One of the challenges (and joys, really) of being a parent is having to look for spots where kids are welcomed and they can play around or explore. 

If you’re looking to spend time and give your children a great time at Pretoria East, you’re in luck as this part of the city offers plenty of activities and places to visit that will keep your little ones entertained and engaged.

To help you out, we’ve compiled the best kid-friendly activities and places to visit that will make your kiddos roar with excitement. Read on to learn more!

What can kids do in Pretoria East?

1. Visit the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa

If you’re looking for a fun and educational adventure for your kids, visiting The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa is definitely a must-do. Did you know that this zoo is the largest in the whole country? 

That’s right, over 85 hectares of animal kingdom wilderness. You can even visit multiple times to make sure your children have the chance to explore the whole zoo.

And with over 9,000 animals from more than 700 species, you and your little ones are sure to learn something new and exciting every time you visit.

One thing we love about this zoo is its commitment to conservation and animal welfare. They’re doing some incredible work with their breeding programs, particularly for endangered species such as cheetahs, white rhinoceros, and African wild dogs.

But that’s not all – the zoo also boasts several exciting exhibits, including an incredible aquarium, the reptile park, and even a farmyard. Their aquarium is also the largest inland marine aquarium in the whole country, which is surely impressive.

Another good thing about choosing this destination is they’re always open – well, except for Christmas day. But you and your kids can come over any other day and have fun at this massive zoo.

2. Learn about the Voortrekker Monument

This iconic landmark is not just a pretty face – the Voortrekker Monument holds a special place in South African history as it commemorates the pioneers who trekked across the country in the 1800s. 

For kids, it presents a fun-tastic opportunity to learn about South African history and culture.

The monument offers several educational exhibits and displays, including a museum that houses a collection of artefacts related to the Voortrekkers. 

The Voortrekker Monument is also an impressive architectural marvel that’s a sight to behold, even for us adults. 

Perched on a hill, it offers gorgeous views of the surrounding area, making it an excellent opportunity for you and your children to snap some Insta-worthy pics and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

And that’s not all, folks! The monument also hosts several fun activities for kids, including guided tours, picnics, and cultural events throughout the year.

3. Explore Groenkloof Nature Reserve

If you and your kids are nature lovers, you’d love exploring the Groenkloof Nature Reserve. 

The reserve is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, and children can observe and learn about them in their natural environment, which is more fun than it sounds, we promise!

The reserve is also the perfect opportunity for active kids who love to get outdoors and move their bodies. 

With activities like hiking, cycling, and rock climbing available, children can get some exercise while also exploring the reserve and connecting with nature.

Lastly, we love how the Groenkloof Nature Reserve has plenty of areas for picnics and braais, making it a great place for families to spend quality time together while enjoying the fresh air.

4. Visit the Pretoria National Botanical Garden

The Pretoria National Botanical Garden is another great choice if you want to bask under the sun and take in Pretoria’s natural beauty.

This garden is blooming with a diverse array of plant species from all over the world. You’ll be leafing (Ha! Get it?) with new knowledge about different types of plants, including medicinal plants and ones that are important to various cultures. 

For those who are feeling extra adventurous, the garden offers educational programs and guided tours that cover topics like botany, horticulture, ecology, and conservation. 

And if you’re still not convinced, the garden has plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy, including birdwatching, hiking, and picnicking. Kids can also explore the Cycad Garden, the bird hide, and the wetland ecosystem, which is sure to be a wild time.

5. Drop by the South African National Museum of Cultural History

If you and your little ones are history buffs, you’ll enjoy visiting the South African National Museum of Cultural History. 

One of the coolest things about the museum is its impressive collection of artefacts and exhibits that showcase the country’s cultural heritage. 

It’s a real treasure trove, covering a wide range of topics like traditional clothing, music, arts, and crafts. Your kids will feel like they’ve travelled through time and across the country, all in one visit!

The museum’s located in the heart of Pretoria and housed in a beautiful historic building that dates back to the early 1900s. 

It has plenty of educational programs and guided tours available, suitable for visitors of all ages. These programs cover a variety of topics, including the history of South Africa, its diverse cultures, and the significance of its cultural artefacts. 

You and your children can learn about the country’s past and present, gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation of its unique heritage. It’s a real eye-opener!

6. Visit the Sammy Marks Museum

The Sammy Marks Museum is a destination worth visiting for those interested in South Africa’s history and culture. 

This museum honours the legacy of Sammy Marks, a big-time industrialist and entrepreneur who helped build South Africa’s economy in the late 1800s.

The museum is packed with incredible exhibits that showcase Sammy Marks’ life and achievements, from his personal life and philanthropic activities to his impact on the country’s economy. 

And let’s talk about the mansion – it would be like an adventure to bring your children here as it’s a total blast from the past. The beautifully restored historic mansion from the late 1800s gives you a real feel for the architecture and lifestyle of that time.

The guided tours of the mansion are a must-do, offering you and your little ones the chance to learn all about South Africa’s history and culture during the late 1800s and early 1900s, as well as the history of the mansion and the surrounding area. 

But if you just want to kick back and relax, the museum’s stunning landscaped gardens are the perfect spot. And, the museum also hosts cultural festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions all year long – so there’s always something fun going on.

7. Go to the Irene Dairy Farm

The Irene Dairy Farm is a one-of-a-kind destination that provides visitors with an authentic farm experience right in the heart of the city. 

With a rich history dating back to the early 1900s, this family-owned and operated farm has several generations of experience to share.

One of the farm’s unique features is its award-winning dairy, where visitors can witness milk production firsthand and savour some of the freshest milk and dairy products available in the area. 

The farm’s restaurant also serves mouthwatering meals made from locally-sourced ingredients, including fresh vegetables and artisanal cheeses.

The farm’s animal interaction opportunities are also a major highlight, with cows, pigs, sheep, and horses among the friendly farm animals you can see up close. We reckon this experience will be your child’s favourite.

The farm also hosts a bustling market on Saturdays, offering visitors the chance to purchase fresh produce, baked goods, and other locally-made products. They also host fun activities for the kiddies like playdates and cupcake decorating events.

Children are also often discounted at the farm’s restaurants, which is awesome.

The Irene Dairy Farm also boasts several historic buildings and landmarks, including the original homestead and the old dairy. 

Visitors can join a guided tour of the farm to learn about its history, architecture, and the vital role it played in the development of Pretoria.

8. Try out Acrobranch Pretoria

If you’re looking for an activity that will surely spend your little ones’ energy, we suggest trying out Acrobranch’s adventure courses. Not only is this activity loads of fun, but it can also help your kiddos develop skills that will come in handy throughout their lives. 

They’ll be swinging, climbing, and zipping their way through the courses, which will help them develop their balance, coordination, and motor skills. And let’s not forget about the problem-solving skills they’ll be honing as they navigate the obstacles.

The best part? This activity promotes teamwork and communication, as children often have to work together to conquer challenges. It’s a great opportunity for them to learn how to collaborate and communicate effectively with others.

We also love how Acrobranch Pretoria offers courses that are tailored to different ages and skill levels, so there’s something for everyone. 

You can also rest easy knowing that the courses are supervised by trained instructors who prioritise safety and ensure that all participants are properly harnessed and briefed on safety procedures before taking on the course.

9. Go to the Menlyn Park Shopping Centre

If you’re looking to spend some time with your kids indoors, the Menlyn Park Shopping Centre is a great option. It’s the largest mall in Africa and has over 500 stores, including a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

But that’s not all, the mall also offers a ton of fun activities for kids, like a dedicated play area, arcade games, and a cinema. And when you’re feeling peckish, there are plenty of family-friendly restaurants to choose from. 

The mall also hosts regular events and activities for kids, like craft workshops and character appearances. You and your kids can spend a whole day in this mall and still not cover all of its grounds.

10. Explore the Hazel Food Market

If you’re a family of foodies, you wouldn’t want to miss the Hazel Food Market. This awesome weekly event offers a plethora of fresh and scrumptious food options, from farm-fresh produce to artisanal baked goods and snacks. 

And even though it’s not specifically designed for kids, there are still plenty of tasty treats that will satisfy their young palates, like homemade sweets, fresh juices, and mouth-watering gourmet burgers. 

It might get crowded, especially during peak hours, though! We suggest coming early so you and your kids can score a table near your favourite food stall.