Handy Tips For Exploring Accra
Start with a visit to Independence Square
This historic square is a symbol of Ghana’s freedom from colonial rule and a great place to learn about the country’s independence movement.
Explore the National Museum of Ghana
Learn about Ghana’s rich history and cultural heritage through a vast collection of artifacts, including archaeological findings and traditional art.
Stroll through Jamestown
Jamestown is one of Accra’s oldest districts, with a blend of colonial architecture and vibrant local culture. Climb to the top of the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the area.
Visit Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park
Pay homage to Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, at this impressive park and mausoleum dedicated to his legacy.
Experience the Arts at the W.E.B. Du Bois Centre
This museum and research center honors the life of African-American scholar W.E.B. Du Bois and celebrates Pan-Africanism.
Take a walk through Makola Market
Accra’s largest market is a chaotic but fascinating place to shop for everything from textiles to food. It’s also a great spot to experience local life.
Try Ghanaian street food
Sample local delicacies such as kelewele (spicy fried plantains), grilled tilapia, and jollof rice from street vendors across the city.
Relax at Labadi Beach
Accra’s popular beach is the perfect place to unwind, enjoy the ocean breeze, and watch local musicians and dancers perform.
Discover Osu Castle (Fort Christiansborg)
This colonial-era fort has a complicated history as both a seat of government and a site associated with the transatlantic slave trade.
Visit the Artists Alliance Gallery
This three-story gallery showcases both contemporary and traditional African art, including sculptures, paintings, and textiles.
Catch a performance at the National Theatre
For a taste of Ghanaian performing arts, check out a show at this strikingly modern building, where you can see everything from drama to dance.
Visit the Aburi Botanical Gardens
Located just outside Accra, these serene gardens offer a peaceful escape from the city and feature a variety of indigenous plants and trees.
Explore Oxford Street in Osu
This lively street is a hub for shopping, dining, and nightlife, with a mix of local and international restaurants, bars, and stores.
Learn at the Centre for National Culture (Arts Centre)
A great place to buy locally made crafts and souvenirs, the Arts Centre also offers workshops and cultural performances.
Discover Accra’s nightlife
From rooftop bars to lively nightclubs, Accra’s nightlife is energetic. Popular spots include Republic Bar & Grill and Carbon Nightclub.
Visit the Achimota Forest Reserve
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle with a visit to this natural forest park, which offers walking trails and a chance to spot wildlife.
Learn at the Nubuke Foundation
This cultural institution promotes Ghanaian art and culture through exhibitions, workshops, and performances, making it a must-visit for art lovers.
Experience the Ga Mashie Homowo Festival
If you’re in Accra during the Homowo Festival, join the Ga people in celebrating a successful harvest with traditional songs, dances, and feasts.
Go on a tour of Accra’s colonial architecture
Take a guided tour to learn about Accra’s colonial past through its architecture, with highlights including the Ussher Fort and the Presbyterian Church of Accra.
Visit Shai Hills Resource Reserve
A short drive from Accra, this reserve offers a chance to see wildlife, including baboons and antelope, and explore caves with ancient rock art.
A Day in Accra: Exploring Ghana's Vibrant Capital
Morning: Start with History and Culture
Waking up in Accra, the warm tropical air fills your lungs as you set out to explore the city. Start your day by visiting Independence Square, a symbolic location that captures Ghana’s journey to freedom. The vast square, featuring the iconic Black Star Gate, serves as a powerful reminder of the country’s independence and pride. It’s a peaceful place to reflect on Ghana’s history while soaking in the beauty of the surroundings.
Next, make your way to the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, which honors Ghana’s first president and leading figure in the Pan-African movement. The park, with its striking mausoleum and museum, provides a glimpse into Nkrumah’s life and the key role he played in shaping Ghana’s future. Stroll through the grounds, and take in the significance of this leader’s legacy.
Late Morning: Dive into Local Markets
As late morning approaches, the city starts to buzz with energy. Head to Makola Market, one of Accra’s largest and most vibrant marketplaces. Here, the colorful stalls are filled with traders selling everything from kente cloth to fresh produce. This is the perfect opportunity to experience the daily life of Ghanaians, sample local street food, and pick up some souvenirs. Be sure to try the famous spicy fried plantains known as kelewele, a local favorite.
Afternoon: Relax at the Beach
After the hustle and bustle of the market, it’s time to relax and unwind. A short drive takes you to Labadi Beach, one of Accra’s most popular coastal spots. The beach offers a lively yet laid-back atmosphere, where you can enjoy a cool ocean breeze and refreshing coconut water. Take a dip in the warm Atlantic waters, watch local drumming and dance performances, or simply soak up the sun while watching the waves crash against the shore.
Late Afternoon: Explore Accra’s Art Scene
As the day cools down, immerse yourself in Accra’s thriving art culture with a visit to the Artists Alliance Gallery. This three-story gallery showcases a variety of Ghanaian art, from contemporary pieces to traditional crafts. You’ll find everything from sculptures and paintings to handwoven textiles, offering a deep insight into Ghana’s rich artistic heritage. Whether you’re a collector or just curious, the gallery is a must-visit for anyone interested in Ghanaian creativity.
Evening: Savor Local Cuisine
As evening falls, wrap up your day with a taste of authentic Ghanaian cuisine. Head to a local restaurant where you can enjoy classic dishes like banku and tilapia or jollof rice. Ghanaian food is full of flavor, often featuring spicy, hearty stews served with various starches. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a refreshing glass of palm wine or a cold Star beer, a popular local brew.
Night: Unwind with Accra’s Nightlife
If you’re up for a bit of nightlife, the Osu District is the perfect place to explore. This lively area, often called “Oxford Street,” is lined with bars, lounges, and live music venues where you can catch local Afrobeat performances or simply enjoy a cocktail. Whether you prefer a laid-back rooftop bar or a vibrant dance floor, Osu offers a fun and energetic way to end your day in Accra.
Accra offers an exciting blend of history, culture, and modern life, and a day spent exploring its sights will give you a true taste of what makes Ghana’s capital so unique.
