10 Refreshing Year Round Things to Do in Springs South Africa

Key Takeaways:

• Springs offers a hidden blend of history, nature, and family-friendly adventures just outside Johannesburg.

• From art deco buildings to lakeside escapes, this city is rich with underrated cultural and outdoor gems.

• It’s a year-round destination ideal for relaxed getaways, day trips, or spontaneous weekend plans.

Springs, located in the Gauteng province just east of Johannesburg, is a city steeped in gold mining history and known for its surprising mix of natural beauty, architecture, and family charm. While once famous for being one of the country’s largest gold producers, today it stands out for its peaceful suburbs, vibrant local markets, and dozens of preserved Art Deco buildings — second only to Miami in number. Visitors love how Springs combines small-town friendliness with big-city access, offering parks, heritage sites, and scenic picnic spots with minimal crowds. Whether you’re passing through or planning a quiet weekend away, Springs is full of discoveries waiting all year round.

Table of Contents

1. Explore the Art Deco Architecture Walking Route

2. Spend a Day at Grootvlei Lake for Picnics and Fishing

3. Take a Stroll Through Presidents Park Nature Reserve

4. Catch a Live Show or Art Exhibit at Springs Civic Theatre

5. Shop and Snack Your Way Through Springs Mall

6. Visit the Historic Geduld Mine Shaft and Mining Museum

7. Attend the Annual Springs Arts and Culture Festival

8. Cycle or Jog the Quiet Trails of Dersley Park

9. Discover Local Talent at the Springs Craft and Farmers Market

10. Grab Coffee and a Sunrise View at Cowles Dam

1. Explore the Art Deco Architecture Walking Route

Springs is a hidden gem for architecture lovers, boasting over 30 Art Deco buildings scattered throughout its center. The city’s economic boom in the 1920s and 30s left behind a legacy of bold, geometric facades and intricate decorative details. Many of these buildings remain well-preserved, including the Springs Fire Station, old cinemas, and banks with curved corners and vertical towers.

A self-guided walking tour is the best way to take in the details — just grab a camera and explore areas like Fourth Street, where several standout buildings line the route. You’ll find colorful tiled mosaics, sleek railings, and bold signage reminiscent of vintage postcards. Local historians sometimes host guided walks, which add fascinating stories to the visuals. This architectural walk is peaceful, photo-worthy, and great for design lovers any time of year.

2. Spend a Day at Grootvlei Lake for Picnics and Fishing

Located on the edge of town, Grootvlei Lake is a favorite local hangout spot for fishing, boating, and peaceful outdoor escapes. With its wide banks and shaded picnic areas, it’s perfect for families looking to grill, paddle, or simply unwind beside the water. Anglers come here for bass and carp, while birdwatchers enjoy sightings of waterfowl and herons gliding across the surface.

There are plenty of grassy areas to lay out a picnic or kick a soccer ball around with the kids. It’s also a popular spot for early morning walkers and photographers chasing golden light across the lake. Bring your own gear, and expect a laid-back vibe — there’s no rush here. For locals, Grootvlei is the perfect way to unplug without leaving town.

3. Take a Stroll Through Presidents Park Nature Reserve

If you’re craving some nature and fresh air, Presidents Park Nature Reserve is a hidden escape in the heart of Springs. The park features walking trails, birdwatching decks, and small open meadows ideal for lounging with a book or letting children run free. Native trees and plants line the trails, giving it a wild yet maintained feel that appeals to both hikers and casual strollers.

Look out for guinea fowl, hadedas, and even the occasional mongoose crossing your path. Weekends tend to be livelier with picnicking families, while weekdays offer quiet solitude. It’s a wonderful place to reset your mind and get in some gentle movement. Entry is free, and benches throughout the park offer great resting spots for all ages.

4. Catch a Live Show or Art Exhibit at Springs Civic Theatre

The Springs Civic Theatre is one of the city’s cultural highlights, hosting regular plays, musical performances, dance events, and visual art exhibitions. Local drama groups, school productions, and regional musicians frequently take the stage, giving visitors a glimpse into Gauteng’s rich creative talent.

Even if there’s no event during your visit, the center often has rotating exhibits or workshops in its lobby gallery. Check the schedule online or stop by to see posters advertising upcoming events. The vibe here is community-driven and inclusive — perfect for a low-cost cultural night out. It’s especially magical during holiday performances or summer music evenings under the stars.

5. Shop and Snack Your Way Through Springs Mall

Springs Mall, located just off the N17, combines popular retail brands with local dining spots and entertainment. From clothing boutiques and bookstores to bakeries and biltong stands, it’s a great all-weather option for browsing, people-watching, or cooling off with an ice cream on a hot day.

The food court is a highlight, with everything from spicy peri-peri chicken to affordable sushi and classic South African favorites. Locals often pop in for errands and stay for a movie at the attached cinema or a catch-up over cappuccinos. If you’re traveling through and need a break, the mall is modern, clean, and relaxed. Parking is easy, and you’ll often catch pop-up events or seasonal sales.

6. Visit the Historic Geduld Mine Shaft and Mining Museum

Springs wouldn’t be what it is today without its gold mining roots, and the Geduld Mine Shaft site is a proud reminder of that legacy. While the mine itself is no longer operational, remnants of the old shaft and machinery still stand, with interpretive signs and occasional tours offered by local historical societies. It’s a fascinating stop for anyone interested in industrial history or how the gold rush shaped South Africa’s urban development.

Nearby, a small mining museum displays artifacts, photographs, and vintage tools used by early miners. You can walk through restored worker cottages and learn about the community life that formed around the industry. It’s best to call ahead for access or visit during heritage-focused weekends. Educational and atmospheric, it offers a unique look into Springs’ past.

7. Attend the Annual Springs Arts and Culture Festival

Each year, Springs hosts an energetic Arts and Culture Festival that brings together musicians, visual artists, poets, and food vendors from across Gauteng. Held outdoors during the warmer seasons, the festival includes open mic nights, craft tents, family activities, and food trucks serving everything from bunny chow to traditional boerewors rolls.

It’s a colorful, welcoming event where locals showcase everything from beadwork and paintings to traditional Zulu dances and jazz. The schedule changes each year but typically includes weekend-long festivities in local parks or at the Civic Centre. Entry is often free or donation-based, making it accessible and inclusive for all ages. If you’re in town when it happens, don’t miss it — it’s one of Springs’ most vibrant weekends.

8. Cycle or Jog the Quiet Trails of Dersley Park

For outdoor fitness lovers, Dersley Park is a scenic, lightly trafficked green space perfect for jogging, cycling, or simply strolling. The park’s loop trails meander past trees, open grass fields, and flowerbeds, creating a safe and peaceful workout environment. Locals use it for weekend walks, sunrise jogs, and afternoon picnics under the shade.

Benches, basic outdoor gym equipment, and water fountains are scattered throughout, and the park is especially pretty in spring when wildflowers bloom. It’s also dog-friendly if you’re traveling with a furry companion. Come early to catch the crisp morning air or stop by just before dusk when the sky lights up in oranges and pinks. It’s a slice of calm in a city on the move.

9. Discover Local Talent at the Springs Craft and Farmers Market

The Springs Craft and Farmers Market, held monthly, is a showcase of handmade goods, fresh produce, and small business entrepreneurship. You’ll find everything from knitted scarves and soy candles to organic veggies, jams, and home-baked bread. Local musicians often perform live, creating a festive and welcoming vibe throughout the venue.

This market is more than a shopping trip — it’s a community gathering that supports local creatives and offers a relaxed way to spend a Saturday morning. Bring cash, reusable bags, and an appetite for things like roosterkoek, pancakes, and handcrafted fudge. Whether you’re visiting or local, it’s one of the best places to tap into Springs’ creative spirit.

10. Grab Coffee and a Sunrise View at Cowles Dam

If you’re an early riser, Cowles Dam is the perfect spot to watch the sunrise with a hot cup of coffee in hand. This peaceful reservoir is surrounded by walking paths and grassy areas, with quiet views that reflect the sky in soft morning light. Locals come here to meditate, photograph, or simply start the day in a peaceful frame of mind.

Bring your own breakfast or grab something takeaway from a nearby café and enjoy a tranquil moment before the city wakes up. It’s also a good birding location, with ducks, ibises, and kingfishers frequently spotted near the water. Whether alone or with friends, Cowles Dam offers the kind of serenity that makes you pause and appreciate the simple joys of travel.

What to do if you have kids?

Springs is full of kid-friendly fun — from nature reserves and lakes to mall play zones and open markets. Presidents Park has room to run, while Springs Mall offers indoor entertainment like arcades and cinemas for rainy days. The Arts Festival and Craft Market often have dedicated kids’ zones with crafts and games. Always pack snacks, water, and sunscreen — and consider renting bikes or bringing scooters for added exploration. The city’s slower pace makes it easy to explore at your family’s rhythm.

Where can I find free events in Springs South Africa taking place this weekend?

Looking for free concerts, food fairs, or family fun in Springs this weekend? Head over to https://planmyweekend.ai. This free AI-powered tool scans your location and recommends live, local, and free events happening near you — updated in real time. Whether you’re searching for cultural activities, markets, or hidden weekend gems, Plan My Weekend makes it effortless to discover what’s happening around you today.

Final Thoughts

Springs is one of Gauteng’s best-kept secrets — a place where history, nature, and community come together in a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. With its lakes, art deco charm, cultural events, and quiet green spaces, it’s a perfect destination for a day trip or a weekend escape. Whether you’re into architecture, fishing, local markets, or outdoor walks, there’s something here for everyone — all without the tourist crowds. Take a slower road and let Springs surprise you.