all the news and seasonal blooms.
Head To Little Paris!
A hidden gem in Harties, French Toast Koffie Kafee and Little Paris is the perfect place if you’re looking for a romantic spot to spend some quality time with your sweetheart. Have a lovely lunch at the French Toast Koffie Kaffe, enjoying each other’s company, delighting your taste buds, and admiring the beautiful setting. And once lunch is done, take a stroll to the Love Bridge that leads out to the 12.5m Eiffel Tower, where you and your love can take cute selfies and even engrave a padlock and lock it to the bridge or tower in hopes your love will last a lifetime. Click here for more information.
Head To Almost Orange In Harties
Relax on a beautiful citrus farm out in the countryside with a refreshing G&T in hand, breathing in the fresh air and admiring the beautiful sites at Almost Orange Tapas & Wine Restaurant. This is a delightful gem that you most certainly need to add to your Harties bucket list. Here you can delight your taste buds with tapas platters perfect for sharing, and savour a selection of gins with your meal. And once you’re done dining, take a stroll through the orchards and take a few selfies and pictures of your lovely date out in Harties. Click here for more information about Almost Orange.
Visit At Gerakaris Family Wines
Did you know that there is a winery in the heart of Craighall Park? If not, then you’re in for a treat. Take your partner on a lovely wine tasting at this hidden gem. For just R100, you can sip and savour their four wines made at the winery, while taking in the sunshine and relaxing at this exclusive and intimate setting. And if you’re looking for something to nibble on during your tasting experience, they also serve a cheese board designed to match the wines being tasted, which showcases four South African cheese producers, and bowls of Cape Olives. Also, keep in mind that bookings are essential.
The Best Joburg Views at Alto234
Why not romance you sweetheart with some of the best view the city has to offer, along with tasty tapas, refreshing cocktails and skyline views for days? Sounds great? Then be sure to visit Alto234. Located on the top floor of The Leonardo in Sandton, the exclusive and unique Alto234 is Africa’s highest urban bar, ensuring an experience unlike any other on the continent. Not only that, but they offer a selection of experiences that’s sure to delight the senses. Be sure to take a selfie together at this must-visit destination and share it to social media.
Take Awesome Pictures At DreamBox
Venture to Midrand with fully charge phones and enjoy an hour of creativity and unique picture taking at DreamBox ZA. This is the perfect place to take those adorable couples photos for social media. Take your pick from various backdrops and settings that’s inspire you and get the creative juices flowing. Visit and explore their 12 interesting, unique and exciting pop-up boxes and have a blast. Just be sure to book well in advance, as they’re only open on weekends and time slots sell out fast! Click here to find out more about this interesting and unique destination.
Turn Their World Upside Down!
Another unique spot well-worth the drive and visit is the Upside Down House in Harties! This attraction is literally what the name suggests: it’s a house, but upside down, standing on its roof with the foundation in the air. We kid you not! Not only is this an interesting sight to behold, but it makes for a unique photo shoot opportunity. Even the various rooms within these four walls are upside down. Ceiling to the ground and furniture above your head. There is a small admission fee, but it is totally worth it, considering this is something you don’t experience and see everyday!
Enjoy A Romantic Riverside Picnic at Lethabo Estate
Situated out in Lanseria, along the banks of the Crocodile River, you’ll find the beautiful Lethabo Estate. Other than having stunning views of the river, bird and animal life, and scenic greenery to admire and enjoy, couples can also book themselves a romantic riverside picnic for two. We have personally visited this property and booked one of these picnic offerings, and we must say, it quite unique and intimate! There are various secluded and sheltered spots scattered along the riverbanks, surrounded by tall reeds and trees. Be sure to visit their website and take a look at their selection of picnic offerings, they’re absolutely lovely!
Travel Back In Time In Pretville
Another must-visit in Harties, Pretville Town & Bioscope will take you on an exciting journey back to the 1950s. Pretville is the only film town of its calibre that’s open to the public in the country. Grab your sweetheart by their hands and spend the day admiring the realistic 1950s style sets and props, including a variety of funky vintage cars, perfect for candid photos or making great memories. There’s plenty of activities to enjoy too. Sip on a delicious milkshake at the Pretville Diner or take a tour of the town and see where all the movie magic happens.
Get Creative at Color Café
There’s plenty of fun to be had at Color Café! Grab your sweetheart by the hand, head to Hyde Square in Hyde Park, and spend a few happy hours with Color Café, getting creative and having a blast doing some ceramic painting. And the best part about this activity is you don’t have to be a Van Gogh, Michelangelo or Picasso to create something special and unique. All you have to do is pick the item you want to paint, have fun while letting your inner artist indulge a little, and have a good time. And once you’re done, you’ll have a personalised piece of art to take home with you. This is certainly a unique and different date idea option to try!
In Summer, Go Raspberry Picking
What is more romantic than grabbing your sweetheart by the hand, enjoying some sunshine while strolling through a raspberry field, picking a few succulent berries to take home with you to indulge in later? If this sounds like the perfect date for you, then be sure to visit The Field Berry Farm in Walkerville between the months of January and April for their Raspberry Festival. There is an entry fee and well as a set cost per kilogram of raspberries that you pick from their field. And once you’ve had your stroll, be sure to grab something delicious from their various food stalls. Be sure to try their raspberry fro-yo or slushie, they’re musts! Click here for all the details.
Stroll Through The Fourways Farmers Market
Grab your date by the hand and head to the Fourways Farmers Market, now located within the Modderfontein Reserve. This is a great spot to take a stroll through all of the interesting market stalls, indulge in some of the best gourmet street food imaginable and soak up some sunshine. and if you both have furry four-legged companions, why not let them tag along as this market is dog-friendly (just be sure to keep the pooches on their leads). Click here to take a look at what you can expect at this lovely outdoor market surrounded by nature.
Grab Something Sweet at Crumbs & Cream
Why not make your date with that special someone extra sweet with something decadent and indulgent from Crumbs & Cream? Cookies and ice cream are seriously a match made in heaven, and Crumbs & Cream is just the place to get some of the best combinations, flavours and more. Here, you can take your pick from their in-store menu that’s updated on a regular basis to ensure there’s always something new to try and savour, or you can create your own custom experience! Looking for other dessert options to spoil your date with? Click here to take a look at some of the city’s top dessert hot spots.
Visit The Egrek Cinema
Have you visited Parkhurst’s hidden gem, the Egrek Cinema? This is just the place if you’re looking to enjoy one of the latest movies on circuit without all of the crowds. Think a small and intimate 30-seater cinema, making it an intimate and cosy movie viewing experience perfect for your next date night. For more information about the Egrek Cinema, click here. And if you’re wondering what’s currently showing, then click here to visit their website.
Dine In the Sky At Higher Ground
For a unique and unforgettable dining experience like no other, be sure to book your romantic date night at Higher Ground at St Stithians College in Bryanston. Here, you and your date will get to enjoy your choice of either a breakfast, lunch or dinner, 30.48 metres in the air, surrounded by stunning panoramic views of Sandton and the Johannesburg skyline in the distance. These Sky Dining experiences are available over the weekends and booking is essential. Click here for more information and to find the perfect date and click here to make your booking.
An Exciting Date Night In With DateFactory
We came across this exciting concept not too long ago, and we highly recommend you give it a try! DateFactory brings you and your partner a complete date night in a box, delivered right to you door anywhere in South Africa, for you to enjoy in the comfort of your own space. And best of all, there’s a wide range of options to choose from, whether you’re both in the mood for the ultimate pamper session with your sweetheart to unwind after a long week or are looking to spice things up a bit with on of the sexier variations. Click here to take a look at what you can expect from DateFactory.
Be Adventurous At Soweto Towers
Why not do something you’ve both never done before? Like bungee jumping at the Soweto Towers? We know, it sounds absolute crazy, but we promise you, it is loads of fun and will be a memory you’ll hold on to for a lifetime. Who can say that they did a bungee jump? Not many people, so why not add it to your date to-do list? They offer a selection of other adventure activities is the bungee jumping is a little too much for you — choose from a session of paint balling, SCAD free fall, base jump, or try making your way up the a 25m climbing wall. Booking is essential!
Arrange A Private Picnic At Home
Ever gone on a picnic in the city? Not? Then make sure you plan a wonderful gastronomic outdoor adventure. First things first – you need to decide where you’re going to set up your feast. In case you didn’t know, Dial-a-Picnic offers picnic experiences that’ll definitely delight. Whether you’re in Cape Town, Sandton, Alberton, Durban or Pretoria, there is an option for you. But, if you’re looking to plan your own location — whether it’s in your backyard, in a park or in the middle of your lounge inside a blanket fort — Dial-a-Picnic also offers a selection of lovely picnic baskets filled with delicious delights for you to choose from and have delivered. Planning a romantic picnic give you the opportunity to get creative and custom create something you and your partner will love and enjoy!
Trade The Sneakers For Skates
Kick off the sneakers and pull on a pair of skates for a laughter-filled date at RollEgoli roller skate rink in Bryanston. Not only will enjoy some quality time together, but you will be shrieking and laughing with all the tumbling until you finally find your feet (or would that be ‘skates’?) Once you get the hang of it and had a bit of a workout, you might need a break. So grab your partner and a bite to eat at their onsite restaurant, which serves pizzas, hot drinks, cold drinks, slush puppies, gelato, hot drinks and snacks. The venue also has a jungle gym, trampoline, a scooter track, a four-hole putt putt course and a big screen for sporting events.
Keep It Simple With Adventure Golf
Why not keep the date simple and spend the afternoon (or evening) play a round or two of Adventure Golf? Sure, it sounds rather boring and plain, but it gives you both the perfect opportunity to get a little competitive and strike up some conversation. You can find Adventure Golf courses at Fourways Mall, Ferndale on Republic, Stoneridge Centre and Hillfox Value Centre. All of their branches are open everyday of the week, Sunday – Thursday from 09:00 – 20:00, and Friday and Saturday from 09:00 – 22:00.
Visit Saddle Creek Ranch
So, how about some outdoor adventure? Then be sure to plan, arrange and book something unique and extra exciting at Saddle Creek Ranch in Hekpoort, about an hour’s drive from Joburg. Here, you can spend the afternoon enjoying nature, going on horseback rides, perhaps even trying your hand at some archery, go quad biking, do some laser clay pigeon shooting, or even get some of the best Magaliesburg views with a Hot Air Balloon Safari adventure. The options are endless! Click here to see what you and your partner can get up to at Saddle Crrek Ranch. Also, keep in mind that booking is essential.
Enjoy A Couple’s Cooking Class
As they saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach”, which is why it might be a good idea — or a bonding experience — for couples to take a romantic cooking class together. Taste-Buds Cook Club offers Romantic Couples Evenings that’ll delight your taste buds and give your date night a unique twist. Couples will start off with a welcome drink before making their way to the kitchen. There you will prepare a dish which could be a starter, main course or dessert. Once your dish is done, it will be beautifully plated and ready for you to enjoy on the buffet table together with the dishes, prepared by others. So, get ready for a variety of taste sensations. Click here to find out when the next Romantic Couples Evening takes place and book now.
Catch A Movie At The Bioscope
For a different way of seeing a movie in the city, makes sure you check out the lineup at The Bioscope at 44 Stanley. They screen interesting films every week, offering a unique way to sit back, relax and enjoy a movie with your partner. Visit their site to view their upcoming and current screenings. Every month, they do host a dedicated date night screening, showing a romantic movie paired with a cheesy pizza to share. Visit their Facebook page to keep up to date with the latest date night screenings. Click here to find out more about The Bioscope and why you should pay it a visit in its brand-new home.
