What Makes Lagos Special

Lagos is not just Nigeria’s largest city; it’s a cultural powerhouse that blends traditional heritage with modern energy. Lagos is sometimes mistaken for the capital city of Nigeria, but it’s the largest city and serves as a bustling hub for business, arts, technology, fashion, entertainment, politics and also a powerhouse of economic activity.

Whether you’re seeking fun places in Lagos for adults, romantic experiences for couples, or family-friendly activities, Lagos offers something extraordinary for everyone.

Top 20 Best Things to Do in Lagos

1. Explore Nike Art Centre – West Africa’s Largest Art Gallery

Perfect for: Art lovers, cultural enthusiasts, couples Budget: Free entry | Location: Lekki

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.

Why It’s Amazing:

• Over 8,000 incredible artworks on display

• Meet local artists and learn about Nigerian art traditions

• Perfect for cultural dates and Instagram-worthy photos

• Educational experience about Yoruba heritage and contemporary art

Pro Tip: 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.

2. Walk Africa’s Longest Canopy Walkway at Lekki Conservation Centre

Perfect for: Families, nature lovers, adventure seekers Budget: Adults – ₦1,500, Children – ₦500, Canopy Walk – ₦1,500

Lekki Conservation Centre includes a family park, a Treehouse and other activities like bird watching, which is great for families with children.

Family Adventures:

• Observe monkeys, crocodiles, and various bird species

• Take a selfie with the 96-year-old tortoise

• Enjoy human chess and explore fish ponds

• Perfect educational experience for children

3. Discover Yoruba Heritage at J. Randle Centre

Perfect for: Cultural learning, history enthusiasts Budget: ₦3,000 entry fee

The recently opened J. Randle Centre is a Yoruba history and culture treasure trove. Located in Lagos, this modern heritage centre provides accessible facilities for individuals with disabilities and offers visitors an immersive exploration of the rich traditions of the Yoruba people.

Cultural Highlights:

• Immersive Yoruba history and tradition displays

• Modern accessibility features for all visitors

• Bilingual signage in English and Yoruba

• See “Lumi,” the car from the famous London-to-Lagos drive

4. Experience La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort

Perfect for: Families, couples, group adventures Budget: ₦2,000-₦6,000 gate fee

La Campagne Tropicana is my personal favourite as it offers a variety of activities such as horse riding, kayaking, and jet skiing. This Beach Resort is not just one of the best beaches in Lagos but in the whole African continent. It spans up to 60 acres on the Atlantic Ocean coast and is surrounded by coconut trees bordered by a lagoon and mangrove forest.

Resort Activities:

• Horse riding along pristine beaches

• Kayaking and jet skiing adventures

• Beautiful coconut tree-lined coastline

• Perfect for romantic sunset viewing

5. Learn Black History at Badagry Slave Museum

Perfect for: History lovers, educational trips Budget: Tour packages available

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.

Historical Significance:

• Important Black history and slave trade education

• Guided tours with expert historical context

• Significant cultural and educational value

• Perfect day trip from Lagos

6. Enjoy Lagos Nightlife Scene

Perfect for: Adults, party lovers, music enthusiasts Budget: Varies by venue

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.

Top Nightlife Spots:

• Waterfront Lounges: Kingfisher, Bolivar, Redbar

• Rooftop Venues: The View Rooftop Lounge in Lekki

• Popular Clubs: Zaza, The Library

• Bars: The Sky Bar, Obi’s House

7. Relax at Freedom Park Lagos

Perfect for: Budget travelers, peaceful retreats Budget: Free entry

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.

Why Families Love It:

• Completely free admission

• Historic prison turned beautiful park

• Cultural events and live performances

• Perfect for evening strolls and picnics

8. Take a Sip and Paint Class

Perfect for: Couples, creative dates, group activities Budget: Varies by venue

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

Creative Fun:

• Combine art creation with wine tasting

• Perfect for romantic date nights

• Group activities and team building

• No artistic experience required

9. Experience Nigerian Wedding Culture (Owambe)

Perfect for: Cultural immersion, celebration lovers Budget: Usually by invitation

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.

Cultural Experience:

• Authentic Nigerian celebration atmosphere

• Traditional music, dance, and cuisine

• Colorful traditional attire and customs

• Unforgettable cultural memories

10. Visit Kalakuta Republic Museum

Perfect for: Music lovers, history enthusiasts Budget: Varies

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.

Musical Heritage:

• Fela Kuti’s personal items and memorabilia

• Afrobeat music history and culture

• Boutique hotel and rooftop bar on site

• Perfect for music enthusiasts

11. Attend Live Music at The New Afrika Shrine

Perfect for: Music lovers, cultural experiences Budget: Varies by event

The New Afrika Shrine is an open-air entertainment centre located in Ikeja, Lagos State. It serves as the host location of the annual Felabration music festival.

Live Music Experience:

• Home to the annual Felabration festival

• Live performances by Femi Kuti, Made Kuti, and Seun Kuti

• Authentic Afrobeat music venue

• Cultural significance and energy

12. Experience Lagos Food Scene

Perfect for: Food lovers, culinary adventures Budget: ₦1,000-₦15,000+ per meal

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.

Must-Try Restaurants:

• Local Favorites: ILÉ IYÁN, Ofada Boy (Surulere), Mama Toyin Foods

• Fine Dining: Nok, The Cactus Restaurant, Slow Lagos

• Street Food: Glover Court Suya (Lekki)

• Upscale: Kingfishers

13. Explore Lufasi Nature Park

Perfect for: Nature lovers, peaceful retreats, families Budget: Entry fees apply

Lufasi Nature Park offers a relaxing environment for nature lovers. Located along the Lekki-Epe Expressway, this park provides an escape from the city’s chaos with its lush greenery, calming lakes, and diverse wildlife.

Natural Attractions:

• Peaceful walking trails and picnic spots

• Lush greenery and calming lakes

• Wildlife observation opportunities

• Perfect family escape from city hustle

14. Shop at Lekki Arts and Crafts Market

Perfect for: Souvenir hunters, art lovers, cultural shopping Budget: Bargaining required, very affordable

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.

Shopping Highlights:

• Authentic Nigerian arts and crafts

• Handmade bags, sculptures, and traditional items

• Perfect for unique souvenirs and gifts

• Reasonable prices with bargaining opportunities

• Local artisan goods directly from creators

• Walking distance from other Lekki attractions

Pro Tip: The prices are quite reasonable, but don’t forget to bargain a little bit – it’s part of the cultural experience!

15. Enjoy Games and Entertainment at Rufus and Bee

Perfect for: Families, group activities, entertainment Budget: Varies by activity

Rufus and Bee, located in Twin Waters, is the go-to spot for fun and games in Lagos. This entertainment hub has an arcade, a bowling alley, and plenty of activities to keep kids and adults entertained.

Family Entertainment:

• Arcade games and bowling alleys

• Family-friendly environment

• Perfect for birthday parties

• Open Tuesday to Sunday

16. Visit National Museum Lagos

Perfect for: History lovers, educational trips Budget: Affordable entry fees

The National Museum in Lagos is a must-visit for history lovers and cultural enthusiasts. Located in Onikan, the museum houses a remarkable collection of artefacts that tell the story of Nigeria’s rich history and diverse cultures.

Cultural Treasures:

• Benin Bronzes and traditional Nigerian masks

• Comprehensive Nigerian history displays

• Affordable admission for all visitors

• Guided tours available

17. Take Boat Trips and Enjoy Seafood at Kingfishers

Perfect for: Adults, seafood lovers, evening entertainment Budget: ₦10,000 for boat cruise

Head down to Kingfishers before sunset on Thursdays for their tropical Thursdays, enjoying seafood with a live DJ bringing the best Afrobeat music to you. There’s also a boat cruise you can do for N10,000 from 9 pm.

Evening Entertainment:

• Tropical Thursdays with live DJ sets

• Fresh seafood and waterfront dining

• Evening boat cruises available

• Perfect adult entertainment venue

18. Explore Lagos Art Galleries

Perfect for: Art enthusiasts, cultural dates Budget: Many free entries

Lagos has an incredible and thriving scene, which has grown considerably over the last few years, and it’s sometimes hard to keep up with all the new galleries here in Lagos.

Top Art Galleries:

• O’Da Art Gallery

• Soto Gallery

• Ko Art Gallery

• Art Twenty-One

• Alliance Française de Lagos

• Thought Pyramid Lagos

19. Wine Tasting Experiences

Perfect for: Adults, sophisticated experiences Budget: Membership-based

Immerse yourself in the delightful world of wine tasting in Lagos. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a newcomer, the Wine Tasting Club is a Private Members’ Club that provides a unique and enjoyable experience in Lagos.

Sophisticated Entertainment:

• Professional wine tasting sessions

• Educational wine experiences

• Social networking opportunities

• Perfect for adult date nights

20. Experience EXP Lagos City Tours

Perfect for: Meeting new people, local experiences Budget: ₦3,500

EXP Lagos is a tourism co. that aims to connect people with experiences within their city. 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.

Unique City Experience:

• Monthly group tours with locals

• Food tastings and cultural activities

• Great way to meet other travelers

• Authentic local perspective

Activities by Interest and Budget

Fun Places in Lagos for Adults on a Budget

For budget-conscious travelers seeking cheap fun places to hang out in Lagos Mainland:

Free Activities:

• Freedom Park cultural events

• Nike Art Centre gallery visits

• Beach access at various locations

• Walking tours of historical areas

Low-Cost Options:

• Local food markets and street food

• Public transportation adventures

• Community cultural events

• Local art gallery visits

Best Things to Do in Lagos for Couples

Romantic experiences for couples include:

Intimate Settings:

• Sunset dinners at waterfront restaurants

• Private art gallery tours

• Wine tasting experiences

• Spa treatments and wellness activities

Adventure Together:

• Beach horseback riding at La Campagne

• Boat trips and waterfront dining

• Cultural festival attendance

• Canopy walk adventures

Fun Things to Do in Lagos with Kids

Family-friendly activities perfect for children:

Educational Fun:

• Lekki Conservation Centre wildlife viewing

• National Museum historical exploration

• Cultural center visits with interactive displays

• Nature park adventures and picnics

Entertainment:

• Rufus and Bee arcade and bowling

• Beach activities and sandcastle building

• Arts and crafts workshops

• Family-friendly restaurant experiences

Fun Things to Do in Lagos at Night

Lagos’s legendary nightlife offers:

Evening Entertainment:

• Live music venues and cultural performances

• Waterfront dining with evening ambiance

• Cultural events and festival celebrations

• Social clubs and networking events

Planning Your Lagos Experience

Transportation Tips

Getting Around Lagos:

• Use reputable ride-hailing apps for safety

• Plan for traffic delays during rush hours

• Consider staying in areas close to multiple attractions

• Book transportation in advance for day trips

Budget Planning

Cost-Effective Strategies:

• Mix free attractions with paid experiences

• Try local food options for authentic, affordable meals

• Group bookings often offer discounts

• Combine multiple attractions in single areas

Best Times to Visit

Seasonal Considerations:

• December (Detty December) offers peak festive atmosphere

• November-January provides cooler weather

• Weekday visits often less crowded

• Evening visits perfect for nightlife and cultural events

SendZira’s Lagos Experience Services

Planning the perfect Lagos experience can be overwhelming with so many incredible options. That’s where SendZira’s local expertise makes all the difference:

Our Lagos Services:

• Custom itinerary planning based on your interests

• Local guide services with insider knowledge

• Cultural context and historical education

• Transportation coordination between attractions

• Restaurant recommendations and reservations

Specialized Offerings:

• Cultural Immersion: Deep dives into Yoruba traditions and contemporary culture

• Culinary Tours: Authentic local food experiences beyond tourist restaurants

• Music and Arts: Access to exclusive performances and artist meetups

• Nightlife Guidance: Safe, curated experiences of Lagos’s legendary party scene

• Photography Services: Professional documentation of your Lagos memories

Conclusion: Your Lagos Adventure Awaits

Lagos offers incredible diversity in experiences, from world-class cultural attractions to legendary nightlife, from peaceful natural retreats to exciting urban adventures. Whether you’re planning what to do in Lagos for a day or extended exploration, this dynamic city provides memories that last a lifetime.

Your time in Lagos deserves to be filled with authentic experiences that connect you to the heart of Nigerian culture. Don’t waste precious travel time navigating unfamiliar areas alone or missing the cultural significance of what you’re experiencing because you lack local context.

Every successful Lagos visitor knows this secret: the best experiences come from local knowledge and cultural understanding. The most satisfied travelers are those who work with experts who can unlock Lagos’s deeper meanings and hidden treasures.

At SendZira, we believe every visitor to Lagos deserves to experience the city’s full energy and cultural richness. Through our Zira Tourism division, we specialize in creating meaningful Lagos experiences that connect you to the authentic spirit of Nigeria’s economic capital.

Ready to experience Lagos like a local?

Call/WhatsApp: 0809 100 0036 Email: info@sendzira.com

Let SendZira become your trusted Lagos guide, creating personalized experiences with the local knowledge, cultural insight, and insider access they deserve. Your Lagos adventure should be about discovering authentic Nigerian culture and energy, not just checking off tourist attractions.

Contact us today and experience what it feels like to truly connect with the vibrant heart and soul of Lagos, Nigeria’s city that never sleeps.