Accra is the capital of Ghana and a hub of trade. Its architecture is a mix of 19th century colonial buildings and modern skyscrapers.
A booming economy has made Accra one of Africa’s most prosperous cities, but it also has its share of slums, congestion, pollution and desperate poverty. It is a city that must be tackled with leadership to ensure a high quality of life for all its citizens.
1. Visit the National Museum
The National Museum is one of the oldest and largest museums in Ghana. It was first opened in 1957 to celebrate the country’s independence from colonial rule.
The museum has a range of collections in archaeology, ethnography and fine arts. Objects on permanent display include chief’s regalia, gold weights beads, traditional textiles, pottery and indigenous Ghanaian musical instruments.
2. Go to the Korle Bu Market
The Korle Bu Market is one of the largest and most complete supermarkets in Accra. It sells everything from food and clothing to daily necessities and power tools.
This is a must-see when visiting the capital of Ghana. You’ll be blown away by the selection and prices! It is also the home of the Accra Christmas lights display. It’s the place to be in Accra during the holiday season.
3. Take a Tour of the City Hall
A guided tour of the City Hall is a must during your trip to Accra. Tours are offered Monday through Friday and begin at the City Hall’s Tour Information Center in Room 121.
Accra is divided into thirteen local government districts, each of which is governed by its own town hall and municipal executive. These local authorities are responsible for most services within their district.
4. Eat at a Local Restaurant
Ghana is a great place to try local food. Many of the restaurants here are family run and serve authentic dishes at very reasonable prices.
There are also many western-style eateries that offer a variety of international cuisines. These restaurants are popular with tourists and Peace Corps volunteers.
5. Take a Tour of the National Theater
The National Theater is a must-visit during your stay in Accra. It is located in the Victoriaborg district and opened in 1992.
The theater was built by the Chinese government as a gift to Ghana. It has a building area of 11,896 square meters and is sited near the junction of Independence Avenue and Liberia Road.
It is one of the most interesting buildings in Ghana and the country’s most important cultural center. It was designed by two Chinese architects, Taining Cheng and Xianghan Ye.
6. Visit the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum
The Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum and memorial park is a place in downtown Accra where the famous Ghanaian leader was laid to rest. It is a five-acre park that is well-maintained and features statues and fountains.
It is a great place to visit if you are looking to learn more about the history of Ghana. It also houses a museum that traces the life of Nkrumah.
7. Visit the Du Bois Centre
The Du Bois Centre in Accra is a memorial site and a centre for scholars, artists, and heritage tourists. The centre was designed by Adjaye Associates and is set on a green campus in the city.
The memorial site is a tribute to the life of Dr. Du Bois, who was an American-born socialist and author, and a civil rights activist. He became a citizen of Ghana in his later years.
8. Go to the National Theatre
Located in the Victoriaborg district of Accra, the National Theatre was opened in 1992 and is a must-see for those who want to experience the country’s cultural heritage.
The building is unique and imposing due to its complicated construction moulding and novel exterior features. It is reminiscent of a gigantic ship or a seagull spreading its wings
The National Theatre is a semi commercial and multifunctional institution, professionally equipped to meet world standards with unique and viable customer-oriented programming in the contemporary and traditional arts.
9. Go to the Institute Museum of Ghana
Aside from being a great place to learn more about Ghanaian history, the Institute Museum of Ghana also has an exciting contemporary art program. This residency program introduces the works of emerging African artists to the global art scene.
The Museum has a collection of archaeological, ethnographic and fine art objects that date back to the Stone Age. It also houses a library, conservation laboratory and education hall.
10. Go to the Pure Akan Music Club
In his debut show last Saturday, Pure Akan (Nana Kwabena Appiah) wowed the audience with a display of his latest album ‘Nyame Mma’ in a raw and visual form.
This small bar in Osu is filled with partygoers on Friday and Saturday evenings, who adore the laid-back vibe, superb DJ roster and great cocktails. It’s a surprisingly intimate spot and one of the best places in Accra to watch music live.