Fun Places to Visit in Abuja

Originally published July 11, 2021

Remember: All views and opinions expressed here are my own personal views and do not express the official views or opinions of the U.S. government. This is not an official resource. This is just a personal perspective and not everyone may agree.

The National Stadium

We finally visited the National Stadium this morning for an early workout. Although desolate, the stadium offers a chance to run on the inside track, walk up and down stairs (who needs a stair stepper), or play soccer on the green fields outside. We thought it had a great atmosphere with friendly guards, bright colors, and open space and it could be a fun spot to play with children.

The Hilton

The Hilton is also a lot of fun. It's the largest and most modern hotel around and is right in the middle of Maitama. Inside are several shops, restaurants, and a cafe, and it's always bustling and full of people. The pool costs a small fee, but is a fun place to hangout for a day if you want to switch things up and enjoy the pool without all of your neighbors :) With a little exploring and sign-following, around the pool in a hidden area is an entire arts and crafts market. You can find four or five huts filled with woven baskets, wood figurines, jewelry, and more. Word of mouth says the goods are more expensive than Mama Africa (the largest crafts market in Abuja), but I've haggled for similar prices. Sometimes it's nice to include this walk while you are already at the Hilton.

The Hilton also hosts theatre and ballet! We saw Les Misérables. The hotel opened up the courtyard to complimentary wine and hors d'oeuvres so we sat out there and enjoyed the most delicious chicken suya kabobs we've had to date. The performance and Nigerian talent were incredible.

Momma Africa Arts & Crafts Market

I can't leave out Mama Africa. It's the main place to shop for African goods and a good place to visit to help warm up your living space while waiting for UAB and HHE shipments. Think baskets, woven items, purses, bright textiles, hand-carved wooden figurines, and painted art. It is slightly overwhelming as it is dozens of shop huts lined up in rows next to each other. Don't go alone as you can easily get lost in the crowds of people. Better yet, bring a Nigerian with you to do the negotiating if you want the best price ;)