Kumasi is a destination that connects royal heritage with everyday city life. Recognized for its rich traditions, active markets, and historical significance, Kumasi remains one of the most visited cities in the country.
Whether you’re in town for a cultural experience, shopping, food, or simply sightseeing, the city offers something for everyone.
Here are 10 must-visit places that give you a real sense of what Kumasi is all about.
1. Manhyia Palace Museum
Step into the legacy of centuries-old leadership and diplomacy. Housed within the historic residence of the Asantehene, this museum offers a rare look into the power, customs, and resilience of the Asante monarchy. Golden royal regalia, ceremonial stools, personal artifacts, and oral histories come together in this cultural time archive, immersing you in the soul of Asante tradition.
2. Okomfo Anokye Sword Site
Legend has it that Okomfo Anokye planted this sword in the ground in the 17th century and no one has been able to remove it since. Beyond the legend, this sacred site represents the unshakable unity and mystical foundation of the Asante Empire. Visitors come to reflect, learn, and connect with a deeper sense of Ghana’s spiritual history.
3. Kejetia Market
No trip to Kumasi is complete without getting slightly lost in the chaos of Kejetia, West Africa’s largest open-air market.Thousands of stalls come together in a colorful network that captures the spirit of Kumasi’s daily hustle, ranging from fabrics and beads to electronics and herbal medicines. Whether you’re shopping or simply soaking in the sounds, scents, and hustle, Kejetia gives you a raw and real taste of Kumasi.
4. Kumasi Fort – Ghana Armed Forces Museum
Built by the British and later transformed into a military museum, Kumasi Fort is a powerful reminder of colonial resistance and Ghana’s path to independence. It houses wartime relics, weapons, photos, and narratives that spotlight Ghana’s military journey from the Asante wars to modern-day peacekeeping.
5. Gyamadudu Museum
Secluded from the city’s mainstream attractions, this community-based museum is a gem for cultural explorers. It’s focused on preserving oral histories, Asante cosmology, and indigenous knowledge systems through local artifacts and traditional architecture. A visit here is personal and immersive, offering insights into how ordinary people keep their cultural identity alive.
6. National Cultural Centre
A dynamic space dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional Asante arts and culture. Here, you can witness Kente weaving in action, join drumming or dance sessions, and explore handicraft shops run by local artisans. It’s a beautiful fusion of learning and entertainment, with a peaceful courtyard ideal for slowing down and connecting with Ghanaian creativity.
7. Baba Yara Sports Stadium
Named after Ghanaian football legend Baba Yara, this stadium is the pride of Kumasi’s sports scene. On match days, especially when Asante Kotoko SC takes the field, the atmosphere is electric. Chants, drums, and crowds in red turn the stadium into a powerful symbol of passion and community. Even off-season, the stadium is a landmark worth seeing.
8. Bantama High Street
The social nerve center of Kumasi’s youth. Whether it’s trendy barber shops, fast-food joints, thrift stalls, or music jamming from corner stores, Bantama High Street is where street culture thrives. It’s energetic both day and night, making it the perfect place for people-watching, mingling, or just catching the cruise of modern Kumasi.
9. Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary
Escape the city and reconnect with nature at Ghana’s only inland Ramsar site. The Owabi Sanctuary is home to green forest trails, rare bird species, and a peaceful reservoir that’s ideal for reflective moments or casual hiking. For eco-tourists or anyone craving serenity, this sanctuary is a refreshing change of pace from urban life.
10. Ike’s Café and Grill
Located near the Cultural Centre, Ike’s is a go-to for both locals and tourists seeking rich Ghanaian flavors. The setting blends tradition and comfort, and the menu ranges from local dishes like fufu and light soup to continental favorites. A culinary experience with soul.
Kumasi offers an unforgettable experience for anyone eager to connect with Ghana on a deeper level.
