A common saying suggests that having fun requires spending a lot of money. However, this isn’t always the case, especially in a city like Lagos.
This blog post aims to debunk that myth by showcasing budget-friendly places to visit in Lagos. If you’re looking for exciting experiences without breaking the bank, Lagos has a wealth of affordable options to explore. These activities that are either free or require minimal expense. We’ve curated a list of the top 10 best affordable spots in Lagos for you to explore.
(1) Kalakuta Republic Museum
Have you heard about the late Afrobeats legend, Fela Kuti? If you’re fascinated by his music and legacy, a visit to the Kalakuta Republic Museum in Ikeja, Lagos, is a must. This museum, housed in the actual three-storey building where Fela lived, offers a unique glimpse into the life of the iconic musician.
The museum features a five-room guest house, a coffee shop, and a souvenir shop. As you approach the entrance, you’ll see the grave of Fela Kuti, situated to the left. Visitors are greeted with Fela’s famous tunes playing softly from hidden speakers, setting the tone for the experience.
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Inside, the museum showcases a collection of Fela’s personal belongings, including his iconic shoes, a vast wardrobe of snug-fitting clothes, and underpants. The exhibits also feature newspaper clippings, old album covers, and an array of paintings and photographs that celebrate his life and career.
The main attraction is Fela’s bedroom, preserved exactly as he left it. The room includes a mattress on the floor, rumpled bedspread, and his saxophone resting at the far end, as if still awaiting his return.Â
Officially opened to the public on October 15, 2012, to coincide with Fela’s birthday and the start of the annual Felabration festival, the museum also features a staircase adorned with photographs, creating a visual narrative of his life. On the terrace, a large canvas of Fela blowing his saxophone, inscribed with over 700 of his songs, serves as a testament to his enduring legacy.
Entry fee: 2000 naira
(2) Jazzhole
If you’re a book lover, you should check out Jazzhole Lagos, a quaint bookshop, record store, and coffee shop located at 168 Awolowo Road in Ikoyi.
The store frequently hosts live music sessions, providing an intimate setting for music lovers to connect with artists and each other. Beyond music, visitors can explore a curated selection of books, enjoy a cup of coffee, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere that makes Jazzhole a unique cultural hub in Lagos.
Entry fee: Free
(3) Lekki Leisure Lake
Lekki Leisure Lake is a seaside activity center that offers an array of exciting activities for both kids and adults. Nestled along the Atlantic coastline, this destination is perfect for those seeking both fun and relaxation. The lake is equipped with various thrilling options, including quad biking, jet skiing, wave boating, pontoon boating, and pedal boating, making it a hotspot for outdoor enthusiasts.
The venue also offers the opportunity to rent the beach for private functions, creating a unique setting for parties, birthdays, or corporate events. It’s important to note that pets are not allowed, ensuring a safe and clean environment for all visitors.
For those looking to extend their stay, Vantage Hotel is conveniently located nearby, making it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. The hotel provides easy access to the lake’s activities, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Atlantic Ocean, especially while riding a quad bike along the dynamic dune track. The soft sands, clear turquoise waters, and stunning sunsets make Lekki Leisure Lake a true paradise. Whether you’re looking to engage in adrenaline-pumping activities or simply unwind by the beach, this location offers something for everyone.
Entry Fee: Free
(4) Nike Art Gallery
If you’re an art enthusiast or just someone who appreciates creativity, a visit to Nike Art Gallery in Lagos is a must. Located at 2 Elegushi Beach Road, Lekki, the Nike Art Gallery is one of Nigeria’s premier art destinations, showcasing the richness of Nigerian culture through art.
Nike Art Gallery is housed in a striking four-story building that features over 7,000 artworks. The collection includes contemporary paintings, sculptures, textiles, and beadwork, all celebrating the diverse artistic traditions of Nigeria. Visitors can enjoy various artistic media and even participate in workshops to learn traditional crafts such as adire (tie-dye), batik, and bead making​.
The gallery is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm, making it convenient for visitors to drop by any day of the week.Â
Entry fee: Free
(5) Freedom Park
For history buffs and, Freedom Park on Broad Street, Lagos Island, is an excellent choice. This park was formerly the site of Her Majesty’s Broad Street Prisons, a colonial-era prison that has been transformed into a cultural and recreational space.
Freedom Park is a symbol of Nigeria’s journey to independence and serves as a memorial to the nation’s history. The transformation of the old prison into a park was completed in 2010, and it now serves as a venue for various cultural events, performances, and social gatherings. The park features sculptures, preserved prison structures, and plaques that provide historical insights, making it an educational experience as well as a recreational one​.
The park hosts music concerts, theatre performances, and art exhibitions, making it a hub for Lagos’ cultural life. It also has an amphitheater, food courts, and a museum that details the history of the old prison. The lush gardens and serene environment offer a perfect escape from the bustling city, making it a favorite spot for picnics and leisurely strolls.
Freedom Park is open daily, and entry fees are quite affordable, making it a budget-friendly destination for both locals and tourists. The park’s central location on Lagos Island makes it easily accessible from different parts of the city​
(6) Lekki Conservation Center
Located in the heart of Lagos, the Lekki Conservation Centre (LCC) is a prominent nature reserve managed by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation. This sanctuary spans 78 hectares,
One of the center’s highlights is its 401-meter-long canopy walkway, renowned as the longest in Africa. This elevated pathway offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and wildlife, providing a unique vantage point for nature enthusiasts. There are also nature trails. These well-maintained trails allow visitors to explore diverse ecosystems, from mangrove forests to savannahs. These trails are ideal for observing local wildlife, including monkeys, crocodiles, and various bird species.
The LCC is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to numerous species of resident and migratory birds. Birding enthusiasts can enjoy spotting these feathered creatures from dedicated viewing platforms.
For picnic and recreation, the center provides designated picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for a day out with family and friends. There’s also a children’s playground and educational facilities to engage younger visitors.
Entry Fees:
- Adults: ₦2,500
- Children: ₦1,500
(7) Johnson Jakande Tinubu (JJT) Park
Located in Alausa, Ikeja, the Johnson Jakande Tinubu Park, commonly known as JJT Park, is a public recreational space dedicated to the three past governors of Lagos State: Lateef Jakande, Bola Tinubu, and Babatunde Fashola. This park is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
The park is adorned with lush greenery, fountains, and well-manicured lawns, providing a peaceful setting for relaxation and outdoor activities. A small amphitheater within the park also hosts cultural performances and public gatherings, adding a touch of art and culture to the environment.
Of course, the park features statues and monuments commemorating significant figures and events in Lagos State’s history, making it not only a place of relaxation but also of learning. JJT includes a children’s playground, making it a family-friendly destination. The open spaces and shaded areas are perfect for picnics and casual outings.
Entry Fee: Free
(8) Elegushi Beach
Elegushi Beach is one of Lagos’s most popular and budget-friendly beach destination. It offers an idyllic setting for relaxation and entertainment. Located in the Lekki area, this privately-owned beach features soft sandy shores and swaying palm trees, creating a picturesque backdrop for visitors.
The beach is known for its cool atmosphere, where locals and tourists alike can enjoy a variety of activities, from sunbathing to beach sports.
The beach is particularly famous for its lively nightlife. As the sun sets, Elegushi Beach transforms into a hub of activity, with numerous bars and restaurants lining the shore. Visitors can indulge in a range of local and international cuisines while enjoying live music and DJ performances. This lively scene makes Elegushi Beach a go-to spot for evening outings.
Elegushi beach also hosts various cultural events and festivals that showcase traditional Nigerian music, dance, and art.
(9) Silent Disco Lagos
If you’re a fan of fun experiences, chances are you’ll love the idea of a silent disco. At Silent Disco Lagos, groups of people gather to enjoy music through wireless headphones, creating a surreal and entertaining atmosphere. This is a fantastic way to enjoy a shared musical experience without the noise typically associated with parties .
Silent Disco Lagos offers a range of musical genres to cater to different tastes, ensuring everyone in the group can find something they enjoy. The headphones are usually equipped with multiple channels, allowing dancers to switch between DJs or playlists with a simple press of a button. This setup not only provides a personalized music experience but also adds a playful element as friends try to guess which channel others are listening to.
This innovative party concept is not only fun but also budget-friendly, making it an excellent option for those looking to enjoy Lagos’s nightlife without spending a fortune. Whether you’re planning a night out with friends or looking to try something new, Silent Disco Lagos offers an unforgettable experience.
Entry Free: ₦3000
(10) VR Place, Karamu Kotun, Victoria Island
Over here, visitors can enjoy a wide array of VR games that transport them into different realities, whether it’s battling zombies, exploring fantastical worlds, or racing in high-speed cars.
In addition to the impressive VR gaming options, VR Place offers an outdoor lounge area where visitors can relax and unwind. This space is perfect for socializing with friends or simply taking a break from the intense gaming sessions. VR Place is a standout spot for budget-friendly entertainment in Lagos. Whether you’re looking to try something new or indulge in your love for gaming, VR Place provides a unique and engaging experience that won’t break the bank.
Lagos is brimming with affordable options that offer endless fun and adventure. Lagos is brimming with affordable options that offer endless fun and adventure. Many of these activities can be enjoyed multiple times, providing fresh experiences each visit.
If you’re looking for more inspiration for more outings, our blog is packed with ideas to help you make the most of what Lagos has to offer without breaking the bank.Â