Relaxing and breathtaking is the main thing to do in here. This city more to administrative city. Honestly there isn't too much to do here in the down town. But if you go to the up town, some interesting spots await to be explored. These include Sikuai Island", Lubuk Minturun river' a 'natural jacuzzi' and Bungus Bay crystal water river, all in southern Padang.
Pool is a popular sport to play and there are a few places dotted around.
The nightlife is relatively dull because Padang is a minor city and a rather devout Muslim community. Bars are available at Hotel Bumi Minang, but don't expect alcohol and don't expect a hotel as it was completely destroyed in the 2009 earthquake.
If you can find your way down to Chinatown and get some Kripik Padang pizza size crackers served with various sauces, available in two flavors: spicy and sweet, that could be a good idea, too. In Chinatown, you also can explore the mixture of Minang-Chinese food.