City guides
15 Fun Things to Do in Ibadan, Nigeria
8 min read · RibbonsXP Team
Intro
Ibadan is the capital city of Oyo State, located in the southwestern part of Nigeria; it is the third-largest city by population in Nigeria, and is sometimes called the "City of Brown Roofs". This destination offers a unique combination of cultures, adventures and attractions to explore during your vacation or stay — the kind that creates memories that last a lifetime. Whether you're looking for natural beauty, wildlife, or fascinating historical sites, Ibadan has something for everyone. From the ancient University of Ibadan Zoo to the suspended lakes, there's plenty to see and do in this thriving Nigerian metropolis. Here are 15 fun things to do in Ibadan.
1. Discover the beauty of Agodi Gardens
Agodi Gardens is a good place for relaxation and picnics, located in the city of Ibadan. It serves as a park and zoological garden, with lush surroundings, a mini zoo, and a swimming pool. Beyond the natural environment, you can play table tennis, ride a bicycle, ride a horse, go on a trampoline, play snooker and more — all at an extra cost. An entry fee is required to access Agodi Gardens, and each attraction within may come with other charges. Located at Secretariat Rd, Mokola Hill.
2. Visit the UI Zoo (University of Ibadan Zoo)
One of Nigeria's oldest tourist attractions, established in 1948, it continues to remain relevant despite its years. Particularly captivating for first-time visitors, this zoo houses diverse species of monkeys, birds and reptiles like snakes and crocodiles. It also houses mammals including gorillas, horses, camels, hyenas, warthogs, foxes and giraffes.
3. Explore the historical Cocoa House
The Cocoa House was completed in 1965 and holds the record of the first skyscraper in West Africa. It's managed by Wemabod Estates Limited, a subsidiary of the O'dua Group of Companies, and was built with proceeds from agricultural commodities like cocoa, rubber and cotton. The house comprises 26 storeys at a height of 105 metres. In 1985 the building was gutted by fire from an electrical fault, but it has since been renovated and is open for commercial use. Located in Dugbe, Ibadan, Oyo State.
4. Visit the JT Art Gallery
For those passionate about art, a visit to the JT Art Gallery is a must. It has a diverse collection of art by different artists, celebrating Nigeria's talent and showcasing traditional arts and crafts, and organises art meet-and-greets and other hangouts for art enthusiasts. It's free, and located at Palms Shopping Mall, Ring Road, Ibadan.
5. Visit the Ado-Awaye Mountains and suspended lake
This suspended lake is considered to be Africa's only, and the world's second, suspended lake. It's located at Ado-Awaye town, about a 20-minute drive from Iseyin in Oyo State. The view from the top of the Ado-Awaye mountains is breathtaking, and the area reflects several historical and cultural stories beyond the lake itself.
6. Go dance salsa at Arnheim for free
Embrace the rhythm with free salsa sessions every Tuesday at 6pm in Arnheim. Join fellow enthusiasts for an unforgettable evening of movement and connection, at no cost — and sit and relax at the restaurant and bar afterward for some fresh palm wine. Located at 16 Kudeti Avenue, Jericho, Ibadan.
7. Visit Bower's Tower
Built in the 1930s in honour of Captain Robert Bower, this tower served as a watchtower during colonisation, enabling guards to observe the city. From the top, you can see the four corners of the Ibadan metropolis. Located at Oke-Are Road, Ibadan.
8. Take a trip to Mapo Hall
Built by the colonial administration and commissioned in 1929 by Captain Ross, Mapo Hall sits on Mapo Hill and is visible from different parts of the city. It underwent renovation in 2006 and was recommissioned in 2007 by former president Olusegun Obasanjo. It now serves as a venue for political and social events, and houses a small museum.
9. Visit Trans Amusement Park
Also known as "Trans Wonderland", this amusement park offers rides including an electronic bumper car, roller lock, panoramic wheels, carousel, fancy basket circle and dragon boat. It's earned the nickname "Nigeria's Disney World" and covers 67 acres, with events regularly planned to match its welcoming atmosphere.
10. Enjoy local cuisine at an Amala joint
A visit to Ibadan isn't complete without trying Amala — as some locals say, "Ibadan Amala went to school at Harvard". Made with yam, plantain or cassava flour, it's served with soups like Ewedu, Egusi, Efo Riro, Ogbono and Okro. You'll have stories to tell after tasting it.
11. Take a trip to IITA Forest Reserve
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) was established in 1967. Its forest reserve covers 360 hectares within the 1,000-hectare IITA property and houses an on-site hotel plus recreational amenities including a football pitch, a 9-hole golf course, a swimming pool and a lawn tennis court.
12. Visit the Ibadan National Museum
Showcasing Nigeria's rich cultural legacy, the museum holds a striking collection of artifacts across four galleries: the unity gallery, the masquerade gallery, the pottery gallery, and the Yoruba exhibition. It receives around 13,000 visitors a year.
13. Visit the University of Ibadan
Founded in 1948, this is the oldest degree-awarding institution in Nigeria, and has produced many notable figures. Take a walk around campus and explore the botanical garden and the halls of residence.
14. Play arcade games at Ace Mall
A thrilling experience that transports you back to childhood — enjoy the cheerful sounds and electric atmosphere that captivate both young and old.
15. Visit NTA (WNTV) Ibadan
Founded in 1959 as Africa's first television station, spearheaded by Obafemi Awolowo, it was originally named Western Nigeria Television and now operates as the Nigeria Television Authority. The original structures and old communication equipment remain on-site, alongside a small museum of historical artifacts.