If you're one for seeking out quirky Johannesburg, we recommend you visit the Rand Society of Model Engineers (RSME). Founded in 1934 and based in Len Rutter Park, Golf Club Terrace, Florida, since 1986 this place has welcomed many families, delighting countless children (and adults) with a ride on their kilometer-long track.

The train hurtles over a river, through trees, past the picnic area (where a lot of hands wave at each other!) to the final stretch, through a tunnel. These locomotives are built and maintained by volunteers, and their passion for trains is infectious.

The model trains (based on their bigger “real life” cousins) are propelled by coal or diesel, and the trips bring joy to drivers, passengers and onlookers alike. 
 

There is a museum here dedicated to stationary engines, open on the first Sunday of every month. Members of the society have sourced the engines here from municipalities, farms, factories, and even one that was used to power a church organ. Being engineers, they have connected a few up to keep the power going during load shedding.

Visitors can picnic and children run around on the grassed areas. A tuck shop provides snacks and drinks. You can also bring your own food. It's a proper old school experience for kids and adults alike – affordable and enjoyable.