Best things to do in Lagos Nigeria

Find out more about those top places in Lagos Nigeria

Things to do in Lagos Nigeria - Nigeria

If you’re looking for a city that never sleeps, never stops honking, and never runs out of things to do, then buckle up—Lagos is calling. Known as the "Centre of Excellence" (as boldly claimed on every license plate), Lagos is Nigeria’s beating heart: a chaotic, colorful, culture-packed megacity that somehow manages to be a travel guide’s dream and an introvert’s mild nightmare—though even the shyest travelers might secretly love the buzz.

Welcome to Lagos – Africa’s Loudest Love Letter

Home to over 20 million people (give or take a few who skipped the last census), Lagos is the economic powerhouse of Nigeria and arguably the entire West African region. It’s also a place where sightseeing turns into a full-body experience—because you won’t just see Lagos, you’ll hear it, smell it, feel it in your bones… and possibly dance to it.

Whether you're an adrenaline-chasing extrovert or a chill-seeking introvert, Lagos serves up just the right blend of madness and magic. From live music to historical landmarks, it offers a wild menu of places to visit and top attractions you won't find anywhere else.

Top Attractions and Places to Visit in Lagos

The New Afrika Shrine – A Musical Pilgrimage

A trip to Lagos isn’t complete without paying homage at the New Afrika Shrine in Ikeja. This legendary venue is a spiritual sequel to the original Afrika Shrine and stands as a tribute to Fela Anikulapo Kuti, Nigeria’s musical prophet and father of Afrobeats. Expect live performances, smoky vibes, unapologetic political commentary, and a dancing crowd that doesn’t know how to stop. Bring your groove—and maybe some earplugs.

Nike Art Gallery – Art That Wows and Winks

No Lagos travel guide would dare skip Nike Art Gallery. This multi-floor haven is one of the largest art spaces in West Africa, featuring a kaleidoscope of Nigerian art—textiles, paintings, sculptures, and more. Plus, you’ll likely meet the ever-charming Chief Nike herself, whose mission to preserve Nigerian culture comes with a big smile and an even bigger headwrap.

Omenka Gallery – Where Modern Meets African

For a contemporary twist, head over to Omenka Gallery. It’s the classy, minimalist cousin of Nike Art Gallery, showcasing modern African art in a sleek space overlooking the Lagos Lagoon. Perfect for travelers who like their art with a side of serenity.

The Badagry Slave Museum & Black History Tour

Looking for places to visit that offer depth and historical weight? Badagry is a must. Located on the outskirts of Lagos, it’s home to the Badagry Slave Port and Museum, a sobering but vital destination. Walk the same paths enslaved people were forced down, visit the Point of No Return, and come away with a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s role in global history.

It’s not exactly a “fun” trip, but it’s one of the most meaningful things to do around Lagos. (Also, Badagry’s beaches aren’t bad at all for some reflective post-tour chilling.)

More Things to Do in Lagos (If You Can Handle the Heat)

Lekki Conservation Centre: Tiptoe along the longest canopy walkway in Africa while pretending not to scream at monkeys.
Tarkwa Bay: Surf, sunbathe, or sip coconuts. Access is by boat, which already makes it cooler than your average beach day.
Balogun Market: Test your bargaining skills (and your patience) at one of West Africa’s largest open-air markets.
Freedom Park: Once a colonial prison, now an artsy chill zone with concerts, palm wine, and history lessons all rolled into one.

Lagos Travel Tips (AKA How to Survive and Thrive)

Traffic is a lifestyle, not an inconvenience. Leave early, bring snacks, and maybe a podcast series or two.
Cash is king in many areas, though mobile payments are becoming popular.
Ask locals for help, they’ll either guide you—or become your tour guide for the day.
Bring your sense of humor. Lagos will test your patience, but reward it with unforgettable moments.

Why Lagos Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List

Lagos isn’t a gentle city—it’s a full-on sensory rollercoaster. But that’s what makes it so unforgettable. It’s a place where Afrobeat beats fill the air, where art and history collide, and where every street corner feels like a scene from a movie you weren’t cast in—but somehow became the star of.

If you’re tired of cookie-cutter vacations and are craving real culture, energy, and personality, Lagos is one of the top attractions in West Africa you didn’t know you needed. Just pack sunscreen, courage, and maybe some extra patience. You’re in for one heck of a ride.

The New Afrika Shrine

There is not a soul that does not know about Fela, arguable the most important musician to live in Nigeria and it is only right that he should be immortalized and if you want to get a feel of the bedrock of Nigeria music scenery, The New African Shrine should be your starting point and best to do this immediately because once you get into Lagos music, you stay or visit will be much better.
Nike Art Gallery

Nike Art Gallery is one of the largest galleries in West African is considered to be a haven for anyone that likes art. It was set up by the world renowned Nike Odunaye, the artist who said to not have more than primary level education. The gallery is a spectacle, it has four floors and over 1500 artworks displayed both inside and outside the building.
Badagry Slave Port and Museum

This is a very crucial site for anyone who wants to get the best out of the visit or stay in Lagos because it is very important to know the story of the people when you get to a particular region. A trip to Badagry would give anyone more than a peek into the story of not only Lagosians but of Nigerian as a whole. Some sites to be seen at Badagry include the first ever concrete building in Nigeria, the first Well in Nigeria and of course the transatlantic slave trade port.
Lekki Conservation Center

Established in 1990 has seemed a high rise in visitations by locals and tourists, with a land area of over 78 hectares of land. A very vibrant and peaceful location for a lover of wildlife, some of its main features include Nation Station, Swamp look-out station and it most enticing of all; the 2 km board work which gives visitors a chance to see all that the center has to offer.
Tarkwa Bay Beach

Tarkwa Bay beach is located on an island near the Lagos Harbor, it is an absolute delight and comparing with other Lagos beaches it stands out, there is often music, food and most of all a great place to meet people and get the whole Lagos vibes.