Cape Town is a playground for all ages, and when you’re travelling with kids, the city offers more than just beautiful beaches and mountain views. From toboggan rides and wildlife encounters to indoor play zones and unforgettable boat trips, there’s no shortage of fun that’s designed with families in mind.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer stay, here are some of the best kid-friendly activities in and around Cape Town, including a few hidden gems you might not have heard of yet.
1. Cool Runnings: Africa’s First Toboggan Track
Let’s start with something fast, fun, and totally unique: Cool Runnings in Tygervalley. This is Africa’s only toboggan-on-rails experience, and it’s a hit with kids of all ages (and their grown-ups too). Riders sit in bobsled-style carts and zoom down a 1.25 km stainless steel track that winds through curves, dips, and straightaways. You control the speed with a hand brake, so little ones can enjoy a gentle cruise while older kids race each other down.
The best part is that you won’t want to go just once. There are package deals for multiple rides, and a grassy picnic area if you’d like to relax in between rides.
2. The Jolly Roger Pirate Ship at the Waterfront
Step aboard a real-life pirate ship! Docked at the V&A Waterfront, kids can board and channel their inner buccaneer on a short cruise around Table Bay. The Jolly Roger Pirate Ship features costumed crew, playful performances, and a safe, exciting experience for younger children. There’s music, treasure hunting, and interactive games that keep the energy high.
For parents, it’s also a chance to enjoy harbour views from the water while the little ones let their imaginations run wild. The Waterfront is beautiful any time of year, and seeing it from the water is a must for any tourist.
3. Cape Town Science Centre
For curious minds and rainy days, the Cape Town Science Centre in Observatory is packed with interactive exhibits, brain games, and engineering challenges. Kids can build rockets, learn about space, explore illusions, and even take part in coding and robotics workshops during school holidays.
It’s hands-on, educational, and surprisingly fun for adults too. This is a great stop for children who enjoy asking “why” and “how,” and who love figuring things out for themselves.
Ensure that you check workshop schedules and book holiday programmes in advance!
4. Clay Café: Paint and Play
Die Clay Café in Hout Bay or Paarl gives kids the chance to sit down, slow down, and get creative. Choose a ceramic item, from mugs and plates to figurines, then paint and decorate it however you like. There’s no rush, and while the artworks are drying or being glazed, children can run around outside in the garden play area or grab a snack from the on-site café.
It’s a gentle and satisfying activity for families who want something a little more low-key and crafty.
5. World of Birds and Monkey Jungle
If your kids love animals, World of Birds in Hout Bay is home to over 3,000 birds and small animals across more than 100 aviaries. But the real highlight is the Monkey Jungle, where squirrel monkeys climb and play in an open walk-through enclosure (and will sometimes perch on your shoulder if you’re lucky!).
It’s one of the largest bird parks in Africa and offers plenty of shaded paths, picnic spots, and gentle walking routes ideal for younger children.
6. Playdate Superpark
Located inside the V&A Waterfront, Playdate Superpark is an indoor adventure zone perfect for burning off energy. It includes obstacle courses, climbing walls, mazes, ziplines, and mini-trampolines, all in a safe, padded, and supervised space.
This is a top pick for active kids, especially if the weather outside doesn’t cooperate. There’s even a toddler-friendly area for the little ones, making it a versatile option for families with kids of different ages.
7. Battery Park and Stand-Up Paddling
Combine fresh air, water, and exercise with a visit to Battery Park, right at the entrance to the V&A Waterfront. The park has a green lawn for picnics, a skate park, and canals where kids (and adults) can try stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).
You don’t need prior experience, and rentals include a short lesson. It’s a fun way to cool off, especially in summer, and offers a memorable urban nature experience in the heart of the city.
8. Giraffe House Wildlife Awareness Centre
About 40 minutes outside Cape Town, Giraffe House offers kids a close-up look at some of Africa’s most iconic animals in a setting that’s easy to navigate and full of photo moments. Expect to see giraffes, zebras, ostriches, springbok, and a range of reptiles and birds.
The park includes educational talks, shaded play areas, and wide open spaces where families can stretch their legs. Close encounters and feeding experiences are popular, but you’ll need to book the feeding experience early. It’s a great half-day trip, especially if you’re heading out towards Stellenbosch or Paarl.
Kid-Friendly Eateries
We know that sometimes parents just want a little quiet time, so here are a few bonus spots worth mentioning where parents can relax while kids play:
- Die Company’s Garden Restaurant is central, scenic, and home to squirrels, birds, and an outdoor jungle gym that can keep the kids busy for a long time.
- Starlings Café in Claremont is a hidden gem with a beautiful garden, child-friendly menu, and relaxed vibe.Claremont is a great neighbourhood for exploring and shopping, perfect for a half-day outing.
- The Spice Route in Paarl is a multi-venue destination with chocolate tastings, an ice cream shop, a glass-blowing studio, and a large open space for kids to run free. There’s a fair bit of walking, so wear something comfortable.
Family Fun, Cape Town Style
Cape Town proves that travelling with kids doesn’t mean compromising on adventure, culture, or great food. From fast-paced rides to quiet creative spaces, there’s something to match every family’s energy level and plenty of room for making new memories together.
When you stay at a centrally located hotel like O’Two, most of these activities are just a short drive away, making it easy to plan full days or quick outings. Whether your little ones are thrill-seekers, animal lovers, or curious creatives, Cape Town is ready to welcome them.
