Port Elizabeth Museums

(Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa)

Whilst some visitors might find it hard to tear themselves away from the beach, it's well worth taking time out to explore some of Port Elizabeth's museums. These cover a wide variety of subjects, from the city's early settler history to its rich automotive heritage.

Some of the most popular include the St. Croix Motor Museum and its array of vintage vehicles, the Port Elizabeth Air Force Museum and its aviation-themed exhibits, and also the highly interactive Red Location venue.

No. 7 Castle Hill Museum

Address: Port Elizabeth, South Africa, ZA
Tel: +27 041 582 2515
This cultural history museum is located within Port Elizabeth's oldest surviving residential house. Built in 1827, the No. 7 Castle Hill Museum has been restored and furnished to reveal the lifestyle and history of the Victorian settlers who lived there. Displays include fine Victorian furnishings and a detailed dolls' house.
Open hours: Tuesday to Friday - 10:00 to 13:00 and 14:00 to 17:00, Monday - 14:00 to 17:00
Admission: charge

The Port Elizabeth Air Force Museum

Address: Forest Hill Drive, Southdene, Port Elizabeth, South Africa, ZA
Tel: +27 041 505 1295
Aircraft memorabilia are displayed alongside the museum's nine aircraft. These include everything from helicopters to a jet fighter, and so there is plenty to see and enjoy.
Open hours: Monday to Friday - 08:00 to 15:30, Sunday - 10:00 to 16:00
Admission: charge

St. Croix Motor Museum

Address: Mowbray Street, Newton Park, Port Elizabeth, South Africa, ZA
Tel: +27 083 463 5286
Classic car enthusiasts won't want to miss out on a trip to Port Elizabeth's very own collection of vintage and classic motor vehicles. Dating back as far as 1901, there are some 80 cars, as well as a number of exhibits relating to the car industry. The museum is a reminder that the city once had the reputation of being South Africa's very own 'Detroit'.
Open hours: Saturday - 14:00 to 17:00 (by appointment only on weekdays)
Admission: charge

Red Location

Address: Corner of Olof Palme and Singaphi Streets, Port Elizabeth, South Africa, ZA
Tel: +27 041 414 8400
Red Location is located in one of Port Elizabeth's oldest black townships. It's also the place where many apartheid leaders were born or lived. Today, the site is home to an innovative hands-on museum devoted to the apartheid struggle, in which memory boxes play a major role.
Open hours: Monday to Friday - 09:00 to 16:00, Saturday - 09:00 to 15:00
Admission: charge