THE IBADAN TRAVEL GUIDE | Top Places to Not Miss When Visiting Ibadan

Hi there!

I know you are most likely expecting a continuation of my color posts but we continue later.

I started this blog with a series of posts on my exploration of the brown roof town; Ibadan. It’s no surprise that I’ve been getting a lot of people making enquiries from me on places to visit when in Ibadan which is why I decided to write this post so you have something to refer to when visiting Ibadan.

I must say Ibadan is a very beautiful place to be, peaceful and fun especially if you are a lover of antiques, art and architecture. Here is a list for you

1. Topfat art gallery

If you are a lover of art or you are looking for a place to buy artworks; paintings or sculptures, then you shouldn’t miss Topfat art gallery if you are in Ibadan. The gallery is located in dugbe in front of the stadium and close to the road and it is easily accessible. I wrote about my visit to the gallery here.

2. Mapo hall

Mapo hall, a neoclassical architecture located on the Mapo hill in Ibadan. It is a result of early British influence in the administration of Ibadan as a part of the Oyo empire. It is located on the Mapo hill close to the old Alaafin of Oyo palace. Mapo hall in its days used to be a place where top people in Oyo met to discuss the affairs of the town. It also housed prison cells where tax evaders were kept in the 80s and early 90s.

The hall is now being used for conferences and has a mini-museum where relics are stored. If you are visiting Ibadan, you should definitely add this beautiful house of history and piece of architecture to your list

3. Ibadan cultural center

If you are a fan of beautiful architecture, then you shouldn’t miss the cultural center but you must book an appointment before going if you intend to take professional pictures of the building. I wrote about my visit here.

4. Amala Skye

Ibadan and Amala are like 5 and 6. Would you even be able to say you visited Ibadan if you haven’t had Amala? I think not! There are several Amala joints in Ibadan and Amala Skye is no doubt one of the best. I used to be of the opinion it was overrated until I tasted the Amala and I must say it definitely is worth the hype. The pricing is also very reasonable and affordable. With 500naira, you can have two wraps of Amala, two pieces of beef and a bottle of water. Prices vary according to your preferences and choice of protein.

5. Bowers tower

Bowers tower is a historical site and. It’s a beautiful sight from the top of the tower where you can view the city of brown roofs. You can also see the Mapo hall from the top of the tower but you must be very careful when going up the tower as it is very dark and you do not want to miss your steps of drop your phone.

source: local guides connect

6. IITA

I wrote about my disappointments when visiting the IITA for the first time. You can read it here trust me it’s very interesting. The IITA forest is a very nice place for a weekend getaway, picnic or you just need a vacation away from home and close to nature. You need to book an appointment on the website before time. I would also advice you go with a group of people you vibe with to enhance the fun and there is provision for accommodation there. You should not miss IITA if you are coming to Ibadan.

source: IITA website

7. University of Ibadan zoo

I always find it funny that the UI zoo is the only place most people know in Ibadan. Well it is worth the hype as it was recently renovated and filled with more animals. I remember how excited I used to be as a child to visit the Zoo. I wonder why anyone will come to Ibadan and not visit the zoo like why? So many animals in the zoo ranging from the lion, giraffe, snake, monkeys, birds and other animals.

8. Agodi gardens

From the vast green space for picnics to the restaurants, suya stands, pool area, zoo and a not so long walk in the woods, Agodi gardens is one of my favorite places to visit in Ibadan. Mostly because of the walk in the woods but it’s a pretty lovely place for a hangout with a group of friends.

9. National museum of unity

I wrote about my visit here. Please click and read. Totally recommend!

10. Ado Awaye suspended lakes

Oh! The most frequently sought after post on my blog. You should read here in case you missed it and I also did a google form where I asked some questions here. Please fill and who knows, I might be planning something fun for us before the year runs out!

11. Trans amusement park

This right here is the summary of my childhood growing up in Ibadan. I remember going to trans every ‘Eid with family, friends and family-friends. It used to be so fun and something all the children looked forward to. The picnics with unlimited food, horse rides train rides, roller coaster amongst other swings. It was so filled with activities. To my surprise, I entered the park again recently after so many years and to say I was sad would be an understatement! The place is being poorly managed. All the swings spoilt, broken and abandoned. I’m sure you are wondering why I added it to the list even with all these I said. Well it’s because trans amusement park is still a very lovely picnic spot with very lovely picture locations. My fave is the undisturbed part behind the toy rail way; far away from distractions and close to nature.

source: ibpulse.com

source: ibpulse.com

I guess this wraps u my series of posts on Ibadan but before rounding up completely, do you want me to do another post solely on great picture locations in Ibadan mostly for photographers, bloggers and the likes? If yes let me know in the comments!

Can you guess the state I will be touring next?

See you next Wednesday!

Love,

Naimah bint Lukman

The Fashion Architect