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28 Best & Fun things to do in Bloemfontein (South Africa)

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

Looking for the best things to do in Bloemfontein, South Africa? Bloemfontein, also known as Bloem, is the capital and the largest city of the Free State Province in South Africa.

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The city is South Africa’s seventh largest city and is notable for being home to the Supreme Court of Appeal of South Africa, Franklin Game Reserve, and Sand du Plessis Theatre.

Bloemfontein is sometimes referred to as the City of Cheetahs and Roses. There are undoubtedly enough activities in Bloemfontein to keep you occupied all day.

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Because of the city’s profusion of roses and yearly rose festival, the area is colloquially and poetically called “the city of roses.” Because of its strategic location, Bloemfontein is known as “Central South Africa.”

Taking into consideration as well that it is a place that is ripe with much of South Africa’s history, you shouldn’t be dumbfounded to come across plenty of museum houses, a few of which do make our pick of things to do here.

Get to meet the people and explore the city with helpful locals as they explain all you need to know about Bloemfontein. For a perfect travel experience, here is the list of the best & fun things to do in Bloemfontein.

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Things To Do In Bloemfontein

1. Explore the Naval Hill Planetarium

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

The Naval Hill Planetarium is a tourist attraction for intellectuals and individuals with bright minds; it is a science-based location that takes a much deeper look into the activities of humans launching artificial satellites into space.

This experience isn’t one to be enjoyed alone, as you get to pair up and tag along with fellow space explorers, all doing nothing other than checking out and trying to solve puzzles relating to the mysteries of the universe.

What should I expect?

Here, visitors and tourists get to be part of its guided tours to learn about the ins and outs of space and a further understanding of the planet.

Address: Naval Hill, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa.

2. Learn about the region’s culture and history at The National Museum

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

The National Museum of Bloemfontein, which has existed for over a century, is a tourist attraction of historic significance, housing all ancient collections and displays of rarities worldwide.

Inside this building are many artifacts, giving a deep insight into the region’s history and cultural heritage through its displays and educational programs.

What to expect?

Here, visitors get to be part of its engaging and enlightening tours, enriching themselves with knowledge of the region’s culture and history.

Address: 36 Aliwal St, Bloemfontein Central, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa.

3. Appreciate the beauty of Nature at the Free State National Botanical Garden

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

The Free State National Botanical Garden is one of the best places to visit in Bloemfontein. On the Bloemfontein regional axis, it is more akin to a nature reserve, with tall grassland and woodlands of wild olive and karee trees dominating.

The Free State National Botanical Garden is home to some 400 species of plants, mainly from the Free State, Northern Cape, and Lesotho. The gardens are accessible to the physically challenged and older visitors thanks to a winding concrete route, while the more agile will enjoy the koppies.

The Free State Botanical Garden has some spectacular specimens of wild olive and karee trees, an orange flower arbor, and a petrified tree that is estimated to be more than 150 million years old. Please visit the Free State Botanical Garden for further details.

The garden’s nursery is also well worth a visit as they have a well-stocked supply of extra indigenous trees, succulents, shrubs, and bulbs. Additionally, the Botanical Society hosts presentations, sunset concerts in the summer, and moonlight walks.

What other things happen here?

Aside from getting up close with the wildlife in this garden, it is also perceived to be an ideal location to enjoy a picnic, relax on its manicured lawns, and enjoy the heat of the day.

Address: Rayton Rd., Dan Pienaar, Bloemfontein, 9310, South Africa.

4. See the wildlife of Naval Hill Nature Reserve

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

Visitors to Naval Hill Nature Reserve, whose name refers to the two Naval Guns from the Anglo-Boer War, come here solely to take a stroll through the reserve and observe the wildlife, which includes various species of giraffes, bucks, ostriches, and more.

While enjoying this experience to the fullest, visitors and tourists alike should be assured that there is no harm intended against them, as no such large predators are present on site to warrant any fear.

Why should you visit?

Here, visitors get to enjoy the experience of being present at a zoo and seeing different animal species of wildlife, even though they aren’t at a zoo. So, if you are looking for what to do in Bloemfontein, you should see the wildlife at Naval Hill Nature Reserve.

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Address: Naval Hill, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa.

5. Check out the Nelson Mandela Statue

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

The Nelson Mandela statue, now a lookout point, is another tourist attraction gaining popularity recently, one monstrous edifice watching over Bloemfontein, the birthplace of the ANC.

There is no doubt that it has been able to gather popularity in recent times since, at the moment, it presently holds the bragging right of being the largest bronze statue of a South African hero in the world.

What to expect?

Since it has a legendary status and is now serving as a lookout point in the region, visitors and tourists get to take in the beauty of the whole city just by standing therein.

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6. Try out the puzzles in the Elude Escape Rooms

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

Suppose you are looking for the best things to do in Bloemfontein this weekend. In that case, you should visit the Elude Escape Rooms, which are more like a game center offering innovative adventure that is best enjoyed with family or friends and revolves around games of deep thought, a fun activity to engage with, and enjoying the thrills that come with every single one of its challenges.

Offering the very best escape room experience, tourists are tasked with solving puzzles immersed in a themed room, finding a way to escape with their creativity and perception.

What to expect?

Here, visitors and tourists get to be part of the fun and thrills of solving a series of puzzles and riddles to escape.

Address: 14 Louw Wepener Straat, Dan Pienaar, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa.

7. Try out something different with Boyden Observatory

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

The Boyden observatory is more like a science-based laboratory designed to entertain items relating to stable atmospheric environments and perfect weather conditions, one known for its high-tech adventures.

Showing up at this science-based attraction is solely for its high-tech experience of gazing through the night skies utilizing its Impressive telescopic lenses.

Why should you try it out?

Visitors can watch the beautiful Bloemfontein sunset or rise by standing on its observation platform. Subsequently, I learned about South Africa’s history with space and space agencies.

8. Hangout at the Gwen Bali Water World

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

Hanging out at the Gwen Bali Water World tourist attraction is one of the few options available for family-packed attractions. One family gets to take a day out cooling off inside its water bodies.

Known for its water-based adventures, it has proven to be an ideal location to splash around in its paddling pool or perhaps go racing on its Kamikaze Slide.

What should I expect?

Here, visitors get to create a memorable experience for themselves regarding swimming and some summer fun with family and friends.

Address: Ribbersdale Road, Ribbersdale, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa.

9. Grab a glass of beer at The Famous Brew & Still

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

The famous Brew & still is a brewery and distillery in the city, entertaining the desires of craft beer lovers when it comes to offering the very best of its unique craft, freshly made from locally sourced ingredients.

Unlike every other brewery you might come across during your stay in the city, this brewery still stands out because it is old-fashioned and utilizes traditional techniques for making craft beers, whiskey, gin, rum, and vodka.

Why should you visit?

The famous Brew & Still offers tasteful whiskey in an ambiance of live entertainment, creating the perfect setting for hanging out with friends or loved ones.

Address: 2 Leviseur St, Westdene, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa.

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10. Explore the Queen’s Fort Military Museum

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

The Queens Fort Museum, dedicated to the military, is one of many tourist attractions in the region of historical significance, telling the stories of the significant military conflicts of the Anglo war.

Sharing stories of the devastating times in South African history, this is undoubtedly not a joyous place to be, aside from exploring exhibits portraying how the wars and battles back then unfolded.

What should I expect?

Here, visitors see exhibits from the Anglo-Boer War, World War I, World War II, and the struggle leading to its unity and freedom.

Address: 312 Oliver Tambo Rd, Hamilton, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa.

11. Be part of the surreal experience of The Kotzé Art Gallery

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

The Kotze art gallery is one of the few top-notch galleries in the region, mastering the art of drawing and painting as it concerns images visitors and tourists alike can easily relate to and connect with.

The experience of being present at this tourist attraction revolves around learning and appreciating the beauty of art through its wide selection of artwork, drawings, and paintings.

What to expect?

Here, visitors are stunned by the beauty of its artistic works, which come from the crafts of its South African artists, which they are also at liberty to buy and take home.

Address: 44 Gen. Dan Pienaar Drive, Dan Pienaar, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa.

12. Keep in touch with birds at Soetdoring Dam Nature Reserve

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

The Soetdoring Nature Reserve is yet another top tourist attraction when it comes to places to visit for animal lovers. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise, blessed with hundreds and tons of species of birds.

Being a designated habitat for birds specifically, both visitors and tourists alike get to enjoy the outdoor serenity of catching the sights of such birds in their different species of gemsbok, eland, springbok, blesbok, black wildebeest, zebra, and red hartebeest.

What else happens here?

Visitors can also choose to go hiking along its nature reserve, with provisions also being made to enjoy picnics.

Address: R700, Bayswater, Bloemfontein, South Africa.

13. Be part of the Manguang Rose Festival

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

If you find yourself in a city whose name has the literary meaning of fountain of flowers, it would be a crime for you to depart the city you visited in the summer without considering being part of its Manguang Rose Festival.

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It is a celebration held in the city regarding the most extensive selection of roses in the state. Activities like the Rose High Tea, learning about its green businesses, and taking in the peaceful atmosphere go along with it.

Why should you take part?

The Manguang rose festival is an extraordinary celebration, should you be an avid gardener and rose enthusiast. It is one that you will never regret being part of. This is one of the hidden gems in Bloemfontein.

14. See wild animals in their habitat at Bagamoya Wildlife Estate

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

The Bagamoya Wildlife Estate is a nature reserve and lion sanctuary farm where visitors and tourists consider themselves lucky to have a feel for African wildlife in their natural habitats.

Regarding getting close to wildlife, visitors and tourists are granted the opportunity to get up close to some of the big cats housed at Bagamoya, along with the different species of lions.

Why should you visit?

Aside from offering opportunities for visitors and tourists to get up close to its African wildlife, it is also blessed with many facilities to give you a relaxed and comfortable stay.

15. Shop with convenience at Langenhoven Park Farmers Market

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

The Langenhoven Park Farmers Market in Bloemfontein is one operating during the weekends, primarily and specifically on Saturdays, during which local farmers and traders in Bloemfontein gather the best of their farm produce and wares, ranging from food items, arts and crafts, jewelry, clothing, and books.

This market has various booths and food stalls, catering to delicious meals for consumer satisfaction.

What other things happen here?

The market also has a designated playground for kids to get thrilled and entertained with pony rides and jumping castles.

Address: Joachem, van Bruggen Steet, Langenhoven Park, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa.

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16. Explore the intriguing art collections at the Oliewenhuis Art Museum

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

The Oliewenhuis Art Museum is a theater house and yet another top tourist attraction in Bloemfontein, featuring the very best of magnificent contemporary artworks by notable South African artists like Thomas Baines, Jan Ernst Volschenk, Pieter Wenning, Jacob Hendrik Pierneef, and Willem Coetzer.

Holding the bragging rights of being one of the youngest museums in the whole of the country, this is an ideal location for visitors to come gaze at the crafts and collection of works from the City Council of Bloemfontein, situated in a Neo-Dutch-style mansion.

What other things happen here?

This museum house is also blessed with the most magnificent gardens in the city, made up of natural vegetation bordering the museum grounds, making it the perfect spot for nature enthusiasts to come and appreciate the beauty of nature.

Address: 16 Harry Smith St, Dan Pienaar, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa.

17. Spend your day at The Old Presidency Museum

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

The old Presidency Museum is a theater house in Bloemfontein, open all days and nights of the week, featuring a vast number of exhibits from the homes of past presidents while also telling the story of their lives.

It is a vast theater stocked with items of interest from the former residence of the President of the Republic of the Orange Free State from 1886 until 1899, during the Second Anglo-Boer War.

Why should you visit?

Here, visitors get to check out various fascinating paintings, furniture, and ornaments from former number-one citizens of the country.

Address: President Brand St, CBD, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa.

#18. Admire the landscape of Bloemfontein Heliport

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

Admiring the landscape of Bloemfontein Heliport is one of the wildest and craziest experiences to be part of during your holiday or business trip to the city. This adventure involves zooming through the big blue on a private helicopter tour.

This experience has to do with exploring the beauty of its breathtaking landscapes and untouched wildlife areas in Bloemfontein, which soar up way higher into the sky.

What to expect?

This adventure and experience allow visitors and tourists to admire the city hanging in the air.

#19. Be part of the sporting experience of Toyota Stadium

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

The Toyota Stadium has many sporting facilities to delight its visitors, specifically sports fans, one of which gets to relieve their sporting experience to the fullest by coming over to cheer on their favourite team.

Presently serving as a home ground to both the Bluebells and the Sundowns football club, visitors and tourists should rest assured that they catch a game or two every weekend.

What other things do happen here?

Visitors and tourists alike can also be part of its guided tours of the stadium, history, and clubs it relates to.

Address: Willows, Bloemfontein, 9320, South Africa.

20. Enjoy the shopping spree at Loch Logan Waterfront

Things To Do In Bloemfontein

A holiday or business won’t be considered more fulfilling if you haven’t shopped for items to gift yourself or loved ones, which is where one of the biggest Central South African malls, Loch Logan waterfront, comes in to help.

It is an ideal location where you get to enjoy its unique shopping experience of shopping to your satisfaction, though you are also at liberty to take a cooling stroll right up against the mall itself.

What other things can happen here?

Since the waters surround it, it has this picturesque setting of coming to flash the camera lenses with family and friends or perhaps relaxing closer to its calm waters, breathing in the crisp, clean air.

Address: Willows, Bloemfontein, 9320, South Africa

21. The Cheetah Experience Centre

things to do in Bloemfontein

Founded in Bloemfontein, South Africa, Cheetah Experience is a non-profit organization licensed to breed endangered wildlife.

In addition to cheetahs, leopards, male non-breeding lions, servals, caracals, African wildcats, wolves, meerkats, and a Siberian tiger, they are also home to a variety of other rare and vulnerable species.

They’re known to provide a once-in-a-lifetime chance for guests to go on an informative tour, learn about our animals, get up and personal with them, take some incredible photographs, and discover how they can help us in the fight to conserve these priceless species.

Tours for children under the age of 12 are available on weekends, while adult tours are available during the week.

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Address: 13 Denne St, Donegal Small Holdings, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa

22. Oliewenhuis Art Gallery

things to do in Bloemfontein

The Bloemfontein Oliewenhuis Art Museum is a must-see if you’re traveling to the Free State. It is housed in a stunning neo-Cape Dutch structure and offers works by prominent South African artists, art exhibitions, a first-rate restaurant, and beautiful gardens.

From Pierneef to Kentridge, the greatest non-contemporary and contemporary South African painters are on display in this gallery on the ground floor as well as in the permanent collection upstairs.

There are many places to stop for a picnic along the pathways through the exquisite gardens, while the African Carousel, a functioning outdoor sculpture, provides entertainment for kids. Several South African artists collectively worked on this piece that reflects the melting pot of European and African culture in South Africa.

Address: 16 Harry Smith St, Dan Pienaar, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa

23. Anglo Boer War Museum

things to do in Bloemfontein

The Anglo-Boer War of 1899–1902 was one of the most important occasions in South Africa’s history. Although Britain and the two Boer Republics were the main players in the conflict, South Africa’s entire populace was either directly or indirectly involved.

Through its distinctive art collection, dioramas, and exhibitions, Bloemfontein’s War Museum not only provides visitors with an overview of the Boer War but also helps them comprehend the context in which the conflict took place.

The museum includes information in many different formats, including audio-visuals, artwork, several sorts of exhibitions, and, of course, relics that transport visitors back in time. The museum is a highly recommended place for history buffs to include in their initial list of things to do in Bloemfontein.

Address: 25 Monument Rd, Generaal De Wet, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa

24. Visit Choet Visser Rugby Museum

Choet Visser Rugby Museum is a privately owned museum that was first opened in 1974, and by 1976, 5,000 people had been through the doors.

The museum, which has more than 200 jerseys and blazers relating to rugby as well as 450 ties, is the largest private museum of its sort in the world.

The walls are covered with original, hand-signed drawings and images of teams and players. Rugby enthusiasts will find this museum visit to be highly worthwhile.

The Choet Visser Rugby Museum is only accessible by appointment from Monday through Saturday.

25. Fourth Raadsaal

things to do in Bloemfontein

The Raadsaal building, which currently stands on President Brand Street, is the fourth such to have been Built by the old Republic of the Orange Free State.

The Fourth Raadsaal in Bloemfontein features stunning contemporary architecture that mesmerizes tourists. Its construction began in 1890, when then-President F. W. Reitz laid its foundation stone, making it the most beautiful structure in this city.

The building still holds as one of the most fascinating places in South Africa today. It is advised that tourists include Fourth Raadsaal in their travel plans.

Address: 10 President Brand St, Bloemfontein Central, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa

26. Visit Langenhovenpark Boeremark

things to do in Bloemfontein

Boeremark Langenhovenpark is a farmers market that takes place every Saturday. You will find local farmers selling their goods together with books, jewelry, apparel, and arts & crafts.

It is an excellent location to purchase and sample a wide variety of regional delicacies. Popular foods including Pannekoek, Dutch pancakes, jams, and dried fruits are worth purchasing at the market.

There are, of course, many different food vendors, as well as gift and toy shops for kids and adults. For kids, there are pony rides and jumping castles, while for adults, there are a few coffee tents.

On occasion, Friday afternoons till late are used for the Boeremark evening markets. These nighttime markets last two days because they also take place every Saturday morning.

27. Visit Maselspoort

things to do in Bloemfontein

Maselspoort, on the banks of the Modder River, is only 23km from Bloemfontein and 13km from Bram Fischer International Airport. This is the perfect distance for both a day trip and a weekend getaway.

The region is referred to as the “Transgariep.” The holiday resort provides an attractive oasis in an otherwise dry region with plenty of water that allows for fishing and water fun.

Go cycling early in the morning to see the sunrise or fish along the meandering Modder River’s banks. The resort is open daily for fishing between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m.

28. Visit Rosie’s Restaurant

things to do in Bloemfontein

On the last list of things to do in Bloemfontein is to head over to Rosie’s Brasserie restaurant.

The restaurant is a great place to experience genuine bohemian charm with unique Moulin Rouge overtones. It is located inside the Windmill Casino & Entertainment Center.

This buffet restaurant, the only one open continuously in Bloemfontein, serves a variety of regional specialties that show off South African food to both residents and tourists.

Of course, the buffet also includes barbecue, rotisserie, and carvery, in addition to classic flavors. The dessert buffet is a real treat for those with a sweet tooth.

Address: Windmill Casino Cnr Jan Pierewiet Avenue &, N1, Pellissier, Bloemfontein, 9332, South Africa

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Bloemfontein known for?

Bloemfontein, also known as Bloem, is the largest city in the South African province of the Free State and serves as the capital of justice. Because it is home to the Supreme Court of Appeal, it is well known for playing a vital role in the nation’s legal system.

With multiple museums, including the National Women’s Monument, the Anglo-Boer War Museum, the National Museum, and the Oliewenhuis Art Museum, the city is also a center for cultural events.

Bloemfontein is known for its contributions to astronomical research through the Naval Hill Planetarium and Boyden Observatory, the first digital planetarium in the southern hemisphere, and its significance to culture and the legal system.

Because of its yearly rose festival and a profusion of these flowers, Bloemfontein is cherishedly called “the city of roses.” It has also been dubbed “Central South Africa” due to its location in South Africa.

Is Bloemfontein a good place to live?

According to reports, Bloemfontein, South Africa, is a serene city home to some of the top educational institutions in the nation. It is renowned for its lovely scenery and amiable locals. The city is home to nearly every tribe in South Africa, adding to its diversity.

Like any city, though, it has its share of difficulties. There have been reports from some locals that the weather can be extremely hot or cold. Most people buy or boil their water because it is only sometimes safe to drink.

Despite these difficulties, many people think that Bloemfontein is a nice place to live. It’s even ranked as one of South Africa’s most picturesque retirement destinations. The city has a lot to offer regarding attractions and activities, such as a lovely botanical garden and annual festivals.

However, each person’s experience will differ based on lifestyle choices and personal preferences. Therefore, to better understand what living in Bloemfontein would be like for you, it might be helpful to visit the city first or talk to locals.

The best time to visit Bloemfontein

The best and busiest month for tourist visits in Bloemfontein, South Africa, is January, followed by July, September, and October. Visitors will discover several tourism events taking place in the city throughout these months.

Do you find this article on the best and fun things to do in Bloemfontein helpful, or have you visited Bloemfontein before? Please share your thoughts with us.

Plan Your Vacation To Bloemfontein

In conclusion, should you contemplate and wonder what to do during your holiday or business trip, Bloemfontein should guide you on various activities that match your desire.

From Historical buildings and museum houses down to marketplaces and public parks, remembering nature reserves as well, the city of Bloemfontein has many activities to entertain your enormous desires.

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