We Got Accra At Home: How To Experience The Culture Of Ghana’s Vibrant Capital Without Leaving The US

In recent years, Accra, Ghana, has cemented itself as a top destination for Black travelers. Though the city offers a dynamic experience unlike any other, visiting on a whim, or even in the near future, isn’t realistic for everyone. There are travelers who can’t reach home, are waiting to return, or are patiently planning to visit for the first time.

Below, see United States-based destinations where you can tap into the Ghanaian community, and the culture that makes Accra so exciting.

Why Everyone Wants to Go to Accra Right Now

The cultural pull

Ghana has long been a premier destination for Black heritage travel, drawing in those seeking a connection to their African roots. 

Visits offer Ghanaians in the diaspora the chance to return home and connect with family. For other Black travelers, there is an established tourism sector that includes hotels at different price points, vacation rentals, safe transportation, and reliable tour operators. End-of-year visits and “Detty December” parties have been major attractions, luring more and more Black travelers from across the global diaspora. Notably, the annual visitation became more of a diasporic trend after 2019, Ghana’s official “Year of Return.”

Accra offers a mix of grounded and energetic experiences. The city has something for all types of travelers, including beaches, major festivals, market shopping, foodie delights, an art scene, and unforgettable nightlife. The capital city is additionally known for its crowd of young professionals and creatives, so it’s a great place to network. Also, visitors can delve into Pan-African histories and diasporic connections, as well as learn about the transatlantic slave trade. 

What’s driving demand right now 

The demand to visit Ghana is ever-present for its diaspora. 

That said, social media has amplified Accra as one of the most popular destinations for enjoying the end of the year with other Black holidaymakers. Celebrities, influencers, those of the Ghanaian diaspora, and everyday travelers have all contributed to the popularity. And in addition to the partying, travelers from all over the world want to experience Ghana’s welcoming embrace of the Black diaspora.

What Makes Accra Feel Like Accra

The city life and atmosphere

Time in Accra can be what you make it. Some go for an experience of bustling city life. By day, they’re networking, attending events, visiting Makola Market, and heading in and out of museums and art galleries. At night, they’re club-hopping, then going from afters to afters. Meanwhile, some go for a more laid-back experience that revolves around engaging the senses. They enjoy the best of the food scene, feel the sunshine on their skin at beach clubs, and soak up the city’s color. 

For many visitors, their experience is a memorable mixture of both.

Another important aspect of the vibe? Anticipate being around others who are friendly, warm, and open to helping should you have questions about directions or recommendations.

The food culture

The food in Accra is a major draw, as it includes a mixture of West African staples and national dishes leaving foodies wanting more. Overall, it’s a great city to try West African food for the first time or enjoy classic Ghanaian dishes that your taste buds already love. Picking up street food is common, and late-night eats are hot and ready. While there, expect to dine on filling meals including jollof rice, waakye, banku, and fresh grilled fish. Also, if you’re in the mood for other fare, the city boasts an impressive variety of restaurants that serve many other global cuisines.

Where to Experience Ghanaian Culture in the U.S.

The DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia)

With a large Ghanaian community, the DMV is one of the best places to experience aspects of what makes Accra special. For one, Black nightlife and partying to afrobeats are a given, with weekends generally packed with options. In a broader sense, the DMV additionally provides a vibrant mix of Black people from around the world, and it mirrors Ghana’s Pan-African embrace.

For dining, visit Ghanaian-American Top Chef finalist Eric Adjepong’s Elmina in D.C. If you’re interested in experiencing the best of the nightlife, go during Ghana Independence weekend. And if you’re looking for more community, attend GhanaFest DMV.

“Little Accra” in The Bronx, New York City

You may be thinking that there’s no way anywhere in NYC can give you the vibe of Accra. And frankly put, it’s true that “The Concrete Jungle” is vastly different. 

That said, there’s a cultural enclave surrounding 167th Street in The Bronx known as Little Accra (or “Little Ghana”). It offers an array of Ghanaian restaurants, West African markets, hair braiding shops, and Twi-speaking locals.  

Visit Papaye, Accra Restaurant, or Adom African Cuisine for food. For community, walk the streets, shop at vendors, support local hair braiding shops, and make friendly connections.

Houston, Texas

Though also very different from actually being in Accra, there are some key reasons why Houston makes the cut.

Both cities are hubs for the African diaspora, and Houston has a growing Ghanaian population. Additionally, visitors and locals alike can easily find African markets and lounges where they can hear afrobeats.

For food, try Afrikiko or Delight’s Ghanaian Cuisine. For nightlife and vibes among the West African community, go to Reveal Lounge or Enish Houston.

Build Your Accra-Inspired Day — No Passport Required

Morning: Go To The Market

The morning is a great time to do a market run, whether you’re looking for cooking ingredients, hot and fresh small bites, jewelry, or even clothing to add to your wardrobe.

Afternoon: Immerse Yourself In Black and African Art and History

Spend the afternoon at galleries and museums. Take the opportunity to see Black and African art and history on display. Spend time learning about every artist and context surrounding the works that catch your eye. With historical collections, take an educational tour and view unique artifacts.

At the end of the day, find an amazing Ghanaian or West African restaurant and pick a dish that speaks to you. Ask for a recommendation if you need to. And later, dance the night away at a lounge or club where enjoyment is promised. In the city you’re in, research Black nightlife where a mix of afrobeats, amapiano, dancehall, reggae, and hip-hop are in heavy rotation.

What You’ll Only Get By Going To Accra

The scale, immersion, and cultural nuances you can’t replicate

The honest truth is that Accra’s energy is unmatched and can’t really be replicated. The combined sensory elements you’ll experience are simply too distinctive. Moreover, you’ll have to be on the ground to encounter the city’s rhythm and pace, friendly locals, creative energy, networking scene, and Detty December revelry.

When it’s time to book the actual trip

When you have the funds and your roadblocks to travel are cleared, booking your trip to Accra should be an easy choice. Before your travels, be sure to prepare adequately, get any vaccinations you may need (per CDC recommendations), and double-check for any updated travel advisories. 

Start Here, Then Go There

U.S. cities can never truly substitute for visiting Accra. Knowing that, take a laid-back approach to your “preview trip.” Support Ghanaian businesses, and tap into the culture whenever and however you can. Remember that West African gathering spots – such as markets, grocers, lounges, and clubs – may all be entry points into accessing the Ghanaian community and their go-to spots.

How to use this as a preview trip

Whichever destination you choose, use it to sample aspects of what you hope to experience in Accra. Be sure to support Ghanaian-owned businesses whenever possible. When choosing your nightlife options, go for a place where Black patrons and DJs frequent. 

Most importantly, you need to spend time within the community, and celebrate and foster diasporic exchange. 

Planning your future visit to Accra

Planning your future visit to Accra should include curating an itinerary filled with the experiences you loved most during your preview trip. That might be eating banku, connecting with the destination’s Black community, or partying past sunrise to afrobeats. Whatever it is, just be sure to read helpful guides and be prepared ahead of your travels.