15 Best Places to Go in Lagos Nigeria: The 2026 Tourist Guide
Lagos has officially entered the global spotlight. In early 2026, the city was named one of the seven must-visit art destinations in the world by Artsy. Whether you are drawn by the high-octane energy of the "Lagos Story" or the serene beauty of the Atlantic coast, there has never been a better time to explore Lagos Nigeria tourism.
Here are the 15 best places to visit in Lagos this year.
15 Best Places to Visit in Lagos (2026 Summary)
| Destination | Category |
|---|---|
| Lekki Conservation Centre | Nature & Adventure |
| John Randle Centre | Yoruba Heritage |
| Nike Art Gallery | Contemporary Art |
| Àkéte Museum | Modern Art (New) |
| Freedom Park | History & Arts |
| Landmark Beach | Leisure & Dining |
| Kalakuta Museum | Afrobeat History |
| Tarkwa Bay | Beach & Surfing |
| Badagry Slave Route | Historical Tourism |
| Epe Mangroves | Eco-Tourism |
| National Museum | Archaeology |
| Makoko Community | Cultural Experience |
| Lufasi Nature Park | Wildlife & Picnic |
| New Afrika Shrine | Nightlife |
| Jaekel House | Colonial History |
The "Must-See" 15
1. Lekki Conservation Centre (LCC)
The crown jewel of nature in the city. Tackle the 401-meter-long canopy walkway—the longest in Africa—for a bird’s-eye view of monkeys, rare birds, and the sprawling wetlands.
2. John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History
Opened as a cultural heart for the city, this architectural masterpiece in Onikan offers an immersive journey into Yoruba philosophy and heritage through high-tech exhibitions and a historic swimming pool dating back to 1928.
3. Nike Art Gallery
No list of what to see in Lagos Nigeria is complete without Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye’s gallery. It is the largest of its kind in West Africa, housing over 8,000 pieces of contemporary and traditional Nigerian art across four floors.
4. The Àkéte Collection (New for 2026!)
Launched in October 2026, this is Lagos' newest Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art. It serves as a "living archive" for the continent and is a primary reason Lagos is a top global art destination this year.
5. Freedom Park Lagos
Once a colonial prison, this site has been transformed into a tranquil oasis. It’s one of the top places to go in Lagos for live jazz, open-air theatre, and a glimpse into Nigeria’s journey toward independence.
6. Landmark Leisure Beach
The ultimate destination for urban luxury. Located in Victoria Island, it features a boardwalk, an inflatable water park, and high-end dining. It’s the centerpiece of modern Lagos Nigeria tourism.
7. Kalakuta Republic Museum
The former residence of the legendary Fela Anikulapo Kuti. Visitors can explore his preserved bedroom and learn about the Afrobeat movement that shook the world.
8. Tarkwa Bay Beach
Escape the mainland via a 15-minute boat ride. This sheltered beach is a favorite for surfers and swimmers looking for a more "rustic" and secluded vibe.
9. Badagry Heritage Museum & Slave Route
A poignant and necessary historical trip. Tour the "Point of No Return" and the slave cells to understand a dark but vital chapter of West African history.
10. Epe Mangroves
For an unconventional adventure, hire a local canoeist to take you through the serene Epe Mangroves. It’s a peaceful, eco-friendly experience away from the city traffic.
11. National Museum Lagos
Located in Onikan, this museum is home to the famous Benin Bronzes and the bullet-riddled car in which General Murtala Muhammed was assassinated.
12. Makoko Floating Community (Guided Tour)
Often called the "Venice of Africa," a guided canoe tour through this stilt-house community offers a profound look at the resilience and daily life of the Lagos Nigeria people.
13. Lufasi Nature Park
A 20-hectare park dedicated to the preservation of the endangered "Ekki" ironwood tree. It’s the best place in the city for a quiet forest walk or a family picnic.
14. The New Afrika Shrine
The spiritual home of Afrobeat. If you want to know what to do in Lagos Nigeria on a Sunday night, head here for "Sunday Jump" to experience raw, unfiltered Lagosian energy.
15. Jaekel House
A restored colonial mansion in Ebute Metta that serves as a railway museum. It offers a nostalgic look at the 19th-century railway era and beautiful gardens for photography.
Quick Planning Guide for 2026
Top Event: The 5th Lagos Biennial (Oct 17 – Dec 18, 2026) themed "The Museum of Things Unseen."
Getting Around: Stick to verified ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt for safety and comfort.
Safety Tip: Always visit places to visit in Lagos Nigeria like Makoko or Badagry with a registered tour guide.
