Gold Reef City: Complete Guide
Johannesburg's heritage casino resort, built on the site of a historic gold mine. Theme park, 1,700+ slots, 50+ table games and 4-star hotel in Ormonde, Gauteng.
About Gold Reef City
Gold Reef City was developed by Tsogo Sun on the site of the Crown Mines, one of the deepest gold mines in Johannesburg's history. The resort opened in 1987 and has been expanded multiple times since. The heritage gold mining theme is visible throughout the property in the Victorian-era architecture, mine headgear structures and the Gold Reef City Theme Park.
Unlike most casino resorts, Gold Reef City's theme park is a significant destination in its own right, making it popular for school groups, families and corporate events as well as casino visitors. Entrance to the theme park and entertainment precinct is separate from casino access.
The casino
The Gold Reef City casino floor features:
- 1,700+ electronic gaming machines including video slots, multi-game machines and progressive jackpots.
- 50+ table games including blackjack, roulette (American and European), baccarat, three-card poker and casino poker.
- VIP gaming room for high-stake players.
- Slots Club loyalty programme offering points, free play credits and exclusive benefits.
Casino open 24 hours. 18+ only. Valid ID required. Smart casual dress code.
Gold Reef City Theme Park
The theme park adjacent to the casino features rides for multiple age groups:
- The Anaconda: A corkscrew roller coaster, one of the park's signature thrill rides.
- Drop Zone: A vertical drop tower from approximately 30 metres.
- Mine Train: A family-friendly coaster themed around mine cart transport.
- Victorian Ferris Wheel: A large observation wheel with views across southern Johannesburg.
- Children's rides: Multiple age-appropriate attractions for younger visitors.
Theme park tickets are purchased separately from casino access. Family day packages are available.
Gold Reef City Hotel
The 4-star Gold Reef City Hotel is themed in the Victorian mining era aesthetic. It offers standard rooms and suites with direct access to the entertainment precinct. Facilities include a swimming pool, restaurant and bar, fitness centre and conference rooms. The hotel is a popular choice for family stays and corporate bookings near the Nasrec Expo Centre.
Getting there
| From | Distance | Route |
|---|---|---|
| Johannesburg CBD | ~6 km | M1 south to Northern Parkway |
| Sandton | ~25 km | M1 south |
| OR Tambo Airport | ~45 km | N3 west, M1 south |
| FNB Stadium / Nasrec | ~2 km | Adjacent via Northern Parkway |
Who is Gold Reef City for?
Gold Reef City suits families seeking a full day out combining rides and casino, heritage enthusiasts interested in Johannesburg's gold mining history, casino visitors who want a more accessible and less overwhelming environment than Montecasino, and groups attending events at the adjacent Nasrec Expo Centre or FNB Stadium.
Responsible gambling
Gold Reef City casino operates under Gauteng Gambling Board regulation. Voluntary exclusion, SafePlay staff training and referral services are in place. Call 0800 006 008 for free support (24/7).
Frequently asked questions
Gold Reef City is located in Ormonde, southern Johannesburg, approximately 6 km south of the Johannesburg CBD. The address is Northern Parkway and Data Crescent, Ormonde, Johannesburg. It is near the Nasrec Expo Centre and FNB Stadium.
Yes. Gold Reef City is unique among South African casino resorts for including an amusement park. The theme park features multiple rides including a drop zone, a mine train roller coaster, a Victorian ferris wheel and children's rides, themed around the gold mining history of Johannesburg.
Yes, Gold Reef City is one of the most family-friendly casino resorts in South Africa because the theme park and hotel can be enjoyed independently of the casino floor. The 4-star Gold Reef City Hotel is adjacent to the park. Children under 18 cannot access the casino floor but can enjoy the theme park and hotel facilities.
Gold Reef City is accessible by car via the M1 south or via Northern Parkway from the Soweto Highway. The Rea Vaya bus rapid transit system has a stop nearby. Uber is widely available from the Johannesburg CBD and Sandton.