We found a great article on 'Cape Town Kids' that lists 50 things to do with your kids (young & old) on a tight budget of R50! Get inspired today - we hope you enjoy! 

The Playshed
The Playshed, in Pinelands, offers a wide range of activities for children to enjoy, including a magnificent jungle gym with excellent ball pond and amazing slides. Different play stations engage the little ones in exciting ways ensuring that their minds and bodies are well entertained while having fun. Cost: free for babies 0-6 months; R25p/p per first hour for babies 7 – 12 months; R30p/p per first hour for toddlers 1-3 years and R35p/p per first hour for kids 3-12 years.

Le Bonheur Croc Farm
Le Bonheur croc farm is a CITES registered breeder of the African nile crocodile. This family run working farm houses over 6000 crocs– 1000 of which are housed in open dams on view to the public. Guided tours are interactive – visitors have an opportunity to touch and hold a baby croc, and during summer months, witness a feeding. We welcome larger groups and offer discounts for these (school visits welcomed! )
Cost: Entry Free,
Crocodile Tour: Adults- R48p/p, Under 18’s- R28p/p, Under 2’s – Free, pensioners - R30p/p, Students- R30p/p, Groups of 10 adults-R35p/p, Groups of 10 students- R22p/p, School learners - R18p/p, Caregivers/Teachers - R24p/p

Blue Train at Mouille Point
This sweet miniature train ride with wonderful views of the sea, passing ships and Robben Island; plus, it runs on a track in a park complete with a climbing rock, jungle gyms and a tricycle track
Cost: R10 an additional R10p/p for access to the park facilities

Cave Golf
This is not your average putt-putt course.  Cave golf, with its quick, yet deceptively difficult holes that may have vertical ramps, sharp corners or obstacles to challenge older children and future golfers, offers a trying indoor option for little tykes attached to a nine iron. Situated at the V&A Waterfront
Cost: R15p/p for one round

Imhoff Snake Park
This reptile sanctuary and rehabilitation centre makes for a great day trip, and is home to fascinating snakes, like a 3.5-metre yellow anaconda, Mozambique spitting cobra and the African Rock Python, as well as a few other reptiles and birds. 
Cost: R35p/p for adults and R30p/p for kids

Cheetah Outreach
Give you little cubs the chance to encounter one of South Africa’s most majestic wild cats at this conservation and outreach centre that is also home to small predators, like servals and foxes, and Antolian Shepherd dogs. 
Cost:  R10p/p during weekdays and R5 on weekends; though, the rehabilitation centre does have separate prices for personal encounters with adult cheetahs and cubs and for public runs

World of Birds
Burgeoning bird enthusiasts/nature photographers will go wild for World of Birds. As the largest bird park in Africa, it has over 3 000 birds and small animals, 400 different bird species and 100 walk-through aviaries; plus, there’s a playground and picnic area right next to the flamingos! The World of Birds is open all year from 9am to 5pm (keep an eye out for feeding times).
Cost: R85p/p for adults and R40p/p for children.

The Giraffe House
This wildlife awareness centre is just 39km from the centre of Cape Town, and is not only home to the tallest animal in the world (the giraffe), but also the smallest and biggest antelope and many other buck, birds and reptiles as well. Bring a picnic any day of the week (except Christmas Day), and arrive for one of the exciting animal encounters (they’re at 11am, 1pm and 3pm daily). The Giraffe House is open from 9am to 5pm seven days a week.
Cost: R45p/p for adults and R25p/p for children aged between 2 and 15.

Warrior Toy Museum
Both young and old enthusiasts can marvel at the wonderful array of vintage toys, like model cars, teddy bears, miniature doll houses and two fully functioning railroads, on display at the Warrior Toy Museum in Simon’s Town. The museum is open every day except Friday from 10am to 3:45pm, and
Cost: R5p/p.

Bugz Family Play Park
Bugz Family Play Park is every child’s ultimate dream: wee ones can ride on rowing boats, quad bikes and a choo choo train; plus, the indoor area’s jungle gyms, slides and two large sandpits will absolutely wear out even the most hyperactive kiddie. 
Cost:  R35p/p for children and R25p/p for adults

Intaka Island
Intaka Island, smack in the middle of the bustling Century City development, boasts 16ha of wetlands, rare and abundant birds and majestic flora. You and your little one can take a ferry ride, a leisurely self-guided stroll along the 2km of foot paths, or you can choose to allow one of the experienced field rangers to lead you along the route. Plus, the island has special programmes during the holidays. 
Cost: R14,50p/p for adults and R8,50 for children under the age of 12. Combo Deals (incl. boat ride) R40 -Adults, R30 - Children (under 12)

Drakenstein Lion Park
Your little cubs will love the site of the king of the jungle at this 50-acre cat rehabilitation centre, which features rare white lions and has grown to include a chimp haven for rescued primates. Drakenstein Lion Park features lion feedings as well and is open daily from 9:30 to 5pm; 
Cost: R50p/p for kids and R90p/p for adults for just the lion sanctuary, or you can get combo admission for the lion sanctuary and chimp haven for R40p/p for children and R80p/p for adults.

Millstone Garden Café and Farm Stall
This eco-friendly farm stall and café is situated on the site of South Africa’s first windmill, and not only does it have an idyllic garden complete with giant tree house, but also offers five-minute horse rides and the occasional wagon amble for younger kids. Millstone is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9am to 5pm. 
Costs: R10 for a horse ride

Iziko Museum Planetarium
View the stars and constellations of South African skies from the comfort of this state-of-the-art celestial theatre, or let the little ones be entertained at the various educational shows at the planetarium while older kids learn about stargazing and local astronomy. The planetary dome shows take place at 2pm on Mondays to Fridays, and on weekends the shows are at 12pm for children and at 1pm and 2:30pm for adults. 
Cost: R40p/p for adults and R20p/p for children under the age of 18 years.

Cape Town Science Centre
Who says learning has to be a drag? When you’ve got the Cape Town Science Centre within reach, it’s easy to keep young minds engaged with ion loads of cool experiments and exhibitions; plus, the interactive discovery land offers daily workshops during the school holidays and winter science camps.  The Cape Town Science Centre is open from 9am to 4:30pm on Mondays to Saturdays, and from 10am to 4:30pm on Sundays and public holidays. 
Costs: R45p/p for a day of awesomeness, and groups of 10 or more that book in advance pay R40p/p.

The Scratch Patch
Prepare to lose your offspring amongst the piles of shimmery, shiny gemstones at the Scratch Patch in Simon’s Town, where kids can sit amongst the Tiger’s Eyes, amethysts, agates and crystals and pick some of these treasures to take home. Lucky for parents, the treasure hunt is surprisingly affordable…
Cost: it’s R15 for kids to fill up a small bag and R90 to load a big bag.

The Ice Station at Grand West Casino
Whether it’s summer or winter, novices and experts can get some ice time at the skating rink at GrandWest Casino for very reasonable prices. Not to mention, tiny skaters get the whole mini-arena to themselves without the bother of the big kids. 
Cost: R45p/p (including skates), tiny skaters: R25p/p including skate rental and R50p/p at peak times during weekends

Cool Runnings
You might get stuck at Cool Runnings, South Africa’s first tobogganing track on the hillside opposite the Bellville Velodrome, because once your little speed-demon gets a taste of the 1.2-km track at 40km per hour, they’re just going to want to careen around the twists and turns in their bobsled again and again. Those under eight years must ride with mom or dad (the sleds are made for two). The track is open from Tuesday to Friday from 12pm to 6pm and on weekends from 9am to 6pm. Cool Runnings is closed on Mondays, except during school holidays, and on rainy days.
Cost: a single ride for kids under 14 -  R35p/p, Adults R40

Let’s Go Bowling
Ten-pin bowling is good for a fun outing and a bit of friendly competition for children aged five and up; plus, the folks at Let’s Go Bowling offer a safety rail for those colourful heavy balls and great packages for kids’ parties too. 
Cost:  R40p/p from Monday to Thursday and R50p/p on weekends, it’s a great, affordable activity no matter the turn the weather takes.

Butterfly World
Experience flutters of paradise in the Western Cape Winelands at Butterfly World’s tropical garden, which houses butterflies from as far as Costa Rica and the Philippines, as well as free-roaming ducks, chickens and goats and enclosures with scorpions and spiders. Butterfly World is open all year round from 9am to 5pm
Cost: R65p/p for adults and R37p/p for children.

The Springbok Experience Rugby Museum
Based at Cape Town’s popular V&A Waterfront, this modern rugby museum promises hours and hours of fun for little ones, while also being an entertaining option for the older members of the family. Aside from a whole floor of audio-visual exhibits that chart the development of the sport over time in a fascinating way, there’s also a Springbok Trials zone where kiddies can while away their time with Wii-like kicking, passing, fitness and reaction challenges that are led by a virtual coach on large screens. Not to mention, the upstairs digital display is peppered with fun activities for children, like a rugby-themed Top Trumps game and an interactive installation that requires little tykes to complete sentences. So, while grown-ups immerse themselves in our proudly South African story, kids can find ample distraction. 
Cost:  R30p/p for scholars and free for pre-schoolers; families of four pay R140 in total.

Story telling at The Book Lounge
Every Saturday at 11h00, The Book Lounge in Roeland Street has a free story telling session, perfect for 3-8 year olds. They often have additional activities during the school holidays as well. While your little one is enthralled by magical tales, you can sit downstairs and enjoy a cuppa at their coffee shop or take some time to browse through the myriad of interesting and sometimes unusual books. It’s best to book, so give them a call or visit their website for more information.
Cost: Free

Camel Riding
Outdoor camel rides at Imhoff Farm. Kids can enjoy a gentle ride upon one of the five camels available. Imhoff Farm also offer horse rides, a snake park, paintballing and other exciting activities.
Cost: R30p/child U/12 for short ride, R50p/adult for short ride.
R200p/p for scenic ride (40min)

Squirrel Golf at Devonvale
Give your little ones a head start at golfing every Sunday at the Devonvale estate’s Squirrel Golf. The weekly to-do treats kids between 3 and 12 years old to the experience of being on a green and rewards them with a certificate at the end of the game. 
Cost: R50 for a 9 Hole game

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens
A sunny day will find many Capetonians lazing on the immaculate lawns of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, the finest gardens in South Africa. Everyone has their favourite nook – I love the giant trees over the Skeleton Stream, which provide lots of exciting climbing for young adventurers. A raised walkway, named The Boomslang, has been recently built through the Arboretum, between the Protea Garden, Cycad Amphitheatre, the Dell, Mathews Rockery and the Concert Lawn. The boardwalk raises visitors to over 11.5 m above ground, and winds like a snake, dipping through the trees.
Price Adults R50p/p, kids six-17 years - R10p/p, under 6- free.

The Company’s Garden
A great spot for families. You can picnic on the grass, play ball games and feed the squirrels and (inevitably) the pigeons. Be aware though that squirrels have sharp little claws! I have seen a few children burst into tears when one of the cute little critters decides to scramble up their bare leg in search of peanuts. The Garden Tea Room in the park also serves light meals at affordable prices. You’ll find The Company’s Garden in Queen Victoria Street, at the top end of Adderley Street.
Cost:Entry Free

Green Point Park
I love this park (read about how I discovered Green Point Park) and kids love it too. Entrance is free, so pack a picnic and take the kids out for the day. There are play areas for littlies and for bigger kids, so everyone has a good time. Adults can give the outdoor gym equipment a go, or just sit on the lawn or at a table and relax. Leashed dogs and bicycles (or tricycles) are welcome too.
Price: Free

African Penguins at Boulder’s Beach
Boulders Penguin Colony in Simons Town is home to a unique and endangered land-based colony of African Penguins. This colony is one of only a few in the world, and the site has become famous and a popular international tourist destination.
This beach is ideal for children as immense boulders shelter the cove from currents, wind and large waves - but please always take care. Don’t touch or feed the penguins – they may look cute and cuddly but their beaks are as sharp as razors and if they feel threatened they have no qualms about nipping the odd finger or nose.
Cost: A walk along the boardwalk is Free

Monkey town in Somerset West
Monkey Town Primate Centre is a wildlife Centre for monkeys and apes with more than 230 animals and 28 different exotic species including Tammy, Ruby, and Sunny, our famous chimp sisters. There are also koi ponds, many bird species and small antelope on the premises.
Cost: Children under 12 - R45p/p, R65/teenager, R85p/adult.
Additional R30p/p to make use of swimming facilities.

Ostrich Ranch
The Ostrich Ranch offers a a 40-minute guided informative trail, including the museum, the Ostrich leather Factory, West Coast White-Necked Ostriches, Black-Necked Ostriches, emus, rheas, ostrich chicks and incubator, with spectacular views of Table Mountain and the surrounding countryside.  The highlight of the trail is the ostrich show, where each member of the tour has the opportunity to sit on a live ostrich, with Table Mountain as a backdrop. The tour travels through the ostrich breeding enclosures on a 200 m wheelchair-friendly walkway. An experienced tour guide will explain the origin and reasons for ostrich farming, while enlightening you on many amazing facts about the largest bird in the world. It is not uncommon to see chicks that have just hatched or witness an egg being laid or see the majestic mating dance of the male ostrich.
Cost: R21p/child (2-6yrs), R55p/child (7-16yrs), R70p/adult for Guided Tours

Snake Park in Kommetjie
Rated one of the Beautiful South’s ‘must do’s’, Imhoff’s Snake Park is a reptile sanctuary and rehabilitation centre. It’s also an excellent destination for anyone interested in observing and learning about some of the most fascinating reptile species. Restaurant and shop also available.
Cost: R30p/child, R35p/adult

Table Mountain
Outdoor hiking to one of the highest peaks in Cape Town. Various hikes can take from 2h-8h to complete. The cable car is also another bonus to this adventure and kids can enjoy encountering the tame dassies at the top. Read more about all hiking trails in Cape Town.Visit Cape Town kids for information on seasonal specials
Cost R55p/child (4-17yrs) Cable car one way ticket, R105p/child Cable car return ticket
R110p/adult Cable car one way ticket, R215p/adult Cable car return ticket.

Zip Zap Circus
Zip Zap Circus is a social circus that was founded in Cape Town in 1992, to inspire young people and help build a new culture of peaceful coexistence in South Africa. Working with a diverse community of children from all backgrounds, Zip Zap helps kids to ‘dare to dream’ and learn to make those dreams a reality. Zip Zap’s programmes are all free to participants, with financial and material support coming from individuals, organization, corporations and foundations
Cost:  Free

Horse-drawn carriage tour
Cape Town Carriage Company has over 150 years of working experience with horses and carriages
This unique method of exploring Cape Town provides a different view of some of South Africa’s premier historical and architectural locations in the comfort of our carriage lending it a safe and unforgettable ambience.
Cost: R50/p For a party of 16 children (Quote “Cape Town Kids” to get this special offer)

Explore the Cape Town Castle
Built between 1666 and 1679 by the Dutch East India Company (VOC) as a maritime replenishment station, the Castle of Good Hope is the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa.
From 1678 it was the centre of civilian, administrative and military life at the Cape, until the settlement grew and some functions and activities moved away from the Castle. Today the Castle is the seat of the military in the Cape, and houses the Castle Military Museum and Iziko Museums of Cape Town (William Fehr Collection).
Cost: Adults - R 30, Pensioners (SA Citizens only)- R 15 Children/Students R 15

Firing of the Noon-day Gun
Soon after the English occupation of the Cape in 1795, the Dutch guns were removed from Imoff at the castle and replaced by the latest English 18 pounders designed by Captain Thomas Blomefield. A time signal has been fired in Cape Town by one of these guns since 1806.
The SA Navy, which owns the Lion Battery, does a presentation from 11h30 on the history of the firing of the Noon Gun. You are welcome to observe the daily firing of the gun from the Lion Battery. Alternatively, enjoy a cold drink or picnic (bring your own fare) from the parking lot at the end of the Signal Hill road, which looks out over the Atlantic Ocean.
Cost: Free

Picnics and Pancakes at Sea Point Promenade
Sea Point Promenade runs the length of the Sea Point beach front, from Bantry Bay to Mouille Point, and is a great spot for a quiet stroll or an energetic jog. Early morning and evening are particularly nice times. Cycling and skateboarding are also permitted along the promenade.
Benches along the beach front provide an ideal place to rest while taking in the stunning views of the sea. There are also a number of children’s playgrounds running the length of the promenade as well as a chlorinated, sea-water swimming pool complex open to the public at the Sea Point Pavilion. The view from the pools is spectacular, out over the Atlantic Ocean.
Just before the pisturesque Sea Point Baths is a little huddle of food kiosks our favourite is the pancakes!
Cost:  R20 for pancakes

The Baxter Theatre
The Baxter Theatre Centre is a vibrant, multicultural entertainment hub in the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town. Nestled under the striking Devil’s Peak mountain and at the foot of the University of Cape Town
Spark the love for theatre, visit our events page,  their website and computicket for plays suitable for kids
Cost: Depending on show you might be able to score a ticket for R50per/child or even less

Mill Street Skate Park
A super cool spot for skaters in CBD; fenced-in concrete rink that comes complete with everything from air wedges, stairs and a pipe jam to steep and gentle slopes, curved ramps and various other obstacles for practising tricks and showcasing talents. Both young, green beginners and serious riders training for competitions are welcome here, and other subcultures, like scooter enthusiasts and BMX buffs, will find hours of entertainment at the venue too.
Cost: Free entry

Explore Kalk Bay
This fishing village, with a natural harbour is a buzz with local fisherman, bohemian shopping, antiques, crafts and superb restaurants. 
Kalk Bay is also a hub of outdoor action – from sea fishing to angling; one of the best reefs in Cape Town for surfers and the fascinating Kalk Bay caves for land and foot adventures. Catch the water taxi to Simon’s Town for a novel transport experience.
Cost: Free – R50p/p (Fish and chips at Kalky’s highly recommended)

Simons Town Naval Museum
If you are interested in Ships and Submarines, their weapons, their equipment, the people who serve, and served, in them.
The SA Navy Museum is housed in, and around, the original Dockyard Magazine/Storehouse (1743/44) which, from 1810 when the Royal Navy moved its headquarters from Cape Town to Simon’s Town, was extended to become the three-storey building it is today.
Cost: Adults: R40p/p,  R20p/p children under 12 years old

Muizenberg Flea Market
Siituated on Sunrise Circle just off Muizenberg Beach, is a large and busy market that offers an unrivalled shopping experience in the open air. The stalls are laden with all sorts of goods, including clothes, African artwork, electronics, costume jewellery, toys, furniture, and second hand items, so be sure to allow a good several hours to peruse this market. Various food stalls and caravans offer boerewors rolls, chips, seafood, and more. You may have to spice up your bargaining skills as these vendors enjoy a good barter.
We recommended setting a budget and then playing a game of “get the most for your money” This will encourage bargarning and negotiating skills or even a game of eye spy. .. where you have a list of thing s to spot. First person to tick all items wins
Cost:  R50 (or whatever the family budget allows)

Concerts at De Waal Park
De Waal Park was Cape Town’s first and largest public park, after the Company’s Gardens, when it was opened in 1895. In 1877 the City Council of Cape Town purchased land from the Van Breda family who owned the farm Oranjezigt.
During summer De Waal Parks hosts wonderful outdoor concerts. On the summer winter days visit the park for a picnic
Cost: Free

Newlands Forest to Kirstenbosch Gardens
Starting at Corner of Union Avenue and Rhodes Avenue (on the mountain side of Union Avenue – about 40m from the traffic lights), your destination is Kirstenbosch Gardens and back again. On a clear day the scenic views over False Bay and the Cape Flats are spectacular and great for photographs. The walk through Newlands Forest is under the trees and you are in the shade most of the time.
When you reach Kirstenbosch Gardens consider a picnic lunch or visit the Tea House for refreshments. Summer and Spring are full of life and this hold true for the Botanical gardens. From December to March, musical sunset concerts are held on the lawns. Craft markets are also held at the Stone Cottages on the last Sunday of every month (except June, July & August).
Cost: R20p/p - adults, R10p/p - Wild Card holders and R10p/p – children

Picnic on Signal Hill
Signal Hill, which connects Kloof Nek to Lion’s Head, in the distinctive shape of a lion’s rump, is one of the most famous spots in Cape Town for sundowners.
Pack your Sunday lunch and chill as paragliders take off into the horizon. There’s a spot to take your pic in the yellow frame of Table Mountain
Cost: Free

Blouberg Beach
Bloubergstrand is situated on the Blaauwberg Coast about 20 minutes drive from the Cape Town city centre and about 30 minutes from Cape Town’s Airport. 
Much of Bloubergstrands’ attraction lies in its white sandy beaches from which the view of Table Mountain and the city of Cape Town is quite spectacular. Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, can also be seen quite clearly from the beach at Bloubergstrand.
We recommend ice creams as you watch the surfaces at Big Bay, build sand castles at Little Bay or have sundowners on a blmy evening as you watch the sunset and Cape Town come to life at night.
Cost: R20 for the most yummy ice-creams from the ice-cream man (KFC cones just as great and only R1,50 )

Wild Clover
On the R304, about 2 .5 kms from the N1, towards Stellenbosch on the right hand (Cape Town) side of the road. Only half an hour from Cape Town and 20 minutes from the Northern Suburbs, Wild Clover has the air of the country combined with the hospitality and warmth of a family-owned estate. Visit Wild Clover for various activities such as game drives, clay pigeon shooting, archery and more
Cost varies: Free Children Activities

Bishopscourt Village Park
A well kept secret.. an idyllic spot with a stream to splash in, rocks to clamber over and trees to climb. Not many folk seem to know about this hidden spot – it seems to be one of those “in-the-know” places! To find this secret garden paradise, drive all the way to the end of Upper Noreen Avenue and park along the road (don’t block driveways). There are two entrances: one you’ll see on your left as you drive down the road, marked by a green information board. The other is located near the end of the road, across the lawn, under the trees. Take a picnic(dont’ forget a rubbish bag for dirt) as there are tables and benches too.
Cost:free

Reference: http://www.capetownkids.co.za/blog/entry/50-things-for-kids-to-do-for-r-50/