Bloemfontein: Tourism, shopping and much more!
The judicial capital of South Africa, Bloemfontein, which was founded in 1846, means “fountain of flowers” in Afrikaans and Dutch. This is also in reference to its nickname, “the city of roses”, thanks to the wealth of rose gardens in the city and playing host to the annual rose festival. Bloemfontein is approximately 400 km south of Johannesburg and, in terms of weather, experiences a semi-arid climate with hot summer days and cooler, dry winters.
Although not situated near any coasts, Bloemfontein enjoys its share of tourist attractions and places of interest. Like the Cheetah Experience, a popular non-profit wildlife sanctuary about 12 km outside the city. Home to cheetahs, leopards, lions, wolves and various other animals, here is where the entire family can enjoy outdoor tours and hands-on interaction with the wildlife.
Bloemfontein is also home to Sub-Saharan Africa’s first digital planetarium: the Naval Hill Planetarium. Situated in a nature reserve populated by wildlife like wildebeest and zebra, the planetarium can be visited for impressive and immersive documentaries and presentations about stars and planets.
Tourists and visitors seeking accommodation in Bloemfontein have a range of options to consider, such as boutique hotels, game lodges, guestrooms, bed and breakfasts, and various others.
And for those who prefer filling the time with shopping bags, take note of the variety of shopping malls and stores scattered throughout Bloemfontein.
Bloemfontein: Map for shopping
The Loch Logan Waterfront has the enviable distinction of being the largest shopping mall in central South Africa. Located in Westdene, this 80,000 m² of shopper’s paradise includes more than 100 stores, 10 fast food outlets, cinemas, beauty salons, banks, and a medical centre. Pick n Pay Supermarket, Kloppers, and Foschini are just some of the well-known brands to be found here.
Over in Heidedal we have Bloemfontein’s Twin City Mall, which is easily accessible from the city’s main routes. Presenting nearly 80 stores, shopaholics can shop and swipe to their hearts’ content at Edgars Active, Cash Crusaders, Incredible Home, and more.
To boost the city’s shopping potential, Helicon Hoogte presents Northridge Mall in the north of Bloemfontein. And with over 1,200 free parking bays, ease of access is guaranteed before hitting modern and updated stores like Dis-Chem, Sportsmans Warehouse, and Sheet Street.
In the mood for a more low-key shopping experience? Then Bloemfontein’s Rose Garden Urban Flea Market is where you ought to be. Open on Saturdays, this modern outdoor flea market is committed to providing a fun day for the entire family. Handmade arts and crafts; second-hand clothing and books; appetising food stalls... visiting these unique and diverse stalls in person is a must.
And speaking of open-air shopping, there’s also the Preller Square Shopping Centre in Dan Pienaar. This family owned business adds a striking Mediterranean-style design to the city, plus presents more than 19,000 m² (a remarkable expansion from its early 3,000 m² days) of retail splendour. Drop in to see the latest product promotions and discounts from Angels Boutique, Dros, The Crazy Store, and many others.