{5 Of The Best} Fun Things To Do In Port Elizabeth

When it comes to things to do with kids in Nelson Mandela Bay, markets come to mind, The Valley Market, Art in the Park, stalls at the beach…those are a big hit and worth looking into but I thought I’d go with the tried and tested options so here goes…

Homeleigh Farm

This place is practically an institution. It is a touch farm and tea garden where the animals are well cared for and children can have fun while parents snack in little undercover areas. Located off Kragga Kamma Road they offer tractor rides, pony rides, and lots of play structures such as an adventure boat, a train and a bus. It has a delightful tea garden and specialises in educational tours for schools and birthday parties. We love the place as it offers something for the whole family. Your entrance fee gets you feed for the animals, you then walk around learning about the inhabitants (from boards on their enclosures) and then order something to eat while you watch your kids exhaust themselves. WIN WIN!!!

Kragga Kamma Game Park

We are pretty spoilt when it comes to game farms in this neck of the woods. My favourite is Kragga Kamma Game Park; it is right around the corner and really offers value for money. You can opt for a guided game drive or drive yourself and the handy map and list of animals you receive at the gate make it a real adventure for kids. They offer cheetah tours, birding and a really exciting raised treetop walk through a pristine indigenous forest. You can round off your visit with a visit to their on-site restaurant.

Bay West – Fun Factory

This is a fairly new attraction in the bay but already quite popular. I like that it has something for everyone. There is a giant ice rink which PE has been lacking for quite a while there is also a movie theatre with IMAX and Cine Prestige (with its gourmet menu). My little one LOVES Nitro Park which is a game arcade with virtual reality games, a bumper car track and ten pin bowling. He loves how many games there are catering to his age group meanwhile I love that that it is near the food court…bubble tea!!!

King’s Beach Park

I love this place! I really do… Such a whimsical place right on the beach front with pond/lake, giant slides, climbing frames wooden animals to ride and loads of things to see and climb. You can have a picnic or even use the gym equipment which has been placed there for the use of those who prefer to exercise outside. . Other King’s Beach facilities include paddling pools for toddlers and Putt-Inn Mini-Golf course. Whenever we take Aidan we make sure we have loads of time on our hands because getting him to want to go home is quite a mission.

Science and Technology Centre

This one is not in Port Elizabeth, it is in my home town of Uitenhage and is such a hidden treasure. Imagine a giant warehouse with interactive science experiments. Kids can learn about construction by building a house, learn about electricity by powering appliances with a bicycle, learn about air pressure by floating above ground and so much more. The Exhibition area is separated into seven zones: Automotive, electricity, lights and optics, flight, momentum, life sciences, construction, sound and games. A Rock climbing wall and survivor/amazing race type games make this a must for group outings.

I’m all about a champers lifestyle on a beer budget so all the places I chose offer real value for money.

This was written by Ella from www.justellabella.co.za

Can you add to Ella’s 5 fun things to do in Port Elizabeth ?

This is a part of our 5 Of The Best Series.