Best Things to do when visiting Accra

Accra, the capital and cosmopolitan city of Ghana, offers something for all its visitors. Whether you are arts, history and culture buff, a foodie, a music aficionado, a party animal or a sports fan – the beautiful city offers ample opportunities to relish its local cuisines and indulge in various activities that you have always wanted whenever visiting Accra. Foreign visitors have been visiting Accra since the 17th century. When you visit the city you will be amazed to find a distinctive blend of foreign and local influences permeating everything that might be happening in Accra. If you are visiting Accra to spend your vacations, here are some of the best things to do and have a memorable time here.

Visit Historical Sites
If you are a history buff, Accra is undoubtedly the best city to visit in the country to experience the rich political history of Ghana. Downtown Accra has been a witness to many significant events that took place during Ghana’s struggle for independence. The history of this important country in Africa can be retraced after visiting the Kwame Nkumah mausoleum and the National Museum. Both the places offer a fascinating glimpse into the nation’s history.

Explore Ghana’s Artistic Legacy
Accra is surely the best place in Ghana to experience the originality and creativity of the country’s performing artists. The Alliance Francaise d’Accra is an important venue to see performing arts. Many live music shows featuring alternative artists are held here throughout the year. Here you can also witness art displays and film shows showcasing the works of prominent Francophone and Ghanaian filmmakers and artists. Apart from this, the National Theater is yet another venue in Accra to enjoy dramas by renowned Ghanaian playwrights.
 
Enjoy Ghana’s fascinating culture
If you are interested in knowing the lifestyle and culture of the local Ghanaians, consider visiting the Centre for Arts and Culture in Accra. This central outdoor marketplace for handicrafts is also popularly called the Arts Center. The beautiful paintings, hand woven Kente cloth, jewelry and exquisite carvings are ready to fascinate you endlessly. You can also purchase these items. Spend some time here and learn about the skilled artisans present here, and know about the varied works and techniques. If you have ordered customized items, you can see these being made right before your eyes while you get entertained by the cultural troupes drumming and giving dance performances.

Relish local, authentic Ghanaian cuisines
Ghana is great for foodies. Varied culinary options are available here. You can discover many excellent international restaurants in Accra catering to all tastes. The African restaurants are however quite exceptional. Enjoy authentic West African cuisines at some of these African restaurants. Buka in Osu is the best place to enjoy delectable Ghanaian, Nigerian, Senegalese, Togolese and Ivorian cuisines. This fantastic and beautifully decorated restaurant provides outdoor as well as indoor seating options. You can enjoy lunch and dinner at Buka, which is open from 12 pm to 10 pm from Monday to Saturday. On Sundays, the Buka restaurant however closes early by 6 pm.

Accra for Sports buff
Accra is the best city in Ghana to enjoy football and polo. The city is greatly welcoming to sports fans. Visit the multipurpose Ohene Djan Sports Stadium to know about the vibrant football history in the country. Accra has also been home to some international football stars such as Abedi Pele and Michael Essien. The stadium is also home to Ghana’s national team. The Polo Club of Accra, which was established in 1902, is also a must visit place for Polo enthusiasts.