Bloemfontein

Opened by the Prince of Wales in 1925, King's Park boasts over 4,000 beautiful rose bushes. In fact, Bloemfontein literally means 'flower fountain' and is often referred to locally as the 'city of roses'. It is the city's largest and loveliest green space and a nice spot to unwind and escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. A colourful and fragrant park set on a lake and with grassy areas where children can expend some energy, the park is a good attraction for those travelling with kids. King's Park is also home to the Bloemfontein Zoo, established in 1906. There is a popular arts and crafts market at King's Park on the first Saturday of each month, where food stalls compete with paintings and sculptures as well as other crafts like jewellery and some wonderful bargains can be found. The market is open from about 7am to 1pm. Those looking for other outdoor areas in Bloemfontein should head to Naval Hill, which provides striking views over the city and borders the Franklin Game Reserve.

From its distinguished setting in a Cape Dutch mansion, the Oliewenhuis Art Gallery is a must-see Bloemfontein attraction that features an expansive display of South African art. Designed in 1935 and completed in 1941, the Neo-Dutch mansion was built as the residence of the Governor General of the Union of South Africa, and once hosted King George VI and his family on their visit to Bloemfontein. The residence was opened as the city's art museum in 1989, after long-term petitioning by Bloemfontein's artistic community. Contemporary paintings and sculptures are exhibited here, as well as acclaimed masterpieces from days gone by. One of the most exciting and unique aspects of the museum is the remarkable exhibition space in the old underground reservoir. The gallery also has a café and outdoor sculpture park for visitors to enjoy. Kids will love the colourful Africa Carousel. It was created by multiple artists crafting each individual creature to integrate European and African mythology. Located on Grant's Hill and surrounded by miles of unspoilt nature, visitors can also enjoy exploring the walking trails that wind around the museum.

Address : 16 Harrismith Street, Bloemfontein

President Brand Street has been declared a national conservation area, and is home to a number of monuments and buildings of historical value. Nobody visiting Bloemfontein should pass up the opportunity to stroll down one of the city's most stately and historically important streets, encountering striking examples of 19th and 20th-century buildings along the way. The South African Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court of South Africa are located on this street, as is the National Afrikaans Literature Museum. Travellers can view the original transcript of South Africa's former national anthem, Die Stem, at the Literature Museum. Travellers will find the equally interesting National Music Museum on President Brand Street too. Bloemfontein's City Hall is another of the street's important addresses. Completed in 1936, its cornerstone was laid by Prince George, Duke of Kent. The Old Presidency was built in 1861, on the spot that was once the British Major Henry Warden's farmhouse. The sandstone buildings give the area a distinct character and aesthetic, creating some great photographic opportunities.

Address : President Brand Street, Bloemfontein