Life in the ‘buj’ as it is fondly called by some of its residents can be sometimes very busy with all the work and hustle going on. However, the people who live there understand the concept of taking some time off to relax, and that is why there are a lot of fun spots and interesting places to visit in Abuja and cool off. Whether you live there or you are a visitor, you will be happy with our list of the best chill and fun hangout spots in Abuja, Nigeria.
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1. Millennium Park
This is one of the oldest and most beautiful parks in Abuja. If you are looking to enjoy the very best of nature and a serene atmosphere, then this place is for you. Some people call it the most romantic place in Abuja, where you and your partner can come and just enjoy the peace and tranquility in the park. It is a very big space that accommodates a lot of people on a daily basis especially during the weekends. If you are looking for the place to have a picnic with your family and loved ones, then this is the right place for you. Entrance into the park is free, so all you need is your mat or blanket, few things to munch on, and your phone or camera, oh yeah it is very picture worthy!
Address: Three Arms Zone, Abuja, Nigeria
2. The Trukadero Place
This is your one stop for bowling activities. So if you’re all about that life, this is the place for you. The best thing about this place is that it also has some other side attractions just in case you are just not into bowling. They have other games like snooker and board games; they also have an amusement park as well as a restaurant, it is left for you to choose whatever you feel up to.
Address: 130 Ademola Adetokunbo Cres, Wuse, Abuja, Nigeria
3. Blake Resort
Located at Mohammed Bello way, garki, Blake resort gives you the most fun and exciting outdoor experience that you won’t forget in a hurry. Situated in a very serene environment, this is the best part for your hangouts, picnics and all round relaxation with your friends and family-even your foes will love this place because of the tranquility that surrounds it.
Address: 1346 Ahmadu Bello Way, Garki, Abuja, Nigeria
4. Arts and Crafts Village
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The Abuja arts and crafts village is another place that experiences a large number of visitors and tourists. The representation of the diverse cultures, the artifacts, symbols, arts and the crafts makes it a very unique place to visit. The stores are in form of traditional huts with thatched roofs and wooden windows, showcasing the indigenous culture of the Nigerians. There are several artworks up for sale in the market, things like pottery, paintings, fabrics, local jewelries, leather works, etc. if you are a lover of African art and culture; this is one place you must visit during your stay in Abuja. The arts and crafts village is located in the central business district just behind silverbird galleria.
5. Jabi Lake Mall
In the absence of a beach in Abuja, the Jabi Lake Mall provides its inhabitants with that aquatic sort of experience. Named after its location, the lake is another place that is of great interest to visitors. Not only do you get to chill by the lakeside, there are also offers of a boat cruise, canoe rides as well as horse rides. Whether you want to sit by the lake or go into the mall, this place has got you covered.
6. BluCabana Lounge
The Blucabana lounge is one of the most beautiful and popular relaxation spots in Abuja. With a restaurant, a spa, gym, swimming pool and club, the lounge offers its multi-hospitality range of services in a very safe and secure location away from all the hustle of the city. It also has an indoor and outdoor kid’s playroom, so the little ones are not left out in all the fun. This super spot for every age group is a place for friends, family or even some me-time. It is located at mabushi district within the city.
Address: 1322 Shehu Yaradua Blvd, Mabushi, Abuja, Nigeria
7. Magic Land Abuja
Formerly known as Wonderland, Magic Land Abuja is an amusement park that is suitable for everybody. With its leisure gardens used for relaxation, rides and games for different ages, this is definitely a hotspot in Abuja. Among the younger generation, it is a highly sought after place, but it is definitely not restricted to them alone. This park is suitable for family outings and picnics. It is also very close to the national stadium, so it is pretty easy to locate.
Address: Constitution Ave, Wuse, Abuja, Nigeria
8. Thought Pyramid Art Centre
Founded in 2007 by Jeff Ajueshi, the Thought Pyramid Art Centre has slowly become one of Abuja’s favorite spot for art lovers. This place is notable for collecting, conserving and promoting modern and contemporary art of Africa. The gallery is located at 18, Libreville Street, wuse 2, Abuja. So whenever you pop into Abuja, make sure you schedule a tour round the gallery and appreciate the African culture.
Address: 18 Libreville Cres, Wuse, Abuja, Nigeria
9. Dunes Center
Picture a building that has a supermarket, luxury apartments, rental halls, an antique gift shop, several boutiques, a pastry shop and a world class restaurant, yes, this is what the Dunes Center is and more! This is one of the most reputed and luxurious shopping malls in Nigeria. Built in 2005, this social hub has been one of the greatest attractions and landmark for residents and visitors who come to Abuja. It is always very busy during vacations and festive seasons because of the number of people that go in and out. It is located at 44, aguiyi ironsi way, maitama, be sure to find your way there and enjoy the dunes experience.
Address: N44 Aguiyi Ironsi St, Maitama, Abuja, Nigeria
10. Waffle Stop
After its formal launch in 2017, the waffle stop café has crept in to the hearts of all sweet lovers within and outside Abuja. Known for their delicious American style waffles and pancakes, they have been able to climb up to one of the hotspots in Abuja. Located inside the dunes center, they get a lot of visitors daily, even celebrities. They have been able to develop themselves to the extent that everybody wants the waffle stop experience, you should too!
Address: 45 Gana St, Maitama, Abuja, Nigeria
11. Crush Cafe
Crush Cafe boasts great facilities on their grounds. The menu here includes breakfast, lunch and dinner and the meals are top notch. There are table tennis facilities, a volleyball court and an outside bar and grill area. The services here are top notch and a great place to stop by and chill.
Address: Bonny B Corner Shop, 1st Avenue, Gwarinpa, Abuja.
12. National Children’s Parks and Zoo
The National Parks and Zoo Abuja is not much of a zoo per say but visitors can find quite a few animals here like ostriches, crocodiles, rabbits, buffalo etc. The greenery and surrounding nature however is quite stunning, including a close view of Abuja’s Zuma Rock and its unbelievable that this place is quite unknown by most residents of the city. There are also some play facilities for kids and a lake cafe.
Address: Behind Presidential Villa, Asokoro.
13. The Dome
The Dome is a recreational hub which boasts a plethora of facilities such as The Francis Hotel, night club, a bowling alley, a beautiful and tranquil garden, gym, spa, restaurants, bakery, pizza and a list of others. Initially closed down some years back, The Dome was officially reopened in January 2018 and crowds were amazed at the top quality facilities that had been put in place and they have only been getting stronger since then. The Dome is what you would call “The Whole Package”.
Address: Plot 423 Adekunle Fajuyi Way, Central Business District
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