The Playground Braamfontein Johannesburg
Johannesburg's vibrant urban market, blending food, art, music, and creativity in the heart of Braamfontein.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Full market experience
The Playground Braamfontein Johannesburg
Best Time
Full market experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Johannesburg's vibrant urban market, blending food, art, music, and creativity in the heart of Braamfontein.
"The coolest spot in Braam, The Playground!"
🎯 Secure Parking Available
Park in Juta Street for secure undercover parking. :car:
⏰ Arrive Early for Best Vibe
Beat the crowds and enjoy the market at its freshest. :clock:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Culinary Delights
Market Stalls
Savor diverse street food and local flavors from a variety of vendors. A true taste of Johannesburg!
Artistic Expressions
Market Area
Discover unique crafts, fashion, and art from local artisans. A hub for creative talent.
+1
Live Music & Vibe
Main Stage/Area
Groove to the sounds of live DJs and musicians, creating an energetic and festive atmosphere.
Sip & Paint Sessions
Designated Areas
Unleash your inner artist with fun Sip & Paint workshops offered on weekends.
+1Planning Your Visit
Weekend Vibes & Market Buzz
Navigating Braamfontein
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Secure Parking Available
Park in Juta Street for secure undercover parking. :car:
⏰ Arrive Early for Best Vibe
Beat the crowds and enjoy the market at its freshest.
💳 Payment Options
Many vendors accept card payments, but it's wise to carry some cash.
🚶♀️ Stay Aware
Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid flashing valuables. :eyes:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Secure Parking Available
Park in Juta Street for secure undercover parking. :car:
⏰ Arrive Early for Best Vibe
Beat the crowds and enjoy the market at its freshest.
💳 Payment Options
Many vendors accept card payments, but it's wise to carry some cash.
🚶♀️ Stay Aware
Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid flashing valuables. :eyes:
🎶 Check DJ Lineups
See who's spinning the decks for an authentic Amapiano experience. :musical_note:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about The Playground's vibrant atmosphere, diverse food offerings, and creative local crafts. It's celebrated as a dynamic urban market that captures the spirit of Johannesburg. Some find the parking and crowd management could be improved during peak times, but the overall experience is highly positive.
"I went there before it was the Playground, when it was Neighbourgoods and I prefer it before but location is good, it’s nice and clean.
There are limited food stalls and the vibe is a bit different post pandemic. Seating at as a hard to find but the live music makes up for it.
I love the bar upstairs but the lines do get a little bit long and it may be a while before you’re served- the drinks were good but a bit overpriced."
Brenda Sethi
"Wow, what a wonderfull place. It was my red bus stop. You can listen to music, taste food from the whole world, make a painting, buy some local souvenir. I bought few homemade things, love it. People are nice. I talked with few. The most important thing, it is safe. Amazing flow inside. One of the best place in Joburg for me."
Marcin (Coriolis)
"What an amazing place. A stop of the Red Bus Tour in Johannesburg. There is an amazing vibe and energy to this place that had greater support before the covid years. I really hope more people support this place in the coming future. Many different types of food and drinks to try. A very small market for non food items. We had a very delicious bunny chow."
Fay Trim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Playground is located at 73 Juta Street in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. You can easily reach it by Uber or Bolt. For those driving, secure undercover parking is available in Juta Street. +1
Yes, Johannesburg has a public bus system, and Braamfontein is accessible via these routes. Uber and Bolt are also very popular and convenient options for getting around.
Braamfontein is best explored on foot once you've parked or arrived via ride-sharing. The streets are generally clean and safe for walking, especially during market hours.
The Playground is situated in the heart of Braamfontein, close to Wits University, Kitchener's Carvery, and various trendy cafes and shops.
While street parking might be available, it's recommended to use the secure undercover parking in Juta Street for peace of mind.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to The Playground market is typically free. You only pay for the food, drinks, and any art or crafts you wish to purchase.
The Playground operates primarily as a Saturday market, usually from 10 AM. It's best to check their social media for specific timings each week.
The Playground is predominantly a Saturday market. While some events might occur on other days, Saturdays are when the full market experience is available.
The Playground is generally an all-ages venue, especially during the daytime market. However, some evening events might have age restrictions.
For specific events like Sip & Paint, booking in advance is often recommended. Check their social media or event listings for details.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a wide array of delicious street food, from local South African favorites to international cuisines. Think burgers, curries, pastries, and more!
Yes, many vendors offer vegetarian and vegan choices. It's always a good idea to ask the vendors directly about their ingredients.
The Playground features local artisans selling unique clothing, jewelry, art prints, and handmade goods, showcasing South African creativity.
Most vendors accept card payments, but it's advisable to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases or in case of any technical issues.
Absolutely! The local artisan stalls are perfect for finding unique, handcrafted souvenirs that represent South African culture and design.
📸 📸 Photography & Vibe
Yes, The Playground offers a vibrant backdrop with its street art, market stalls, and lively atmosphere, making it a great spot for photography.
The vibe is energetic, creative, and community-focused, with a mix of music, food, art, and people enjoying the urban space.
Look out for the colorful graffiti, unique market displays, and the general buzz of the crowd for dynamic photo opportunities.
Yes, visitors are welcome to film and take photos for personal use. For commercial use, it's always best to inquire with the management.
It's an 'adult playground' that combines urban exploration with a lively market atmosphere, showcasing local talent and flavors in a dynamic city setting.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider bringing a stroller for younger children, as there's a lot to see and they might get tired. The Sip & Paint sessions can also be a fun, albeit potentially messy, activity for older children if they have a creative inclination.
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
+1 Take your time to browse the stalls, chat with the artists, and perhaps find a unique piece to take home. The Sip & Paint events are also a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local art scene. +1Beyond the market, the surrounding Braamfontein area is known for its galleries and public art installations, making it a rich environment for cultural exploration.
🍔 Foodie Explorers
Don't be afraid to try new things and sample from multiple vendors. It's the perfect place to embark on a food crawl and discover hidden gems. Look out for vendors offering local delicacies and unique twists on classic dishes. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with delicious food and good music, makes for an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Urban Playground Experience
This spot has gained recognition, even being visited by figures like Anthony Bourdain, highlighting its significance as a destination for authentic local experiences.
It's a place where creativity thrives, offering a platform for emerging artists and entrepreneurs. The energy is palpable, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the pulse of Johannesburg. +1Key attractions include the wide variety of food stalls offering everything from traditional South African dishes to international flavors, alongside unique crafts and fashion from local designers. The Sip & Paint sessions add an interactive artistic element, making it a well-rounded weekend destination.
+1Braamfontein: A Creative Hub
Exploring Braamfontein offers a chance to see vibrant murals and graffiti art adorning building walls, reflecting the city's dynamic artistic spirit.
The area is also home to numerous galleries, independent boutiques, and trendy cafes, contributing to its bohemian and artistic ambiance. For visitors, Braamfontein provides an authentic Johannesburg experience, moving beyond typical tourist trails. It’s a place to connect with the local culture, discover emerging talent, and witness the city's ongoing evolution. The security improvements and cleanliness noted by residents further enhance its appeal as a safe and engaging urban exploration zone.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit