Wits Art Museum, Johannesburg - The museum entrance has a large art piece.
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Wits Art Museum Johannesburg

Discover thousands of African artworks, from ancient to contemporary, at this free museum in Johannesburg's vibrant Braamfontein.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
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Wits Art Museum, Johannesburg - The museum entrance has a large art piece.

Wits Art Museum Johannesburg

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more space to explore

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover thousands of African artworks, from ancient to contemporary, at this free museum in Johannesburg's vibrant Braamfontein.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"Free entrance & such a great place to take content!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission Alert!

Enjoy world-class art without spending a cent. Perfect for budget travelers and art lovers alike.

🚶‍♀️ Explore Braamfontein

Combine your museum visit with exploring the trendy Braamfontein district.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

African Art Collections

African Art Collections

Main Galleries

Thousands of pieces showcasing historic to contemporary African artwork, offering a deep dive into diverse cultures and expressions.

The Origins Centre

The Origins Centre

Wits University Campus

Explore humanity's earliest artistic expressions, from ancient rock art to interactive exhibits on human origins and culture.

Contemporary Exhibitions

Contemporary Exhibitions

Special Exhibition Spaces

Discover thought-provoking installations that delve into identity, gender politics, and societal structures.

Planning Your Visit

Free Entry, Big Impact

Good news for your wallet! The Wits Art Museum offers free admission, making it an accessible cultural gem. Plan your visit during daylight hours for the best experience, as some areas might have limited access or ambiance after dark. TikTok

Braamfontein's Cultural Hub

Located in the vibrant Braamfontein district, the museum is part of Wits University's rich cultural landscape. Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding area, known for its art scene and student life. Instagram

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Crowd
Low
When
Thursday Evenings
Why
Potential for special events/exhibitions
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Free entrance & such a great place to take content 🥹 #thingstodoinjohannesburg #artgallery #foryou #SAMA28 #fyp #tiktoksa #tiktoksouthafrica
@vuyiii
34.9K likes • 459.3K views

🎯 Free Admission Alert!

Enjoy world-class art without spending a cent. Perfect for budget travelers and art lovers alike. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore Braamfontein

Combine your museum visit with exploring the trendy Braamfontein district. Instagram

Wits Art Museum in Braamfontein. Accessible to anyone and everyone :) #johannesburg #art #museum #wits #thingstodoinjoburg #narowbi
narow_bi
132 likes • 3.2K views
We recently explored the @originscentre_wits in Braamfontein, home to one of the world’s largest collections of rock art. This immersive museum blends ancient artefacts, interactive exhibits, and contemporary works to trace the origins of humankind. From ochre stones dating back 100,000 years to San rock paintings, it showcases humanity’s earliest artistic expressions. With so much packed into th...
johannesburginyourpocket
52 likes • 4.9K views

🗿 Origins Centre Wonders

Don't miss the Origins Centre for ancient rock art and human history insights. Reddit

📸 Content Creator's Dream

The museum's diverse exhibits offer fantastic backdrops for photos and videos. TikTok

Our second stop was The Origins Centre at Wits University in Johannesburg. The interactive museum took us on an inspiring journey of discovery, which began with the origins of humankind in Africa through the development of technology, art, culture and symbolism. A powerful reminder of the importance of educating ourselves on African origins, history and storytelling. #SouthAfrica #Johannesburg #J...
inspiringmindsyouth
23 likes • 622 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission Alert!

Enjoy world-class art without spending a cent. Perfect for budget travelers and art lovers alike. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore Braamfontein

Combine your museum visit with exploring the trendy Braamfontein district. Instagram

🗿 Origins Centre Wonders

Don't miss the Origins Centre for ancient rock art and human history insights. Reddit

📸 Content Creator's Dream

The museum's diverse exhibits offer fantastic backdrops for photos and videos. TikTok

💡 Educational Journey

Learn about African origins, art, and culture through interactive displays. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Wits Art Museum for its free admission and impressive collection of African art, with many highlighting the educational value of the Origins Centre. While the museum offers a rich cultural experience, some visitors note that navigating the campus or finding specific exhibits can occasionally be a minor challenge.

"Friendly welcome. Neighborhood sa little sketchy as warned by my Uber driver. Gallery wasn’t too big which made the exhibit intimate and quite personal. Enjoyed learning about Esther. And the current small exhibition on works on paper was well done. Overall a great place to visit. And it’s free!"

Jules D

"A beautifully curated exhibition featuring works that span almost the entirety of Easther Mahlangu's life as an artist

Informative ,colorful , vibrant pieces from museums and private collectors all under one roof showcassing the immeasurable talent that is Easther Mahlangu

The museum also exhibits other artists so be sure to check out the pages and socials because you will want to go and expirience the amazing art"

Lerato Mkwanazi

"The Wits Art Museum in Johannesburg is a shining diamond in the stinking garbage of Johannesburg's CBD. Even the journey there is an experience for masochists. You have to navigate around massive potholes, endure the apocalyptic facades of a once-prosperous city, and a police force that would rather form selfie formations in front of parking spaces than let you park. So, around the corner and into the gauntlet of ominous "parking attendants." They, by the way, are offended if you so much as hand over 20 Rand. But inside, you'll find Paul Weinberg's miracle. "Between the Cracks" is a brilliantly photographed journey through five decades of South Africa. All in black and white, thus visually intensely poetic and harrowingly real. A moment of greatness in a place of neglect. You'll want more of it, but please find it elsewhere. 4 out of 5 stars because even art lovers aren't in the mood for a Mad Max-like journey to and from the airport."

Tilman Benecke

What People Like

Free admission
Diverse African art
Educational Origins Centre

What People Dislike

Occasional navigation challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Wits Art Museum is located in Braamfontein, Johannesburg, on the Wits University campus. It's accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options, including taxis and ride-sharing services, are also readily available in the area. Reddit

Yes, it's situated within the well-known Wits University campus in Braamfontein, a central and accessible part of Johannesburg. Look for signage directing you to the museum. Reddit

While a city sightseeing bus might pass through Braamfontein, it's not guaranteed to have a direct stop at the Wits Art Museum. It's often recommended to use ride-sharing services or a guided tour for more direct access. Reddit

For exploring downtown Joburg and areas like Wits University, consider a guided walking tour with an experienced local guide for safety and insight. Reddit

Yes, there are parking facilities available near the Wits Art Museum and within the Wits University campus. It's advisable to check for specific visitor parking areas upon arrival. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Wits Art Museum offers free admission to all visitors, making it a fantastic free activity in Johannesburg. TikTok

Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Wits Art Museum website or their social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Instagram

As admission is free, booking tickets in advance is generally not required. However, for special events or exhibitions, it's wise to check if pre-registration is necessary. Instagram

Wits Art Museum frequently hosts a variety of special exhibitions showcasing both established and emerging artists. Keep an eye on their announcements for upcoming shows. Instagram

The museum is generally accessible, but it's always a good idea to contact them directly to confirm specific accessibility features if you have particular needs. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can expect to see a diverse collection of African art, ranging from historic artifacts to contemporary pieces, often exploring themes of identity and culture. TikTokInstagram

The Origins Centre is located on the Wits University campus and is closely associated with the Wits Art Museum, focusing on the origins of humankind and early African art. InstagramReddit

Photography for personal use is often permitted, but flash photography and professional filming may be restricted. It's best to check the museum's specific guidelines upon entry. TikTok

Yes, the museum's engaging exhibits, especially at the Origins Centre, can be fascinating for children, offering a visual and educational experience. Instagram

To fully appreciate the collections and any special exhibitions, allocate at least 2-3 hours. If you plan to visit the Origins Centre as well, consider a half-day trip. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The museum's diverse installations, unique architectural elements, and the vibrant African artworks provide numerous excellent photo opportunities. The Origins Centre's ancient artifacts are also highly photogenic. TikTok

Professional photography and videography usually require prior permission. Contact the museum's administration to inquire about arrangements and potential fees. Instagram

While personal photography is generally allowed, avoid using flash, as it can damage delicate artworks. Some specific exhibits might have their own photography restrictions. TikTok

You can create content related to African art, cultural heritage, historical insights, and contemporary artistic expressions. It's a great location for art reviews and educational videos. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! The visually rich environment, unique art pieces, and the overall artistic vibe make it an ideal location for creating engaging Instagram Reels. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Wits Art Museum and its associated Origins Centre offer a fantastic, free family outing in Johannesburg. The interactive exhibits at the Origins Centre are particularly engaging for children, bringing ancient history and human origins to life in a fun and educational way. Instagram

Kids can marvel at ancient rock art and learn about early human culture. The museum's diverse African art collections also provide a colorful and stimulating visual experience. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to art and history in an accessible and enjoyable environment. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Wits Art Museum is a true gem. Admission is completely free, allowing you to immerse yourself in significant African art collections without any cost. TikTok

This makes it an ideal activity for those looking to experience Johannesburg's cultural offerings without breaking the bank. You can easily spend hours exploring the diverse exhibits and still have money left for other adventures. Instagram

📸 Content Creators & Photographers

The Wits Art Museum is a photographer's paradise and a dream for content creators. The striking African artworks, unique installations, and the museum's architecture provide endless visually appealing backdrops. TikTokInstagram

From capturing the intricate details of ancient artifacts at the Origins Centre to filming dynamic contemporary art pieces, you'll find plenty of material for engaging photos and videos. Remember to check photography guidelines to ensure a smooth experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Origins Centre

The Origins Centre at Wits University is a must-visit for anyone interested in the deep history of humankind. It houses one of the world's largest collections of rock art, offering a profound glimpse into the earliest artistic and cultural expressions of humanity. Visitors can explore artifacts dating back tens of thousands of years, including ochre stones and San rock paintings, providing an immersive journey through Africa's rich heritage. InstagramReddit

This museum goes beyond static displays, incorporating interactive exhibits that trace the development of technology, art, and symbolism. It's a powerful reminder of our shared African origins and the enduring human drive for creativity and storytelling. The center's focus on African origins and history makes it an invaluable educational resource and a deeply inspiring experience for all ages. Instagram

Travelers often highlight the educational value and the sheer scope of history presented. It's a place where you can truly connect with the ancient past and appreciate the foundational elements of human civilization. Reddit

Contemporary Art and Identity

Wits Art Museum is a dynamic space that consistently showcases contemporary African art. These exhibitions often delve into complex themes such as identity, gender politics, and displacement, reflecting the current social and cultural dialogues within South Africa and the broader continent. Artists frequently use their work to challenge societal norms and explore personal narratives. Instagram

Many of the installations are designed to be thought-provoking, encouraging visitors to engage with critical issues and diverse perspectives. The museum provides a platform for both established and emerging artists to present their work, contributing to the vibrant Johannesburg art scene. Instagram

Visitors often find these contemporary pieces to be challenging and engaging, offering a modern counterpoint to the historical collections. The art here is not just for viewing; it's an invitation to reflect on the world around us and the multifaceted nature of human experience. Instagram

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