Are you looking for fun in the City Of Gold's central business district? Then look no further! We've put together a comprehensive guide to entertainment in the Joburg CBD.
What Are You Looking For?
Theatres
Art Galleries
Nightclubs
Tourist Attractions
Theatres
Hillbrow Theatre
The Hillbrow Theatre Community Centre, home to the Hillbrow Theatre Project, is a unique space that incorporates 5 practice spaces, a dance studio as well as the Hillbrow Theatre itself. The centre comprises a 368-seater theatre built in the 1970’s, which is equipped with a film projector, a sound system and lighting rig. These spaces have been rendered safe environments for learners of all ages to engage with the performing arts in a meaningful way.
Visit The Hillbrow Theatre
Market Theatre
The Market Theatre, based in the downtown bohemian suburb of Newtown, was opened in 1976, operating as an independently, anti-racist theatre during the country’s apartheid regime. It is named after an original fruit and vegetable market which was located there.
Visit The Market Theatre
Pop Art Theatre
Previously located in Ferreirasdorp (and currently looking for a new home), POPArt stands for People of Performing Art, and that’s exactly what the theatre is all about: providing a platform for the showcasing of some of the freshest work and ideas from some of the hottest emerging and established Performing Arts talents in Johannesburg. From children's theatre to independent productions, POPArt does it all.
Art Galleries
ABSA Art Gallery
Situated in the north of Johannesburg on the main road, is the ABSA bank tower. The ABSA Art Gallery is inside the ABSA tower. The prestigious art competition that allows artists and architects to work together to create a space that accommodated the artworks perfectly, the Barclays L’Atelier is held at the Absa Towers North building in the Johannesburg CBD. The gallery opens Monday to Friday at 8:30 – 16:00 and is closed on weekends and public holidays.
Visit The ABSA Art Gallery
Standard Bank | Gallery
The Standard Bank Gallery is an exciting exhibition space situated in the heart of downtown Johannesburg. Since it opened in 1990, it has become one of the city’s foremost fine art venues. Standard Bank is committed to developing the arts in many facets, but the Standard Bank Gallery in Johannesburg has to be one of the leaders in developing young artistic talent in South Africa. Every year Standard Bank hands out the highly acclaimed and very prestigious Young Artist Award where young artists get the acknowledgment and recognition they need to launch a long-lived and successful career. The best part? Admission to the gallery is free!
Visit The Standard Bank | Gallery
Artist Proof Studios
In 1991 returning exile and artist Kim Berman and Nhlanhla Xaba, an up-and-coming Soweto artist, founded Artist Proof Studios to develop talented artists from disadvantaged backgrounds. Tragically Xaba died in 2003 in a fire that destroyed the original studio premises. In tribute, the studio's new location at the Bus Factory contains many works salvaged from the fire. Today APS acts as a specialist art education centre with a focus on printmaking.
Visit Artist Proof Studios
Image by South African History Online
Nightclubs
And Club
It doesn't get any cooler than this! And is an underground club in Newtown. Known for its electronica ranging between techno, house, and drum and bass, And offers a party like no other. The club is known for its TOY TOY and Addictshun club nights and its involvement with Afrika Burn.
Visit And Club
Carfax
Rocking the Joburg skyline since 1985, Carfax nightclub in Newtown has partied with generations upon generations. Its doors act as a rite of passage to any and all varsity students who attend any of the local universities in town.
Visit Carfax
Tourist Attractions
Carlton Centre - Roof Of Africa
The 360-degree Roof of Africa viewing level is a great place to get perspective on the city's incredible scale and many neighbourhoods. Aside from the view, there's little to do up here with just a scuzzy cafe and a small collection of photos, although the telescopes are a welcome addition to the bird's-eye experience. The entrance kiosk and lifts are tricky to find.
Address: Carlton Centre, 150 Commissioner St, Marshalltown, Johannesburg, 2000
Constitution Hill
Constitution Hill is a living museum that tells the story of South Africa’s journey to democracy. The site is a former prison and military fort that bears testament to South Africa’s turbulent past and, today, is home to the country’s Constitutional Court, which endorses the rights of all citizens. Nelson Mandela. Mahatma Gandhi. Joe Slovo. Albertina Sisulu. Winnie Madikizela-Mandela. Fatima Meer. They all served time here, but the precinct also confined tens of thousands of ordinary people during its 100-year history.
Visit Constitution Hill
Image By Constitution Hill
The Joburg CBD has evolved over the past three decades into something resembling one of the most modern cities in the world. It has become a melting pot of people from across Africa, making it as cosmopolitan as can be. From top tier Fortune 500 companies to street vendors selling fresh produce, the Joburg CBD is filled to the brim with a wide variety of commerce. But that's not all, with a little inside information you will be able to dine like nowhere else, shop to your heart's content, and dance until the cows come home. Without further ado, we present you with the ultimate guide to the inner city of Johannesburg. PS. when you're done reading this comprehensive guide, why not explore Johannesburg central yourself?
What Are You Looking For?
Shopping
Restaurants
Entertainment
Hotels & Accommodation
Property
Jobs
Shopping
Bargain hunting is the name of the game when it comes to shopping in the Joburg CBD. From corner stalls selling fresh fruit and vegetables to inner-city malls dedicated to bringing you the lowest prices on everything under the sun. Are you in search of a pair of Dickies for less? You've come to the right place. Looking for a three-piece suit but don't want to pay an arm and a leg? No sweat! From the Carlton Centre's shopping section to the stores that line Gandhi Square, you will most certainly find what you're looking for. Food fans will enjoy shopping at the Congolese market where plantain, okra, and other central African ingredients are readily available.
Explore Shopping In The Joburg CBD
Restaurants
Jozi city is the gateway to cross-continental cuisine. Laced with restaurants and cafés exploring true Africana, you are sure to find dishes from Mzansi, Ghana and Nigeria to name a few. From award-winning curries to corner store Jolof rice and pepper fish, Joburg is a food tourist's dream come true. Thanks to the number of hotels and hostels in the neighbourhood, the food services in town marches to the beat of a very funky drum. As an added bonus, why not check out our article about the best-kept secrets in the Joburg CBD!
Explore Restaurants In The Joburg CBD
Entertainment
Joburg truly is a city that never sleeps. From rooftop bars to the hottest night clubs and corner cafe hangouts, there's always something going down in the City Of Gold. Some entertainment hot spots include the night clubs of Newtown, the rooftops of Maboneng, and the all-round goodness that is 1 Fox in Jeppestown and the newly developed Jewel City. No matter the jol, you will find it in the Joburg CBD.
Explore Entertainment In The Joburg CBD
Image By Julian van Jaarsveld
Hotels & Accommodation
With its ample amount of hotels, hostels, and even AirBnB offerings, the Johannesburg CBD is the place to lay your head when you’re all partied out. From the world-famous Zebra Inn to the legendary Main Street Life in Maboneng, there’s a place with a warm bed and a hot shower around almost every corner in this area. Check out Joburg CBD's accommodation offerings and book your stay soon!
Explore Hotels & Accommodation In The Joburg CBD
Image By Marriott Hotels
Property
Filled to the brim with young, hip, and creative people and bankers alike, the Joburg CBD is where the up-and-coming starter-uppers choose to reside. Thanks to the number of cafes and restaurants that offer free Wi-Fi, the streets are your office. Whether you’re looking to rent a studio apartment built out of old shipping containers or looking for a loft with a view, there’s something sure to suit your needs. Maboneng encourages the artistic and entrepreneurial spirit, has reasonably priced apartments– priced from around R300,000 – and offers residents an alternative to suburban living.
Explore Property In The Joburg CBD
Jobs
The Joburg CBD is where dreams are made - if you can make it here you can make it anywhere on earth. Home to some of the big companies including FNB, Anglo Gold and ABSA to name a few, it’s the corporate playground where big deals are made. With hot desks and boardroom rentals becoming a major trend in many business districts across the country, Jozi has taken up to this and offers rent-a-desk options as well. Thanks to new office spaces quite literally climbing the sky in the CBD, the job market has become more saturated as bigger companies expand their floor space to accommodate more staff.
Explore Jobs In The Joburg CBD.
If you enjoyed this article about Joburg central business district, why not explore the rest of the city with us?
About Indalo Nubian Naturals
'Indalo' is the Zulu word for 'nature', an apt name for this salon. Indalo Nubian Naturals are a natural salon, for transitioning hair and natural hair only. They embrace your natural hair and treat it the way it deserves to be treated. They understand the nature of natural hair and that it is a very sensitive topic to many.
At this salon, they cater to the needs of natural hair, from hair and scalp treatments to build up treatments. The know-how stylists at Indalo Nubian Naturals have the best training and many years of experience. They will gently guide you on your quest to highlighting your best features.
What Hairstyles Do They Offer?
Natural hair comes in different forms, sizes, shapes and styles and at Indalo Nubian Naturals, they embrace every different strand of hair no matter it's personality. They offer dreadlocks, cornrows, braids and much more for you in store. Check them out here!
Operating Hours
- Monday: Closed
- Sunday & Public Holidays: 08:30 - 14:00
- Tuesday - Friday: 08:30 - 17:30
- Saturday: 07:00 - 17:30
For More Information
Find them at 77 Commissioner Street, Corner House, Johannesburg.
For more information, contact them on 060 790 4004, visit their website or follow them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
Modderfontein
Modderfontein is an urban forest. Driving through from Edenvale into the mud fountain town, you travel along a road bordered with pine trees and giant oaks. However, once you reach the centre of town, the jacarandas take over the scenery. Covering the streets in purple confetti, these trees, which originate from Brazil, romantically hang over the Modderfontein surrounds. Take a trip down to the dam at the reserve to see them in full bloom, or take a hike up one of the trails for a better view.
Kensington
Kensington spans 52 streets, making it one of Joburg's largest suburbs. This is also jacaranda central. Take a slow drive up Highland Road, travelling through a blanket of fallen flowers. There are a number of historical sites to visit here, too, including the Scottish War Horse Memorial and Jeppe High School for Boys. From these viewpoints, you can see the vast covering of the jacarandas and take a few snapshots of the Joburg skyline.
Melville Koppies
With rolling views, you’ll be able to see the purple blanket that adorns Joburg in summer. Though it’s not the highest location, it definitely does the job. The Koppies also offer a lot more, with the indigenous flora currently in bloom. Stop in at sunrise for an unforgettable experience. If you wish, you can even bring your dogs for a walk as there are a number of pathways to explore.
Observatory Ridge
Observatory Ridge is the highest point in Joburg, which looks out over Houghton, Orange Grove and beyond. At 1,808 metres above sea level, Observatory Ridge offers a view of the sprawling expanse of our beautiful city. For those of you who didn’t know, there is also a commemorative British Indian Army monument that was erected over 100 years ago. So, go on and get yourself that perfect eagle's eye view of the jacarandas in bloom, while also taking in some history. If you visit on a Sunday, you can stop by Sylvia's Market before heading home. Sip on craft cocktails or tuck into a gourmet burger under one of the old clubhouse's jacarandas.
Northcliff Hill
This is the second highest point in Joburg, at just one metre lower than Observatory Ridge. Northcliff Hill overlooks the CBD to the right and the northern suburbs to the left. Northcliff Water Tower has long been known as one of the top romantic spots in the city. Take your sweetheart to see the spring blossoms in all their glory. Northcliff Hill is also one of the best places to see the pink, burnt orange and amber Joburg sunset, so be sure to take a picnic blanket and some champers along on your date. You can drive up to the top of the hill or take a mammoth hike. Either way the view is sure to be stunning.
Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff
If hiking isn’t your scene, then why not opt for the posh view from the Westcliff? High tea at Four Seasons Hotel is an unforgettable experience offering a decadent sweet and savoury smorgasbord, plus stunning views from the Westcliff ridge. You’ll be able to take in the jacarandas from a position of complete luxury, with a plate of Petit Fours in hand. To walk off the calories, take your car around to the top of the Westcliff steps and give them a jog up and down!
Carlton Centre
Joburg is one of the world's largest man-made forests. But, you don't need to be out in nature to experience it. The inner city offers fantastic views of concrete meets greenery. Once the tallest building in the Southern hemisphere, Carlton Centre offers a 360 degree panoramic view from the 50th storey. Just R15 will get you to The Top of Africa viewing deck, from where you will be able to view all things purple and jacaranda.
Rosebank
Lastly, we recommend Tyrwhitt avenue in Rosebank. Swap your car for a stroll down this jacaranda lined street. The incredible purple canopy makes it feel as though you are in a magical world whilst you crack the oyster-shaped pods beneath the soles of your shoes. These jacaranda trees are recognised as being part of the history and heritage of the Rosebank area, giving it its characteristic atmosphere. While you are here, stop by the Keyes Art Mile to experience an array of world class galleries, restaurants and boutiques.
Despite the fact that they’re now considered invasive and can no longer be planted, Jacarandas do generally have a 200-year lifespan, meaning that we’ll be able to view them for a long time yet. So get your camera ready and head out for some violet adventures.
Have you been to any of these viewing spots? Let us know what you think of them in the comments section below. Also, share this on social media and win the affection of a journalist.
What Is It?
The iconic Rand Club Johannesburg invites you to their first ever Book Faire, Vintage and Artisanal Market. The Rand Club is the new home to a fresh new market with a fantastic selection of artisanal offerings, complementing Joburg's creative energy and flair!
The Rand Club Book Faire, Vintage and Artisanal Market offerings include:
Books
Vintage Maps
Flowers
Antiques
Artisan Food
Vintage Clothing
Arts and Crafts
So, don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind inner city market!
When Is It?
Saturday, 2 November 2019 at 10:00 - 16:00.
Where Is It?
The Rand Club, 33 Loveday Street, Johannesburg CBD.
How Much Is It?
Tickets available at the door for R20 per person.
For More Information
Visit their website for more information, or follow them on social media:
Facebook - facebook.com/RandClubJohannesburg
Twitter - twitter.com/randclub
Instagram -instagram.com/randclub
Contact them on 011 870 4260 or via email at [email protected].
Once upon a time, there lived an ice rink where all would go and have a great time. However, when the Ice Queen ran dry, she fell asleep for many years. All who had wished for the rink to come to life once again lost hope on its revival and found comfort in the dark, dingy and lonely space. Until! Prince Charming (three of them) came to give the Ice Queen a kiss to awaken her. This is the moment when Skyrink Studios was born.
What 1973 Has Given Us?
What used to be the spot for all who wanted to skate and just have the time of their lives living the ice fairy tale became an abandoned space. The ice rink was that one spot in Johannesburg CBD that everyone had a story to share.
It was the place where friendships began, families came together and when it closed down, many dreams were crushed. But decades later - a light was to be rekindled.
Light At The End Of The Tunnel
This is really a Cinderella kind of tale, but with a twist. And, of course, there is a happy ending.
The three brilliant minds that saw something beyond what the country could see, and wanted to introduce Johannesburg to an inspiring concept, making it a reality right before their very eyes. Miles Britton Masekela, Marvin Mathibe and Frank Mohapi are the 'princes' that charmed the Ice Queen and Skyrink Studios came to life.
These three gentleman saw something genius in the ice rink and found it great for their vision of creating an innovation that would live on to be a part of making history at the well-known Carlton Centre.
The Skyrink Studios
The studio is a visual dime piece, both literally and hypothetically. It boasts with out-of-this-world, state-of-the-art equipment and facilities - they have six studios and five control rooms, where all the magic happens.
Their space oozes with the creative look and ambiance, with every artists' needs and directors' dream, this film production hub has inspired many to come and work with them. So, remember this monumental space, because they are ready to help in creating content that will put South Africa on the map, if it hasn't already.
Skyrink Studios is comfortably trying to move into the mobile TV space and it's no surprise because every production house.
Adding Character...
They have hosted the popular and spectacular #Azania by designer, David Tlale. This fashion artistry was quite the showstopper.
They have also done some amazing work with MTV Shuga, MTV VJ Search, The Parlotones, Remix SA and many other amazing shows.
This spot has seen plenty of Mzansi talent in short period of time, so you can only imagine what they have in store for us in the future.
The sky is the limit, they said. But Skyrink is shooting right out the hemisphere and going big.
What Is It?
Art keeps the fire burning this winter at the ABSA Gallery in the Joburg CBD. Visit them this July to see their latest exhibition titled, Our contemporary needs and the Other. The exhibition explores how a multitude of sometimes misconstrued interpretations of historical narratives, are drawn upon in contemporary urban spaces to construct notions of ‘otherness’. It looks at the complexities that exist regarding the notion of otherness, both with regard to identity and difference. Through this exhibition, the artists seek to empower previously marginalised individuals and communities, to reclaim their sovereignty by carving out spaces in which they can negotiate freedom, equity and dignity. Expect to leave this exhibition with a renewed respect for African artists and their subjects, as they push creative boundaries to reveal deep seated truths about our continent.
A unique exhibition which deals with ideas of history and heritage, Our contemporary needs and the Other, is a must-see. All you need to do is bring along your ID for free entrance to the gallery. See you there!
When Is It?
Monday, 08 July - Friday, 19 July 2019. The gallery is open daily from 08:30 to 17:00.
Where Is It?
ABSA Gallery, 161 Main Street, Johannesburg CBD.
How Much Is It?
Entrance is free, but you must present your ID to gain access to the exhibition.
For more information
For more information, visit their Facebook events page. Or, contact them on 011 350 3003.
Lunchtime Sorted!
If you work near or around Braam, lunch time just got a whole lot easier! In case you missed it, Food Lover’s Market has expanded their popular eatery stores in Gauteng with one that recently opened in Braamfontein’s Business Improvement District (BID). Focusing on convenience, this central eatery is dedicated to offering guests the fastest lunch service in the area, meaning that lunch seekers on their lunch break don't lose valuable time.
What's On The Menu?
No matter what you're in the mood for, the Food Lover's Eatery Braamfontein is sure to have something delicious for lunch. Other than the usual traditional lunch options like burgers, chicken, schwarmas, paninis and focaccias, they also offer an array of salads, wraps, sushi and fresh juices for you to grab on-the-go. Following international trends, they also have a build-your-own Poke Bar and a Fresh Society department, where you can personalise your fresh juice order.
The salad menus are constantly updated and changing to include healthy on-trend ingredients such as quinoa and whole grains to add a little more fibre to your diet. Who says takeaway lunches are unhealthy? The wide variety makes for an easy lunch or even a grab-and-go dinner if you're not in the mood for cooking after a long day at the office. And if you need a caffeine kick, there's a Seattle Coffee Lounge located right below the new store.
Food Lovers Eatery Braamfontein
Where Can You Find These Eateries?
There are a few of these lunchtime hot spots across the country. You can find a Food Lover’s Eatery in:
- the Cape Town CBD;
- in Gauteng at The Marc in Rivonia;
- at the Rosebank Link;
- and the newly opened Braamfontein store located at 19 Ameshof Street.
For More Information
For more information about the Food Lover's Eatery, visit www.foodloversmarket.co.za.
You can also contact them on 011 339 1890 or [email protected].
Don't forget to check them out on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Images sourced from: Food Lover's Eatery
What Is It?
The Rand Club, one of Joburg's hidden historical gems, invite you to a jazz evening featuring Tamara Dey this July. The first in a series of jazz themed events, the Rand Club welcome you to wine, dine and dance. Tamara Dey will be accompanied by the Godfrey & Angus Jazz Collective to bring you some melodic tunes. Held in the Rand Club's basement venue, this jazz evening will be one to remember. Expect a super cool, laid back vibe to the evening. The dress code is casual, but we encourage you to embrace your inner jazzist and don a fedora for good measure. We'll see you there jazz cats!
**The second jazz evening feature will take place in August. Featuring the Godfrey & Angus Jazz Collective with Viwo Kulati. Check out the Rand Club's Facebook events page for further event updates.
When Is It?
Friday, 12 July 2019 at 19:00 - 23:00.
Where Is It?
The Rand Club Basement, 33 Loveday Street, Johannesburg CBD.
How Much Is It?
Tickets cost R120 per person. To book your tickets, contact them via email at [email protected] or call 011 870 4260.
**Rand Club members, get your tickets for only R100.
For more information
For more information, visit their website. Or, follow them on social media:
Facebook - facebook.com/RandClubJohannesburg
Twitter - twitter.com/randclub
Instagram - instagram.com/randclub
Contact them on 011 870 4260 or via email at [email protected]