Ikeja with Kids: Family-Friendly Things to Do

A practical guide to keeping children entertained in Ikeja, with realistic travel times from Lekki and honest advice on what to skip.

Parks and green spaces

Johnson Jakande Tinubu Park, opposite the Lagos State Secretariat in Alausa, is the most central option: free to enter, with shaded benches, a small playground and paved paths wide enough for strollers. It is busiest at weekends and on public holidays, so aim for a weekday morning. Security is visible and the lawns are kept, though food and drink stalls are limited, so bring water. Combine it with a look at the nearby government buildings if your children are old enough to find civic architecture interesting. The park closes in the early evening, so plan to leave before dusk.

For something greener, the Lagos State National Park at Omu lies about an hour’s drive north of Ikeja on the Ikorodu road, but it is not a casual outing with young children. Within Ikeja itself, the grounds of the Lagos State Secretariat and the Alausa area have open lawns that are sometimes used for public events. The Ndubuisi Kanu Park on Agidingbi Road is smaller but well kept, with a playing field and exercise equipment. Both are free and make a decent hour’s stop, but neither offers organised activities, so bring a ball or a kite to keep children occupied.

Museums and learning

The National Museum in Onikan is the main museum in Lagos, but from Ikeja it is a long drive south through traffic, often over an hour. For a closer option, the Kalakuta Museum on Allen Avenue is a small house museum dedicated to Fela Kuti. It is compact and may not hold young children’s attention for long, but teenagers interested in music might find it worthwhile. The museum is open during weekday hours, and entry fees are modest. The surrounding streets are busy with traffic and street traders, so keep younger children close. It is best visited as part of a broader look at Ikeja’s music history.

The Lagos State Records and Archives Bureau in Magodo is not a family destination. More suitable is the Ikeja City Mall on Alausa, which has a cinema and a small play area. The cinema shows family films, and the play area is suitable for children under ten, though it can get crowded at weekends. The mall is clean and secure, with a food court, but the play area is basic. Consider it a rainy-day backup rather than a main attraction. Entry to the play area is charged by the hour, so check current rates before promising it to your children.

Markets and shopping

Computer Village in Opebi is a sprawling electronics market, not a typical family attraction, but older children interested in technology might enjoy a guided walk through. It is crowded and noisy, with narrow aisles, so avoid bringing a stroller. Prices are negotiable, but goods vary in quality. Keep a close eye on your belongings and avoid peak hours, especially Saturday mornings. It is not a place for young children or anyone uncomfortable with crowds. If you go, set a clear meeting point and a time limit. The market is a short drive from most Ikeja hotels, but parking is difficult.

The Ikeja City Mall offers a more comfortable shopping experience with a supermarket and clothing stores. For a taste of local commerce, the Oshodi Market is too chaotic for a family outing. Instead, try the Sunday market at the Lagos State Secretariat, which sells crafts and food. It is smaller and calmer. The Lekki neighbourhood where you are staying has its own markets and malls, such as the Lekki Arts and Crafts Market, which are easier to reach. If you are based in Lekki, you may find that Ikeja’s shopping does not justify the drive unless you are combining it with another activity.

Practical tips for visiting from Lekki

The drive from Lekki to Ikeja is significant. Without traffic, it takes about forty-five minutes via the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge and the Third Mainland Bridge, but during rush hour it can take over two hours. Aim to travel outside peak hours: mid-morning after 10am or early afternoon before 3pm. Consider staying overnight in Ikeja to avoid the return journey in the evening. Several hotels are located near the airport and Alausa, with rates starting around 25,000 naira for a basic double room. Booking a hotel in Ikeja for one night can make the trip more relaxed if you plan to visit multiple attractions.

When visiting with children, carry water and snacks, as options near parks and museums are limited. Use a car with air conditioning, and keep hand sanitizer and wipes handy. The dry season from November to March is the best time to visit outdoor spots, as the rains from June to September can be heavy. Public transport is not recommended for families; use a ride-hailing app or a pre-arranged car. If you are staying in Lekki, plan your day carefully to avoid the worst traffic, and consider a hotel in Ikeja if you want to explore the area without the long commute.

Questions, answered

How long does it take to get from Lekki to Ikeja?

The drive typically takes 45 minutes without traffic, but can exceed two hours during rush hour. Avoid travelling between 7–10am and 4–8pm to reduce journey time.

What are the best outdoor activities for kids in Ikeja?

Johnson Jakande Tinubu Park in Alausa is free and has a playground. Ndubuisi Kanu Park is smaller but well kept. Both are best visited in the dry season (November–March).

Should we stay in Ikeja instead of Lekki?

If you plan multiple days in Ikeja, staying overnight near Alausa or the airport can save hours of commuting. Hotels start around 25,000 naira per night. For a day trip, start early to avoid traffic.

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