Bloemfontein – Tourist Attractions
Bloemfontein is the capital city of the Free State area of South Africa. It’s located right in the centre of the country and also in the centre of the Free State Province. Bloemfontein is often referred to as the The City of Roses’ in honour of its annual Rose festival and the abundance of colourful roses that you’ll see in the area. There’s no shortage of top tourist attractions either! Read on for more…
Bloemfontein is the sixth largest city in South Africa and was founded in 1846. It was originally a fort for the British Army Major Henry Warden and in 1910 it became the Judicial Capital of South Africa.
The first thing you’ll notice about Bloemfontein, apart from the roses, is just how clean and tidy the city is – the people are friendly and very proud of their city. You will instantly be aware of the laidback and relaxed atmosphere as you stroll around admiring the beautiful tree lined streets, and visit the many city monuments and beautiful buildings.
Bloemfontein enjoys a mild climate, with summer temperatures varying between a maximum of 31°C and a minimum of 15°C, and winter temperatures between 17°C and 2°C. Bloemfontein really has so much to offer and you can experience the warmth of the friendly local people and explore the many attractions and cultural sites. Listed is a selection of top attractions in Bloemfontein:
The Anglican Cathedral…
Major Henry Warden, founder of Bloemfontein, laid the foundations of this wonderful Victorian building in 1850. The Anglican Cathedral is located in the east end of Saint George’s Street and is well worth a visit when in Bloemfontein.
City Hall…
This is a wonderful stately sandstone building designed by Sir Gordon Leith.
Civic Centre
The Civic Centre is a modern glass building that serves as the headquarters of the city council. Constructed in 1991 it boasts several reception areas, meeting rooms, three auditoriums, conference facilities and much more.
CR Swart Building…
Also known as the “Pride of the Free State” the CR Swart Building is a wonderful high-rise building that houses the Provincial Administration, it also includes a 26th floor revolving restaurant.
First Raadsaal…
This is a very modest building made of dung floors and has a thatched roof. It was built by Major Henry Warden, the founder of Bloemfontein in 1849. This house once served as a church, then a conference chamber, a parliament house, school for the local children, and at one time it housed all of the city’s original civil institutions.
Old Government Building…
The Old Government Building represents a fine example of old Cape Dutch architecture, today it houses The National Afrikaans Literary Museum and is well worth a visit.
Bloemfontein Orchid House…
Bloemfontein Orchid House is definitely the most beautiful and modern nursery of its kind in the southern hemisphere. Surrounded by amazing manicured gardens lush with colour, beautiful orchards, glistening streams and much more, it really is a tropical oasis. Enjoy amazing wooded walks and the beautiful aroma of The Fragrance Garden’ designed especially for the blind.
The Fountain…
This is a charming fountain from which the city is named. Bloemfontein is also known as The Flower Spring’ or ’The Fountain of Flowers”. The fountain now features a concrete column and today is part of the city’s emblem.
Naval Hill…
Naval Hill is an extremely popular hill that provides an excellent observation point with splendid views of the city. Here you can also see the famous Franklin Game Reserve which is also part of the hill.
Loch Logan Waterfront…
The Loch Logan Waterfront is a modern and bustling area of the city and offers a host of great entertainment, fine dining at the many restaurants, vibrant pubs and not forgetting the excellent shopping. A visit to Loch Logan is a must to pick up some great gifts and souvenirs.
Oliewenhuis Art Gallery…
The Oliewenhuis Art Gallery is a favourite destination for all tourists and hosts the very best and most amazing collection of historical and modern South African Art. The gallery was originally built to accommodate visiting heads of states and in 1985 became an art gallery.
Rugby Museum…
What better country to host the largest private collection of rugby memorabilia of its kind in the world! For all sporting fanatics a visit to The Rugby Museum is a must where you can feast your eyes on amazing items of time past and of the great players of today.
Find out more about Bloemfontein attractions.
Bloemfontein is a popular tourist area and has much to offer, located just 10km from the city of Bloemfontein is Bloemfontein Airport so access to the city is easy. Here you can avail of a shuttle bus service to the city or there are plenty of taxis as well as a public bus service. You can also book car hire Bloemfontein securely on line. Alternatively choose car hire South Africa at a number of other locations.
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