Things To Do with Baby this Weekend in Joburg
Baby-friendly parks, markets, animal experiences and family outings
Looking for things to do with your baby in Joburg this weekend? Getting out of the house with a little one can feel like a mission, but the city has plenty of baby-friendly spots that make it worth it. From gentle nature walks and markets with space for prams to parks, animal encounters and relaxed cafés where parents can take a breather, there are plenty of ways to spend a few happy hours out and about. If you are hoping to swap cabin fever for fresh air and a change of scenery, these baby-friendly things to do in Joburg are a great place to start. You may also want to read our recent post on Things To Do For Free On Your Birthday in Joburg.
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1. Joburg Zoo
The Joburg Zoo houses over 320 species of animals, totalling about 2 000 animals, and is open to the public 364 days a year – including Christmas, New Years and Easter holidays. With international accreditation, the Zoo maintains a high standard of animal welfare, nutrition and ethical conduct to ensure the physical and psychological well-being of all its animals.
Why #HelloRecommends: Offering expansive, stroller-friendly paved walkways and spacious green areas for picnics, Joburg Zoo is a safe, outdoor environment where babies can enjoy the sights and sounds of various animals. There are also family-friendly safari rides, making it a popular choice for grannies, grandpas, aunties, uncles, and parents.
2. Gold Reef City
Gold Reef City Theme Park is classic Joburg day-out favourite, with a gold-rush theme, colourful buildings and loads of activities all in one place. Even if you skip the big rides, the atmosphere, old-mine setting and family attractions make it fun to wander around.
Why #HelloRecommends: While most rides are for older kids, there are gentler areas like the carousel-style rides, trains, and scenic routes. There are also many open spaces where you can stroll with a pram. It is easy to take breaks at restaurants and shaded seating spots throughout the park too.
3. Montecasino Bird Gardens
Montecasino Bird Gardens is set in leafy garden with wooden walkways makes it easy to stroll with a pram while spotting colourful birds, small mammals and reptiles along the paths. The walk-through aviary and bird demonstrations at the Flamingo Café add a bit of excitement while still feeling calm and outdoorsy. This is the perfect thing to do this weekend with your baby in Joburg.
Why #HelloRecommends: Shady paths and slow, gentle walking routes make it ideal for a relaxed wander with a baby in a pram or carrier. There is plenty for little ones to look at too, from bright flamingos and parrots to tweeting budgies and talking parrots. Join a show too, where your little one can gaze at an eagle taking flight, whilst you learn a thing or two about this bird of prey.
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4. 4 Ways Farmer's Market
The 4 Ways Farmer’s Market is an outdoor weekend hotspot, set in the lush Modderfontein Reserve with food stalls, picnic tables and live music. The relaxed, social atmosphere makes it easy to spend a slow morning grazing your way through different food stands and enjoying being in nature.
Why #HelloRecommends: Wide grassy lawns mean you can bring a picnic blanket and let your baby stretch, crawl and play while you eat your farmer’s market goods. The open-air layout is pram-friendly and calm enough for a gentle stroll between stalls whilst overlooking the river and dam.
5. JoyJozi
If you are looking for an easy, family-friendly outing this weekend, JoyJozi is a great option. This relaxed neighbourhood spot makes dining out with little ones a little easier by offering free meals for kids at select times. Babies and toddlers can come along while older siblings enjoy free breakfast from 9am to 11am on Saturdays and Sundays with options like flapjacks or eggs on toast, and free dinner from 5pm to 8pm from Friday to Sunday, with choices such as a fussy eater plate or pizza. It is a laid-back setting where families can settle in for a meal without the usual stress of eating out with children.
Why #HelloRecommends: JoyJozi makes family dining feel simple and welcoming. The free kids’ meals are a great bonus, but what really stands out is how relaxed the space feels for parents with babies. Minders are there to entertain your toddlers so you can focus on the baby’s needs more easily.
6. Prison Break Market
This creative Prison Break Market precinct feels more like a mini destination than a typical market, with multiple themed sheds filled with artisan food, craft stalls and interactive experiences. You can wander between food halls, craft workshops and outdoor decks with views of the Sandton skyline while soaking up the lively weekend atmosphere.
Why #HelloRecommends: The spacious layout and stroller-friendly walkways make it easy to explore with a pram while stopping for coffee or snacks along the way. There are also family-friendly areas like playgrounds, scooter tracks and activity spaces where older siblings can play while babies relax nearby.
Read our review of the Prison Break Market here.
