Gold Reef City Turns 40 and April Is the Best Time to Visit

A Joburg Icon Celebrates Four Decades

Gold Reef City is turning 40 years old this month. The theme park first opened in 1986 on the site of an old gold mine in Ormonde, south of Johannesburg. It has been one of the city's favourite family destinations ever since.

To celebrate, the park is running a month long birthday celebration from 1 to 28 April 2026. And with everything else happening there this month, it might just be the best time to visit.

What Makes Gold Reef City Special

Gold Reef City is the largest theme park in South Africa. It has 14 thrill rides, 9 family rides, and 20 dedicated kids rides. There is also a trampoline park called Jump City, fairground games, and over 15 other attractions spread across the property.

One thing that makes it truly unique is the underground mine tour. It is the only authentic mine tour in Johannesburg. Visitors go deep below the surface to see what life was like during the gold rush era.

A full day pass costs R295 per person.

Big Events Happening This Month

The 40th birthday celebration is not the only reason to visit in April. Gold Reef City has packed its calendar with events.

The Magic Faraway Tree Cinema Activation is running until 12 April. It is a special cinema experience for kids, perfect for the school holidays.

On Saturday 18 April, South African music star LIRA performs her "Still Here" concert at the venue. LIRA is one of the most loved artists in the country, and this show is expected to draw a big crowd.

There are also gaming promotions running through the casino. The REVVED UP RICHES campaign has over R3.6 million in prizes and runs until 27 June. Prive Nights offers R3.7 million in cash, cars, and prizes until 26 June.

Plenty of Food Options

Gold Reef City has 12 sit down restaurants and 10 fast food outlets. Whether you want a proper meal or a quick bite between rides, there is something for every taste and budget.

One popular spot is the Texan Wing Bar, which is running a bottomless wings special until 30 June. All you can eat wings at a theme park? That is hard to beat.

More Than Just a Theme Park

Gold Reef City is also home to The Lyric Theatre, which hosts major shows and performances throughout the year. There is a cinema built inside a Victorian train station, which gives it a charm you will not find anywhere else.

The Apartheid Museum is right next door. It is one of the most important museums in South Africa and tells the story of the country's journey from oppression to freedom. It is a powerful experience for visitors of all ages.

There is even a chapel on the property that dates back to 1879. Couples can book it for weddings.

Why It Matters

Gold Reef City has been part of Johannesburg for 40 years. It is one of those places where generations of families have made memories. Grandparents, parents, and kids have all screamed on the same rides and explored the same mine tunnels.

Turning 40 is a big deal. And with a packed April calendar, special promotions, live music, and school holiday activities, there has never been a better time to go back or visit for the first time.

📍 Gold Reef City, Northern Parkway and Data Crescent, Ormonde, Johannesburg South