Free (and Almost Free) Things to Do with Kids in Cape Town This Winter

Winter in Cape Town has its own kind of magic. Sure, we get those chilly, rainy days when you just want to curl up at home, but when the sun comes out, it’s still one of the best places to be with kids. As a mom, I’m always on the lookout for fun things to do that don’t cost a fortune, and over the years I’ve found a few favourites that work in any weather. Here’s my updated list of free and almost free things to do with kids in Cape Town this winter.

1. Visit Your Local Library

There’s something so comforting about a warm library on a cold day. Most Cape Town libraries have dedicated children’s sections with puzzles, colouring-in stations, and cosy little reading corners. My daughter loves picking out new bedtime stories and it’s such an easy way to get them away from screens. Keep an eye out for storytelling mornings or book club activities during the school holidays too — they’re often free and so well-run.

2. Explore the Cape Town Museum of Childhood

The Cape Town Museum of Childhood in Rondebosch is a fantastic, free outing for families. There is no entrance fee but you can leave a donation of your choosing. The museum offers interactive exhibits celebrating childhood in South Africa, with activities for kids and storytime sessions perfect for rainy days or relaxed family visits.

3. Visit the Iziko South African Museum

If you’re after a fun and educational indoor outing that won’t cost much, the Iziko South African Museum in the Company’s Garden is a great choice. It has fascinating natural history and cultural exhibits that can keep curious kids enter

Iziko Museum is free for kids under 5

tained for hours. Entry for locals is very affordable, with children under five admitted free. Adult tickets cost R50 and kids over five pay R30 (remember your ID). Perfect for a winter day when you want to stay warm and learn something new.

4. Visit a Coffee Shop or Restaurant with a Play Area

When the weather turns gloomy and you need to get out of the house, a coffee shop or family restaurant with an indoor play area can be a lifesaver. You can sit down with a warm cup of coffee or cooldrink while the kids burn off energy. Places like Panarottis are firm favourites because most branches have soft play jungle gyms and friendly childminders. Spur is another classic option with indoor Play Canyons and affordable kids’ meals — plus colouring sheets to keep little hands busy. For a seaside outing, Cape Town Fish Market in Big Bay offers a lovely indoor play zone with a jungle gym and ball pit. Many neighbourhood cafés and casual restaurants around Cape Town are also adding kiddie corners and small indoor play areas to make family outings easier - keep an eye out near you.

5. Green Point Urban Park (For Those Clear Winter Days)

On crisp, sunny mornings, Green Point Urban Park is perfect for scooting, kicking a ball, or having a picnic (don’t forget a flask of hot chocolate). The jungle gyms are safe and well-maintained, and there’s loads of space to run around without it feeling crowded.

6. Company’s Garden

Even in winter, the Company’s Garden remains one of our favourite spots. The squirrels are always around and the garden is lovely for a quick stroll between rain showers. The restaurant’s covered patio is warm and perfect for a mom-meets-mom coffee while the kids play in the sandpit and on the swings.

7. Sea Point Promenade (When It’s Dry)

If the sun peeks out, the promenade is still one of the best places to let kids run wild. There’s plenty of space for bikes, scooters, and a few jungle gyms along the way. The fresh sea air does wonders for the winter blues and it’s a guaranteed way to tire them out before bedtime.

8. Visit Hout Bay Harbour Market

The Hout Bay Harbour Market is undercover, warm, and packed with things to see and taste. While the busier evenings can get crowded, a morning visit is relaxed and very kid-friendly. The live music, colourful stalls, and yummy treats make it a fun, affordable outing. Even if you just go for a wander and share a pancake, it’s a win.

9. Arts and Crafts at Home

Okay, this one isn’t an outing, but it’s my go-to when the rain won’t stop. Set up a little art station with paints, playdough, stickers, and colouring books. If you’re feeling brave, baking together is another great way to pass the time and warm up the house. Bonus points if you let them decorate cupcakes with all the sprinkles you can find in the back of the cupboard.

10. Indoor Balloon Tennis

When the kids are bouncing off the walls and it’s too wet to head out, this game saves the day. Blow up a balloon (or two), clear a little space in the lounge, and you’ve got yourself a quick, safe game of tennis. You can make simple bats by gluing a paper plate onto a paper towel roll, but honestly, using hands works just as well. It’s silly, fun, and keeps them moving.

Winter in Cape Town doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors for three months. With a bit of creativity and some extra layers, there’s still plenty to do with the kids without spending a fortune. If you’ve got any other winter favourites, please share them with me in the comments or over on Instagram — I’m always looking for new ideas to try with my little one.