Parktown is a suburb of Johannesburg that is situated very close to the old central business district of the city. The suburb is wedged between the M1 highway, Empire and Barry Herzog roads. The suburb is host to Parktown Boys' High School as well as several other schools. For higher education the Johannesburg College of Education, The University of the Witwatersrand and the Rand Afrikaans University, as well as Technicon Witwatersrand are all very close.
The Milpark Hospital is situated in Parktown and the Johannesburg General Hospital is within five minutes drive. Several other clinics and hospitals in the Hillbrow area are all very close. The visitor will find Parktown very handy for the many theatres and restaurants of downtown Johannesburg. Johannesburg's three big stadia, Ellis Park, the Johannesburg Stadium and the Standard Bank Arena are all within ten minutes drive. The Johannesburg Zoological Gardens are just a few blocks away.
Parktown, Johannesburg, is a historic suburb known for its beautiful architecture and proximity to various attractions.
Here are five things to see or do around Parktown:
1. Explore the Johannesburg Zoo: Located nearby, the Johannesburg Zoo is one of the largest in South Africa, home to a wide variety of animals and offering educational programs and events. It's a great place for family outings, providing opportunities to see lions, elephants, and many other species in well-maintained habitats.
2. Visit the Wits Art Museum: Situated at the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), the Wits Art Museum houses an extensive collection of African art. The museum features both contemporary and historical pieces, offering a deep dive into the artistic heritage of the continent.
3. Tour the Historic Mansions: Parktown is famous for its well-preserved historic mansions, dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the architecture and history of these grand homes, many of which were built during Johannesburg's early gold rush era.
4. Stroll through the Johannesburg Botanical Garden: A short drive from Parktown, this botanical garden in Emmarentia is a serene spot featuring themed gardens, such as the Rose Garden and the Herb Garden. The park also includes a large dam, perfect for picnics, walking, and enjoying the natural beauty.
5. Experience Constitution Hill: Just adjacent to Parktown, Constitution Hill is a significant historical site that includes the Old Fort Prison Complex and the Constitutional Court of South Africa. Visitors can learn about South Africa’s journey to democracy, see the court in action, and view various exhibits related to human rights and justice.
These attractions offer a mix of cultural, historical, and recreational experiences that showcase the richness of the area around Parktown, Johannesburg.