population: 1.1 million

extension: 827.141 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in São Luís and interested in visiting museums, one great option is the Museu Histórico e Artístico do Maranhão (Maranhão Historical and Artistic Museum), which features exhibits on the history and culture of the state of Maranhão. Another option is the Palácio dos Leões (Lions Palace), which serves as the official residence of the governor of Maranhão but also houses a museum with historical artifacts.

If you're looking for similar museums nearby, you may want to visit the Casa de Nhozinho, which showcases traditional folk art and crafts from Maranhão, or the Centro de Cultura Popular Domingos Vieira Filho, which features exhibits on local music, dance, and folklore.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat in São Luís according to locals include:

1. Arroz de Cuxá - a dish made with rice, herbs, and a paste made from the indigenous cuxá plant. It's typically served with shrimp or fish.

2. Peixada maranhense - a stew made with fish, tomatoes, onions, and other seasonings. It's often served with rice and pirão, a thick gravy made with manioc flour.

3. Tiquira - a traditional liquor made from cassava. It's often served as an aperitif before meals.

4. Caranguejada - a seafood dish made with crabs cooked in a broth with vegetables and spices.

5. Guaraná Jesus - a bright pink soda that's unique to Maranhão. It's made with guarana berries and has a sweet, fruity flavor.

6. Cocada - a sweet treat made with shredded coconut and sugar. It comes in different flavors, such as plain, chocolate, and mixed with cashews.

7. Paçoca de amendoim - a candy made with ground peanuts, sugar, and sometimes cassava flour. It's a popular snack during São João festivities.

Activities

Sure! Here are some fun activities that local people like to do in São Luís:

1. Visit the historic center of São Luís, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful colonial architecture and vibrant street art.

2. Enjoy the city's famous cuisine, especially its seafood dishes, at local restaurants and food markets like Mercado das Tulhas.

3. Attend a traditional Bumba Meu Boi festival, which features colorful parades, music, and dance performances that celebrate local folklore and cultural traditions.

4. Relax on one of the stunning beaches near São Luís, such as Calhau or Araçagi, which offer great swimming, sunbathing, and water sports opportunities.

5. Explore the nearby Lençóis Maranhenses National Park, a breathtaking natural wonder with expansive sand dunes and crystal-clear lagoons that attract visitors from around the world.