By Toochi Ejiofor
Edited by Bababunmi Agbebi
With schools closing for the academic session, the summer holidays are almost here. For many parents, that means finding fun and engaging ways to keep their children entertained while also spending quality time together.
This summer holiday doesn’t have to be boring. Plan an adventure with your family, visit new places, try new foods and explore new activities.
Here are some of the best places to visit with your family in Ikeja this summer:
- Gidi Up Horse Riding Academy
Gidi Up Horse Riding Academy offers one of the most unique outdoor experiences in Lagos, giving children and adults the chance to enjoy guided horse-riding sessions. The experience lasts 20 minutes and accommodates up to six people per session. Adult rides cost ₦28,000, while children’s rides cost ₦23,000. Bookings must be made at least one day in advance. For safety reasons, only children aged 5 to 12 are allowed to ride. Visitors can bring their own riding helmets or rent one at the venue.
They’re located at 65, Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, inside Mounted Troop Barracks, Ikeja, and open only on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 09:00 am – 06:00 pm.
- Game Buzz
Another family-friendly place to visit this summer is an arcade. At Game Buzz, you’ll find a variety of games suitable for both adults and children. Located at 22, Simbiat Abiola Way, inside Jara Mall, Ikeja, the arcade offers VR, arcade, board and PlayStation games. There are also hoverboards, skating activities and every child’s favourite, bouncing castles. It’s open from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, with prices starting from ₦10,000.
- Golfview Restaurant
All play and no food makes Jack a hungry boy! Golfview Suites & Conference Centre offers a family-friendly buffet experience every first Sunday of the month. Guests can enjoy a wide spread of meals, desserts and a welcome drink alongside live music. It costs ₦30,000 per person, while children enjoy discounted rates. It’s free for children under five, and children between the ages of 6 and 12 pay ₦15,000. The location is 12 General Adebayo Adeyinka Road, Ikeja GRA, and it starts at 1:00 PM. Reservations are strongly advised, as buffet slots can fill up quickly.
- Ndubuisi Kanu Park
Is the list really complete if the park isn’t included? Parks are one of the best places to enjoy a family outing, and also without breaking the bank. All you have to do is pack some food, snacks, drinks and a few board games, then enjoy a relaxing day outdoors. At Ndubuisi Kanu Park, visitors can enjoy a children’s playground, basketball court and giant chessboard, perfect for keeping children engaged. Entry into the park costs ₦1,000, and visitors are typically required to present a Tax Identification Number (TIN). Opening hours are from 9 am to 6 pm.
- VIVA Cinemas
A trip to the cinema is a classic family outing, especially during the summer holidays. Whether your children enjoy animated films or you’re looking for the latest blockbuster, VIVA Cinemas offers a comfortable indoor experience for the whole family. Located inside Jara Mall, 22 Simbiat Abiola Way, Ikeja, the cinema screens a mix of Hollywood, Nollywood and family-friendly movies throughout the week. Pair your movie with popcorn and snacks, and you’ve got an easy way to spend a few hours together. Showtimes vary by day and movie schedule, so it’s best to check the listings before your visit. Tickets are from ₦6000 and can be booked online in advance to avoid queues.
Which of these places will you be visiting with your family this summer? Let us know in the comments.
