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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Wits Art Museum Johannesburg
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover thousands of African artworks, from ancient to contemporary, at this free museum in Johannesburg's vibrant Braamfontein.
"Free entrance & such a great place to take content!"
🎯 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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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
Braamfontein's Cultural Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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.
🗿 Origins Centre Wonders
Don't miss the Origins Centre for ancient rock art and human history insights.
📸 Content Creator's Dream
The museum's diverse exhibits offer fantastic backdrops for photos and videos.
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.
🚶♀️ Explore Braamfontein
Combine your museum visit with exploring the trendy Braamfontein district.
🗿 Origins Centre Wonders
Don't miss the Origins Centre for ancient rock art and human history insights.
📸 Content Creator's Dream
The museum's diverse exhibits offer fantastic backdrops for photos and videos.
💡 Educational Journey
Learn about African origins, art, and culture through interactive displays.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
For exploring downtown Joburg and areas like Wits University, consider a guided walking tour with an experienced local guide for safety and insight.
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.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Wits Art Museum offers free admission to all visitors, making it a fantastic free activity in Johannesburg.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🧭 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.
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.
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.
Yes, the museum's engaging exhibits, especially at the Origins Centre, can be fascinating for children, offering a visual and educational experience.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Professional photography and videography usually require prior permission. Contact the museum's administration to inquire about arrangements and potential fees.
While personal photography is generally allowed, avoid using flash, as it can damage delicate artworks. Some specific exhibits might have their own photography restrictions.
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.
Absolutely! The visually rich environment, unique art pieces, and the overall artistic vibe make it an ideal location for creating engaging Instagram Reels.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
📸 Content Creators & Photographers
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Origins Centre
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.
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.
Contemporary Art and Identity
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.
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.
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