Sarr Raphael
@raphaelsarr5704
27 days ago

📍Ibadan, Nigeria

Finally took my younger siblings out last weekend and it hit me that Ibadan actually has solid spots for families if you know where to go. None of that boring "stay at home and watch TV" vibe.

Start with the Ibadan Zoo and Park at OkeAremo on Oyo Road. That place is classic. Admission is cheap for kids and adults. Open air, lots of greenery, and the animals are active in the mornings. Afterward you can walk over to Agodi Gardens on Ikolaba Street. Agodi has a swimming pool, paddle boats, and a kids' play area. The entrance fee is like 500 naira for adults, and you can rent a space for a small family picnic. The lawn there is well kept so pack some chin-chin and zobo.

If your children are a bit older and love learning, take them to the University of Ibadan Zoological Garden along Obafemi Awolowo Road. It's smaller than the main zoo but the student guides are very friendly. You can also visit the U.I. Botanical Garden nearby. That whole area on the campus is quiet and safe. Weekdays are best because the campus is less busy.

For indoor options, check out The Springs at Jericho on Nkrumah Way. They have a bowling alley and a small arcade. The food court there serves good fried rice and chicken. Another spot is The Palm Events Centre at Ring Road. They have a trampoline park and a soft play area for toddlers. The place is always clean and well air-conditioned.

Weekend mornings, take the kids to the Ibadan Recreation Club at Bodija on Oyo Road. They have tennis courts, a mini golf setup, and a playground. Non-members can often get day passes. Pack a ball and let them run around. Also, the new Ibadan City Mall at Dugbe has a cinema and a small indoor play area on the upper floor. A movie followed by ice cream at the downstairs shop always works.

Last tip: avoid peak hours on Saturdays around noon. All these spots get packed. Go early by 8am or late by 4pm. Keep your children close at Agodi Gardens because the pool area gets busy. Carry water and snacks because the on-site food can be pricey. Most importantly, let them enjoy the fresh air. Ibadan is perfect for family bonding without breaking the bank.

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