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Keep the fun going with these 15 things to do in Cape Town for kids

| Last Updated: July 2024

Cape Town offers a multitude of options for kids to enjoy. As a parent, finding activities that entertain and educate while keeping the young ones captivated is a real struggle.

But don’t worry! Whether you’re a local or a visitor, navigating the options for family-friendly adventures just got easier.

So, grab your map because we’ve rounded up the top things to do in Cape Town that’ll have your kids saying, “This is the best day ever!”

Create a masterpiece with Artjamming

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Website: https://artjamming.co.za/ 

Address: Breakwater Blvd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

Phone: +27 21 425 5050

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 9 AM to 6 PM

Artjamming is an exciting and dynamic space where you and your kids can unleash your creativity on a blank canvas.

The best part is that no prior painting skills are required, making it perfect for everyone in the family. When we visited, my kids dived into painting with enthusiasm, loving the freedom to experiment with colours and techniques.

The studio provides all necessary materials, and the friendly, qualified artists are always on hand to offer tips and inspiration. Watching my children’s faces light up with pride as they created their own masterpieces was truly rewarding.

Pro Tip:
Unleash your kid’s inner artist not just with paints but with slime too! Your kids can make their own unique slime, picking colours and textures for endless fun.

Teach kids sailing at The Little Optimist Sailing Academy

Website: https://thelittleoptimisttrust.org/sailing-academy/ 

Address: Shop 8, Battery Park, Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

Phone: +27 66 4788 786

The Little Optimist Sailing Academy, founded by big-wave surfer and ocean activist Greg Bertish, offers a fantastic sailing experience for kids. Our kids had an absolute blast learning to sail their own Optimist dinghy.

The instructors were patient and engaging, making the lessons fun and educational. We were really impressed by how the Academy focuses on teaching valuable life skills, especially to vulnerable children.

It’s also a great spot for unique birthday parties and school outings for grades 2 to 8. If you’re looking for a place to help your kids build confidence and a love for the ocean, this is it.

Pro Tip:
Supporting The Little Optimist is not just about sailing; it’s about sharing the joy and life lessons that come with it. When you invest in a book or a private lesson, you’re also gifting an unforgettable experience to a child who dreams of the sea.

Experience space wonders in Iziko Planetarium

Website: https://www.iziko.org.za/museums/planetarium/  

Address: 25 Queen Victoria St, Cape Town City Centre

Phone: +27 (0) 21 481 3800

Operating Hours:

  • Tuesday to Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM

At the Iziko Planetarium, kids are completely engrossed in the wonders of the universe, forgetting all about their gadgets. The 360-degree screen hosts nine shows, including three just for the little ones. 

We found the presentations to be both captivating and educational, sparking curiosity about the cosmos in young minds.

The planetarium isn’t just about stargazing; it’s a journey through space and time that ignites a passion for science in children, making it a must-visit destination for families in the city.

Pro Tip:
For a day full of discovery, pair your visit to the planetarium with the adjacent SA Museum where history comes to life. It’s a perfect educational adventure for the family, with fascinating exhibits that will capture the imagination of the kids.

Plan a family skate day at Battery Park or Rollercade

Website: https://rollercade.co.za/ 

Address: Alfred St, Waterfront

Phone: +27 72 064 3963

Operating Hours:

  • Wednesday to Friday – 1 AM to 6 PM
  • Saturday – 10 AM to 9 PM
  • Sunday – 10 AM to 6 PM

Battery Park is a gem for families with kids who love wheeling around. The skatepark there is top-notch, with all kinds of ramps and rails to keep the little ones entertained for hours.

We especially appreciated the scooter path and rollerblading area, which gave everyone a chance to enjoy their favourite wheels.

And when the weather wasn’t cooperating, Rollercade inside the parking garage was a lifesaver. It’s a spacious rink with a cool cafe, pool tables, and arcade games to keep the fun going. 

Pro Tip:
You can also head to Battery Park’s multi-court for family-friendly sports or enjoy the kiddies’ playground. Don’t miss the chance to paddleboard or canoe in the canal for a splash of adventure!

Host family karting competition at Xtreme Outdoor Karting

Website: https://www.xtremeoutdoorkarting.net/ 

Address: Bottelary Rd, Stellenbosch

Phone: +27 76 223 3138

Operating Hours:

  • Saturday – 9 AM to 6 PM
  • Sunday – 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Wednesday to Friday – on request

Xtreme Outdoor Karting is a blast for the whole family, especially the kids. They have an awesome kiddies track that’s perfect for our little racers aged seven and up.

Safety is a big deal here, which we appreciate. Only two Kiddies Karts are allowed on the track at once.

And when the kids need a breather, there are jumping castles to bounce around on. Plus, we loved that we could fire up the braai for a quick snack between races.

Pro Tips:
Dress your little racers in outfits you don’t mind getting splashed with mud. Remember, if it’s been raining, the paths might be slick, so walk carefully to avoid slips and spills.

Conquer the obstacle course at Total Ninja

Website: https://totalninja.co.za/ 

Address: The Warehouse, Black River Park, South Park Entrance, 2 Fir St, Observatory

Phone: +27 21 745 3089

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 9 PM
  • Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM

Total Ninja is the ultimate haven for adventure seekers, offering an indoor playpark experience. From the bustling streets to this adrenaline-filled arena, you’ll find a world where climbing, swinging, and balancing reign supreme.

We can attest to the thrill of conquering the obstacles and inflatables scattered throughout. For the littlest ninjas, the specially curated mini ninjas zone provides a safe yet thrilling space to explore. 

The playpark even sells all the ninja gear—gloves, socks, and headbands.

Pro Tip:
Enjoy the convenience of free parking and then relax in the cafe where you can keep an eye on the kids and indulge in family-favourite treats. It’s the perfect spot to recharge and catch all the action without missing a beat.

Explore Cape Town Science Centre for an interactive adventure

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Website: https://www.ctsc.org.za/ 

Address: 370B Main Rd, Observatory

Phone: +27 21 300 3200

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Saturday – 9 AM to 4:30 PM

The Cape Town Science Centre is a captivating hub of scientific exploration. The place is packed with over 250 interactive exhibits covering everything from astronomy to physics. 

What’s great is that it’s not overwhelming. We managed to explore almost everything in one visit without feeling rushed. 

Our kids had a blast with the giant soap bubble station and the human gyroscope. They were learning without even realising it! Plus, the science shows were both entertaining and educational, which was a win-win for us.

Pro Tips:
Unlock a universe of fun and learning for your family with a CTSC membership! Just R7 a week grants you endless adventures, exclusive events, and cool discounts, making every visit a unique experience for your little explorers.

Attend a magical performance at Rainbow Puppet Theatre

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheRainbowPuppetTheatre/ 

Address: Constantia Waldorf, Spaanschemat River Rd, Belle Constantia

Phone: +27 72 129 1061

Rainbow Puppet Theatre is a special place we stumbled upon, and it has become a favourite spot for our family outings. The atmosphere inside is cosy and welcoming, with the wooden theatre exuding a rustic charm that instantly puts you at ease.

What’s really fascinating is that all the puppets, props, and backdrops are handmade by the talented puppeteers themselves, giving each show a unique touch.

Our kids love the performances, especially the classic fairy tales like The Frog Prince and Little Red Riding Hood. It’s amazing to see how puppetry, as Rudolf Steiner said, can ignite the imagination and creativity of children.

Pro Tip:
Keep an eye on their Facebook for surprise showtimes!

Cuddle cubs at the Cheetah Outreach Centre

Website: https://cheetah.co.za/ 

Address: De Beers Ave, Firgrove

Phone: +27 82 872 4007

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 10 AM to 5 PM

Cheetah Outreach Centre is an incredible place to visit with the family. Their young volunteers were so friendly and really knew their stuff about cheetahs, which made the tour even better.

We got to interact with the cheetah cubs and the adult cheetahs and even cuddled the cubs for a fee, which we thought was worth it.

The staff are super passionate about conservation, and it really shows. The whole place is well-kept and well-organised. 

Pro Tip:
Consider adopting a cheetah at the centre for R5,000 a year. Your support helps care for these incredible animals and contributes to vital conservation work, plus you’ll receive updates and special opportunities to meet your cheetah!

Enjoy feeding and petting animals at Higgeldy Piggeldy Farmyard

Website: https://imhofffarm.co.za/higgeldy-piggeldy-farm-yard-cape-town/ 

Address: Kommetjie Road, Kommetjie

Phone: +27 (0)21 783-2007 

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 9 AM to 4 PM

Higgeldy Piggeldy Farmyard is a must-visit spot at Imhoff Farm for families with kids. It’s packed with friendly farm animals like goats, pigs, sheep, ducks, and even a pony named Piccadilly

When we took our kids there, they had a blast petting the animals and feeding them goodies. One of the highlights was meeting Mr Ginger, the friendliest rabbit around, who loves attention and treats.

Plus, there are guided tours and educational programs available for larger groups and schools, making it not just fun but also educational for the little ones.

Pro Tip:
Don’t miss the chance to grab a bite at the Blue Water Café right next door. It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal while your kids learn and play at the farm.

Create an interactive mineral discovery at Scratch Patch

Website: https://www.scratchpatch.co.za/ 

Address: Dido Valley Rd, Simon’s Town

Phone: 27 21 786 2020

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 4:45 PM
  • Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM

Scratch Patch Mineral World is a fascinating spot we often take our kids to in Cape Town. It’s been around for over 50 years and is a real hit with the little ones.

They get to sift through piles of semi-precious stones like tiger’s eye, rose quartz, and amethyst. While smaller stones fill up the bags quickly, it’s the larger ones that catch the eye with their intricate patterns.  

After a fun gem-hunting session, you can unwind with a game of putt-putt and grab a quick snack at the onsite cafe. Plus, the store offers a range of beautiful gem sculptures and gifts to take home. 

Pro Tip:
Explore the 18-hole mini-golf course at Scratch Patch! It’s a magical underground world with cool rock formations, mysterious caverns, and sparkling waterfalls that kids will love.

Take a tobogganing adventure at Cool Runnings

Website: https://coolrunnings.capetown/ 

Address: Off Carl Cronje Dr, Tygervalley

Phone: +27 21 949 4439

Operating Hours:

  • Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, & Friday – 11 AM to 6 PM
  • Wednesday, Saturday, & Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM

Cool Runnings is the only toboggan track in Africa. Picture this: a stainless steel track winding through greenery, with each toboggan seating one or two people.

Getting started is a thrill in itself. We’re pulled up a steep grassy slope before the real fun begins. Then, it’s a wild ride down a twisting, curving half-pipe, reaching speeds of up to 40 km/h.

The best part? It’s suitable for kids as young as three. And don’t worry about safety. Each toboggan has a braking mechanism, so you’re in control of your speed. 

Pro Tips:
Buy a multi-ride pass for each child to enjoy more slides for less money. Remember, if your little one is taller than 1.35 metres, they can safely slide solo, but if rain is in the forecast, plan to visit another day, as the course will be closed.

Embark on a scenic train ride from Cape Town to Elgin

Website: https://www.ceresrail.co.za/destinations-elgin-railway-market/ 

Address: Harbour Bridge Hotel, Dockrail Road, Foreshore

Phone: +27 79 401 9353

Operating Hours:

  • Tuesday to Friday – 6 AM to 6 PM

The train ride departs from the Foreshore district and offers a 3/4 hour journey to Elgin. As we settled in, the kids were captivated by the picturesque scenery of mountains and rolling hills, spotting sheep and cows grazing along the way.

Upon arrival at Elgin station, we were greeted by a fascinating steampunk-themed market, which was an instant hit with the kids. The market buzzed with live music and a variety of stalls selling clothing, accessories, and arts and crafts.

Our children enjoyed exploring the unique old-fashioned market building, which felt like stepping back in time. We relished the delicious street food and refreshments, making it a great day out that mixed adventure, exploration, and a touch of history.

Pro Tip:
For a safe and enjoyable journey, keep little hands and heads inside the train at all times. The outside may be beautiful, but safety comes first, especially with the unexpected surprises that nature and the old-fashioned locomotive might bring!

Take a guided scootour at Table Mountain

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Website: https://scootours.co.za/cape-town-table-mountain/  

Address: 209 Tafelberg Rd, Table Mountain (Nature Reserve)

Phone: +27 82 776 0557

Operating Hours:

  • Monday – 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Tuesday to Saturday – 8 AM to 5 PM

Scootours offers a fantastic way to explore our beautiful mountain paths. When we tried it, the non-motorized scooters were easy to control, even for our older kids, who managed them well under the supervision of professional guides.

The two-hour tour covers Table Mountain and Signal Hill, and it’s a great mix of adventure and sightseeing. Safety was a top priority, and we felt completely at ease throughout the experience.

If you’re looking for a fun, eco-friendly activity to do with your family, I highly recommend giving Scootours a try.

Pro Tip:
Book your child’s birthday with Scootours. Perfect for children aged 10 and older, Scootours offers a unique party experience that combines the thrill of the ride with the beauty of nature.

Spend Saturday volunteering at the SPCA

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Website: https://capespca.co.za/get-involved/volunteer/  

Address: Cnr 1st Ave And First Rd, Grassy Park

Phone: +27 21 700 4140 

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 9 AM to 2:30 PM
  • Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 12 PM

At the heart of our community lies the SPCA, a place where animal lovers can truly make a difference. Every Saturday, my family and I head over to volunteer, and it’s always a rewarding experience.

From walking dogs to cleaning cages and grooming cats, there are plenty of ways to get involved. Personally, I enjoy spending time with the dogs, seeing their tails wag with excitement as we take them for walks.

For kids, it’s a great opportunity to learn about responsibility and kindness towards animals. And if you’re into horses, the horse care unit is a fantastic place to lend a hand. 

Pro Tip:
When considering adoption from SPCA, choose a pet whose energy level and needs align with your family’s lifestyle to ensure a forever happy home. 
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