Rivers State is renowned for its lush landscapes, vibrant cultural history, and the bustling port city of Port Harcourt. Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or adventure seeker, Rivers State offers the perfect blend of experiences.
Here’s a guide to the top things to do in Rivers State, showcasing the diverse tourist attractions that make this region one of Nigeria’s most unique destinations.
Top 10 Things to Do in Rivers State, Nigeria (2024 Guide)
- Explore the Port Harcourt Tourist Beach
- Discover Nigerian History at the National Museum, Port Harcourt
- Enjoy Nature at Isaac Boro Park
- Visit the Pleasure Park
- Take a Boat Trip to Bonny Island
- Experience the Ogoni Day Festival
- Relax at Finima Nature Park
- Explore the Port Harcourt Mall
- Visit the Port Harcourt Zoo
- Explore the Traditional Markets
1. Explore the Port Harcourt Tourist Beach
Photo Credit: Pexels/ Oleksandr P
Located on Kolabi Creek, this man-made beach is a local favourite for relaxation. The Port Harcourt Tourist Beach is the perfect spot to soak in some sun, dip your toes in the water, and enjoy a picnic with friends or family.
You’ll find stalls selling fresh seafood and local delicacies nearby, and there are plenty of shaded spots to enjoy a meal with a view of the water. The Port Harcourt tourist beach is best for picnics, relaxation, and scenic views.
Address: Tourist beach road, off Churchill junction, Harold Wilson Drive, Borokiri, Port Harcourt.
2. Discover Nigerian History at the National Museum, Port Harcourt
Photo Credit: Flickr/ Steven Zucker
Visiting the National Museum is another fulfilling thing to do in Rivers State. This museum is a treasure trove of Nigerian artefacts, with displays of traditional art, crafts, and cultural items from different ethnic groups.
The National Museum is also a fascinating place to learn about the heritage and culture of Rivers State and beyond. From sculptures to ancient pottery, the exhibits here offer a glimpse into the Nigerian lifestyle and customs over centuries.
Best for history buffs and culture enthusiasts. Pro Tip: Check out the section on masquerades; it’s a vibrant look into traditional festivals.
Address: No 2 Harley Street, Old GRA, Port Harcourt
3. Enjoy Nature at Isaac Boro Park
Photo Source: commons.wikimedia.org/ MediaMOF
Named after the activist Isaac Adaka Boro, this public park is a green haven in the middle of Port Harcourt. It’s a popular spot for locals to exercise, picnic, and relax. And you should definitely add it to your list of things to do in Rivers State.
The park is lush and well-maintained, with walkways for peaceful strolls and plenty of benches to sit and people-watch. It is located near Mile 1, Diobu, Port Harcourt and a perfect spot for picnics, morning jogs, and family outings.
Address: Beside Mile 1 Bridge, along Old GRA, Port Harcourt, Rivers State
4. Visit the Pleasure Park
Photo Credit: commons.m.wikimedia.org/ Frenzi0071.
Rivers State Pleasure Park is one of the most modern attractions in Port Harcourt. Designed for relaxation and fun, it offers a beautiful landscape with various activities.
From boat rides to playgrounds, an outdoor gym, and a cinema, there’s something for everyone at Pleasure Park. It’s a top spot for locals and visitors alike and a great way to spend a day in Port Harcourt. Try the zip-line if you’re up for a bit of adventure!
Address: Between Army Bori Camp and Airforce base junction, City Centre, Port Harcourt
5. Take a Boat Trip to Bonny Island
Photo Credit: Facebook/ Urualla TV.
Bonny Island is renowned for its historical significance, serene beaches, and warm community. Known for its oil industry, it’s also home to several natural wonders.
The Bonny Nature Park is a must-visit for its pristine beaches, where you can relax, explore, and even spot dolphins if you’re lucky. Bonny Island also has historical sites linked to the slave trade, giving visitors a glimpse into its past.
It is a most visit location for beach lovers and history enthusiasts. However, please keep in mind that Bonny Island is a bit remote; consider planning for a day trip.
Nearest Port: Port Harcourt Wharf (Boat rides available from Port Harcourt to Bonny Island)
6. Experience the Ogoni Day Festival
Facebook/ Urualla TV
The Ogoni people of Rivers State celebrate their heritage annually with the Ogoni Day Festival. Held on January 4th, this festival is a vibrant display of traditional dances, attire, and rituals.
Visiting during this period gives you a chance to experience the culture and hospitality of the Ogoni people. The festival’s energy, filled with drums, colours, and dance, is contagious! We recommend you wear comfortable shoes – there’s a lot of dancing involved!
ANOTHER INTERESTING READ: How to plan your perfect Nigerian travel on a budget in 2024
7. Relax at Finima Nature Park
wikimedia.org/ Amoghale
Located on Bonny Island, Finima Nature Park is a haven for eco-tourists. This park is home to mangrove swamps, tropical rainforest, and plenty of bird species. Walking trails provide beautiful views of nature, and it’s a peaceful retreat from the city’s noise.
The park’s goal is to preserve the unique flora and fauna of Rivers State. So if you love birdwatching and nature walks, visiting this place is definitely a thing to do in Rivers State. Just have some cash on you for guided tours.
Address: Zone 4 Local Government Area, Finima, Rivers State
8. Explore the Port Harcourt Mall
Photo Source: commons.wikimedia.org/ Citymalljo
Another very exciting thing to do in Rivers State when you visit. The Port Harcourt Mall is a great place to experience the urban vibe of Rivers State. With a range of shopping outlets, restaurants, and cinemas, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
From local Nigerian brands to international stores, you’ll find plenty to browse. The food court offers a mix of international and Nigerian cuisine, so you can try something new while taking a break from sightseeing. Tip: Check out the local brands for unique souvenirs!
Address: 1 Azikiwe Road, Old GRA, Port Harcourt, Rivers State
9. Visit the Port Harcourt Zoo
Photo Source: commons.wikimedia.org/ MOHAMMED ECH CHARFI
The Port Harcourt Zoo may not be the biggest, but it offers an intimate experience with native wildlife. It’s a great spot for families and animal lovers, with animals like lions, elephants, and crocodiles.
The zoo is a good place to spend a few hours learning about the diverse wildlife of Nigeria. Kids especially will enjoy seeing animals up close and learning about conservation efforts.
The zoo is a good location for families and animal lovers. Early mornings are ideal for visiting as the animals are more active.
Address: Peter Odili Rd, Trans Amadi, Port Harcourt
10. Explore the Traditional Markets
Photo Source: Freepik.
Markets in Rivers State are bustling centres of activity. The Port Harcourt Main Market is one of the largest in the region, offering everything from local foodstuffs to crafts and clothing.
For a more specialised experience, check out the Oil Mill Market, which opens every Wednesday. It’s a great place to sample local street food and buy traditional fabrics and handicrafts as souvenirs.
Remember that bargaining is part of the market culture in Nigeria, so don’t be shy to haggle a bit.
READ MORE: Explore The Top Tourist Attractions in Nigeria
FAQs about Things to Do in Rivers State
-
What is the best time to visit Rivers State?
The best time to visit Rivers State is between November and February when the weather is cooler and drier. Visiting during the rainy season (April to October) can limit outdoor activities due to heavy rainfall.|
-
How safe is Rivers State for tourists?
While Rivers State is generally safe, it’s best to stay in well-populated areas and avoid venturing out at night alone. Always stay informed about the local situation, especially if travelling to remote areas.
-
Are there good hotels in Rivers State?
Yes, Port Harcourt has a variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly lodges to luxury hotels. Some well-rated options include Le Meridien Ogeyi Place and Swiss Spirit Hotel & Suites. -
What local foods should I try in Rivers State?
Don’t miss out on Bole (roasted plantain), Okro soup, and Oha soup. The local street food and restaurant scenes offer a range of delicious Nigerian cuisine. -
Can I visit Rivers State with the kids?
Absolutely! There are family-friendly attractions like Pleasure Park, the zoo, and Isaac Boro Garden Park that kids will enjoy.
