Johannesburg, South Africa

Johannesburg’s 5 best museums (and what to see)

Southern Africa • See & do • Johannesburg’s 5 best museums (and what to see)

The best museums in Johannesburg

Johannesburg is a city that thrives on culture, history and an exciting art scene. Johannesburg’s museums are windows into South Africa’s past, art and social struggles. These museums give you the opportunity to walk through moments of deep historical significance, explore the roots of powerful social movements and dive into fascinating collections of African art and heritage. We’re diving into the best museums in the city and what you should miss at each one. Ready for a day of exploration? Join us on this adventure of unveiling the must-visit museums in Johannesburg!

Wits Art Museum

The Wits Art Museum, located at the University of the Witwatersrand, is where African art truly shines. With a collection dating back to the 1920s, this museum showcases an incredible array of traditional and contemporary African art pieces, including masks, sculptures, paintings and photography. The classical African collection is a must-see, featuring art from Southern, West and Central Africa and a small collection from East Africa. Also, take a moment to view the paintings by Irma Stern – one of our favourite displays. A bonus here is that entry is free, so everyone has a chance to explore and appreciate Africa’s diverse artistic expressions!

Wits Art Museum
1 Jan Smuts Ave
Braamfontein
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Wits Art Museum

Apartheid Museum

A sobering yet essential visit, the Apartheid Museum chronicles South Africa’s journey through decades of racial segregation to its eventual democracy. From the moment you walk through the separate black and white entrances, you’re confronted with the harsh reality of racial segregation. Inside, you’ll encounter vivid displays, from video footage to original documents and personal testimonies, all capturing the struggles and resistance that marked the apartheid era. Key exhibits include the Pillars of the Constitution, representing equality and diversity and an outdoor memorial area, named Journey, where they showcase and honour the lives lost.

Apartheid Museum
Northern Parkway and Gold Reef Road
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Apartheid Museum

Satyagraha House

Satyagraha House offers a unique glimpse into Mahatma Gandhi’s time in South Africa. This humble residence, where Gandhi developed his philosophy of nonviolent resistance, has been carefully restored to reflect his lifestyle. Today, it functions as both a museum and guesthouse, allowing you a closer connection to Gandhi’s life and work. Inside, you’ll find letters, artefacts and displays that delve into his thoughts on passive resistance and social justice. For those interested in history and social justice, Satyagraha House is an inspiring place to reflect on how far these values have come – and how relevant they remain today.

Satyagraha House
15 Pine Rd & Garden Road
Orchard
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of Satyagraha House

The South African National Museum of Military History

This museum is obviously a must-visit for anyone who is interested in military history, but it’s got enough engaging exhibits to capture anyone’s interest. This museum has extensive displays of aircraft, weaponry and military vehicles – it offers an immersive dive into South Africa’s military past, from World War I to the present. The rare Messerschmitt fighter plane is a must-see, accompanied by various tanks, as well as exhibits on wartime medical advancements. The museum also explores the country’s role in global conflicts, providing insight into its complex political and social landscape. With its outdoor displays and interactive elements, it’s easy to spend the whole day here exploring South Africa’s military heritage.

The South African National Museum of Military History
22 Erlswold Way
Johannesburg
South Africa

Photography courtesy of The South African National Museum of Military History

Museum Africa

Museum Africa is Johannesburg’s oldest museum, providing a comprehensive look at the city’s development and the broader history of South Africa. Located in a restored market building in Newtown, the museum features exhibitions on Johannesburg’s mining roots, township life and influential local figures. The Sounds of the City exhibit, celebrating Johannesburg’s jazz heritage, is one of the museum’s most-loved spots and brings the city’s music scene to life with audio recordings, posters and photographs. There’s also a fascinating section on township life, giving insight into the social dynamics that shaped the city.