There is no shortage of arts and culture experiences in Cape Town. Every street and suburb has its own show of artistic installations. The mother city is a place where an array of diverse culture and art offers visitors unforgettable experiences. Here are a few of my recommendations.
Best Arts and Culture Experiences in Cape Town
The Norval Foundation
The Norval Foundation sculpture garden in Steenberg offers a combination of natural beauty, art, and experience. The garden spans over seven hectares and features indigenous fynbos, beautifully landscaped gardens, and an impressive collection of sculptures created by local and international artists. As you walk along the winding pathways, you can find inspiration in the serene environment and ignite your imagination with a splendid collection of artworks.
Iziko Museums
Iziko, derived from isiXhosa meaning ‘hearth’, embodies the essence of traditional family gatherings where stories are shared. Today, Iziko Museums of Cape Town serves as the focal point for sharing South Africa’s rich narrative with both locals and visitors, nestled within the city’s vibrant Museum Mile.”
“From the natural history treasures of Iziko South African Museum to the artistic wonders housed in the Iziko South African National Gallery, Cape Town’s cultural landscape thrives. With a diverse array of museums including Iziko Slave Lodge, Iziko Maritime Centre, and Iziko Bo-Kaap Museum, each visit promises to unveil layers of history and heritage waiting to be explored.
Glass Museum, Stellenbosch
Madame May de Lencquesaing, the owner of Glenelly Estate, has over 600 glass pieces in her collection and has been collecting glass for over fifty years. In the underground cellar, you can admire a treasure trove of glistening, colorful, and sparkling glass specimens in every shape and color. Some antique examples include “Woodstock” glass, Tiffany, Italian maestro Lino Tagliapietra, Daum, Murano, and more. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience worth adding to your itinerary.
Other Arts and Culture Experiences in Cape Town
Zeitz MOCAA
This circular structure at the Waterfront features the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa. Apart from the cutting-edge art exhibitions, the structure is an art piece with nine floors, where you’ll find Centres of Costume, the rooftop sculpture garden, a cathedral-like Atrium, and much more.
Irma Stern Museum / Art Gallery
Also named The Firs, this stunning house once belonged to Irma Stern (1894 – 1966), a well-known South African artist. Here, you will find her diverse collections of artifacts, furniture, and art and an art studio that still holds her painting tools and easel.
Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden
Discover the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden in Stellenbosch, where nature meets art. This tranquil sanctuary showcases the works of renowned South African sculptor Dylan Lewis amidst indigenous flora. Wander through pathways to encounter captivating bronze and granite sculptures, each evoking reflection amidst the serene ambiance. It’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts seeking a sensory journey amidst the beauty of the outdoors.
Street Art & Graffiti
Graffiti culture originated in the 1980s with the rise of Hip Hop and was used as a way of expressing the injustices of Apartheid. The renowned Falko One is one of the first street artists and began his murals as early as 1988 at his high school in Mitchells Plain. The most popular areas in Cape Town where you’ll find street art include the CBD, Woodstock, Bo Kaap, Salt River, Hout Bay, Khayelitsha, Mitchells Plain, and Langa. There are various street art tours that you can book to view these colorful murals.
And be sure to support and visit all the galleries in Cape Town selling wonderful local art, paintings and sculptures.
Theaters
Apart from the museums, street art & graffiti, and art galleries, a few must-visit theaters that host musical, dance, or comedy shows include:
- Arts Cape Theatre
- Bo Kaap Ghoema Theatre
- Drostdy Theatre in Stellenbosch
- The District Six museum
- Maynardville Open-Air Theatre
- Baxter Theatre Centre
- Theatre on the Bay
To make your stay memorable, be sure to book a few shows while you’re visiting Cape Town.
Besides the beautiful scenery, beaches and foodie options, the entertainment scene in the mother city is vibrant and versatile. For art and culture enthusiasts, Cape Town offers a great selection of activities to feed your soul. Be sure to add some of these activities to your itinerary when planning a trip to Cape Town.
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