First time in Addis: Lucy at the National Museum, Unity Park, Entoto and Merkato. What should visitors know?

These places come up in almost every Addis itinerary. Here is what could be verified, and what you must check yourself. National Museum of Ethiopia - Best known for the cast of Lucy (Dinknesh), an Australopithecus afarensis skeleton about 3.2 million years old. The original bones are kept in a secure vault. - It also shows Selam, a child of the same species, Haile Selassie's throne, and Ethiopian art from the 14th to 20th centuries. - The museum occupies part of the emperor's former residence. Unity Park - Inside the National Palace compound in Arat Kilo, inaugurated on 10 October 2019. - Includes a zoo, playground, churches and the imperial banquet hall, according to listings. - Sources disagree about hours and closing day. Check before you go. Entoto - Offers views over the city and includes Entoto Maryam Church and Menelik II Palace. - One listing says visitors need ID and park vehicles at the gate. Rules change, so ask locally. Merkato - Widely described as Africa's largest open-air market, with coffee central to trade. The current site grew under the Italian occupation. - Keep bags closed and valuables secure, as in any crowded market. Please check locally. Your turn: which of these did you visit, what surprised you, and what do you wish a local had told you before going?