Known for any number of things ranging from its bustling night life and beach resorts, to its insane traffic and second-to-none parties, Lagos is home to people from all walks of life. This provokes little wonder considering it is quite literally deemed the land of opportunities, and as a consequence, even though it is the smallest, it has the highest population of all 36 states in Nigeria. Last published statistical data in 2021 has it that the population of Lagos saw a 3.44% increase from the preceding year, summing up to a staggering 14,862,000 residents! So, if you're based in Lasgidi, or touring the state, I would understand if you want to get away to a place where you can breathe free every now and again. Below, I've listed my choicest tourist attraction/leisure centres in Lagos, just for you.
LEKKI CONSERVATION CENTRE:
Big on nature/wildlife, are you? Looking for somewhere to bask in the beauty that is the natural world in all its glory? Then you'd looove the Lekki Conservation Centre, and its dedication to preserving species under the threat of extinction. Fun fact: The longest canopy walkway in Africa is found right here! Entry to the centre is as affordable as USD2.41, or NGN1,000 per adult.
TARKWA BAY BEACH:
Situated close to the Lagos harbour, Tarkwa Bay is an artificial, sheltered beach different from every other in that it is ... wait for it ... an island! (For those of you that slept away your English classes because you believed the lie that 'school na scam', an island is a patch of land surrounded by water. You're welcome.) Because of this, the only way the bay can be accessed is by paying an entry fee of USD0.48 or NGN200 to be transported there using a water vehicle, so maybe sit this one out if you are aquaphobic. Or don't! Because would you rather die knowing you visited Tarkwa Bay, or die knowing you let your fear of water stop you from living your best life? Just kidding. (Or am I?) There are other great places you can visit which, I hasten to add, are on land. Read on, wont you?
FREEDOM PARK:
Famed for being located on what was once the grounds of Her Majesty's Street Prisons. An interesting choice of names for the park, is it not, considering that once upon a time, you only ever went there if you weren't free. Aaanyway, the park's in Downtown Lagos, Lagos Island, and has an entry fee of just USD0.48 or NGN200. This is another tourist attraction centre you might like to visit for a good time.
IKEJA CITY MALL:
Ladies, grab your beau (and his credit card) because here's the perfect place to go shopping, or see a movie, or do just about anything inbetween! Sitting somewhere in Alausa on the Mainland, the Ikeja City Mall is your go-to if you're looking for a fun place to spend some dollars and create happy memories. Or sad ones, assumming you would be seeing a tragic movie when you go there. One thing's sure though, your Instagram account wont stay the same after a visit to this grand beauty.
THE NIGERIAN NATIONAL MUSEUM:
It's been rooted in Onikan, Lagos Island since 1957 - that was years before we even gained independence! - and any lover of art would die to visit this museum. (If you're one, I don't advise you should literally die, though, because how then would you enjoy the beautiful collection here?) Aaanyway, some of the most priceless art in the world today call this museum home, and you're sure to leave a satisfied soul after feasting your eyes on the pieces.
So, there you have it. Whether your cravings lie in nature/wildlife, beach resorts, parks, malls or ancient artifacts, there's something for everyone in Lagos. Which of these places would you (like to) visit? Let me know in the comments, and don't forget to subscribe!
