Wits Planetarium - Image 1
1 / 10

Wits Planetarium Johannesburg

4.2
·279 reviews·Johannesburg, South Africa

Experience the cosmos like never before at the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome, offering breathtaking immersive space shows.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer school groups, more adult focus

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Wits Planetarium - Image 1

Wits Planetarium Johannesburg

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer school groups, more adult focus

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Experience the cosmos like never before at the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome, offering breathtaking immersive space shows.

4.2
(279 reviews)

"Felt like I was in another universe. Literally had the best time no joke. TikTok"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot for popular shows by booking in advance via their website.

✨ Date Night Gem

Perfect for a unique and romantic evening out exploring the cosmos.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Immersive Dome Shows

Immersive Dome Shows

Anglo American Digital Dome

Experience the universe projected onto a massive dome, making you feel like you're floating through space.

TikTokInstagram
Stargazing & Cosmic Exploration

Stargazing & Cosmic Exploration

Anglo American Digital Dome

Journey through galaxies, planets, and constellations with expert narration.

TikTokInstagram
Educational & Entertaining

Educational & Entertaining

Anglo American Digital Dome

Engaging shows for all ages, sparking curiosity about science and space.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Your Cosmic Journey

The Wits Anglo American Digital Dome, formerly the Johannesburg Planetarium, offers immersive space shows. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular evening shows. Check their official website for show schedules and to secure your spot for an unforgettable stargazing experience. Instagram

Timing Your Visit for Wonder

While daytime shows cater to school groups, evening and weekend shows are ideal for general visitors and date nights. Consider visiting during weekdays to potentially avoid larger crowds, though specific show times will dictate availability. TikTokInstagram

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer school groups, more adult focus
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Family-friendly shows available
Crowd
High
When
Special event nights
Why
Unique themed shows
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

“We used to look up at the sky and wonder at our place in the stars; now we just look down and worry about our place in the dirt.” — Interstellar 🪐 couldn’t stop thinking about this and feeling so small, loved it #datenight #planetarium #space #interstellar
@julianowaknyc
963K likes • 6.6M views

🎯 Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot for popular shows by booking in advance via their website. Instagram+1

✨ Date Night Gem

Perfect for a unique and romantic evening out exploring the cosmos. TikTokInstagram

felt like i was in another universe. literally had the best time no joke 🥹❤️‍🔥 @Space & Time Cube + opening this June at S Maison Conrad ! 🔭🪐☄️🛸 #fyp #spaceandtimecube #artmuseum
@innadoms
696.8K likes • 4.5M views
Planetarium Date Night experience in Joburg, at the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome. @wits__university - this is the location as promised 🙏🏾 🗺️: University of the Witwatersrand, Yale Rd, Braamfontein, Johannesburg Have you been there before ?? How was your experience?? 🎥: @ motraveljournal on TT #planetarium #datenight #thingstodoinjohannesburg #dateideas #johannesburg #witsangloamericandi...
joburg__events
0 likes • 2.5K views

🚀 Feel Like You're Floating

The dome projection creates an incredibly immersive, almost out-of-this-world experience. TikTokInstagram

🤔 Check Show Schedules

Show times vary, so check the official schedule to plan your visit. Instagram

We filmed at the new @wits__university Anglo American Digital Dome that used to be the Johannesburg planetarium. Its open to the public as well, so book tickets and explore our universe. #wits #witsangloamericandigitaldome #planetarium #universe #femaledirector #videoproduction #southafrican #witsuniversity
si_lest.gomes
16 likes • 215 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot for popular shows by booking in advance via their website. Instagram+1

✨ Date Night Gem

Perfect for a unique and romantic evening out exploring the cosmos. TikTokInstagram

🚀 Feel Like You're Floating

The dome projection creates an incredibly immersive, almost out-of-this-world experience. TikTokInstagram

🤔 Check Show Schedules

Show times vary, so check the official schedule to plan your visit. Instagram

🎓 Educational Fun

Great for kids and adults alike, sparking interest in astronomy and science. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(279 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome's immersive and awe-inspiring space shows, often calling it a perfect date night or family outing. The visual experience is consistently praised for making you feel like you're truly in space. Some minor drawbacks include potential crowds during peak times and the need to book tickets well in advance.

"Great informative immersive experience and would definitely recommend for kids and families make sure you book your tickets on the wits site and plan because they are always booked and go in first to get good seats second row from the back trust me"

phumelela luthando

"Reopened and ready to go.... It is Absolutely Fantastic that the place has been refurbished along with new equipment and open.... A massively educational experience for everyone to enjoy, central, safe parking and good online booking system... Superb images and astro tour... A must to visit 🥸😊"

Riaz Lorgat

"The Wits Anglo American Digital Dome is an amazing technical experience and I expected much from this 360° immersive and
social space. Anglo American's partnership with Wits and the Johannesburg Planetarium has amazing graphics (they have 10 4K-quality digital projectors), which replaced the aging analogue Zeiss projector and very comfortable chairs.

I'm not however sure whether it has revolutionized how I understand and experience the stars though. The host introduced and introduced the various constellations that were used to track the passage of time or circumnavigate the globe. The movie (shown on a curved dome) also told a good story about civilization, scientific progress and man’s interventions.

Our family had a good time, and I can recommend it as an outing. I also left feeling strangely dissatisfied. Was this the only story? I recently heard about Nolan Oswald Dennis, when I visited the Zeitz MOCAA at the Waterfront, and the really enjoyed an exhibition "Understudies" (entrance is free on Wednesday). Nolan's work unpacks symbolic language and traditional notions of art, science, metaphysics and knowledge. A reexamination of the relationship with teaching and authority is invited. If you really want to see beyond the horizon, consider all the factors that contribute to the design of organisational systems. Go to both shows. Or perhaps the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome, might invite Nolan Oswald Dennis to produce an alternate show?"

Derek Moore (Weblearning)

What People Like

Immersive dome visuals
Educational space shows
Unique date night spot

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Advance booking essential

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Wits Anglo American Digital Dome is located at the University of the Witwatersrand, Yale Road, Braamfontein, Johannesburg. You can reach it by car, with parking available on campus, or via public transport. Instagram It's part of the Wits University campus, which is easily accessible by various routes within Johannesburg.

Yes, parking is generally available on the Wits University campus. It's advisable to check for specific visitor parking areas and any associated fees upon arrival or on the university's website. Reddit

Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are a convenient way to get to the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome. Simply set your destination to the University of the Witwatersrand, Braamfontein. TikTok

Once on campus, follow signs for the Anglo American Digital Dome or the Planetarium. Staff at the campus gates can also provide directions. Instagram

While specific routes may vary, the Braamfontein area is served by public transport. It's recommended to check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information on bus or train routes that stop near Wits University. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices can vary depending on the show and whether you are a student or general admission. It's best to check the official Wits Planetarium website for the most current pricing information and to book your tickets in advance. Instagram+1

Tickets are typically available for purchase online through the official Wits Planetarium website. This is the most reliable way to secure your seats, especially for popular shows. Instagram+1

The Wits Planetarium may offer discounted rates for students, children, and group bookings. Inquire directly with the venue or check their website for details on any available concessions. Reddit

Opening hours and show times vary. The Planetarium typically operates for scheduled shows, with specific times for daytime (often for school groups) and evening performances. Always check the official schedule for the day you plan to visit. Instagram

While walk-in tickets might be available if the show isn't sold out, it's strongly advised to book in advance online to avoid disappointment, as shows can fill up quickly. Instagram+1

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

The experience is highly immersive, with the entire universe projected onto a large dome above you. You'll feel like you're floating through space, guided by narration that explains planets, stars, and galaxies. TikTokInstagram

Yes, the Planetarium offers shows specifically designed for children, making it an educational and entertaining outing for families. Reddit

Show durations usually range from 45 minutes to an hour, providing a substantial and engaging experience without being too long for younger audiences. Instagram

The dome features comfortable seating that allows for a full view of the projected sky. You can relax and enjoy the cosmic journey. Instagram

Generally, photography and videography are restricted during the shows to avoid disrupting the immersive experience for other visitors. Check with staff for specific policies. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the Planetarium itself may not have extensive dining facilities, there are often vending machines for snacks and drinks. The surrounding Wits University campus and Braamfontein area offer numerous cafes and restaurants. Reddit

It's usually best to check the venue's policy on outside food and beverages. Typically, consuming food and drinks inside the dome during a show is not permitted. TikTok

Braamfontein is a vibrant hub with many eateries, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants, offering diverse culinary experiences. You can find options for a pre- or post-Planetarium meal. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The exterior of the dome and the surrounding Wits University campus offer great photo opportunities. Inside, while photos during shows are restricted, the unique architecture can be captured before or after. Instagram

Photography inside the dome is usually not allowed during shows. However, you might be able to take photos of the empty dome before or after your show, depending on venue rules. TikTok

While the main attraction is the show, the overall theme of space exploration can inspire creative shots around the university campus, perhaps with a focus on the sky or futuristic elements. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Wits Planetarium is a fantastic outing for families. They offer shows specifically tailored for younger audiences, making complex astronomical concepts easy to understand and exciting. Reddit The immersive dome experience will captivate children, making them feel like they're truly exploring space.

Tips for families: Book tickets in advance, especially for weekend shows, as they can sell out. Arrive a little early to get settled. Consider the age appropriateness of the show you choose. The surrounding Wits campus also has dinosaur exhibits that can complement a day of learning. Reddit

💖 Couples & Date Nights

Looking for a unique date idea? The Wits Planetarium offers a truly memorable experience. The immersive shows create a shared sense of wonder and awe, perfect for sparking conversation and connection. TikTokInstagram It's a refreshing alternative to traditional date activities.

Date night tips: Opt for an evening show for a more romantic atmosphere. Consider booking a show that aligns with your interests, whether it's exploring distant galaxies or learning about our solar system. Afterwards, explore the vibrant Braamfontein area for dinner or drinks. Reddit

🧑‍🎓 Students & Lifelong Learners

The Wits Planetarium is an excellent resource for students and anyone with a passion for science and astronomy. The shows provide in-depth insights into the universe, complementing academic studies or simply satisfying a curious mind. Reddit Look out for potential student discounts when booking tickets.

Learning tips: Check the Planetarium's schedule for shows that align with specific curriculum topics or areas of interest. The immersive visuals can help solidify understanding of complex concepts like planetary motion or stellar evolution. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of the Digital Dome

The Wits Anglo American Digital Dome is the heart of the experience. This state-of-the-art facility projects stunning visuals onto a 360-degree screen, enveloping you in the cosmos. Unlike traditional planetariums, the digital projection allows for incredibly dynamic and realistic simulations of space phenomena. TikTokInstagram

Visitors often describe the feeling as being truly transported to outer space. The shows are expertly curated to take you on journeys through nebulae, past distant galaxies, and even to the surface of other planets. The narration is engaging, making complex astronomical concepts accessible and fascinating for all ages. TikTokInstagram

This modern upgrade from the original Johannesburg Planetarium ensures that the Wits Planetarium remains a leading destination for astronomical education and entertainment in South Africa. It's a place where science meets art, creating an unforgettable visual spectacle. Instagram

Planning the Perfect Date Night

The Wits Planetarium is frequently highlighted as an ideal spot for a unique and memorable date night in Johannesburg. The immersive nature of the shows provides a shared experience that sparks conversation and wonder. TikTokInstagram

Instead of the usual dinner and a movie, opt for a cosmic adventure. Imagine holding hands as you float through the Milky Way or marvel at the birth of stars together. It’s a romantic and intellectually stimulating alternative that stands out from typical date activities. TikTokInstagram

Combine your visit with a stroll around the Wits University campus or explore the vibrant Braamfontein area for pre- or post-show drinks and dinner. This creates a complete evening out that's both engaging and intimate. Reddit

Educational Value for All Ages

Beyond its entertainment value, the Wits Planetarium offers significant educational benefits. The shows are designed to teach about astronomy, physics, and the vastness of the universe in an engaging way. Reddit

For school groups, it's a fantastic field trip destination that brings science lessons to life. Children can learn about planets, stars, and space exploration in a way that textbooks simply cannot replicate. The visual impact of the dome makes learning memorable and exciting. Reddit

Even for adults, the Planetarium provides an opportunity to deepen their understanding of cosmology and our place in the universe. It’s a chance to rekindle a sense of awe and curiosity about the natural world, making it a valuable experience for lifelong learners. TikTok

You may also like

1 of 2