Lagos is a bustling metropolis filled with over 20 million residents. As the economic hub of Nigeria, it’s a city that never sleeps. While Lagos has plenty of attractions and things to do, sometimes you just want to spend time alone and enjoy your own company.
Although hanging out solo may seem intimidating, Lagos has many great spots where you can relax and unwind by yourself.
We’ll explore some of the top places in Lagos for hanging out alone. Whether you’re a resident looking to rediscover the city or a visitor seeking some alone time, these spots offer the perfect balance of good vibes, activities, and space to just be.
Lagos’ vibrant culture and diverse neighborhoods provide the ideal backdrop for solo hangouts. You’ll find spots tailored for reading, writing, grabbing a bite, sipping coffee, or just sitting back and observing the controlled chaos that is Lagos.
From lush gardens and parks to bustling markets and cafes, there are options suitable for every mood and interest. Spending time by yourself can be rejuvenating. It gives you a chance to reflect, people-watch, and simply be present without having to entertain others.
Below is a compiled list of the best places to hang out alone in the bustling city of Lagos.
Where Can I Hang Out Alone in Lagos?
10 Best Places To Hang Out Alone In Lagos
1. Freedom Park
Freedom Park on Lagos Island is one of my favorite places to spend a few hours alone, people-watching, admiring nature, and absorbing the laid-back vibe. This memorial park and arts center sits on the grounds of a former colonial prison and has been transformed into a hub for arts, culture, and relaxation.
Lush green lawns, towering palm trees, and tranquil garden spaces provide plenty of spots to sit and read or just observe daily life passing by. On any given day, you’ll see locals playing instruments, dancing, playing games, or just hanging out in the shade. The energy is contagious. Grab a chilled drink or snack from one of the outdoor food stalls then find a quiet bench under a shady tree to relax.
Don’t miss taking a peaceful stroll through the photos and sculptures along the Walk of Freedom chronicling Nigeria’s history. With so much natural beauty and cultural attractions, you’ll want to spend a few hours at Freedom Park to recharge.
2. Terra Kulture
For a dose of arts and culture on Victoria Island, Terra Kulture is one of my favorite places to hang out alone. This culture center is dedicated to promoting and preserving all aspects of African arts. Spend an afternoon browsing the four-story complex housing a contemporary art gallery, Theatre Terra, Terra Lounge, and Chocolat Royal.
Find handmade African arts, crafts, and fashion at the Terra Kulture store. Catch a play, musical performance, or comedy show at Theatre Terra. On Thursdays, I love attending their open mic night to see up-and-coming artists and spoken word poets share their talents.
The vibrant paintings and sculptures at the in-house gallery provide plenty of visual inspiration. Or just relax on the open veranda overlooking the courtyard with tea, coffee, or wine. However you spend your time at Terra Kulture, you’ll leave feeling immersed in the best of African arts and culture.
3. Tarkwa Bay
For a relaxing beach getaway right in Lagos, Tarkwa Bay is one of my favorite solo retreats. Located on a small island only accessible by boat, Tarkwa Bay feels far removed from the hectic pace of Lagos. Once you arrive, stroll along the nearly empty stretches of beach and find a quiet spot to settle in.
Dip your toes in the gentle waves rolling ashore or stroll along picking up seashells and enjoying the tranquility. The laid-back cafes and beach bars are great spots to sit with a book, journal, or sketchpad to capture the island vibes. I like to bring a yoga mat and find a peaceful patch of sand for some stretches and meditation.
Hammocks tied between palm trees provide another blissful place to sway gently and clear your mind. With few crowds and golden sand meeting blue-green waters, Tarkwa Bay offers the perfect solo island escape.
4. Freedom Park Market
Located next to Freedom Park, Freedom Park Market is one of Lagos’ most eclectic spots to explore on your own. This outdoor market contains a maze of stalls selling handmade crafts, antiques, fabrics, art, jewelry, and more. Take your time wandering through the market, chatting with artisans, and browsing their wares.
Sample street food like suya, the spicy skewered meat, or puff puff, fried dough balls. On Sundays, arrive early to catch families singing hymns together before church. Enjoy live musical performances and cultural dances on the main stage.
With so many sights, sounds, smells, and tastes to experience, people-watching is part of the fun at Freedom Park Market. The welcoming vendors will share stories about their work and traditions as you find special handmade souvenirs.
5. Eko Atlantic City
To catch a glimpse of Lagos’ future, visit the emerging planned city of Eko Atlantic City. This new coastal development on reclaimed land along the Atlantic Ocean aims to be an ultramodern financial hub. The city is still very much under construction, but it offers some peaceful spots to enjoy alone.
Take a quiet contemplative stroll on the nearly empty stretch of beach overlooking the ocean. Watch local families play in the brand-new park spaces with scenic views. Ponder the magnitude of this ambitious project as you view the clusters of half-built skyscrapers.
Stop for a cool drink at one of the modern cafes overlooking the ocean. With limited crowds, Eko Atlantic City makes for an intriguing spot to take solo strolls as you witness this coastal area transform before your eyes.
6. Nike Art Gallery
As an art lover, I can spend countless alone hours absorbing the immense collection at the Nike Art Gallery in Lekki. Set aside a whole afternoon to explore this four-story building showcasing a wealth of contemporary Nigerian art. Enter the tranquil lobby adorned with intricate metalwork sculptures.
Then start wandering through the multiple floors, vast rooms, and rotating exhibits displaying thousands of paintings, sculptures, photographs, and more. Some of my favorite artists exhibited include David Dale, Bruce Onobrakpeya, Susanne Wenger, and Twins Seven-Seven.
Don’t miss their souvenir shop called Nike Center for Art and Culture brimming with handmade crafts, jewelry, books, music, and art. With seating scattered throughout to pause and admire pieces, Nike Art Gallery is a haven for art lovers and solo contemplation.
7. Lekki Conservation Centre
Trade the bustling city for a nature escape at Lekki Conservation Centre. Located just 40 minutes from Victoria Island, this sanctuary of natural habitats, gardens, and trails transports you far from the urban rush.
Stroll for hours along the wooden canopy walkway hovering above the vibrant wetlands, watching birds, monkeys, and other wildlife go about their day. Sign up for a guided nature walk to learn about the native plants and the efforts to protect endangered mangrove ecosystems.
Or explore miles of untouched trails through lush palm forests and grasslands on your own. Pedal along dirt tracks on a bicycle rented onsite, breathing in the fresh air. With so much natural serenity, you’ll feel worlds away yet close to the city.
Also, read: Where can I go with my friends in Lagos?
8. Ikoyi/Lekki Link Bridge
For expansive views of Lagos, take a peaceful stroll along the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge. This 1.4-kilometer pedestrian path follows the curves of the cable bridge connecting Ikoyi and Lekki over the Lagos Lagoon.
Walk, jog, or bike across the bridge in the early morning to watch the sunrise over the water. In the evening, the bridge path delivers stunning golden-hour scenes of the Lagos cityscape lit up with gleaming skyscrapers. Pause along the way on one of the benches to gaze out over the lagoon waters rippling in the breeze below.
Put on your headphones and get lost in your thoughts as you traverse high above the boats cruising across the lagoon. The bridge walkway draws plenty of locals too, making it a prime spot for people to watch.
9. Kalakuta Museum
Discover the life and music of Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti during a solo trip to the Kalakuta Museum. Located in Ikeja, this museum contains Fela’s former home and recording studio, now preserved as a memorial.
Take a guided tour of the multi-story compound and see artifacts like Fela’s shoes, underwear, and album covers on display. Pay tribute at the tomb where Fela was buried. Listen to recordings of his searing political commentary and revolutionary music. Stand in the underground studio where he rehearsed and composed countless classics.
Admire colorful murals, paintings, and sculptures inspired by his fight for justice. Immersing yourself in Fela Kuti’s world at the Kalakuta Museum is a powerful experience for music lovers.
10. Omenka Gallery
End your alone time on a creative note at Omenka Gallery in Ikoyi. This contemporary art gallery cultivates cutting-edge African artists and compelling exhibitions across photography, sculpture, mixed media, and more.
Spend quiet time absorbing provocative pieces that encourage introspection about identity, social issues, and humanity. Explore three floors of galleries thoughtfully curated to engage the mind and senses. Reflect on your favorite works over a steaming cup of tea at their tranquil cafe.
Chat with the knowledgeable staff about the artists’ inspiration and vision. Omenka Gallery’s meditative atmosphere helps replenish your inner well after a day of solo wandering.
Conclusion
From beaches and parks to galleries and concert halls, Lagos is full of rewarding spots to hang out alone. Wherever you choose, you’re sure to discover new places that appeal to your introverted spirit. Pack light, wear comfy shoes, and don’t skimp on sunscreen and bug spray. Have your fully charged phone, headphones, and a good book or journal on hand to capture reflections.
Stay open to unexpected delights and conversations with locals eager to share what they love about the city. Wander down side streets to uncover hidden gems. Savor the quieter moments to replenish your soul. With so many incredible options, Lagos offers endless inspiration for memorable solo adventures. Just grab your sense of curiosity, and let this dynamic city rejuvenate your heart and mind.
