The real luxury is time with family. And with the school holidays in full swing across South Africa, there’s no better moment to reclaim it. Across the country, our favourite shopping centres have transformed into destinations packed with imaginative experiences for all ages. Here’s your edit of the very best family fun, from Joburg to Cape Town and Durban.
Gauteng
Mall of Africa – The Goal Zone
3–13 July, 10am–8pm
An indoor, astroturf-style arena packed with match-day energy. Test your power at Speed Kick, take aim at Beat the Keeper, or try Footgolf and Keepie Uppies.
R50 per person. Adult supervision required.
@_themallofafrica | mallofafrica.co.za
Fourways Mall – The Gauntlet
26 June–9 July, 9am–6pm
South Africa’s largest inflatable obstacle course, spanning more than 650sqm, lands indoors. Climb, slide, race, and bounce your way through the ultimate active challenge.
From R100 per person. Book via Howler (limited capacity).
thegauntlet.howler.co.za/fourwaysmall
Bedford Centre – Neon Glow Mini Golf
1–30 July (may be extended)
Back by popular demand, Neon Glow Mini Golf features 12 holes of vibrant, UV-lit putt-putt fun on the Piazza Level. Perfect for families and friends seeking something delightfully different.
R50 per person.
@bedfordcentre | bedfordcentre.com
Western Cape
Cavendish Square – Game On
13–19 July, 10am–5pm
An interactive sporting arena with challenges, prizes, and high-energy fun for young competitors. Gift cards, vouchers, and ice cream treats are up for grabs.
Free entry.
@cavendishsquare | cavendish.co.za
Liberty Promenade – Glow Studio: Create. Illuminate
1–19 July, 12pm–5pm
A neon wonderland where kids and parents paint, splash, and spray under UV lights. Messy, colourful, and utterly joyful – a true escape from screens.
R30 per person. Book at the registration desk.
@libertypromenademall_za | libertypromenade.co.za
KwaZulu-Natal
Gateway – Museum of Illusions
Open seven days a week
Over 60 mind-bending exhibits – holograms, optical illusions, and immersive rooms that trick the senses. Nothing is quite as it seems, and it’s brilliant.
From R200 per person. Family packages available. Under-4s free.
Midlands Mall (Pietermaritzburg) – ARTopia Exhibition
30 June–19 July
A vibrant showcase of creativity featuring 23 schools’ interpretations of an “Ocean Odyssey”. Grade 1–7 learners bring the underwater world to life in glorious colour.
Free entry.
@libertymidlandsmall | midlandsmall.co.za
