Explore Long Street: Unmissable Spots to Discover

So, you’ve already checked out the hottest dining spots on Long Street and experienced its legendary nightlife. Now, it’s time to delve into the street’s captivating landmarks and immerse yourself in its vibrant global culture. Long Street is a treasure trove of unique experiences, from browsing through vintage boutiques to uncovering hidden gems in antique shops. Let me guide you through some of the must-visit places along this enthralling street:

Afraid of Mice

Welcome to Afraid of Mice, where you’ll find an incredible collection of vintage shoes, dresses, and coats.

Back in 2010, my sisters Bianca and Simone took a leap of faith. They left their jobs and embarked on a journey around the world. When they returned, they decided to open a small vintage store in Woodstock. They named it Afraid of Mice, never imagining that it would become such a well-known and beloved destination. Today, our store is a treasure trove of clothing and items from a bygone era.

We proudly offer pieces from renowned designers like Chanel, Oscar De La Renta, Marc Jacobs, Ralph Lauren, and Stella McCartney. These are the kind of clothes that mothers carefully preserve and pass on to their children.

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Merchants on Long

When you step into Merchants on Long, you’ll be transported to a luxurious and distinctly African world. The interior is adorned with beautiful beadwork, colorful African clothing, and handmade brown leather shoes. It’s like stepping into a whole new world.

Photo by Jon furniss via Disney Roller Girl

The owner, Hanneli Rupert, created Merchants on Long in 2009 with the goal of showcasing the rich African culture. She wanted to create a space that reminded people of why Africa has always been a source of inspiration for artists and explorers.

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Long Street Antique Arcade

Welcome to the Long Street Antique Arcade!

I have to tell you, this place is something special. We’ve collected antiques from all across the world, and now it’s all here, waiting for you to discover.

If you love history and want to dive into the past, you’re in the right place. Long Street Antique Arcade is like stepping into a time machine. As soon as you walk through our doors, you’ll be surrounded by a rich tapestry of treasures.

Our arcade is more than just a collection of antique shops. It’s a testament to the beauty and craftsmanship of the past. Each item has a story to tell and a history to unravel. From maps that charted unexplored territories to exquisite jewelry that once adorned the elite, we have it all.

If you’re a collector, you’ll feel like a kid in a candy store. Our collection spans centuries, offering you a journey through different eras and civilizations. Whether you’re searching for ancient relics from Southern Africa’s mysterious Mapungubwe kingdom or something more recent, you’ll find it here.

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Visit the Pan African Market

In the heart of vibrant Cape Town, you’ll find a bustling haven known as the Pan African Market. This unique cultural hub is home to Cafe Timbuktu – a restaurant along with a variety of hair salons, clothing stores, and arts and crafts stalls. But it’s more than just a marketplace – it’s a space for drumming, storytelling, and poetry, where the spirit of Africa comes alive.

What sets this place apart is its dedication to empowering individuals. By supporting local entrepreneurs, the Pan African Market helps them enhance their skills and build successful businesses. It’s a place where dreams are nurtured, and a visit to this vibrant hub is an investment in uplifting the community.

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Clarke’s Bookshop

Welcome to Clarke’s Bookshop, where I, Henrieta Dax, make sure we have the latest and rare books for you to enjoy.

We’ve been here since 1976, establishing ourselves as an oasis of knowledge in the heart of the city on 199 Long Street. Avid readers like you see us as a sanctuary, a place where you can quench your thirst for knowledge. Our collection covers a wide range of topics, including literature on various African destinations like Mozambique and Zimbabwe. Whether you’re interested in the history of the Masai, art in East Africa, or anything related to the southern part of the Sahara, we have it all.

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Long Street Baths

Even though Long Street Baths has been completely renovated, the old baths are still there.

At first glance, Long Street Baths may look like it belongs in the past, but inside, you’ll find something much more fascinating. This building was constructed in 1908, and while it has been updated to fit the modern times, the original Turkish baths, complete with both steam and dry facilities, can still be found on the premises.

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Cost

Entrance to the baths: R70 for adults, Entrance to the pool: R11

South African Slaves Church Museum

The South African Slave Museum may be small, but it holds immense significance in the history of Cape Town. It dates back to 1804 when the Protestant Church established a slave church on Long Street with the aim of introducing Christianity to slaves. Today, this church has been transformed into a modest museum that stands as a powerful testament to the dark period of South African history.

The South African Slave Church Museum provides a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history of both the street and Cape Town as a whole. As you step foot inside, you’ll be transported back in time, experiencing firsthand the environment that once existed during those difficult days.

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African Dance Theatre

The African Dance Theatre is an amazing place to go if you want to see local and international performances. It’s located on Long Street, which is known for its vibrant atmosphere and it wouldn’t be complete without a theatre like this one. At The African Dance Theatre, artists and performers come together to share the modern stories of the Mother City. This venue has a rich history, as it was previously used by the original Space Theatre, which was South Africa’s first non-racial theatre. Some of the most talented artists, such as John Kani, Pieter Dirk Uys (known as “The darling of Darling”), and Athol Fugard, have performed there. Today, the building offers a 174-seat theatre, a restaurant, an art gallery, and a coffee shop.

If you’re interested in visiting The African Dance Theatre, you can find it at 144 Long Street. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local arts scene and experience the creative energy of the city. Whether you’re looking for a thought-provoking play or a lively dance performance, you’ll find it here. Don’t miss the opportunity to support local artists and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this unique venue.

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Pink Flamingo Cinema

Welcome to the enchanting Pink Flamingo Cinema, where you can immerse yourself in a magical movie night under Cape Town’s starry sky.

The Pink Flamingo Cinema creates a unique and cozy atmosphere, nestled within the vibrant streets of the city. Located on the rooftop of the Grand Daddy Hotel, known for its unforgettable “A night in a trailer” experience (as featured in the article titled “Cape Town’s Grand Daddy Hotel”), this cinema offers a delightful blend of both new releases and beloved classics. And the best part? You get complimentary popcorn and welcome drinks to enhance your cinema adventure. With a seating capacity of 35, this intimate cinema provides an extraordinary way to enjoy the silver screen beneath the twinkling stars.

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Visit Beerhouse on Long

In July 2013, Beerhouse threw open its doors and welcomed craft beer lovers like me. Imagine having 16 taps and a whopping 99 varieties of the very best craft beer from all over South Africa and the world, all in one place. And let’s not forget about the mouthwatering food that serves as the perfect foundation for a memorable beer-tasting experience. As if that’s not enough, you’ll be surrounded by hundreds of passionate craft beer enthusiasts eager to share their stories and insights. It’s a dream come true!

Now let’s talk about the Beerhouse on Long, the hippest addition to Long Street. This place is on a mission to cultivate a vibrant craft beer culture on the street. So if you find yourself craving a refreshing drink, step right in and quench your thirst with some of the finest craft beers available.

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Did we miss any cool spots on Long Street? Drop your suggestions in the comment box below, and we’ll make sure to add them to our list.

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