Akwaaba; (welcome in our language) if you’re already booking a flight, you’re not alone. Warm yourself in the tropical sun and explore these top tourist sites in Accra. Whether you’re here for business or pleasure, these are must-see destinations in Accra before you leave.
From the independence square that curry the country’s “black star symbol” to the red and white lighthouse tower at Jamestown here are 11 top tourist sites in Accra to visit during your trip. From ancient civilization, this city has it all. Don’t get too busy with your trip, relax and explore these beautiful places and thank me later.
1.Osu Castle
The Osu castle is one of Ghana’s important heritage sites. The castle has served important functions, a trading entrepôt during the trans-Atlantic slave trade, the seat of colonial government administration; and latterly the office of the President of Ghana. In recent times, the Osu castle is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The castle is also known as Fort Christiansburg and it is located in Osu on the coast of the Atlantic Oceans, Gulf of Guinea. It is the first substantial fort built by Denmark-Norway in 1660.
2.Labadi Beach
This is the most famous beach in Ghana and no other beach can beat that. Labadi beach has been described as the most visited tourist beach in Ghana. It would be a memorable visit if you in Ghana or planning to visit. Local and foreign tourists always enjoy the atmosphere at Labadi beach with great music, entertainment shows, and many other activities. Labadi beach is among the top tourist sites in Accra and Ghana.
3.Artists Alliance Gallery
It’s not like you can skip this destination if you’re a sculpting lover, that feeling is like magic (lol). A 3-story building showcasing some of the best sculptings in Ghana and Africa. Your visit won’t be boring if the owner is around, he will take you on a tour. It is the largest art studio in Ghana.
4.W.E.B Du Bois Memorial Park.
I haven’t visited the place, according to my research, it is worth visiting attraction in Accra. W.E.D Di Bois memorial park center is a memorial place, a research facility, and a tourist attraction in the Cantonment area in Accra. The facility was named in dedication to W.E.D Du Bois, a Pan- Africanist who became a citizen of Ghana in the early 1960s. The facility was open to the public in 1985.
5.Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum
If you attended school in Ghana then I pretty sure you already know this tourist site, but if not then it’s one of the historical sites in Ghana. The Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, also know as the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial park is the last resting place for the first President of Ghana, Osaggyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, and wife Fatima. The mausoleum was dedicated to him for fighting for freedom from the colonial master on 6th March 1957. It is located directly opposite the old Parliament house now known as the Commission for Human Rights and Administrative Justice. It’s a must-visit tourist site in Accra if you want to know more about our independence history.
6.JamesTown Lighthouse Tower.
This colonial-era lighthouse was built in the 1930s. It’s not a tourist attraction in the usual sense – no gift shops or ticket offices here – but stray within twenty meters and you’ll inevitably be accosted by a ‘guide’ offering to take you to the top for a few cedis (usually around GH¢5 each). If you’re willing to part with the cash, there’s a good panoramic view from the top of the (possibly not overly safe) spiral staircase.
7.The independence Square
Debatable; every Ghanaian has seen this destination before, either visiting or seeing on Television. The independence square of Ghana also known as the “Black Star Square” is located in Osu, 9.5 km Via the Hilla Limann Highway. It is often acclaimed as the second largest city square in the world after China’s Tiananmen Square. It stands as a special national monument of Ghana as it reminds the nation of the struggle for independence.
The Independence Square of Ghana was commissioned in 1961 by the first President of Ghana, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. It was built in honor of the visit of Queen Elizabeth II to the Gold Coast Colony to release her into independence and as a republic country.
8.Legon Botanical Garden
If I should write about my experience at the Legon Botanical garden, you will have to finish this article the next day. I think you should visit and you will understand how I feel right now. You don’t need to travel far to other regions to experience adventure, this is right in the capital and inside the University of Ghana. Legon Botanical Gardens has become one of those beautiful, well-maintained, and developed gardens in Accra-Ghana which have become known for its beautiful scenery, calm, soothing atmosphere, and wonderful plant species. Put your hiking boots one and get your fishing caps on for a memorable visit. If you looking for one of the top tourist sites in Accra, then Legon gardens get you covered.
9.National Theater of Ghana
The National Theatre Ghana is located in the Victoriaborg district of Accra. Opened in 1992 the venue is a must-see and is unmissable due to the unique structure. From a distance, the theatre resembles an impressive ship sailing through the city. It has a building area of 11,896 square meters and was officially inaugurated on December 30, 1992. The Theatre was born out of a technical co-operation agreement signed on September 18, 1985, in Beijing between the Governments of the Republic of Ghana and the People the \’s Republic of China.
10.Makola Market
Makola Market is the country’s popular market and is located in the capital. Makola Market is a renowned market place and shopping district in the center of the city of Accra, the capital of Ghana. A wide array of products is sold in the markets and its surrounding streets, from car parts to land snails. Dominated by women traders, the market sells fresh produce, manufactured and imported foods, clothes, shoes, tools, medicines, and pots and pans. Jewelry made from locally handcrafted beads can also be found for sale in the market. You should be very careful or you better go with a friend or someone familiar with the place.
11.Osu Oxford Street
This is the most beautiful and popular street in the capital with rich in culture. It derived its name from the famous Oxford Street in London, U.K because of its busy nocturnal activities. It is also known as the “West End”. Joining Osu Oxford Street from the Ring Road is a famous roundabout dedicated to the memory of Dr. J. B. Danquah. Oxford street is a popular hangout, especially on the weekends and holidays. The street also hosts some of the popular clubs and restaurants in the capital. visit Osu Oxford street and thank me in the comment.