Garden City Mall is more than a shopping destination — it's the beating heart of a neighbourhood packed with restaurants, cinemas, wellness spots, and weekend markets. If you're staying at Lexabensa Stays in Garden Estate (just across the road), here's how to make the most of it.
1. Catch a Movie at IMAX Garden City
The IMAX screen at Garden City is one of only three in East Africa. Book Hollywood blockbusters or local hits — the reclining seats and laser projection make it worth the short walk from the apartment. Tickets start around KES 700.
2. Saturday Farmers Market
Every Saturday morning, the Garden City rooftop transforms into a bustling farmers market. Pick up fresh produce, local honey, artisan bread, and handmade crafts. It's open 9 AM — 2 PM and runs year-round. Perfect for guests who want to cook in our fully-equipped kitchen.
3. Drive (or Walk) the Garden City Green Space
Behind the mall sits a 3-hectare public park with walking trails, kids' playgrounds, and open-air sculptures. Morning joggers love it. Bring a book and a blanket for lazy afternoons.
4. Dinner at About Thyme or Urban Burger
Garden City's restaurant strip has options for every budget. For a romantic dinner, About Thyme does incredible Mediterranean. For a quick bite with a view, Urban Burger's rooftop terrace can't be beat. Both within a 3-minute walk from the apartment.
5. Bomas of Kenya (15 min drive)
A short Uber ride south takes you to Bomas of Kenya, a cultural centre showcasing traditional homesteads and dance performances from every major Kenyan tribe. Entry is KES 1,200 for non-residents. Come for the 2:30 PM dance show.
6. Karura Forest (12 min drive)
Karura is Nairobi's "green lung" — 1,000 hectares of indigenous forest with walking trails, waterfalls, caves, and a picnic area. Popular with cyclists on weekend mornings. Bring water and wear shoes you don't mind getting muddy.
7. Thika Road Mall (6 min drive)
When Garden City doesn't have what you need, TRM has 150+ stores, a 12-screen cinema, and Kenya's largest Naivas supermarket. Also houses the Wonderland indoor amusement park for families.
8. Two Rivers Mall (8 min drive)
Africa's largest shopping mall sprawls across 64 acres. High-end retail, a huge food court, bowling, ice skating, and a river boardwalk. The IMAX is competitive with Garden City's if you want a change of scene.
9. Ruaraka Sports Club
Day memberships let visitors use the swimming pool, tennis courts, and restaurant. It's a quiet, green oasis 5 minutes from the apartment. Great for hot afternoons.
10. Nightlife at Kiza or Brew Bistro
Kiza (the upscale African lounge in Westlands) is 15 minutes away by Uber. Or stay local — Brew Bistro at Fortis Tower serves craft beer brewed on-site. Nairobi nightlife is famously late; most places don't fill up until 10 PM.
Stay at the Doorstep of It All
Our 1-bedroom apartment at Lexabensa Stays is literally across the road from Garden City Mall — no Uber needed for most of this list. Fast WiFi, smart TV, fully-equipped kitchen, and a balcony with sunset views make it the ideal base for your Nairobi stay.
