These 7 One-Day Vacation Spots in Lagos Are Real Getaways Under 6k

If you live in Lagos, you already know the deal: traffic, bills, and the occasional "soft life" craving that gets swallowed up by how expensive it gets. Not if you visit any of these free or budget-friendly vacation spots in Lagos for a day of fun that doesn't touch your savings.

Whether you're tired of Netflix, indoor dates, a parent looking for somewhere to take the kids or someone who needs a self-care day, here’s your cheat code to an unforgettable one-day vacation in Lagos on a budget.

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1. Lekki Conservation Centre – Where nature meets adventure

Want to see monkeys, stroll across the longest canopy walkway in Africa, or soak in some nature? Then this is your place. The 401 m canopy walkway, suspended up to 22 m above ground, gives you thrilling treetop views. As you stroll along raised boardwalks, you’ll spot wildlife like monkeys, peacocks, tortoises, and crocodiles in their natural swamp habitat. There are picnic huts, life-size outdoor games, a treehouse lookout, bird hides, volleyball courts, eternal selfies and bonding material for nature lovers. 

It is located at Lekki Peninsula II and usually opens from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day. If you need a peaceful, beautiful spot for a mini one-day vacation in Lagos, Lekki Conservation Centre is worth it. It’s a display of nature and a fun outdoor adventure that reconnects you with the wild in Lagos.

Although the entrance fee costs 6k, the canopy walk, exploring the lush greenery, and chilling under the gazebos are completely worth it. It’s like stepping into a peaceful jungle without leaving the city.

2. Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island – Free and functional

If you ever want to escape Lagos chaos, Muri Okunola Park is one of VI’s most accessible open spaces. Named after Justice Muri Okunola, you’ll find lush lawns, colourful flowers, shaded pathways, a children’s playground, outdoor workout spaces, and even a calm fountain spot. It’s even set up for small events like birthday shoots, picnics, or casual hangouts. It’s open from 8am to 8pm daily and is well-kept, centrally located, and free to the public.

3. Freedom Park, Lagos Island - History, chill, and vibes

Once a colonial prison, Freedom Park has transformed into a cultural hub where Lagosians come to relax. You can wander through original cell blocks and underground spaces while exhibits tell the stories of freedom fighters like Herbert Macaulay and Obafemi Awolowo. The open-air amphitheatre hosts concerts, plays, poetry nights, and festivals.

The entry fee is ₦2,000, and the park is open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. It features quirky sculptures, mini-exhibits, and green spaces perfect for lounging. 

4. Tarkwa Bay Beach – Your budget-friendly beach day

If you're craving a calm beach day away from the hustle of Lagos, Tarkwa Bay is the perfect escape. It’s a peaceful island beach that you can only reach by boat, usually from Marina, and the ride costs around ₦1,000 to ₦2,000.

Once you get there, the vibe is chill. The water is calm enough to swim in, and there’s space to play beach volleyball, relax under a tent, or soak up the sun. Entry fees range from ₦2,000, depending on the day and what’s happening at the beach.

You’ll find options for horse rides, surfing, or just sipping coconut water by the shore. It’s a great spot for solo adventures, dates, or group hangouts.

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5. National Museum, Onikan – Your Quick Culture Fix in Lagos

Stepping into the National Museum on Onikan Island feels like flipping through Nigeria’s history book. Only the visuals are even more captivating. Established in 1957, it’s packed with around 47,000 artefacts, showcasing everything from ancient Nok terracotta heads and Benin bronzes to ekoi stone carvings and royal regalia. You’ll also find Nigeria’s “Cycle of Life” exhibit, which takes you on a journey from birth to funeral rites, alongside modern art pieces and even the black Mercedes of General Murtala Mohammed. The outdoor space and garden sculptures like the whimsical “Jollof pot on wheels”—make the museum feel welcoming and refreshingly vibrant.

The National Museum Lagos is located at King George V. Road, Onikan, P.M.B. 12556, Lagos State, and operates daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Entry is easy on the pocket: ₦500 for kids and undergraduates, ₦1,000 for Nigerian adults and foreign children, and ₦2,000 for foreign adults.

6. Johnson Jakande Tinubu Park, Alausa – Green escape for mainlanders

If you're on the mainland and need a quick escape, J.J.T. Park in Ikeja is your best bet. Built in 2017 to honour three former governors, Mobolaji Johnson, Lateef Jakande, and Asiwaju Tinubu, the park is a free public space with lush lawns, shaded walkways, and decorative fountains.

It's located right across from the Lagos State House of Assembly. It’s neat, safe, and completely free. The part is open to the public from 9am to 6pm daily.

It has well-maintained walkways, gardens, and benches. 

7. Omenka Gallery, Ikoyi – Small but mighty art space

If you’re into contemporary art, you should check it out. Located in a serene Ikoyi enclave, Omenka Gallery (est. 2003 by Oliver Enwonwu, son of legendary Ben Enwonwu) is a top-tier space showcasing a mix of Nigerian and international contemporary artists across diverse media. It’s housed in Ben Enwonwu’s former home and features his works and those of emerging creatives such as Abass Kelani, Ima Mfon, and Nnenna Okore.

Although this art gallery is smaller than the Nike Art Gallery, its works are curated with great intention.

Entry is free. The museum is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends. Exhibitions change regularly, so you can visit multiple times and always see something new.

Bonus Tips for a Free One-Day Vacation in Lagos

• Plan Ahead: Research the spots you intend to visit to check for any events or changes in access.

• Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, and a mat for picnics.

• Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking.

• Stay Safe: Always be aware of your surroundings and secure personal belongings.

• Use Public Transport: Leverage BRT buses or shared rides to save on transportation costs.

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Here’s to free fun in Lagos

Lagos can be a lot, but with these 11 free one-day vacation spots in Lagos, you don’t need to travel far or spend a fortune to take a break.

Whether you’re drawn to art, nature, history, or a peaceful place to breathe, there's something for everyone. So, don’t wait for “someday.” Grab a backpack, call a friend, and head to one of these amazing free places to visit in Lagos.

Your next adventure might just be free. Lagos is expensive. But fun doesn’t always have to cost money.