THINGS TO DO IN BLOEMFONTEIN
Free State National Botanical Garden
This garden, on the outskirts of Bloemfontein, spans a valley between picturesque dolerite koppies. The natural vegetation comprises tall grassland and woodland, dominated by magnificent wild olive and karee trees. The harmony of the garden has been achieved by retaining and highlighting the best elements of the natural landscape.
Read more:
Botanical Gardens
Oliewenhuis Art Museum
Oliewenhuis – a Neo-Dutch style mansion – was designed by William Mollison, Head Architect of the Department of Public Works, and his assistant, John Stockwing Cleland, in 1935. Completed in 1941, this mansion, located on Grant’s Hill, served as residence for the Governor General of the Union of South Africa from 1942.
In 1947, King George VI, his wife and two daughters used Oliewenhuis as residence during their three-day visit to Bloemfontein. After the establishment of the Republic of South Africa in 1961, Oliewenhuis became the official residence for the State Presidents of South Africa during official visits to Bloemfontein.
Read more: Oliwenhuis
Toyota Stadium
The Free State Stadium, currently known as the Toyota Stadium for sponsorship reasons, and formerly known as Vodacom Park, is a stadium in Bloemfontein, South Africa, used mainly for rugby-union matches and sometimes also for association football matches. This is the home of the Free State Cheetahs Rugby Club.
Read more: Toyota Stadium
Naval Hill
An extremely popular spot providing excellent views of the town and the Franklin Game Reserve forms part of the hill. Several types of big and small game can be seen in their natural habitat. Bloemfontein could well be the only city in the world that has a game reserve in the heart of the city.
Contrary to popular belief, the two naval guns are no longer on Naval Hill. The Naval Brigade took the cannons with them after the Anglo-Boer War ended. The only visible evidence of Naval Hill's war history is a white horse on the eastern hillside. The white horse was an important landmark for soldiers during the war. Dominating the Bloemfontein skyline, standing proudly in the heart of the City of Roses, is Naval Hill. Standing atop of this geographic wonder, you are provided with an exquisite panoramic view of Bloemfontein. Located within the Franklin Game Reserve, it is known for both its natural beauty and its historical significance.
Read more: Navil Hill
Bagamoya Wildlife Estate
Bagamoya Wildlife Estate is a lion sanctuary, ideally situated about 25 km from the Bloemfontein International Airport and 35 km from the city centre of Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa. A beautiful getaway, where you get the chance to move around in the African bush and see the African wildlife in a way that will leave you captivated. There are currently more than 27 lions at Bagamoya, and you will have the opportunity to interact with some of them. You will get extremely close to lions and tigers; you will never forget this amazing moment! Interactions are possible on Saturdays and Sundays from 09:00 to 18:00, as well as during the week on reservation. Bagamoya offers all the necessary facilities to provide you with a relaxed and comfortable stay – the Lioness Restaurant with children's play area and swimming pool, a mini zoo with animals from all over the world, self-catering chalets, and outdoor activities. The estate is also the perfect venue for all kinds of functions (weddings, birthday parties, kids’ parties, conferences, corporate functions, and more).
Read more: Bagamoya
Shisanyama (braai places) and Steakhouses