Picnic at the Union Buildings
Looking for romantic things to do in Pretoria? The Union Buildings are not only an important South African heritage site, but the impressive presidential complex is surrounded by pretty terraced gardens that offer panoramic views over the city. It’s the picture-perfect spot for a romantic picnic!
Paul Kruger House Museum
One of the not-to-be-missed places to see in Pretoria, this modest and informative house museum outlines the life and times of the 19th-century Afrikaans leader and Transvaal President Paul Kruger. Inside the house, period furniture and personal items show how the Kruger family lived in a style that was extremely modern for the time. The house was one of the very first in the city to have electricity and a telephone connection, while the bathrooms also made use of the latest amenities at the time.
Voortrekker Monument
The majestic Voortrekker Monument commemorates the pioneer history of South Africa. Designed by architect Gerard Moerdijk and officially opened in 1949, it houses the world’s longest historical marble frieze. Today, it ranks as one of Gauteng’s most visited heritage sites and one of South Africa’s top 10 cultural-historical attractions.
Church Square
Church Square is Pretoria's historic heart, established in 1855, once a market and church site, now known for the Paul Kruger Statue and surrounded by notable architecture like the Palace of Justice and the Ou Raadsaal. It is a significant cultural landmark and a well-known gathering place in South Africa's capital city.
Melrose House
Melrose House is a popular tourist facility, which is known for its historical connection as the British headquarters during the Anglo-Boer War and the signing of the Peace Treaty of Vereeniging in the dining room. The museum, including the stable complex, has on display Victorian rooms furnished with original furniture, silver, porcelain and textiles, a furnished attic and a servant’s room. Guided tours are conducted, and visitors can have a picnic. Melrose House has a small lecture room for conferences and a research library on Victorian and Anglo-Boer War topics.
The 1000-year old Wonderboom fig tree
The Wonderboom (translated “Tree of Wonder” or “Miracle tree”) is a unique 1000-year-old fig tree and one of the quirkier stops you’ll make when looking for fun things to do in Pretoria. The tree, now a national monument, is unusually large, standing at 25m tall with a 5.5-metre diameter main trunk. Its growth pattern is also unusual: as its branches grew longer, they drooped towards the ground and eventually took root and formed a circle of new trunks around the original tree. There are now a total of 13 trunks, and the colossal tree covers an area with a diameter of 55 metres!
Market @ the Sheds
Experience art, music, food, fashion and design at Pretoria’s own inner-city market. Spend the day soaking up the sounds of live blues, folk, rock, jazz, reggae and Afro-soul bands. The market usually takes place on the last Saturday of the month, with date changes in between to accommodate holidays and long weekends. It is open from 11h00 to 18h00. Also, pop in at the Hazel Food Market early on a Saturday morning for fresh farm produce and home-made eats.
Irene Dairy Farm
One of the must-go places in Pretoria, this family-run dairy farm is a picturesque country gem. Stroll along straw pathways to see the cows and their calves. Children can assist with bottle-feeding the calves at 3 pm daily. The Dairy Shop sells fresh farm milk and a wide range of farm products and baked goods, plus Irene Dairy’s unique and indulgent clotted cream.
Jacaranda trees
Pretoria is known as Jacaranda City because of the purple-flowered Jacaranda trees that line its streets. The trees are especially spectacular during spring (September to November).
The Cradle of Humankind
Only a 90-minute drive from Pretoria and home to around 40% of the world’s human ancestor fossils, the Cradle of Humankind allows you to learn about the fascinating archaeological history of the region. Take a tour followed by a dining experience in tranquil surroundings.
Of course, no visit to Pretoria would be complete without exploring the Menlyn Maine precinct. On the doorstep of The Maslow Time Square, Menlyn Maine is Africa’s first green precinct where you'll find a selection of restaurants, excellent shopping and wellness activities.
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