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Top 17 FREE Things to Do in Cape Town on Your Birthday That Will Maximise Your Fun with Minimal Costs
- Sunset Picnic on Chapman’s Peak Drive
- Witnessing Marine Life at Two Oceans Aquarium
- Cable Car Ride at Table Mountain
- Hop-On Hop-Off with City Sightseeing Bus
- Coffee Break at Mugg & Bean
- Sky-Hi Ride at Hotel Sky
- Panoramic View Experience at Cape Wheel
- Contemporary Art Viewing at Zeitz MOCAA
- Burger Feast at JC Brasserie
- Bike Ride Along the Sea Point Promenade with UpCycles
- Obstacle Course at Total Ninja
- Movie Night at The Galileo Open Air Cinema
- Indoor Play at Freedom Adventure Park
- Sweet Treats at Dolce Bakery
- Film Viewing at Ster-Kinekor V&A WaterFront
- Escape Game at HintHunt
- Steak Day at Apache Spur Steak Ranch
Ah, birthdays in Cape Town—where the only thing more abundant than the sunshine is the free fun! You see, here in the Mother City, we believe that the best things in life, like your birthday celebrations, should come without a price tag.
So, if you’re expecting to shell out big bucks on your special day, think again! We’ve scoured the city from Table Mountain to the Cape of Good Hope to bring you the ultimate guide to birthday bliss without spending a rand.
Sunset Picnic on Chapman’s Peak Drive
Media from travelling_gypsy
Website: https://www.chapmanspeakdrive.co.za/
Chapman’s Peak Drive, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Constantia Berg mountains on the other, is a fantastic spot for a birthday picnic.
Last year, we celebrated my brother’s birthday there, and it was wonderful. We packed a big picnic basket and found a great spot at one of the picnic sites along the drive.
The view was amazing, especially as the sun began to set over the ocean. The best part is that we used the Chapman’s Peak Day Pass, which is free, so we didn’t have to spend any money to enjoy the area.
Pro Tip: For breathtaking views and convenient stops, drive from Noordhoek to Hout Bay. This route runs alongside cliff edges, letting you easily pull over and enjoy the scenery without needing to cross traffic. |
Witnessing Marine Life at Two Oceans Aquarium
Website: https://www.aquarium.co.za/
Address: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Phone: +27 21 418 3823
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 9:30 AM to 6 PM
- Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 6 PM
The Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town is a fascinating destination where you can experience the wonders of both the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. When I visited on my birthday, I was thrilled to receive free entry just by showing my ID at the ticket office.
Inside, my family and I marvelled at the vibrant, colourful fish and corals of the Indian Ocean exhibit, which was a delight for the kids. The cold Atlantic exhibit, with its sleek predators and mesmerising kelp forests, left us all in awe.
Exploring the aquarium was a fantastic way to celebrate, offering a fun-filled and educational experience for all ages.
Pro Tip: Try scuba at the Two Oceans Aquarium Dive School with a PADI Discover Scuba Diving Experience. While you dive, your loved ones can snap amazing pics through the 10-metre-long tunnel and huge viewing window! |
Cable Car Ride at Table Mountain
Website: https://www.tablemountain.net/
Address: 5821 Tafelberg Rd, Table Mountain (Nature Reserve)
Phone: +27 21 424 0015
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 8:30 AM to 4 PM
Table Mountain is one of South Africa’s most iconic landmarks, and the Aerial Cableway offers an unforgettable way to experience it.
I’ve enjoyed this multiple times. When you arrive at the base, you can collect your free Cableway ticket on your birthday by simply showing your South African ID.
The ride to the top is breathtaking, with panoramic views of Cape Town unfolding as you ascend. Once at the summit, the city and ocean views are truly spectacular, making it a perfect spot to celebrate.
Pro Tip: Opt for an afternoon ticket to experience attractions with fewer crowds and catch a stunning sunset over the cityscape. |
Hop-On Hop-Off with City Sightseeing Bus
Website: https://citysightseeing.co.za/en/cape-town
Address: 36 Auckland Street, Paarden Eiland
Phone: +27 21 511 6000
Cape Town’s City Sightseeing Bus offers a great birthday treat for kids aged 5 to 15. My family and I have taken advantage of this deal several times.
It’s a simple process: just sign up for the Kids’ Club in advance. On the big day, the birthday child gets a free ticket for the classic bus tour, and they can bring a friend along too, at no charge.
The bus stops at all the must-see spots like the aquarium and the beachfront, so there’s plenty to explore. Each kid also gets a fun activity pack to keep them entertained on the ride.
Pro Tip: Register at least two weeks before your kid’s birthday to get free vouchers via email, valid from one week before to three weeks after their birthday. Both the birthday child and their friend must be under 15 and accompanied by an adult with a full-price ticket. |
Coffee Break at Mugg & Bean
Website: https://muggandbean.co.za/
Address: Shop 6155, 19 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Phone: +27 21 419 6451
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 8 AM to 9 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 8 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 8 AM to 9 PM
Mugg & Bean at the Waterfront has been a go-to for me and my family when we want to enjoy a nice birthday outing without splurging. The place overlooks the harbour, which adds to the relaxed vibe.
What stands out most is their offer of a free slice of cake and a coffee of your choice if you download their loyalty app and sign up. The cakes are freshly baked and really tasty. I always look forward to picking out my favourite slice.
The staff are friendly and welcoming, which makes the whole experience even better.
Pro Tip: For baking inspiration and expert tips, explore the Master Baker Home Edition page on the Mugg & Bean website. Find everything you need to perfect your baking skills, right from their kitchen to yours. |
Sky-Hi Ride at Hotel Sky
Website: https://sky-hiride.capetown/
Address: 28th Floor, Hotel Sky, 9 Lower Long St
Phone: +27 21 879 5040
Operating Hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 12 PM to 8 PM
Hotel Sky’s Sky-Hi ride is a thrilling experience for celebrating birthdays in Cape Town without breaking the bank. I’ve been fortunate enough to try it out, and let me tell you, it’s a real adrenaline rush.
You’re lifted 35 meters into the air on a chair lift, experiencing heart-racing speeds and a breathtaking view from up there. You can see the entire City Bowl spread out below you, which makes for an unforgettable birthday treat.
Booking your free birthday ride is easy through Webtickets; just use your ID for verification. And while the ride itself is complimentary, you can purchase a video of your experience for a nominal fee of R50.
Pro Tip: Before heading to the Sky-Hi Ride, always check the weather forecast. Bad weather can affect their opening hours, so visit their website and Facebook for updates. |
Panoramic View Experience at Cape Wheel
Website: https://capewheel.co.za/
Address: The Lawns, Breakwater Blvd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Phone: +27 87 470 0696
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 10 AM to 9 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 10 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 9 PM
Cape Wheel at the V&A Waterfront is a must-visit spot for panoramic views of Granger Bay, Table Mountain, and Robben Island from up high. I’ve been there myself, and it’s a great way to see the city from up high.
It’s not just about the view though; if it’s your birthday, you can ride for free by signing up for their Birthday Club online. Just bring the voucher they email you and your ID to get your free ride.
Afterwards, they take a birthday photo for you, which is a nice bonus to remember the day.
Pro Tip: Catch a Cape Wheel sunset ride. You’ll see Lion’s Head and Table Mountain with a breathtaking sunset backdrop. |
Contemporary Art Viewing at Zeitz MOCAA
Website: https://zeitzmocaa.museum/
Address: V&A Waterfront Silo District, S Arm Rd, Waterfront
Phone: +27 (0)87 350 4777
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 10 AM to 6 PM
The Zeitz Museum Of Contemporary Art Africa (Zeitz MOCAA) is housed in a massive old grain silo-turned-modern art space. It features diverse art from across Africa, including paintings, sculptures, and thought-provoking installations.
I’ve been there a few times. One time, my family and I went during my birthday month, so we all got in for free.
What’s nice about Zeitz MOCAA is how they make it accessible. If you miss your birthday month, you can still go for free on Wednesdays in the morning if you’re a South African or have an African passport.
Pro Tip: Take advantage of free admission for under-18s at Zeitz MOCAA any day, and if you’re planning to bring a friend, visit together on Wednesdays when they can also enter for free. |
Burger Feast at JC Brasserie
Website: https://www.jcbrasserie.co.za/
Address: 18 De Villiers Rd, District Six
Phone: +27 76 691 3903
Operating Hours:
- Monday & Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday – 12 PM to 10 PM
- Friday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
My family and I checked out JC Brasserie for a birthday treat. What caught our attention was their amazing birthday special—a free meal and drink valued up to R80 when you show your ID.
We savoured their homemade burgers and steaks. While I typically favour chicken, their beef burgers had a rich, smoky flavour that was irresistible, and the steaks were perfectly juicy and tender.
Pro Tip: If your birthday falls on a Wednesday, don’t miss their lively Quiz Night every Wednesday at 7:30 PM to test your trivia skills! |
Bike Ride Along the Sea Point Promenade with UpCycles
Website: https://upcycles.co.za/up-cycles/stations/seapoint/
Address: 0 Beach Rd, Sea Point
Phone: +27 74 100 9161
Cape Town’s Sea Point Promenade is a gem for celebrating birthdays, especially with UpCycles offering free bike rides. The promenade stretches along the coast, so you get beautiful views of the ocean and the city skyline.
When you arrive at UpCycles, just show your South African ID, and they set you up with a bike.
I recommend going in the evening for a sunset ride. The sky glows in all these amazing colours, and the whole atmosphere is really peaceful. You’ll see families out for a walk, people jogging, and maybe even catch live music at the amphitheatre.
Pro Tip: Begin your journey at the pavilion and take a leisurely cruise along the Sea Point and Mouille Point Promenade. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the vibrant V&A Waterfront and the lush Biodiversity Showcase Garden for a refreshing pit stop. |
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 an exhilarating indoor playpark dedicated to satisfying the adventurous spirit in all of us. The place is filled with obstacle courses and inflatables, which are great fun for both kids and adults.
For younger ninjas, Total Ninja offers a safe yet exciting environment with its mini ninjas zone. Plus, they provide essential ninja gear like gloves and headbands to enhance your adventure.
The best part is the free entry you get for an hour on your birthday. All you need is your ID to prove it’s your special day.
Pro Tip: Purchase a 2-hour session for R240 and receive a complimentary hot meal from their kiddies menu, available Monday to Friday (excluding school and public holidays). |
Movie Night at The Galileo Open Air Cinema
Website: https://thegalileo.co.za/
Phone: +27 71 471 8728
The Galileo Open Air Cinema is a must-visit spot in Cape Town, especially during the summer months from November to April. I celebrated a friend’s birthday there and enjoyed the relaxed outdoor setting.
What’s great is during your birthday week, you get free entry by showing your ID, which includes a comfy backrest and blanket for extra comfort. The atmosphere is charming, set against iconic Cape Town backdrops.
Food trucks line the venue, offering a range of snacks and drinks to enjoy during the movie. The staff are friendly and accommodating, making sure everyone, including kids, has a memorable time.
Pro Tip: Ensure your birthday entourage pre-books tickets to avoid disappointment, as no door sales are available for sold-out shows. Note that the birthday special offer excludes special screenings on Halloween, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Valentine’s Day, and Easter. |
Indoor Play at Freedom Adventure Park
Website: https://www.freedomadventurepark.co.za/freedom-canal-walk.html
Address: Canal Walk Shopping Centre, 490 Century Blvd, Century City
Phone: +27 (83) 279 4453
Operating Hours:
- Open daily – 9 AM to 9 PM
Freedom Adventure Park is a massive indoor playground that spans over 2,400m². I have celebrated birthdays here with my family, and it has become a go-to spot for kids’ parties without the hefty price tag.
The park offers everything from trampolines and a ninja obstacle course to thrilling ziplines and giant slides—perfect for keeping kids entertained and active.
What’s great is that children play for free on their birthday with ID. Plus, on weekdays, two kids get free entry with every main meal ordered by an adult, making it budget-friendly for group celebrations.
Pro Tip: Visitors not joining the indoor activities can relax in the family-friendly on-site pizzeria and enjoy a meal and premium Bootlegger Coffee. The pizzeria offers thin-crust pizzas, burgers, and an excellent kids’ menu in a cosy setting. |
Sweet Treats at Dolce Bakery
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DolceBakeryCapeTown/
Address: 38 Lower Rochester Road Observatory
Phone: +27 21 447 2532
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Friday – 7 AM to 4 PM
- Saturday – 8 AM to 2 PM
Located in the vibrant neighbourhood of Observatory, Dolce Bakery is a charming spot that beckons with its cosy atmosphere and delectable treats.
I’ve found Dolce Bakery to be a hidden gem for birthday celebrants. Upon presenting proof of your birthday, you’re treated to a complimentary sweet indulgence of your choice—a perfect way to start your special day.
During my last visit, I opted for their signature scones, which were freshly baked and utterly delightful. The sugar shortbread also caught my eye. Paired with an iced caramel latte, it made for a satisfying birthday breakfast.
Pro Tip: Order any regular coffee with a croissant or jumbo muffin for just R45, available daily until noon. Or, indulge in the all-day bagel special, pairing your favourite regular coffee with a choice of cream cheese, cashew cheese, or caprese bagel for only R50. |
Film Viewing at Ster-Kinekor V&A WaterFront
Media from hylttan
Website: https://www.sterkinekor.com/
Address: Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Phone: +27 86 166 8437
Ster-Kinekor at the Waterfront is a great spot with modern, clean theatres and comfy seats. The Prestige Section is a step up; you can even grab a decently priced bottle of wine before your movie starts.
I’ve celebrated a few birthdays there now, and one of the best perks is the free movie ticket you get when you sign up for their SK Club. Just bring your ID and you’re set.
You can use the ticket for any movie that’s been out for a week or more, and you have a week after your birthday to claim it.
Pro Tip: Consider enjoying additional free activities nearby, including visits to the Two Oceans Aquarium, Mugg & Bean, Cape Wheel, and Zeitz MOCAA. |
Escape Game at HintHunt
Website: https://hinthunt.co.za/
Address: Watershed, 17 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Phone: +27 76 187 2764 or +27 21 001 4215
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 10 AM to 7 PM
- Friday & Saturday – 10 AM to 8:30 PM
- Sunday – 10 AM to 5:30 PM
At HintHunt, you can dive into themed escape rooms with your friends on your birthday without spending a dime, as long as you bring a group of four or more.
Entering each room is like stepping into a different world. We found ourselves in a prison break scenario, split into cells with beds and cryptic clues scrawled on the walls. It’s a real brain-teaser but super fun when you start piecing things together!
Another highlight is the Torpedo Room, designed like a submarine with codes to crack and a big red button to push for freedom. The atmosphere gets intense as everyone gets involved, shouting out ideas and working together against the clock.
Pro Tip: For an optimal experience at HintHunt, guests are advised to arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled booking time. This ensures a smooth check-in process and a full adventure without any rush. |
Steak Day at Apache Spur Steak Ranch
Website: https://www.spursteakranches.com/za
Address: Pinnacle Building, The, Strand St
Phone: +27 21 423 4537
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 8 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 9 AM to 9 PM
Apache Spur Steak Ranch offers a great dining option for celebrating birthdays, especially for families with kids. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere that immediately makes you feel at ease.
On my child’s birthday, we took advantage of their Family Club app, which allows kids to enjoy a free meal and ice cream.
The kids’ section is thoughtfully designed with colourful décor and plenty of space for children to move around. The menu has a variety of choices that appeal to young tastes, from burgers to chicken dishes.
Pro Tip: Consider booking a party for a comprehensive package that includes setup, cleaning, decor, and a secure play area. It’s a one-stop solution for a hassle-free celebration, complete with a special gift for the birthday child and a feast of delicious meals. |