Midrand is a business hub, where many recognizable international companies have built their South African headquarters, is a premiere shopping district with multi-story malls and a wide array of independent markets. Here you’ll find the bold architecture of the Grand Central Water Tower, a cone-shaped and Brutalist-inspired water tower, and the Nizamiye Mosque, with its impressive arches, large central courtyard, and four towering minarets. You can pick up local food and artisan goods at the Waterfall Market in town, or the Riversands Farm Village, 25 minutes outside of Midrand.

Midrand is located just 30 minutes from Johannesburg, making it a convenient base for exploring South Africa’s largest city and the wider Gauteng Province.

The weather during the day in Midrand is warm and pleasant throughout most of the year, making this a popular destination no matter the season. Spring, which is generally from September through November, is festival season, with warm and sunny weather most days. In September, an annual arts festival takes over the Johannesburg area for up to eight weeks with workshops, artist talks, art fairs, gallery tours, live music, and street parades. At the end of October, the region celebrates its wineries at an annual festival in nearby Sandton with tastings, special meals with wine pairings, and vendors from all around the country.

Summers are warm and humid, and you’re likely to encounter rain and possible thunderstorms, so pack an umbrella if you’re visiting between November and January. The fall months of March through May are still quite warm, but the humidity drops, making this a lovely time to get outside of town for hiking or safaris. Winters are dry and mild, and although it’s warm during the day, temperatures can get a bit chilly after the sun goes down, so it’s best to bring a few layers if you’re planning a visit between June and August.

Lonehill Municipal Nature Reserve

Located just 10 miles outside of Midrand’s central district, this large natural area provides opportunities for hiking, biking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. There are important Stone Age structures that you can see here, including three furnaces. You’re likely to spot a few furry mammals known as dassies here too. To get an excellent panoramic view of Midrand and Johannesburg, take the hiking path to the top of the hill, otherwise known as the koppie.

Waterfall Market

This Sunday market in front of the Mall of Africa at Waterfall Park is an open-air event featuring local artisans, live entertainment, and a kids activity area. You’ll find vendors selling jewel toned floral arrangements, handmade clothing, fresh coconuts, refreshing drinks, baked goods, and much more. Enjoy your market treats in the park, home to a lush garden and interactive fountain.

Mall of Africa

This chic and expansive shopping center is filled with more than 300 shops. International accessory brands, luxury fashion houses, and flagship South African stores are found here, and there’s also a movie theater and small theme park along with places to grab a bite to eat. Regardless of whether you’re here to purchase something, you can marvel at the woven metal and glass ceilings, treelike wooden pillars, and curving escalators.