If there’s one thing I’ve learned about Lagos, it’s that the city never sleeps, and neither will you if you’re trying to experience all the fun it has to offer. So, I decided to share 30 best things to do in Lagos state on your visit. Some of these things are for free.
From beach days to art galleries, food tours to nightlife madness, here are 30 insanely fun things to do in Lagos that I personally recommend.
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Best things to do in Lagos state for fun
Lagos is one of the best places in Nigeria to have the time of your life. In as much as every nook and crany is filled with business or shops, it is a place of fun too.
Here are list of things to do ih Lagos on a budget. Side note, some of them are cheap to do.
Turn up at Quilox or Cubana
Ready to party like a Lagosian? Nightlife here is wild. My friends and I once left Quilox at 6am (don’t judge). The music, the energy, the fashion, all elite vibes!
Cubana is also a great option and there are other nightlife scenes as well. What matters is that you find your vibe and get the most out of it!
Visit an Escape Room
Yes, Lagos has escape rooms! I tried one with friends and we were yelling, arguing, and laughing like mad trying to solve clues. Perfect group activity!
Join a Beach Clean-Up Event
Looking for something fun and meaning? This is what you should do! I joined one and made new friends while doing good for the environment. Plus, there’s usually free snacks. Win-win!
Join a Dance Class
Afrobeats, salsa, or even ballet, Lagos has them all. I joined a dance fitness class once and my legs were sore for days. Worth it though. Best vibes, best music.
Chill at a Rooftop Lounge
Shoutout to Sky Restaurant or The View. Trust me, you haven’t lived until you’ve watched a Lagos sunset from a rooftop. I love ordering a cocktail and pretending I’m the main character.
Hit the Beach
Nothing screams Lagos like a spontaneous beach day. Lagos state has so many private beaches you can explore. Many of which are budget friendly. My favorite is the Atican beach Lagos. I love grabbing some suya and coconut water, then just lounging by the waves.
There’s usually music, food vendors, quad bikes, and basically everything! You can vibe or party, depending on your mood.
Take an Art Class at Art Cafe
It’s a coffee shop and creative haven. I once painted a still life of a pineapple (again, I love pineapples) while sipping on their hibiscus tea. It was pure joy!
Visit the New African Shrine
If you’re into Afrobeats and Nigerian political culture, this is where it all began. The vibe is raw, energetic, and unforgettable. The New Afrika shrine, though fun, but it is not advisable for a family day out. So, you can go as a couple but keep your kids at home.
They don’t offer things for kids per se except yogurt drink. However, ambience is giving adult only vibe.
Go to a Cinema
When I want a lowkey night, I grab popcorn and go full couch potato at a cinema. Sometimes it’s just nice to chill in AC and watch the latest blockbusters. My favorite cinema in Lagos is Ozone Cinema at Yaba. However, there are other like silver bird cinema which to me as the island price tag among others.
Do a Food Truck Crawl
Lagos food trucks are leveling up! Try sliders from RoadChef or tacos from El Padrino. I once made a whole night out of just hopping between trucks in VI.
Go Wine Tasting at a Luxe Lounge
There’s something fancy about sipping South African wines in a silk dress while a saxophonist plays in the background. Treat yourself!
Go Thrift Shopping
Sometimes, you have the most fun when you go outside to touch grass! When it comes to thrift shopping, allow me to warn you that you might get addicted!
Trust me, the deals are usually instance. I once got a vintage Levi’s jacket for ₦1,200. Just bring cash, your bargaining skills, and zero shame.
Take a Day Trip to Badagry
History buffs, this one’s for you. Badagry is rich in Nigerian and West African slave trade history. I cried at the Slave Point of No Return. It’s heavy, but it’s also important. And yes, the beaches there are beautiful too.
If you can spend more than one day, by all means. Badagry has so much to offer, and I bet you one day is not enough. Also, check out these fun things to do in Badagry Lagos.
See a Live Music Show
Afrobeats live? Sign me up! I once saw Femi Kuti at the Afrika Shrine and let me tell you, my soul left my body and returned, changed. Look out for live events of your faves, and you will be thankful for the experience!
Go for Karaoke
Let me tell you, I cannot sing! But that doesn’t stop me! Karaoke night is always such lovable chaos that has you hooked. The energy is usually unmatched and the vibe is always right!
Spend the Day at Lekki Leisure Lake
Jet-skiing? Zip-lining? Pedal boating? I was like a big kid out there. Perfect for groups or date days. Don’t forget your swimsuit!
Explore the Lagos Island Markets
Balogun and Idumota are wild, chaotic, and absolutely thrilling. If you’re into fabrics or jewelry shopping, you’ll love it. I go with a friend for safety, and so we don’t get lost.
Go Museum Hopping
From the National Museum in Onikan to smaller private collections, Lagos has underrated historical gems. I love walking through with a notebook like I’m a cultured art critic.
Explore Lekki Conservation Centre
Walking on that canopy bridge? Terrifying but worth it! You get to see monkeys, peacocks, and enjoy the serenity of nature. I would advise you to go early to avoid crowds and wear comfy shoes; your thighs will thank you.
Sip and Paint with a Twist
I once painted a lopsided pineapple while sipping zobo-infused cocktails, and I had the time of my life. Lagos is full of creative workshops and paint parties. It’s a great way to meet people and de-stress.
Take a Cooking Class
Ever tried making amala from scratch? I did, and failed spectacularly. But I had so much fun! There are lots of cooking classes around town if you want to get hands-on with Nigerian cuisine.
Vike Nike Art Gallery
Whether you’re artsy or just want a cute photo for the ‘Gram, Nike Art Gallery is a must. I was blown away by the sheer size and color of it all—four floors of African art, textiles, and sculptures. And yes, you can take home souvenirs!
Escape to Tarkwa Bay
Hop on a boat and head to Tarkwa Bay for a more peaceful, private beach vibe. I love it there when I need a break from the Lagos hustle. Plus, you can surf or just picnic under a beach umbrella. Paradise!
Book a Staycation in Eko Atlantic
If you can splurge, why not? I once booked a weekend at one of the new high-rises and I was mind blown! From the poolside drinks to spa treatments, everything was total peace. Lagos luxury is different.
Ride Go-Karts at GET Arena
Adrenaline junkie? Same here. I had the best time racing my cousins at GET Arena. There’s also a bar and lounge if you want to chill after the race.
Cruise Lagos Lagoon on a Boat
Imagine watching the sunset while sipping champagne on a boat, with the Lagos skyline in the background. I’ve done it, and it’s pure magic. You can book a private cruise or join a group one. Either way, you’re in for an unforgettable ride.
Explore the Art Scene at Freedom Park
Here, there is an old prison turned artsy cultural hub. There’s music, open mic nights, and plenty of weird cool art. I love going here to just chill and feel inspired.
Brunch at Terra Kulture
Food? Art? Theater? Terra Kulture has it all. I caught a stage play here that made me cry-laugh for two hours straight. Plus, their nkwobi is top-tier.
Eat Your Way Through Lekki Foodie Spots
From Ofada at Yellow Chilli to seafood platters at The House Cafe, Lekki is a foodie’s dream. I try a new restaurant almost every other week. There’s something about jollof with a smoky flavor that just hits different.
Attend an Owambe Party (Even if you were not invited)
If you’ve never been to a Lagos owambe, you haven’t really lived. I once followed my friend to her cousin’s wedding and ended up catching the bouquet, eating five different types of rice, and dancing like it was my birthday. The outfits? Fabulous! The jollof? Legendary. The live band? Pure magic.
Even if you’re just there for the small chops and party packs, it’s worth dressing up and going. As a plus, wear something shiny, because in Lagos, we dress to impress!
Which of these 30 best things to do in Lagos state have you experienced? Which of these best things to do in Lagos is on your to do list? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
Best places to stay in Lagos
If you will be visiting and have no place to stay. Don’t worry we have you covered. I use Trivago to get the best deals on hotels to stay in Lagos state.