National Museum, Onikan, Lagos - Image 1
1 / 10

National Museum Lagos

3.9
·1k reviews·Lagos, Nigeria

Discover Nigeria's rich past at the National Museum Lagos, showcasing art, history, and cultural artifacts. A journey through time.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Loading map...
National Museum, Onikan, Lagos - Image 1

National Museum Lagos

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, better photos

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Nigeria's rich past at the National Museum Lagos, showcasing art, history, and cultural artifacts. A journey through time.

3.9
(1k reviews)

"A beautiful and serene place that allowed me to walk down the memory/historical lane of Nigeria."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Budget-Friendly Entry

Entry is around 1000-1500 NGN. Consider skipping a guide if you know Nigerian history! :moneybag:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a fair bit of walking through the galleries, so wear comfy shoes. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Assassination Car

The Assassination Car

Gallery

See the actual car where General Murtala Muhammad was tragically assassinated, a poignant piece of Nigerian political history.

Tribal History Galleries

Tribal History Galleries

Indoor Galleries

Explore the rich history and diverse cultures of Nigeria's various tribes through well-preserved artifacts and exhibits.

Pre-Colonial Artifacts

Pre-Colonial Artifacts

Gallery

Journey back in time with ancient relics and treasured artifacts that offer a glimpse into Nigeria's pre-colonial era.

Children's Playground

Children's Playground

Outdoor Area

A fun and safe space for kids to play, making the museum visit enjoyable for the whole family.

TikTok
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for a Smoother Visit

To avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience, aim for weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends and holidays can get busy, so arriving early is your best bet for a less crowded exploration of Nigerian history and culture. TikTok

Budget-Friendly Exploration

The National Museum Lagos offers an affordable way to immerse yourself in Nigerian heritage. With entry fees around 1,000-1,500 NGN for citizens and foreigners respectively, it's a great value. Consider skipping a tour guide if you're familiar with Nigerian history, as many exhibits are self-explanatory. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better photos
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (Weekdays)
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends (Early)
Why
Beat the rush
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#foryou #fyp #nationalmuseum #handprint
@reyahng
2.2M likes • 22.1M views

🎯 Budget-Friendly Entry

Entry is around 1000-1500 NGN. Consider skipping a guide if you know Nigerian history! InstagramReddit :moneybag:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a fair bit of walking through the galleries, so wear comfy shoes. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Did you know the National Museum is here in Lagos? This museum houses what you need to know about the Nigerian Culture/History. There's also a playground for kids within the premises. Entry fee for citizens 1000NGN for Foreigners 1500 NGN 📍 National Museum ONIKAN, Lagos. Will you be visiting the National Museum? #explore #explorelagos #lagosnigeria #nigeria #nationalmuseum #nigerianmuseum #museumi...
@theafricanvo
59K likes • 1.1M views
A sign for you to visit the National Museum at Onikan, Lagos to learn more about the history of Nigeria and its people. Perfect for children and adults. #onikanmuseum #nationalmusuemonikanlagos
ikejarecord
28 likes • 1.2K views

📸 Capture the History

Bring your phone or camera to snap photos of the fascinating exhibits and historical items. TikTokInstagram :iphone:

⏳ Allow 1.5-2 Hours

Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the galleries and take pictures. Reddit :stopwatch:

Asides from reading about history, do you know that you will be better informed when you see the ancient items physically. History lovers, have you visited the National Museum at Onikan Lagos? 🎥 @theafricanvo #nationalmuseum #museuminlagos #softnigeria #softlifenaija #trending #exploremore #lagos #viral
softnigeria
373 likes • 12.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Budget-Friendly Entry

Entry is around 1000-1500 NGN. Consider skipping a guide if you know Nigerian history! InstagramReddit :moneybag:

👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended

You'll be doing a fair bit of walking through the galleries, so wear comfy shoes. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the History

Bring your phone or camera to snap photos of the fascinating exhibits and historical items. TikTokInstagram :iphone:

⏳ Allow 1.5-2 Hours

Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the galleries and take pictures. Reddit :stopwatch:

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Fun Zone

There's a playground for kids, making it a great outing for families. TikTok :child:

What Travellers Say

3.9
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find the National Museum Lagos to be a valuable place for learning about Nigerian history and culture, with well-preserved relics and artifacts. While some note areas for improvement in maintenance and historical completeness, it's generally considered a worthwhile and affordable experience for families and history enthusiasts alike. InstagramReddit

"I went there years ago as a teenager and decided to revisit this place as an adult. It was still quite the same.
Well preserved old relics, and lots of history there.
We paid N1,500 for entrance and we didn’t use a tour guide. There was no need and most of the relics were self explanatory especially as native Nigerians who knew a little about history.
You will be done with the tour in 2 hours or so if you’re snapping pics and making videos.
It was a fun experience."

Clare Egwuatu

"1. I wonder what happened to all the pictures of the old Lagos.
2. Many pictorial gaps in the pre-colonial and national history.
3. I will suggest the display of old currencies and a write-up on the persons in the current ones showing why they were considered worthy of being placed on National currency."

Wily Kay

"This place hold a unique historical view and explanations to many Nigeria events.
It worth exploring for learning purposes and time with family and friends.
Safe for kids too
I really had fun here after the whole touring"

Ekele Christopher

What People Like

Rich historical exhibits
Affordable entry fee
Family-friendly playground

What People Dislike

Maintenance could improve
Some historical gaps

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The National Museum Lagos is located at Onikan, Lagos Island. You can reach it by taxi, ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt, or local buses. It's a well-known landmark, so most drivers will know the way. TikTokInstagram

While specific parking details can vary, there is generally space available for visitors. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a spot. Instagram

Yes, various local bus routes pass through or near Onikan. However, for convenience and safety, ride-sharing services are often preferred by visitors. Instagram

Using navigation apps on your phone is highly recommended. Ride-sharing apps are very popular and reliable for getting around Lagos. Instagram

Information on accessibility for visitors with mobility issues is limited. It's best to contact the museum directly for specific details regarding ramps or elevators. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee is typically around 1,000 NGN for Nigerian citizens and 1,500 NGN for foreigners. Prices can sometimes vary, so it's good to check upon arrival. TikTokInstagram

Yes, you can purchase tickets in person at the museum's entrance. It's recommended to buy them upon arrival. Reddit

Information on specific discounts for students or children is not widely advertised. It's best to inquire at the ticket counter for any available concessions. TikTok

The museum is generally open from Monday to Saturday, typically from 9 AM to 5 PM. However, hours can change, so it's wise to confirm before your visit. Instagram

Advance booking is usually not required for general entry. Tickets can be purchased on the day of your visit. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

You can explore exhibits on Nigerian art, history, and culture, including tribal artifacts, historical relics, and the car in which General Murtala Muhammad was assassinated. TikTokInstagram+2

Most visitors spend about 1.5 to 2 hours exploring the museum, depending on their pace and interest in the exhibits. Reddit

While tour guides are available, many visitors find the exhibits self-explanatory, especially if they have some background knowledge of Nigerian history. Reddit

The museum primarily focuses on static displays of artifacts and historical items. While informative, they are not typically interactive in a modern sense. Instagram

Some reviews suggest that while the artifacts are well-preserved, the overall maintenance of the location could be improved. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Currently, there are no significant dining facilities or cafes reported within the museum premises. Visitors may need to dine outside the museum. Instagram

The museum is located in a central area of Lagos Island, with various restaurants and eateries nearby offering diverse culinary experiences. Instagram

It's generally advisable to check the museum's policy on outside food and drinks. However, it's common for such institutions to discourage eating within exhibition areas. Instagram

Yes, you can find local eateries and street food vendors in the vicinity offering affordable Nigerian cuisine. Instagram

The surrounding area offers a mix of traditional Nigerian dishes, continental options, and fast food. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits. TikTokInstagram

While personal photography is usually permitted, professional photography or videography might require special permission. Avoid using flash in dimly lit galleries. Instagram

The architecture of the museum itself, the historical artifacts, and the assassination car are popular subjects for photos. The aerial shots also showcase the museum's grandeur. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in such public spaces. For aerial shots like those seen on social media, it's likely the museum administration or a professional videographer was involved. Instagram

The tribal artifacts and the historical relics, especially those from the pre-colonial era, offer unique photographic opportunities. The assassination car is also a significant visual point. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The National Museum Lagos is a fantastic choice for families. It offers a blend of education and fun, with historical exhibits that can spark curiosity in young minds and a dedicated children's playground for them to enjoy. TikTok The affordable entry fee makes it an accessible outing for everyone. Instagram

To make the most of your family visit, consider going on a weekday morning to avoid larger crowds. This will allow children to explore the galleries at their own pace without feeling rushed. The self-explanatory nature of many exhibits means you can tailor the learning experience to your children's age and interests. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the National Museum Lagos is an excellent option. With an entry fee of around 1,000-1,500 NGN, it's one of the most affordable cultural experiences in Lagos. TikTokInstagram You can save further by exploring the exhibits independently, as many visitors find the displays informative without the need for a paid guide. Reddit

Combine your museum visit with a packed lunch or explore local eateries nearby for affordable meals. The museum's location on Lagos Island also means you can easily access other budget-friendly attractions in the vicinity, making for a cost-effective day of exploration. Instagram

📚 History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find the National Museum Lagos a compelling destination. The museum provides a deep dive into Nigerian history, from the pre-colonial era to significant political events. You can spend hours examining tribal artifacts, historical relics, and learning about the nation's past. InstagramReddit

Pay special attention to the galleries detailing tribal histories and the poignant exhibit of General Murtala Muhammad's assassination car. While some visitors note gaps in certain historical periods, the existing collection offers a valuable perspective on Nigeria's complex and rich heritage. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Nigerian History and Culture

The National Museum Lagos is a treasure trove of Nigerian heritage, offering a comprehensive look at the nation's past. Visitors can delve into the rich tapestry of Nigerian culture through a diverse collection of historical exhibits and cultural artifacts. From ancient relics to more recent historical events, the museum provides a valuable educational experience for all ages. Instagram+1

The museum houses several galleries, each focusing on different aspects of Nigerian history. You'll find displays detailing the traditions, beliefs, and daily lives of various Nigerian tribes, offering insights into the country's diverse ethnic landscape. The pre-colonial era is well-represented, with artifacts that speak to the ingenuity and artistry of early Nigerian societies. Reddit

Beyond cultural displays, the museum also touches upon significant political moments. A particularly striking exhibit is the car in which General Murtala Muhammad was assassinated, a somber reminder of a pivotal event in Nigeria's political history. This blend of cultural and political history makes the National Museum Lagos a compelling destination for anyone seeking to understand Nigeria's journey. TikTokInstagram+1

Family-Friendly Visit to the Museum

The National Museum Lagos is a great outing for families, offering both educational and recreational opportunities. Beyond the historical exhibits, the museum features a children's playground, providing a space for younger visitors to have fun and expend energy. This makes it a well-rounded destination for a family day out. TikTok

While exploring the galleries, parents can use the exhibits as teaching moments, introducing their children to Nigerian history and culture in an engaging way. The self-explanatory nature of many displays means children can learn at their own pace. The relatively affordable entry fee also makes it an accessible option for families looking for budget-friendly activities. InstagramReddit

It's advisable to plan your visit during less crowded times, such as weekday mornings, to ensure a more comfortable experience for children. Bringing snacks and drinks might be necessary as on-site dining options are limited, but the presence of a playground ensures that even the youngest visitors will find something to enjoy. Instagram

Photography Opportunities at the Museum

For photography enthusiasts, the National Museum Lagos offers a unique backdrop for capturing Nigeria's rich heritage. The museum's architecture itself is quite striking, and many visitors enjoy photographing the historical artifacts and cultural exhibits. The car used in the assassination of General Murtala Muhammad is a particularly significant and often photographed item. TikTokInstagram+1

Social media content often showcases impressive aerial views of the museum, highlighting its grandeur and layout. While personal photography is generally permitted, it's wise to be mindful of any restrictions on flash usage, especially in dimly lit galleries, to protect the delicate artifacts. Instagram+1

When visiting, consider the lighting conditions in different galleries. Some areas might be darker, requiring a good camera or phone with low-light capabilities. Capturing the intricate details of the tribal art and pre-colonial relics can result in stunning photographs that tell a story of Nigeria's past. Instagram