Last updated on July 9th, 2025 at 03:52 pm
Lagos is a vibrant city full of surprises where these one day escapes are ideal budget friendly destinations. Nature lover, arts enthusiast, lover of cultural experiences whatever your mood, these five spots are ideal for your getaway all under a small budget.
Lekki Conservation Centre
Lekki Conservation Centre, a popular nature reserve created to preserve Nigeria’s shrinking mangrove forests. The park includes Africa’s longest canopy walkway, a 401 meter bridge that gives nice views of the lush green trees of the forest. There is also a treehouse, koi ponds, peacocks and oversized board games. Entrance is generally around NGN 1,000 – NGN 1,500, plus there is an additional cost for the canopy walk. The best time to go would be in the dry season (October to March), and during that time, the walkways are safe to navigate and the weather is perfect for a visit.
Muri Okunola Park
Muri Okunola Park located in Victoria Island, Lagos. This beautiful green area is perfect for a picnic, to go do yoga or simply relax in the shade of trees. It is free to go here and they often have weekend fitness events and pop-up markets. It also has a central location which is great for urban relaxation.
Freedom Park
Freedom Park situated on Lagos Island was once a prison during the colonial era but has more recently been developed into a heritage site. The park features historical monuments, works of art, a stage for performances and food vendors. The admission fee varies according to events, usually about NGN 200 – NGN500. The best time to visit the park is usually early evening on weekends when there is live music and cultural performances.
Keep Reading
National Museum
With its collection of Nok terracotta sculptures, Benin Bronzes and ethnographic exhibitions, the National Museum in Onikan is a repository of Nigerian history. For locals entry fee is NGN 200 and for tourists the fee is NGN 300. It’s best to arrive in the morning and soak in the experience before the crowds fill the space.
Omenka Gallery
The Omenka Gallery in Ikoyi is the final highlight that I want to share. It’s a paradise for lovers of art located on the waterfront showing contemporary art from African and international artists. The gallery is free and open to the public and visitation is best during the week of 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Omenka Gallery is recognized not only for its unconventional exhibitions but also its calm riverside atmosphere offering peace for reflection and inspiration.
With a little budget, these places offer a wide range of memorable and fulfilling experiences through nature, culture and art in Lagos. The beauty is that whether you are a local or a visitor you can find memorable day trips that cost not much.
