
Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Kumasi, Ashanti, Ghana
1. Bantama Town-in-a-Town
A unique settlement where houses are built inside a large compound, giving the illusion of a town within a town.
- Compact Living: Provides an insight into how space is maximized in densely populated areas.
- Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into the traditional Fante way of life dating back to the 19th century.
- Architectural Uniqueness: Features a distinct architectural style that is not commonly seen in Kumasi or Ghana.
2. Kejetia Market's Underground City
An underground network of tunnels beneath Kumasi's bustling Kejetia Market, used for storage and trade.
- Hidden Gem: Provides a unique perspective on the market operations and daily life in Kumasi.
- Economic Activity: Offers an opportunity to understand the importance of trade and commerce in Ghanaian culture.
- Historical Significance: The underground city dates back to pre-colonial times, providing a link to the past.
3. Kumasi Zoological Garden
A small but unique zoo housing native and exotic animals, including a white lion.
- Rare Species: Provides an opportunity to see endangered and rare species like the white lion.
- Educational Experience: Offers education about conservation efforts and wildlife in Ghana.
- Interactive Encounters: Provides opportunities for safe, interactive encounters with various animals.
4. Manhyia Palace Museum
The royal palace of the Ashanti King, featuring historical artifacts and traditional architecture.
- Royal History: Provides insight into the rich history and culture of the Ashanti Kingdom.
- Art and Artifacts: Offers a collection of royal regalia, paintings, and traditional Ashanti art.
- Architectural Grandeur: Displays the grandeur of traditional Ashanti architecture and craftsmanship.
5. Science and Technology Museum
A small museum featuring Ghanaian scientific achievements and exhibits on space exploration.
- Scientific Achievements: Showcases the advancements made in science and technology in Ghana.
- Inspiration for Future Scientists: Serves as an inspiration for young Ghanaians interested in science and technology.
- Space Exploration: Features exhibits on Ghana's involvement in the global space program.
6. Kumasi City Park
A peaceful urban park with a lake, botanical gardens, and a playground.
- Tranquil Oasis: Provides a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Botanical Wonders: Offers an opportunity to explore diverse plant species indigenous to Ghana.
- Family-friendly Activities: Features a playground and picnic areas, making it a great family destination.
7. Kasoa Arts Center
A cultural center showcasing traditional Ghanaian arts and crafts, with workshops for visitors.
- Cultural Immersion: Provides an immersive experience into Ghanaian culture and art.
- Hands-on Experience: Offers workshops for visitors to learn traditional arts and crafts techniques.
- Souvenir Shopping: Provides an opportunity to purchase authentic Ghanaian art and crafts.
8. Kumasi Center for Modern Languages
A language institute offering Twi and other African language courses.
- Language Learning Opportunities: Allows visitors to learn and practice local languages, enhancing cultural immersion.
- Cross-cultural Understanding: Promotes cross-cultural understanding and communication among locals and foreigners.
- Tourism Industry Impact: Contributes to the growth of Ghana's tourism industry by offering language learning services.
9. Kumasi Food Market
A bustling market offering a wide variety of traditional Ghanaian foods.
- Culinary Adventure: Provides an opportunity to sample diverse Ghanaian cuisine.
- Local Interaction: Allows visitors to interact with locals and learn about their culinary traditions.
- Cultural Preservation: Helps preserve traditional Ghanaian food preparation methods and ingredients.
10. Kumasi Sports Stadium
A sports complex hosting local football matches, concerts, and other events.
- Local Events Experience: Allows visitors to experience local sporting events or concerts.
- Cultural Exchange: Provides an opportunity for cultural exchange through shared sports and entertainment experiences.
- Community Engagement: Supports the local community by providing a venue for events and gatherings.
11. Kumasi's Art Galleries
A collection of art galleries showcasing contemporary and traditional Ghanaian art.
- Contemporary Art Exploration: Offers an opportunity to explore contemporary Ghanaian art scenes.
- Traditional Art Appreciation: Allows visitors to appreciate traditional Ghanaian art and artistic techniques.
- Artist Support: Provides a platform for Ghanaian artists to showcase their work and gain exposure.
12. Kumasi Botanical Gardens
A lush oasis housing a diverse collection of plant species, including rare orchids.
- Botanical Wonders: Offers an opportunity to explore diverse plant species indigenous to Ghana.
- Conservation Efforts: Supports conservation efforts by showcasing rare and endangered plant species.
- Relaxing Environment: Provides a peaceful, relaxing environment for visitors to enjoy nature.
13. Nhyiaeso Lakeside Park
A lakeside park offering picnic areas, boat rides, and scenic views.
- Scenic Beauty: Offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
- Relaxing Activities: Allows visitors to enjoy peaceful activities like picnicking or boat rides.
- Local Wildlife Observation: Provides opportunities for birdwatching and observing local wildlife.
14. Kumasi's Traditional Healers Market
A market where traditional herbalists sell their remedies and offer consultations.
- Traditional Medicine Exploration: Allows visitors to learn about traditional Ghanaian medicine practices.
- Health and Wellness: Offers opportunities for health consultations and herbal remedies.
- Cultural Preservation: Helps preserve traditional Ghanaian medicine knowledge and practices.
15. Kumasi's Night Markets
Bustling night markets offering food, drinks, and shopping opportunities.
- Cultural Experience: Allows visitors to experience the vibrant nightlife of Kumasi.
- Local Interaction: Provides opportunities for interaction with locals and sampling street food.
- Shopping Opportunities: Offers unique shopping experiences, including traditional Ghanaian crafts and souvenirs.