Bloemfontein Information and Tourist Attractions
Bloemfontein Information
Bloemfontein, fondly known as “The City of Roses” is the capitol of the Free State, centrally situated within 12 hours driving from anywhere in the country. Bloemfontein was founded in 1840 the area was fought over by the British and the Boers and today this reflects in the towns architecture with various monuments and museums reflecting both nations.
Bloemfontein, meaning spring of flowers, more than lives up to its name. The city is lined with thousands of rose bushes and Kings park has more than 4000 rose bushes planted. Historical buildings line the city centre including the gorgeous tree lined President Brand Street, a national monument, right in the centre of the CBD, its pavements home to several museum buildings.
Set on a hill in the city of Bloemfontein is a 192 hectare nature reserve, Navel Hill. Navel Hill offers a bird’s eye view of the city. Orchid House lies at the foot of Navel Hill and houses the world’s largest collection of orchids. There is also a fragrance garden for the blind in close proximity to Orchid House.
Bloemfontein has lots to offer, Art in the Park on the first Saturday of every month is very popular whilst Loch Logan waterfront enthrals visitors with its collection of shops, pubs, entertainment, restaurants and the Oliewenhuis Art Gallery offering frequent exhibitions.
Tourists have a vast choice of accommodation options as one would expect in a large city. Choose from hotels, bed and breakfasts, guest houses, self catering and much more.
Bloemfontein Climate
Bloemfontein has a sub tropical climate receiving most of its rainfall during the Summer months. Average daytime temperatures range from 16”C in July to 29.2”C in February. More information
Bloemfontein Tourist Attractions
Bloemfontein Zoo
The Bloemfontein Zoo was founded in 1906, and since then it has developed into a world-class zoo. It is home to the big five as well as antelope, tigers, panthers hippos and apes. Also home to a large variety of birds and possibly the most interesting and unusual inhabitant is the liger, a cross between a lion and tiger.
Free State National Botanical Garden
This garden, on the outskirts of Bloemfontein, spans a valley between picturesque dolerite koppies. The natural vegetation comprises tall grassland and woodland, dominated by magnificent wild olive and karee trees. The harmony of the Garden has been achieved by retaining and highlighting the best elements of the natural landscape. More Information
The Sand du Plessis Theatre
The auditorium of the Sand du Plessis Theatre is unique in South African theatre architectural design. Provided with continental seating (no centre aisle), and separate entrances for various rows, the auditorium has no distinct balcony but is divided into four staggered seating areas, each giving its occupants a sense of intimate surroundings, while together (viewed from the stage) giving the impression of space and majesty. The walls of the auditorium are covered with acoustically designed embuia panels, which, as part of their acoustic function, imbue the space with warmth and visual interest.
National Museum Bloemfontein
The national museum has a large collection of fossils and archeological materials including the famous Florisbad skull and one of the largest known dinosaurs. The ethnological section has interesting displays of on the life of Bushmen and there are also exhibits on the history of the Free State.
Oliewenhuis Art Museum
Oliewenhuis Art Museum is a young museum, but has shown an interesting growth in its collection. The collection has a solid foundation of South African artists, including works by Thomas Baines and J.H. Pierneef. Situated on 12 hectares of natural vegetation on Grant's Hill, the museums gardens offer access to four marked walking trails through the natural surroundings. The trials are easily accessible and offer a unique opportunity to experience the wild beauty.
Loch Logan Waterfront
The Loch Logan Waterfront is the largest shopping centre in central South Africa. This 80 000 m² shopping centre is the hub of shopping, entertainment, sport and culture in Bloemfontein. With more than 100 shops, 17 restaurants and coffee shops, 10 fast food outlets, movies, salons, banks, a gym and a medical centre. More Information
Franklin Nature Reserve
Situated at the the base of Naval Hill, the Franklin Nature Reserve (size 250 hectare) is home to many birds and indigenous wildlife, including herds of springbok, blesbok, eland and zebra. The Franklin Nature Reserve is the only reserve of its kind in the world completely surrounded by a city.
