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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer school groups, more adult focus
Wits Planetarium Johannesburg
Best Time
Fewer school groups, more adult focus

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the cosmos like never before at the Wits Anglo American Digital Dome, offering breathtaking immersive space shows.
"Felt like I was in another universe. Literally had the best time no joke. "
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Immersive Dome Shows
Anglo American Digital Dome
Experience the universe projected onto a massive dome, making you feel like you're floating through space.

Stargazing & Cosmic Exploration
Anglo American Digital Dome
Journey through galaxies, planets, and constellations with expert narration.

Educational & Entertaining
Anglo American Digital Dome
Engaging shows for all ages, sparking curiosity about science and space.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Cosmic Journey
Timing Your Visit for Wonder
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
🚀 Feel Like You're Floating
The dome projection creates an incredibly immersive, almost out-of-this-world experience.
🤔 Check Show Schedules
Show times vary, so check the official schedule to plan your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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.
🚀 Feel Like You're Floating
The dome projection creates an incredibly immersive, almost out-of-this-world experience.
🤔 Check Show Schedules
Show times vary, so check the official schedule to plan your visit.
🎓 Educational Fun
Great for kids and adults alike, sparking interest in astronomy and science.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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. 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.
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.
Once on campus, follow signs for the Anglo American Digital Dome or the Planetarium. Staff at the campus gates can also provide directions.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 ✨ 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.
Yes, the Planetarium offers shows specifically designed for children, making it an educational and entertaining outing for families.
Show durations usually range from 45 minutes to an hour, providing a substantial and engaging experience without being too long for younger audiences.
The dome features comfortable seating that allows for a full view of the projected sky. You can relax and enjoy the cosmic journey.
Generally, photography and videography are restricted during the shows to avoid disrupting the immersive experience for other visitors. Check with staff for specific policies.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💖 Couples & Date Nights
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.
🧑🎓 Students & Lifelong Learners
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of the Digital Dome
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.
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.
Planning the Perfect Date Night
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.
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.
Educational Value for All Ages
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit