Things To Do
Watoto Church Bweyogerere
Interested in attending church while in town? There are several to choose from and Watoto is one of the churches with solid Bible teaching that we recommend aside from St. Kakumba Chapel at Kyambogo. Watoto's worship style is vibrant and energetic while St. Kakumba is very traditional. There are several locations throughout Kampala, so it is easy to access.
Namirembe Cathedral
Whether you're looking for a place for Sunday worship with a traditional feel or are simply interested in visiting the oldest cathedral in Uganda, this historical site is a beautiful place to visit. If you have the chance, also stop by Rubaga Cathedral.
Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre
Like most Ugandans, Richard hasn't had the opportunity to go on a safari. However, he has been to the UWEC in Entebbe and enjoys it because it's a one stop center where you can see & learn about all the wildlife in Uganda. After all, going on a safari is quite expensive, and you need to set aside a few days to really make it worth the cost.
Lido, Spennah & Aero Beaches
Richard and Nikki both love going swimming, so of course we have to recommend visiting a beach. If you ask him what the best ones are, without hesitation Richard will say Lido, Spennah and Aero. Lido and Spennah are right next to each other while Aero is closer to the airport. All three are on the same lane at the shores; it's easy to visit all of them in a day. Interested in more recommendations near the water? Check out this article: https://www.nyungweforestnationalpark.org/exploring-beaches-and-island-getaways-in-uganda/
Shopping at Freedom City Mall Namasuba
Who is more likely to go shopping? Richard! Albeit window shopping, his favorite mall to explore is Freedom City. It's way better than your average mall. Sure, it had dining, salons and shops, but it also has a kids park, amusement park, public swimming pools, a health club, and sometimes hosts special events like concerts and banquets.
Ndere Cultural Centre
Whether there for one of the shows with dinner, a tour or exploring the craft shop, the Ndere Cultural Centre is a wonderful place to explore some of the many cultures within Uganda.
Kabaka's Palace
If you're interested in learning about Uganda's history, Kabaka's Palace is one place that should be at the top of your list to visit. Although in the 1970s it played a role in one of the most tragic parts of Ugandan history, the palace is a one of the best places to learn about the kingdom's history and culture. Check out TripAdvisor for recommendations on tours.
Wonder World Amusement Park (formerly Didi's World) & Other Amusement Parks
Richard and Nikki both have great memories at amusement parks and there are a good number in Kampala and Entebbe. What's the first one Richard thought of when Nikki asked for recommendations? He said, "The amusement park in Kasanga. It has bumper cars, water slides, and you can swing very high in the circus." Currently, this park is open on the weekends and public holidays. You can check out their TicTok page for recent videos: https://www.tiktok.com/discover/didis-world-amusement-park-uganda?lang=en You can also check out Freedom City's amusement park, Kingdom Amusement Park, Fun World Amusement Park, Lakeside Adventure Park, and Extreme Adventure Park Busiika.
Chicago CityPass
One of the best ways to enjoy all that Chicago has to offer is to get a CityPass. Depending on the option you choose, CityPass allows you to explore Chicago at a discounted rate over multiple days. Nikki has used CityPass for multiple cities while on vacation and her parents used the Chicago one for a staycation; it was totally worth it. Below are Nikki's recommendations for some of the things you can do through CityPass, or independently.
Shedd Aquarium
No matter what time of year it is, the aquarium always has the perfect temperature. Whether you choose to take in one of the dolphin shows, explore the wild reef or simply enjoy strolling through the different exhibits, be sure to check out cool experiences and animal encounters, too.
Adler Planetarium
Do you enjoy looking at the stars? Nikki does, but it's not always easy to do in Chicago. However, the planetarium has an observatory you can visit and so much more. Plus, it's one of Nikki's favorite museums (even though she doesn't get to go often).
Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
Not only is this one of the largest museums in Chicago, but it's one that Nikki remembers going to most often... and she still hasn't been through the entire museum! One of her favorite memories as a child was stopping at the exhibit with the old steam locomotive that you can explore. It has always been her family's last stop as they exited the museum.
Navy Pier
Growing up in the Chicagoland area, Navy Pier is one of the places Nikki has been countless times. Whether catching a show at the Shakespeare Theater, a field trip with a school, walking around the pier in summer just for fun, watching the fireworks, or an outing with family and/or family and friends, Navy Pier has been a favorite spot to explore. It's free to walk around and there is always something to do, including an IMAX theater, a ride on the iconic ferris wheel, and the Chicago Children's Museum. Check out their website for special events and an overview of all you can do.
Six Flags Great America
Do you love amusement parks? Nikki, her brother and cousins certainly do and Six Flags Great America was the place to go at least once during summer breaks. Just under an hour's drive north of Chicago, there's something for everyone, including those who prefer to skip the roller coasters, and it now has a waterpark.