Lagos city has so many fun things to do on a day trip. From its numerous budget friendly beaches to rich culture and art, here is how to spend one a day in Lagos while having fun. Last weekend, I went on a day trip to Lagos Island to visit the National Museum Lagos and the popular John Randle center for Yoruba culture and history. Here is how it went.
Whenever I travel within Nigeria, I have two or three major places in mind to explore. The breathtaking beaches, the fun waterfalls in Nigeria or the National Museum that holds the state’s history and heritage.
So, I wondered why I have been in Lagos for over 8 years now and I have never been to the national museum Lagos. I know where this museum is located at Onikan. But never thought of exploring it at all. Anyways, now I have finally seen the museum alongside the John Randle center which is just opposite it close to the Muson center.
Since these museums are close to each other, it makes for a fun day trip in Lagos. I have explored so many places in Lagos state Nigeria, so you can check out this list of fun things to do in Lagos, Nigeria to plan your itinerary or visit.
Table of Contents
National museum Lagos
I belong to a community of travelers who love to explore. Although, I rarely engage on the group but I read all the announcements and the group travel calendar. So, I was excited that we would be visiting the National museum Lagos.

National Museum Lagos
Where is National Museum Lagos Located?
The national museum Lagos is located close to the popular Onikan city mall TBS ( Tafwaw Balewa square), Lagos Island. It is very easy to locate. From the mainland, I took a bus to CMS bus stop, then I took another bus going to TBS.
Opening Hours
My first attempt to visit the national museum Lagos was after the pandemic. I was told that it was under renovation. And no definite resumption date was advised. Hence, I opted to see Bogobiri House Lagos instead.
Anyway, National Museum Lagos opens from Monday to Saturday. Time: 9.30am to 3.30pm. I would day go by 10 or 11 am so you’re sure of the opening time for that day.
Entry fee to National Museum Lagos
The entry fee to National Museum Lagos is 2000naira per person. I was not with my daughter, so I am unsure if it is free for children under 5 years. Although, some individuals came with their kids to the museum and these kids are probably under 2 years old.
Fun thing to do at the National Museum Lagos
National Musuem Lagos is the home of the rich history of Lagos and Nigeria as a whole. So, there piece in the museum that touched on Lagos history, colonial times and other cultures in Nigeria.
We had a tour guide that walked us through the pieces. I will say insist on a tour guide as it is more fun with them. We had a fun male tour guide that was enthusiastic and quite fun too.
The high point for me is the touching story of Queen idea. How she escaped death because her son refused to unalive his mother to be king. This put a stop to the killing of the king mothers before their sons ascend the throne.
Can I bring my food to the National Museum logos? Yes, you can bring your own food. However, there is a Buka within the premises if you’d like to patronize them. Also, you can get snacks from the premises.
Although, there is children playground available. I am not sure of its functionality. All in all, I enjoyed my tour of the national museum Lagos.

John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and history: 2nd stop
John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and history was actually the first stop for the day. This museum is about the rich history and culture of the Yoruba people. In terms of technology and maintenance, I would say this museum is a must see. However, without a tour guide, it was not as fun as the national museum Lagos.
Where is John Randle Centre Located?
John Randle centre Lagos is located at Onikan, Opposite the National Musuem Lagos just beside the Muson Center. I almost missed because i struggle with reading google maps. However, it is just by the road side.
Unlike the national museum with a visible sign board. There is no visible sign board outside the gate to let you know you have arrived. I had to ask their security guard to be sure I was at the right place.

John Randle Centre
Opening Hours
John Randle centre opens from Tuesday to sunday. I wonder why they don’t open on Monday. Time: 10am to 6pm daily.
Entry fee
The entry fee into this Museum is 5,000naira per person. Is the fee worth it? Maybe or not. Just insist on a tour guide to make it worth your time.
Things to do at John Randle Centre Onikan Lagos
As stated earlier, this is a fun place to learn about the rich culture of the Yoruba people. Their history, the gods and religion being practiced before Christianity. In most Yoruba states, most of these religions are still being practiced.
Like the worship of Osun, the god of fertility is still being worshipped in Osun state. There is a big UNESCO world heritage worship ground at the Osun-Oshogbo grove that hosts it followers yearly.
They also show cased the various masquerade dances and culture in Yoruba land. I had fun dancing to the steps of the masquerades at this museum. I will insert a short clip for you.
All in all, I would say the lack of a tour guide made it less interesting and educative. So, if you’re visiting, insist on a tour guide to walk you through the art, pieces and the culture.
Is it a fun day out that is worth it? Sure. This is a fun way to see and have fun in Lagos on a budget. If you’re looking for a fun short-day trip with your family, friends or colleagues, check out the national museum Lagos and John Randle center. Which of these museums have you visited? Let me know below.