Written by: Katrien Pienaar
When was the last time you took your loved one on a day date? We’re thinking the kind where you actually get to connect with the person across from you. Pretoria is full of underrated spots and experiences we tend to forget about. This autumn, we’re inviting you to slow down, drive past the mall, and rediscover the city and each other.
Autumn in Pretoria invites you to rediscover the city in a slower, more meaningful way. Grab your date, let’s skip the mall for a change, and experience a few day dates you might not have thought of (or completely forgotten about), and see how they connect you.
Hidden gems to rediscover: exploring the Wonderboom Fig Tree
Pretoria is lucky to have many beautiful green spaces, but we just don’t always take the time to explore them. Here’s one we feel every Pretorian needs to visit if they haven’t yet. Have you ever actually stopped at the Wonderboom Fig Tree? It’s over a thousand years old and still feels like such a hidden gem. Located at Wonderboom Nature Reserve, you can pair this with a hike for your date or even bring a picnic and take your time there, soaking in the atmosphere.
Website: www.tshwane.gov.za/?page_id=1201
A date that gets you thinking (and laughing together): an escape room
Looking for something unexpected for a date? Brainwaves Escape Rooms turns your date into a shared challenge, where you solve clues together in a captivating, themed room and work as a team to complete your mission. With a choice of different escape room options, you can pick the experience that suits you best and let the fun begin. It’s a playful way to step out of your routine, test how you work together, and share a few laughs along the way.
Website: www.brainwavesescape.com
Facebook: Brainwaves Escape Rooms
Stories and ice cream to share
Imagine a slow afternoon wandering through a bookstore, learning more about each other through your choice of read. In Shere Lifestyle Centre has so many lovely spots, but for this one, start at The Book Keeper’s Shop. Take your time exploring, chat about what catches your eye, maybe even pick a book for each other. Then grab an ice cream from Aroma and find a sunny patch of grass in their beautiful outdoor space. It’s a date that will effortlessly spark conversation.
Website: www.inshere.co.za
Facebook: In Shere Lifestyle Centre, Pretoria East
A date that creates something together
For something a little different, a creative, hands-on day date, Pretoria has just the plans for you. Azania Essentials offers workshops right here in the East of Pretoria, or you can choose one of their kits and create your own at home. Think candle-making, soap-making, room spray-making, and more. These experiences will keep you present, side by side, and you’ll have a keepsake to remember the date.
Website: www.azaniaessentials.co.za
Facebook: Azania Essentials
A market that sparks conversation
The Arts, Crafts & Culture Market (ACC Market), in collaboration with Hazel Food Market, is one of those places that feels made for a slow autumn day date. You’ll find handmade and locally crafted items, from jewellery and plants to books, leather goods, and collectables. It’s not only proudly South African, but also proudly Pretoria. Imagine walking from stall to stall, coffee in one hand, your loved one’s hand in the other, this might just become one of your favourite day dates.
Facebook: ACC Market
A little adventure together
Ever ridden an e-bike before? Now imagine doing that while exploring Groenkloof Nature Reserve on a slow autumn day. It’s a completely different experience. You’re outside, taking in the fresh air and everything around you, and you might even spot animals like zebra or giraffe along the way. It’s a Pretoria adventure that turns into a shared memory.
Website: www.e-biking.co.za
Facebook: E-biking Africa
Pretoria has a way of surprising you when you start looking beyond the usual spots. This autumn, we encourage you to look beyond the mall and rediscover some of those hidden gems you may not have thought about. Who knows, your next favourite date might be waiting there.