Attractions in the city include the Benin City National Museum, the Oba’s Palace, the Okada’s House and various festivals. There is also a museum of woks of art created by the local artists. The University of Benin and Benson Idahosa University are situated in the city and Edo State boasts of being the only state in Nigeria with 4 Universities.

Before the 15th century, when the Portuguese first penetrated the region, until the late 19th century, Benin was the center of a powerful Edo kingdom with influence over the Yoruba, Igbo, Ijo, and Itsekiri peoples. Benin artisans were noted for wood and ivory carving and bronze casting.

The city is connected by road to Lagos and Onitsha. A rubber-processing plant is in Benin City, and rubber and timber are exported from here.