Overview

40 Fun Things to Do in Lagos, Nigeria 

Lagos, Nigeria is always a vibe all year round! Lagos sometimes mistaken for the capital city of Nigeria, is the largest city and serves as a bustling hub for business, arts, technology, fashion, entertainment, politics and also a powerhouse of economic activity.

Lagos is not just a beautiful and chaotic city for me; it’s also a place I call my second home and being a British Nigerian is very much part of my identity. Lagos is a testament to the dynamic spirit of the nation, offering a unique taste of its vibrant culture. Our energy as people is truly unmatched.

It’s the city that never sleeps! Nigeria, often hailed as “the Giant of Africa” with a population exceeding 190 million, solidifies its status as the most populous nation on the continent.

From exploring fun places in Lagos to engaging in the best activities that capture the city’s spirit, this guide ensures your visit becomes an unforgettable experience. Don’t worry, I’ve also got families covered with kid-friendly activities to do in Lagos.

Visit West Africa’s Biggest Art Gallery, Nike Art’s Centre

Start your morning exploring Nike Arts Centre, West Africa’s largest art gallery. There’s a collection of about 8,000 stunning artworks and a must-visit in Lekki, Lagos. It’s free to enter and opens 10 am – 6 pm on Monday to Saturday and 1 pm – 6 pm on Sundays.

You are not allowed to take direct photography of the artworks but you can take pictures and videos of yourself with your phone in the gallery.

I had the pleasure of meeting Nike Davies-Okundaye, the owner of Nike Art Centre and she’s one of the sweetest people you’ll ever meet. If you want to make the most of the day and save time waiting for other travellers, enjoy the personalised service of a guided private tour. 

Sip and Cook With Friends 

Looking for an interactive culinary experience? Sip and Cook offers the perfect blend of fun, learning, and delicious food while sipping on wine.

Available Tuesday to Sunday at 6:30 PM, you can book with a group of 4 to 12 people and choose from exciting menu options from pasta with wine pairings to Nigerian classics. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this class guarantees a memorable experience.

Alternatively, If you are looking for a private cooking class experience, you can book with Anasberi where you’ll learn the art of preparing Nigerian classics like jollof rice and egusi soup. If you’re visiting Lagos, this is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Nigerian culture through its cuisine. 

Explore Yoruba History and Culture At John Randle Centre

The recently opened J. Randle Centre is a Yoruba history and culture treasure trove. Located in Lagos, this modern heritage center provides accessible facilities for individuals with disabilities and offers visitors an immersive exploration of the rich traditions of the Yoruba people. While you walk around the centre, you will find signage in both English and Yoruba with illustrations. 

As a Yoruba woman, it’s great to see a beautiful showcase and preservation of our history and art. The centre opens daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, with an entry fee of 3,000 Naira. Guided tours are available for larger groups, ensuring a comprehensive experience.

Don’t miss the opportunity to see “Lumi,” the car driven by our star girl Pelumi Nubi from London to Lagos, a campaign my PR and Marketing agency, Crescendo Digital, proudly managed.

Try Your Hand at Golfing at Lakowe Lakes

Lakowe Golf & Country Club in Lekki offers a nice getaway in Lagos with an exclusive 308-hectare residential golf estate. The Lakowe Lakes Golf Course is an 18-hole, par-72 championship course that offers a golfing experience suitable for both seasoned golfers and beginners alike.

 You can book a stay here and enjoy the scenic view of the lake, go for a swim, or make use of the tennis court or gym. The Room rates range from N110,000 – N290,000 depending on your accommodation choice.

Transportation within the resort is free, you can always walk or call to get picked up. You can relax on a boat ride and they offer different packages from N8,500 – N20,000 with some packages  coming with food.

Go shopping at Lekki Arts and Crafts Market

Just a few minutes’ drive from Nike Arts Centre you can go on a shopping spree in Lekki Arts & Crafts Market to shop for some authentic art, handmade bags, sculptures and more. It is a great place to visit to shop for local artisan goods which make lovely souvenirs too. The prices are quite reasonable but don’t remember to bargain a little bit. 

Experience Live Music At Bogobiri House 

If you want to see how gifted Nigerians are, come to Bogobiri, Lagos to experience an open mic night of talented musicians, artists and comedians every Thursday from 7:30 pm. This is one of my favourite places as I absolutely love live music.

There is usually an entrance fee at the door for this event for about 2000 N. Bogobiri House is a one-stop experience as it offers a laid back ambience and is Afrocentric with a restaurant, art gallery, mini library, and a boutique hotel with 16 rooms. 

Walk The Longest Canopy Walkway in Africa

For adventurous folks or people who love nature, brave the longest canopy walk in Africa at the Lekki Conservation Centre. This is a super fun and chill activity with family and friends. The Lekki Conversation Centre includes a family park, Treehouse and other activities like bird watching which is great for families with children. 

The entrance fees are:

• Adults – N1500
• Children below 10 years old – N500
• Walkway trek – N1500
• Canopy Walk – N1500 per person (this amount excludes the entrance fee)

Observe monkeys, crocodiles, and a variety of birds during your visit. Dive deeper into the region’s knowledge by spending time in the centre’s library. Engage in activities such as playing human chess, unwinding under the raffia, exploring fish ponds, and more.

Don’t miss the chance to snap a selfie with the 96-year-old tortoise. Challenge yourself to spot various species, including peacocks. You can enjoy the convenience of private, air-conditioned transportation for hotel pick-up and drop-off with a private tour. 

Take a Day Trip To Badagry To Learn The Important Black Slave History

Discover the rich history of black heritage on this insightful tour, encompassing visits to the Badagry Slave Museum and the Black History Museum. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the annals of the slave era, providing insights into significant figures such as Williams Seriki Abass, whose resting place holds historical importance.

Gain an understanding of the missionaries’ role in this era as well. Following this, you’ll get on a boat trip to Gberefu Island, where you’ll learn about attenuation wells and explore the area’s monuments, deepening your appreciation for this important chapter in history.

Take a Stroll The Freedom Park

Enjoy the beautiful scenery while you relax, sip and watch the convergence at the Freedom Park for a night of entertainment. This is a great place to take nature walks. It’s a simple and free way to soak in the holiday spirit. Other parks to visit are JJT Park and Muri Okunola.

Day trip to Abeokuta and Climb Olumo Rock

Get away from the hustle and bustle of Lagos and take a day trip to Abeokuta in Ogun state. You can opt to do a private tour of Olumo Rock Mountain for one of the best panoramic views of Abeokuta.  It’s an excellent way to avoid crowds as you travel in a comfortable vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi.

Upon reaching Olumo Rock, your guide will share stories about Egba warriors and accompany you on the climb to the peak. I have fond memories of visiting Olumo Rock as a child with my family and learning the important history of how this landmark was used as a natural fortress for the Egbas during inter-tribal warfare in the 19th century.

The tour also highlights the Olusegun Obasanjo Library 

 and historical artefacts. You will be safely guided through Olumo Rock with a guide to lead the way, travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, and stay energised for your hike with included snacks. 

Go Restaurant Hopping

I may be biased as a Nigerian but Nigeria has some of the best food in the world. There’s a diverse food scene which varies from region to region. You can’t leave Lagos without trying our local foods.

From fine dining, and local street food to budget-friendly restaurants, there’s something for everyone. There are always new restaurants popping up in Lagos and it’s great to see the hospitality scene evolving. 

For local food, I recommend going to ILE IYAN, Ofada Boy (Surulere), and Glover Court Suya (Lekki) and chop Amala at one of the best local food spots at Mama Toyin Foods. Some of my other favourite restaurants are Slow Lagos, Nok, The Cactus Restaurant, Kingfishers and more.

Relax At The Beach

Lagos is blessed with a long coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and has an abundance of beaches with so many new beach clubs popping up every couple of months! 

Most beaches have an entry fee. Also for Detty December, there is always a monthly calendar full of events, parties, and festivals. There is something for everyone! You’ll be spoilt for choice trying to figure out which one to attend. Did you know Lagos has over 30 beaches?

 Landmark Beach, Good Beach and Moist Beach were unfortunately demolished by the government  in April 2024 to make way for the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Nigeria’s largest public infrastructure project. Alternative beaches to visit are La Campagne Tropicana, Tarkwa Bay Beach and Wave Beach Lagos.

Explore Lagos With Exp Lagos on the Danfo Bus

EXP Lagos is a tourism co. that aims to connect ppl with experiences within their city. Via local resources, they keep connections unique & affordable. Every first Friday of the month you get on a bus with a group of strangers and enjoy different food and fun activities as they shuttle you around Lagos.

This is a unique experience I really enjoyed in Lagos and is a great way to meet other young people. The fee is N3,500. 

Take A Day Trip To Epe Mangroves

A visit to the Epe Mangroves offers an authentic experience of the Lagos waterways. Known for its scenic beauty, the mangroves provide an opportunity to explore Nigeria’s rich biodiversity.

You’ll get on a boat tour to witness the unique ecosystem teeming with crabs, fish, and exotic birds while meeting local fishermen. A trip to Epe Mangroves is ideal for those who want to see a different, quieter side of Lagos, far removed from the city’s typical hustle and bustle.

Attend a Nigerian Wedding or Owambe Event 

Owambe is a Yoruba word which translates to “it is there”. It is the general name used to refer to parties thrown in Nigeria, especially by the Yoruba people. Yoruba people love to party. I promise you won’t leave a Nigerian wedding empty-handed. 

They go all out to celebrate anything worth celebrating, be it wedding ceremonies, birthdays, housewarming, retirement, funerals of the old and aged, and even graduations. Nigerians love to celebrate everything. 

Enjoy Nightlife in Lagos’s Many Nightclubs, Bars and Lounges

One thing Lagos is infamous for is the nightlife! Nigerians can party all night until the sunrise. With Nigerian music reigning in afrobeat and globally, you’re spoilt for choice with many places to enjoy music in Lagos. Some clubs I recommend visiting are Zaza and The Library.

If you’re looking for a different scenery I recommend visiting waterfront lounges such as Kingfisher, Bolivar, Redbar, and the View Rooftop lounge in Lekki. For other night events and bars, go to The Sky Bar and Obi’s House.

Watch a Live Play at The Terra Kulture

If you’re into theatres and live plays, you can enjoy immersive and fun plays at the Terra Kulture. They have plays running throughout the year with tickets starting from N7,000. You can check their website and Instagram page for more information on the latest shows. 

Enjoy An Intimate Dining Experience

When I came across this immersive activity, I said Àtijẹ looks like my kind of dining experience and looks incredible. The founder Moyo, takes Nigerian cuisine up a notch with her innovative and imaginative ways of using Nigerian ingredients. It’s best to check their website for the next event and make a reservation on their Website.

Visit The Kalakuta Republic Museum

Explore the Kalakuta Republic Museum, a distinctive speciality museum that delves into the singular subject of legendary Afrobeat icon, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti’s life and legacy. Situated at the place Fela called home, the museum’s current location preserves every facet of his final days.

From personal items like toothbrushes and soap to clothing items like pants and shoes, the museum showcases an extensive collection, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to step into Fela’s world and relive his experiences.

Kalakuta Republic Museum also houses a boutique hotel (which I had the pleasure of staying there), gallery and rooftop bar. If you stay at the hotel, you can visit the museum for free.

Channel Your Inner Picasso in a Sip and Paint Class

Sip and paint events are becoming widely popular in Lagos, providing fantastic opportunities to socialise and connect with others in a laid-back setting.

You can sip on a drink and paint in a relaxing environment with the Art ROOM Lagos or Sip and Paint Ng. The Art Room also offers self-guided art classes for those who want to nurture their skills and creativity.

Shop Local at Lagos’s Biggest Open-air Market 

At Balogun market, you can find almost anything at Lagos’s biggest open-air market. From household goods, fruits and vegetables, Ankara fabric and so much more.

Visiting this market can be overwhelming if you are not used to large crowds so I’ll recommend making your way here early in the morning with a local. 

Decorate Your Own Pottery or Enjoy a Basket-weaving class

If you’re looking for fun arts & crafts activities such as Basket weaving and pottery class to do by yourself, with friends or as a team-building exercise, then Breather is recommended.

They offer social and private events and they also do arts and crafts for kids at kids Craft ng. If you prefer painting with ceramics, Paint and bake is the first ceramic café in Nigeria that offers this kind of activity. 

ETC.

Source DIY WITH JOY