12 UNREAL Things to Do in Johannesburg at Night (2025 Guide)

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Everyone told me not to go out in Joburg at night. Plot twist: they were dead wrong. After living off overpriced drinks in Sandton for a month, I finally found where the real fun happens. Turns out this city parties harder than your Instagram feed would ever guess.

Looking for the best things to do in Johannesburg at night? From Braamfontein’s buzzing bars where Amapiano has the whole street dancing, to late-night spots in Maboneng where the food hits different at 1 AM, this city knows how to party. Trust me, you want to be here when the sun goes down!

• 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend this nightlife tour through Soweto! They take you to four authentic shebeens and modern bars with a local guide, plus free drinks at each spot and traditional food along the way. You also experience the real township vibe that tourists rarely get to see. This night tour is absolutely a must-do on a Johannesburg itinerary in my opinion.

1. Eat and drink along Melville’s 7th Street

Melville’s 7th Street is honestly where locals go when they want to avoid the touristy Sandton scene. I’ve spent way too many nights here, and it’s still my go-to when I want good food without the pretentious vibe. The street runs about six blocks and you can literally bar-hop the entire thing on foot.

Start at Ratz Bar, which has been serving cheap cocktails since 1999 – their two-for-one specials run from 6pm to 9pm every night and cost around R60-80 per cocktail. I actually discovered my favorite dive bar hangout here. Mootee Bar is the newer kid on the block with African-inspired cocktails (they won’t tell you the ingredients, it’s their thing), and it’s got this cool rooftop deck that’s perfect when the weather’s good.

For food, La Stalla does wood-fired pizzas that are actually pretty decent – expect to pay R180-220 for a pizza that feeds two people. Hell’s Kitchen looks like a 1920s speakeasy and serves solid pub food, plus they’ve got live rock and blues on weekends. If you want something different, The Great Eastern Food Bar does Vietnamese fusion with CBD cocktails, which sounds weird but works.

The vibe here is way more laid-back than Sandton. You’ll see everyone from university students to middle-aged professionals, and honestly, that mix makes it interesting. Just don’t expect fancy – this is where you go for good drinks, decent food, and conversations that actually matter.

2. Check out Maboneng Precinct’s rooftop bars and restaurants

Maboneng feels like Brooklyn circa 2010 – all converted warehouses and street art, but with a distinctly South African edge. I’ll be honest, it’s gotten pretty touristy, but the rooftop bars are still worth it for the views alone.

The Living Room is the crown jewel here. It’s on the sixth floor of the MainStreetLife building and feels like a garden suspended in the sky. Every surface is covered in plants, and the view of Johannesburg’s skyline is actually spectacular at sunset. They do themed DJ nights and Sunday rooftop parties that get pretty wild. Their signature cocktail is the Rooftop Garden (around R95), which tastes like herbs and sunshine.

Jojo Rooftop Lounge is the newer competition, and they’re trying hard to be the cool alternative. They’ve got a tapas menu and bring in decent DJs on weekends. The crowd here is younger and more Instagram-focused, which can be fun or annoying depending on your mood.

Pata Pata downstairs does solid African cuisine with live music – think oxtail and pap for around R150-180. The jazz nights here are actually pretty authentic, not the watered-down tourist stuff.

Market on Main happens every Sunday from 10am to 3pm and is chaos in the best way. You’ll find everything from paella to dim sum, and it’s where the actual locals shop for artisanal everything. I always end up spending way more than I planned here. The whole precinct has 24-hour security, which makes it feel safer than most downtown areas, but stay aware of your surroundings like anywhere in Joburg.

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3. Hit up Gold Reef City for concerts and casino action

Gold Reef City is basically Vegas if Vegas had a gold rush theme and way better value for money. I know it sounds touristy, but hear me out – where else can you get theme park rides, casino games, and live concerts all in one place for under R300?

The Lyric Theatre is the real draw here. It’s a proper 1,100-seat venue that gets surprisingly good acts. I’ve seen everything from local jazz legends to international comedians, and the sound quality is actually excellent. Tickets range from R150 for local shows to R800+ for big international acts. The bar upstairs does decent cocktails if you want to make it a proper night out.

The casino is open 24/7 and honestly, it’s way less intimidating than the ones in Sandton. Minimum bets start at R5 for slots, and they’ve got all the usual table games. I’m not much of a gambler, but I’ve had fun throwing R200 at the blackjack tables and making it last three hours.

The theme park costs R295 for a full day pass, which includes 18 rides plus the 4D theater and trampoline park. The Tower of Terror will scare the crap out of you (50-meter drop at 100km/h), but it’s worth it for the adrenaline rush.

Food options range from fast food to sit-down restaurants. Billy G Buffet is actually decent value at around R180 for all-you-can-eat, and Anat Barney’s does proper steaks if you want something more upscale. The whole complex stays open late, so you can easily make this your entire evening. Just remember to set a gambling budget and stick to it.

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4. Stargaze at SAAO Johannesburg Observatory

The SAAO Johannesburg Observatory on Gill Street isn’t the main Cape Town facility, but it’s still pretty cool for stargazing in the city. I’ll be honest – the light pollution from Joburg makes this more of an educational experience than a mind-blowing cosmic journey, but the guides are passionate and know their stuff.

The Johannesburg Centre of the Astronomy Society of South Africa runs public sessions here on the second Wednesday of most months at 7:30pm. Entry is usually around R50-80 for adults, and they’ve got telescopes you can actually use. The building itself dates back to 1903, so there’s decent history here too.

What makes this worthwhile is the 26.5-inch Innes Telescope, which is pretty impressive for city viewing. On clear nights, you’ll see Saturn’s rings, Jupiter’s moons, and some decent star clusters. The guides do a good job explaining what you’re looking at without being condescending.

I’d recommend this more for families with curious kids than serious astronomy buffs. The Wits Digital Dome nearby sometimes has better shows with their immersive digital presentations, but that’s more like an IMAX experience than actual stargazing.

If you’re really into astronomy, honestly, you’re better off driving out to Hartbeeshoek (about an hour away) where the skies are darker. But for a casual city night out that’s educational, this works fine. Just dress warmly – Joburg gets cold at night, especially in winter. The location in Observatory is pretty safe, but take an Uber instead of walking around after 9pm.

5. Catch live jazz at The Radium Beerhall

The Radium Beerhall is Johannesburg’s oldest surviving bar, and honestly, it looks like it. This place opened in 1929 as a tea room but lived a double life as an illegal shebeen during apartheid. Now it’s a legitimate jazz institution, and the history seeps from every wall.

The live jazz happens four nights a week, usually Wednesday through Saturday, with cover charges ranging from R100-150 depending on the band. Friday and Saturday nights get the best acts, but I actually prefer the Wednesday crowds – more serious music lovers, less rowdy tourists. The first Sunday of every month features a 19-piece jazz band that’s been a tradition for decades.

The space itself is wonderfully chaotic. There’s memorabilia covering every surface, the embossed tin ceiling apparently vibrates with the music, and the crowd is this amazing mix of old-school Joburg characters and music nerds. I’ve met everyone from retired miners to young musicians here, and the conversations are always interesting.

Food is standard pub fare – pizza, steaks, and curries ranging from R120-200. The pizza is surprisingly decent, and the t-bone steak is massive for R180. The beer selection is solid, with local drafts starting around R35.

The venue is on Louis Botha Avenue in Orange Grove, which isn’t the prettiest neighborhood, but it’s generally safe if you park close and don’t wander around alone late at night. I always Uber here after 10pm.

6. Take a night safari at Johannesburg Zoo

I’ll admit, Johannesburg Zoo night tours sound gimmicky, but they’re actually way cooler than I expected. The animals are completely different after dark – more active, more vocal, and way more interesting than their sleepy daytime selves.

The night tours run Monday to Saturday and cost around R200 for adults, R120 for kids. They last about 2 hours and you get transported around in a tram while guides shine spotlights on the enclosures. I was skeptical about bothering nocturnal animals, but the lighting is subtle and the guides are careful not to stress them out.

The red pandas are the absolute stars of the show – they’re basically bouncing off the walls at night. The big cats pace and prowl in ways you never see during the day, and there’s something genuinely thrilling about hearing a lion roar in the darkness. The genets and civets come out to play, and honestly, I didn’t even know what those animals were before this tour.

If you want the full experience, they do “Zoo Snooze” camping nights where you bring your own tent and gear. It costs around R350 per person and includes the night tour plus a bonfire session. I haven’t done this myself, but friends say waking up to animal sounds is pretty surreal.

The regular daytime zoo entry is R132 for adults, but the night tours are completely separate bookings. You need to book in advance through their website – they don’t do walk-ins for evening sessions. The zoo is in Parkview, which is safe, and there’s decent parking. Just remember to bring warm clothes, especially in winter. Joburg nights get properly cold, and you’ll be outdoors for two hours.

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7. Experience Newtown’s theater and music scene

Newtown is where Johannesburg’s cultural heart actually beats. I spent years avoiding it because everyone said it was sketchy, but honestly, the area around Mary Fitzgerald Square is well-patrolled and buzzing most nights.

The Market Theatre is the main event here. It’s been putting on anti-apartheid plays since 1976, and today it still tackles serious social issues alongside lighter entertainment. Ticket prices range from R100 for experimental shows to R400 for main stage productions. I saw a brilliant one-man show here that completely changed how I think about South African history.

Kippies is the jazz club inside the Market Theatre complex, named after legendary saxophonist Kippie Moeketsi. It’s built in an old Victorian toilet (seriously), which gives it this intimate, underground vibe. Cover charges are around R80-120, and the music is legitimately world-class. I’ve heard better jazz here than at some fancy Sandton spots charging triple the price.

Bassline has been a Newtown institution since 1994, hosting over 3,200 concerts. They’ve gone mobile now, producing events around the city, but they still do regular shows at Mary Fitzgerald Square. Their annual Bassline Festival on Africa Day is absolutely massive and free. The Sci-Bono Discovery Centre stays open late sometimes for special events, and it’s surprisingly fun for adults – especially the electricity and engineering exhibits.

For food, there are decent options around Newtown Junction Mall, but honestly, I usually eat before coming here and focus on the drinks and entertainment. The area really comes alive after 8pm, and there’s usually something happening at the square on weekends.

8. See shows and gamble at Montecasino

Montecasino tries really hard to look like an Italian village, complete with fake sky that changes from day to night. It’s completely artificial, but somehow it works, and the entertainment options are genuinely impressive. The Teatro is the crown jewel – a proper 1,800-seat theater that gets major international productions. I’ve seen Broadway musicals, Bollywood spectacles, and world-class concerts here. Tickets range from R200 for upper balcony seats to R800+ for premium locations. The acoustics are excellent, and honestly, some shows here rival anything you’ll see in London or New York.

The casino floor is massive and intimidating if you’re not used to it. Minimum bets start around R10 for slots, R50 for table games. I’m not much of a gambler, but I’ve had fun with a R300 budget lasting most of an evening at the blackjack tables. The staff are friendly and patient with beginners.

Verdicchio does excellent Italian food with an extensive wine list – expect to pay R250-400 per person for a proper meal. Kai Thai is surprisingly authentic for a mall restaurant, with mains around R180-220. Punchinellos has decent Mediterranean food and stays open late.

The whole complex can feel overwhelming – it’s huge, crowded, and designed to keep you spending money. But if you set a budget and stick to it, there’s legitimate entertainment value here. The people-watching alone is worth the trip.

Parking is free, security is tight, and everything stays open late. It’s probably the safest place to spend an evening in Joburg, but also the most expensive.

9. Hit Sandton City’s upscale bars and restaurants

Sandton City at night is where Johannesburg puts on its expensive clothes and tries to look like Dubai. I’m not usually into the whole luxury scene, but I have to admit, some of the rooftop bars here have views that’ll make you forget you’re in Africa.

The San Deck at the Sandton Sun is probably the best rooftop experience in the city. They’ve got fire pits, city views, and cocktails that cost R120-180 but are actually crafted well. The sunset views are spectacular, and the crowd is mature professionals, not Instagram influencers pretending to be rich.

Diamond Walk is where the serious money shops after hours. Most stores stay open until 9pm, and there’s something surreal about window shopping for R50,000 watches while street music echoes from below. It’s not my scene, but it’s definitely an experience.

The Big Mouth does innovative sushi that’s actually worth the R200-300 per person you’ll spend. The Bull Run is famous for steaks that cost more than some people’s weekly grocery budget, but if you’re celebrating something special, the quality is undeniable.

Taboo Nightclub is where young people with family money come to pretend they’re in Ibiza. Cover charges start at R150, drinks are R100+, and the music is predictable EDM. I went once out of curiosity and felt ancient at 35.

The truth about Sandton nightlife is that it’s safe, clean, and completely sanitized. You’ll have a good time if you’ve got money to burn, but you won’t get any authentic Joburg culture. It’s Dubai in Africa, which appeals to some people and completely turns off others. Parking is secure but expensive (R20-40 per hour), and everything is walkable within the Sandton City complex.

10. Party at The Living Room rooftop bar

I already covered The Living Room in the Maboneng section, but it deserves its own spotlight because it’s honestly one of the best rooftop experiences in Johannesburg. Jay-Z had his birthday party here in 2018, which tells you something about the venue’s reputation.

The space is on the sixth floor and feels like someone decided to build a jungle in the sky. Every available surface has plants, from hanging gardens to full-size trees. The view of the Johannesburg skyline is spectacular, especially at sunset when the city lights start twinkling.

Sunday rooftop parties are the main event here. They bring in quality DJs, the crowd is diverse and energetic, and the vibe is way more authentic than the pretentious Sandton scene. Cover charges range from R80-150 depending on the event, and cocktails are reasonable at R85-120.

Their signature drinks are worth trying – the Rooftop Garden cocktail tastes like liquid herbs and sunshine, and the Honey Bush Safari uses local flavors that actually work. Food is tapas-style and perfect for sharing while you drink.

What I love about this place is the crowd. You’ll see everyone from young professionals to artists to tourists, and somehow it all works together. The music is eclectic – Afrobeat, house, jazz, whatever fits the mood.

They also do yoga sessions and live art events, which sounds pretentious but is actually pretty cool. There’s something magical about doing downward dog while the city sprawls out below you. Book ahead for weekend events because this place gets packed, especially during summer when the weather’s perfect for rooftop partying.

11. Gamble and dine at Emperors Palace

Emperors Palace near OR Tambo Airport tries to recreate ancient Rome and mostly succeeds in creating something completely over-the-top. It’s massive, gaudy, and somehow entertaining if you’re in the right mood.

The casino floor is enormous – 1,700 slot machines and 50 gaming tables spread across multiple levels. Minimum bets start at R5 for slots, R25 for most table games. I’m not a serious gambler, but I’ve had fun here with a R500 budget lasting most of an evening. The Salon Privé is for high rollers, which definitely isn’t me.

The Theatre of Marcellus hosts everything from concerts to comedy shows to theatrical productions. It’s smaller than The Teatro at Montecasino but has better acoustics. Tickets range from R150-600 depending on the show.

Platia does excellent Greek food with generous portions – expect to pay R200-350 per person for a proper meal. Tribes African Grill is touristy but serves decent game meat and traditional dishes if you want to try something authentically South African.

Marc Anthony’s Cigar Lounge is pretentious as hell but has comfortable leather chairs and an impressive whiskey selection. Even if you don’t smoke, it’s a good place to end the evening with a nightcap.

The whole complex feels like Las Vegas had a baby with a history textbook. It’s completely artificial, but the entertainment value is real. The landscaped gardens are surprisingly peaceful after the chaos of the casino floor. Location-wise, it’s convenient if you’re flying out the next day, but it’s a 45-minute drive from central Joburg. Parking is free, security is tight, and everything stays open late.

12. Browse Fourways Farmers Market at night

Fourways Farmers Market is one of the few markets in Joburg that stays open after dark, and honestly, it’s got a completely different vibe at night than during the day. The crowds thin out, the vendors are more relaxed, and there’s live music that echoes through the covered areas.

The market runs until 9pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and the evening crowd is locals doing their weekly shopping mixed with people looking for dinner. I actually prefer it to the chaotic weekend daytime scene – you can actually move around and have conversations with the vendors.

Bunny Chow is the thing to try here – it’s a Durban specialty that’s basically curry served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread. Sounds weird, tastes amazing, costs around R60-80. The wood-fired pizza stands do decent thin-crust pizzas for R120-150 that easily feed two people.

The craft beer selection is legitimately good, with local breweries represented and tasting flights available for R80-120. The homemade lemonades and ginger beers are perfect if you want something non-alcoholic that actually has flavor.

Live music happens most Friday and Saturday evenings – usually acoustic sets or small bands playing on a simple stage. It’s not Madison Square Garden, but it’s intimate and adds atmosphere to the shopping experience.

The communal seating areas fill up with families and friends sharing food and drinks. I’ve had some of my best conversations with strangers here, and there’s something refreshing about a social space that isn’t centered around alcohol or spending massive amounts of money. It’s in Fourways, which is safe and has plenty of parking. The market itself is well-lit and has decent security, so it feels comfortable even after dark.

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