Singapore has so many amazing museums, and even better, most are kid-friendly, making for the perfect family day out. Yay!
We love visiting Singapore’s museums with the kids in tow – and we’re spoilt for choice with so many fab exhibits right on our doorstep. From delving into Singapore’s history, as well as nations near and far, to getting up close with wildlife and learning about different habitats – there’s a kid-friendly museum for all interests right here in Singapore! Museums never mean boring either. Oh no, we’re talking interactive, all-singing-all-dancing exhibits, making any museum trip super-fun and educational. Honestly? We can’t think of a better day out with the family. So without further ado, here are our favourite museums and exhibits in Singapore for your next family outing…
Kid-friendly museums and exhibits in Singapore
1. Mint Museum of Toys
Take the youngsters down your memory lane at the Mint Museum of Toys and show them the toys you used to play with back in the day when there were no game consoles. With its world-class collection of vintage toys and childhood memorabilia from more than 40 countries, this place will serve up a heap of nostalgia for parents, and puzzled wonderment for the kids.
Where: Mint Museum of Toys, 26 Seah Street, Singapore 188382
2. Children Little Museum
Here’s another vintage toy museum that you can take the kiddos to. Located near the Sultan Mosque, Children Little Museum is a two-storey museum filled with preserved toys from the bygone era. The ground floor showcases various retro things such as gramophones, clothes, and watches. The second floor is dedicated to toys, toys, and more toys! The museum also offers workshops where you can go back in time and create your own toy.
Where: Children Little Museum, 57 Aliwal Street, Singapore 199933
3. Asian Civilisations Museum
The Asian Civilisations Museum offers up loads of learning opportunities to discover Southeast Asia from a time gone by. We also love their “Let’s Learn About…” series, which introduces a new topic every month specifically for the littlies. Besides highlighting the relevant artefacts related to that topic for the kids to hunt down in the museum, there’s also a whole host of online activities to keep them busy! Don’t forget to grab one of the colourful activity booklets (complete with stickers and postcards) and try out the museum trails.
The exhibit – Batik Kita: Dressing in Port Cities
Explore the rich history and culture of batik and batik making – from the traditional roots all the way to contemporary designs. This latest exhibit features over 100 pieces from overseas and local lenders, as well as from the museum’s National Collection. Visitors will also be introduced to innovations by batik makers and how batik charted the evolution of new identities in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
When: Until 2 October 2022
Where: Asian Civilisations Museum, 1 Empress Place, Singapore 179555
4. National Museum of Singapore
The National Museum of Singapore has always been one of our favourite kid-friendly museums to visit, with plenty of permanent and one-off exhibits to entertain the kids. Don’t forget to download your Get Curious: My Family’s Stories kit before your visit to accompany your trip for the perfect family day out! Here are some of our favourite exhibits to have on your list:
The exhibit – OFF / ON: Everyday Technology that Changed our Lives, 1970s – 2000s
Take a trip with the kids down memory lane and look at how technology has played a major part in our daily lives. From playing with physical toys and out at the playgrounds back in the day to just sitting at home with handheld devices… This immersive showcase takes visitors through various local settings, featuring a curated selection of iconic technology that was prevalent in Singapore back then.
When: Until 30 October 2022
The exhibit – The Glass Rotunda: Story of the Forest
Our kids can’t get enough of the larger-than-life, interactive exhibit that is Story of the Forest at the National Museum of Singapore! The installation mimics the sights and sounds of Southeast Asia’s lush tropical rainforests. It transforms 69 drawings (from the William Farquhar Collection of Natural History Drawings collections) to life in a virtual experience that will blow the whole family away. Get up close and personal with awesome flora and fauna: watch out for our favourite, the Malayan Tapir!
When: Permanent exhibit
The exhibit – Singapore, Very Old Tree
Once you’re done with interactive heaven at Story of the Forest, do check out Singapore, Very Old Tree: a phenomenal photography exhibition by renowned local artist, Robert Zhao. The 17-piece collection explores the nation’s identity as a ‘Garden City’ by shining the spotlight on some of the most iconic trees across the island.
When: Permanent exhibit
The exhibit – Wings of a Rich Manoeuvre
This majestic piece, hanging high above the bridge at the second level, consists of eight kinetic chandeliers that sway in mid-air with dramatic movement. Each chandelier was constructed from stainless steel and Swarovski crystals so imagine how heavy they are. The little ones will definitely be mesmerised by them!
When: Permanent exhibit
Where: National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Road, Singapore 178897
5. National Gallery Singapore
The National Gallery Singapore is worth a trip for the building alone! And then you’ve got a collection of fab exhibits, and of course, our all-time favourite: Keppel Centre for Art Education. The latter is filled with hands-on activities to keep all ages entertained, good luck leaving. Here’s the lowdown on must-see exhibits for planning your outing:
The exhibit – Children’s Biennale 2021
This annual kid’s exhibition is our perennial favourite to bring the little people to, and we’re beyond pleased that it’s back for its third edition in “phytigal” form! Via the theme Why Art Matters, kiddos (and you!) will be empowered with empathy and confidence through nine artworks by artists from Singapore and Southeast Asia.
When: Until 31 December 2022
The exhibit – Keppel Centre for Art Education
This interactive space encourages imagination, creativity and self-led exploration for kids. The little ones can play in this dedicated kids section of the museum. From designing their own virtual sculptures to attending workshops, there’s plenty of space to roam around and let their imagination soar.
When: Permanent exhibit
Where: National Gallery Singapore, 1 St Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178957
6. Singapore Art Museum
Did you know that SAM is the first art museum in Singapore? The museum presents an extensive public collection of Southeast Asian contemporary art in multiple venues across the island. While its original spaces in the Bras Basah-Bugis district are being redeveloped, SAM has taken up residence at the historic port in Tanjong Pagar Distripark. Psst, read up on our experience spending a day at SAM!
Where: Singapore Art Museum, #01-02, Tanjong Pagar Distripark, 39 Keppel Road, Singapore 089065
7. Malay Heritage Centre
Head over to Istana Kampong Gelam (aka the Malay Heritage Centre), the former home of the Sultanate of Singapore, for a cool history lesson. Check out the permanent exhibits showcasing the colourful history and culture of the Malay community in Singapore. There are five galleries spread over two levels, so plenty to keep everyone busy! Don’t miss Adventures in Nusantara, where you can learn more about Singapore’s history and take away useful learning points. Complete the trip by purchasing the mini briefcase activity pack!
The exhibit – Cerita (Stories) Special Exhibition
Cerita, which means stories in Malay, shines the spotlight on shared stories as well as the role of storyteller through selected artefacts and collaborations the centre has presented over the past decade. Through this exhibition, visitors will uncover fresh insights and perspectives on Malay culture and heritage.
When: Until 30 October 2022 (extended!)
Where: Malay Heritage Centre, 85 Sultan Gate, Singapore 198501
8. Indian Heritage Centre
Ever wanted to know how the Indian population in Singapore came to be? Find out at the Indian Heritage Centre with its exhibits full of facts and colourful displays documenting the incredible journey from the Indian sub-continent to Southeast Asia. The exhibit will have you setting off on your own little adventure too, as you explore history from the 1st century right up to the 21st century.
Where: Indian Heritage Centre, 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924
9. Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre
Learn more about the Chinese community in this little red dot at the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre. Spanning the second level of this museum, the six zones explore the uprising of the Chinese population and culture in Singapore, and how it slowly birthed the unique Chinese Singaporean identity.
Where: Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre, 1 Straits Boulevard, Singapore 018906
10. ArtScience Museum
You’ll know ArtScience Museum from its iconic home along Marina Bay. Aside from having some serious Insta credentials from the outside, there are loads to snap inside too. Have your cameras at the ready! We’re also big fans of how interactive the exhibits are, especially Future World: Where Art Meets Science. See below for all the full deets!
The exhibit – We Live in an Ocean of Air
Head up to the VR Gallery at Level 4 for the museum’s latest exhibit, We Live in an Ocean of Air. This multi-sensory work showcases the connections that bind animals, plants, humans, and natural worlds together as one – all in breathtaking virtual reality. The 12-minute-long immersive experience also highlights the challenges Earth faces and what we must do to protect our planet. Also, check out We Tread in a Garden of Spells, a specially curated film programme in parallel with this installation.
When: Until 2 October 2022
The exhibit – Mental: Colours of Wellbeing
This is not an exhibition about mental illness, treatments, or cures. Instead, Mental: Colours of Wellbeing offers visitors the chance to confront societal bias and stereotypes around mental health. There are over 20 interactive works from local and international artists that reflect various perspectives on mental health and the ways of being.
When: Until 26 February 2023
The exhibit – Future World: Where Art Meets Science
Is this the best exhibit in Singapore? Quite possibly! Immerse yourself in a world of art through digital interactive installations by teamLab at Future World. Each themed zone of the exhibition has several installations that tell a unique story, with interactive family activities to participate in. For example, head to the Sketch Piston to create your own symphony of sounds. Fun and totally kid-friendly.
When: Permanent exhibit
Where: ArtScience Museum, 6 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018974
11. River Wonders
Travel to the Amazon, the second-longest river in the world, at River Wonder’s Amazon Flooded Forest exhibits. This enormous freshwater aquarium transports you straight into the flooded waters of the river and offers different immersive experiences thanks to its multi-levels of viewing. We’d also suggest a boat ride down the Amazon River Quest for an exciting, scenic end to the day.
Where: River Wonders, 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826
12. Madame Tussauds
Are your kids big fans of football stars and heartthrob boy bands? Take them on a trip to celebville at Madame Tussauds, where they can share the stage with One Direction, test their sporting skills against heroes like David Beckham or shake hands with the world’s biggest political leaders. For a nice breather after an afternoon of fawning over wax versions of your idols, take a boat ride through an enchanted Singapore forest. You’ll be treated to mini Singapore in all its swanky splendour.
Plus, don’t miss the Images of Singapore exhibition. A 1.5-hour learning journey where kids can learn about the history of Singapore! Follow a time-travelling host as you’re transported to different iconic moments in our country’s life.
Where: Madame Tussauds, 40 Imbiah Road, Singapore 099700
13. Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall
Why study communist China from your social studies textbook when you can just visit a museum instead? If you’ve ever wanted to know more about the Chinese culture – specifically Dr Sun Yat Sen’s revolutionary activities in Southeast Asia and his contribution to Singapore during the 1911 Revolution – you’ll want to take a peek into the galleries at Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall. Not only that, but they have loads of one-off kid-friendly exhibits taking place throughout the year, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled!
Where: Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall, 12 Tai Gin Road, Singapore 327874
14. Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is one of our favourites for a family day out. There’s plenty of outdoor space, amazing (and free!) water play, and a range of food choices. Plus, there are plenty of indoor options, perfect for when you need to cool off or the weather goes array.
The exhibit – A Spanish Serenade with Sunflowers
From Mexico, GBTB now takes you to Spain! The floral display takes inspiration from the region of Andalusia, specifically the cities of Seville, Granada, Malaga, Jaen, and Cordoba. Check out the sunflowers and other popular Spanish blooms that perfectly interpret a Spanish courtyard garden. Afterwards, marvel at olive trees that have shaped the Mediterranean world, the famous Patio de las Doncellas of the Real Alcazar palace in Seville, and the Fiesta de los Patios.
When: 1-30 October 2022
The exhibit – Floral Fantasy
We’ve explored every inch of Gardens by the Bay, including the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. And that’s why we’re excited to have not one, but four new garden landscapes to explore at Floral Fantasy. Dance, drift, waltz or float away on bubbling brooks, past waterfalls, hanging plants and more at this attraction. Super kid-friendly – be prepared to take plenty of photos!
When: Permanent exhibit
Where: Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953
15. Science Centre Singapore
The Science Centre Singapore has exhibits galore for all ages, from toddlers right the way through to the reluctant (but sure to be impressed) teens. Make a day of it and be sure to have these fabulous exhibits on your radar:
The exhibit – Waterworks
The centre’s outdoor water play area gives visitors the opportunity to splash around and cool off from the heat. They also get to learn the importance of water here. The water clock tower has various equipment that indicates wind direction, measures wind speed, and the amount of rainfall. The little ones will have fun trying to navigate through the little water maze!
The exhibit – Omni-Theatre — SE Asia’s First 8K 3D Digital Dome Theatre
Head over to the Omni-theatre at Science Centre Singapore to watch the latest, larger-than-life encounter with Sea Lions: Life by a Whisker. Or, check out Dinosaurs of Antarctica – you’ll be wowed by the spectacle alone, all while being taken on a roar-some adventure through primitive forests and thick swamps to encounter extraordinary dinosaurs!
The exhibit – Future Makers
The permanent exhibition at the Science Centre will wow children and all little engineers. Once you’ve been briefed on your mission, you can check out the interactive exhibits and earn secret codes to play an escape room. Put your piloting skills to the test at the special drone-rover arena. You can even bring your own drone or RC car to pilot. It’s a dry-weather activity only, so be sure to go when the sun’s out!
When: Permanent exhibit
The exhibit – Phobia: The Science of Fear
Most of us have a phobia (spiders, yuck!) and this addition to Science Centre Singapore explores fear from a historical, cultural and psychological perspective. Kids will be taken on a journey through different types of fears. From the fear of being buried alive to monsters under the bed and even every student’s worst fear – exams! Better prep the kiddos for some hair-raising moments.
When: Permanent exhibit
The exhibit – Know Your Poo
Be sure to bring the kiddos to this fun exhibition about poo and all things related to bodily function. Learn the history and evolution of sanitation and toilets through interactive exhibits! Identify what you should or shouldn’t flush down the toilet, learn what makes farts smell and pose for a picture with the porcelain royal throne!
When: Permanent exhibit
The exhibit – Butterflies Up-Close
Hands up if your kids made you read one of our all-time favourite classics, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, a gazillion times as part of the bedtime routine? Little ones LOVE following the story of that greedy little critter all the way through to its transformation into the prettiest butterfly in the garden. They can meet a small army of caterpillars and butterflies (more than 500 at the last count) that have crawled and fluttered their way over to the Science Centre’s colourful, interactive display.
When: Permanent exhibit
The exhibit – Energy Story
Energy is not visible to the naked eye, but it’s all around us. This exhibition, jointly presented by Energy Market Authority and SP Group, showcases humankind’s progression after discovering energy and its continuous work towards sustainability. There are six zones filled with multimedia displays and interactives where you can learn about the sources, uses, and transformation of energy. There’s also a section dedicated to Singapore’s energy sector.
When: Permanent exhibit
The exhibit – Earth Alive
Bring the kids ’round this engaging exhibit that takes you through sections explaining the changes that Earth goes through. And, how these changes affect us critically, and what can be done to save the planet.
When: Permanent exhibit
The exhibit – Professor Crackitt’s Light Fantastic Mirror Maze
Navigate around Professor Crackitt’s laboratory, a life-size labyrinth of mirrors and endless hallways, and help him find his lost pet parrot. Have fun creating coloured shadows around the room! Just be sure not to bump into yourself as you make your way through the identical corridors.
When: Permanent exhibit
The exhibit – The Mind’s Eye
Is your little one interested in optical illusions? Or maybe you’re a fan yourself. Pop by this curated exhibition that challenges your perspectives and lets you see that things may not always be the way they appear.
When: Permanent exhibit
The exhibit – Smart Nation Playscape
Are your kids into tech? The latest Smart Nation Playscape exhibition might be one to check out. Through eight tech zones, you’ll get a glimpse into future technology and its role in developing Singapore. There’s also a cool opt-in personalised experience, where you can collect digital stamps and take a snapshot of your journey and receive a ‘PlayScape Passport’ via email to remember your digital escapade!
When: Permanent exhibit
Where: Science Centre Singapore, 15 Science Centre Road, Singapore 609081
16. Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum
One of our favourite kid-friendly museums, the Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum is the place to go if you’re keen to learn more about the Earth’s history and diversity, plus get up close and personal with iconic specimens of Singapore’s geology and ecosystem. From a slice of the rare (and now locally extinct) Changi tree to the Singapore sperm whale, examine the weird and wonderful from our very own shores. Did we mention there are dinosaur fossils?
The exhibit – Body Snatchers
Parasites and body snatchers and zombifying infesters, oh my! Their mere mention is enough to strike terror in most folks. But is their reputation entirely undeserved? In this exhibition, which is separated into three ecosystems (air, land, and water), visitors get to learn the life history of parasites and delve into nature’s house of horrors. Prepare to be greeted with an aura of unease and curiosity.
When: Until end-October 2022
The exhibit – Reflections: LKCNHM x BL5312
What does natural heritage mean to you? How do you interact with nature today? Discover tales of nature, past and present, through thought-provoking exhibits that have been developed through the museum’s postgraduate module, ‘BL5312: Natural History Collections & Conservation’. Reflections is held in conjunction with the Singapore HeritageFest 2022.
When: Until December 2022
Where: Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, 2 Conservatory Drive, Singapore 117377
17. Singapore Discovery Centre
If you’re keen to discover (wink wink) Singapore’s story, make a trip down to the Singapore Discovery Centre, located near one of the country’s military camps. Besides learning more about Singapore’s history and future challenges, the kids can have fun in the escape room, watch the latest films at the iWerks Theatre, and enjoy local delicacies at the Bottle Tree Cafe Restaurant. The journey may be far for some, but the enjoyment and discovery are worthwhile.
Where: Singapore Discovery Centre, 510 Upper Jurong Road, Singapore 638365
18. Trick Eye Museum (at a new location in Sentosa!)
For an afternoon of giggles and optical illusions, head to the Trick Eye Museum. This place is all about the art of turning two-dimensional paintings into three-dimensional scenes. Just watch how the surfaces of the museum walls, floors and ceilings come alive! Arm yourself with a camera, get creative with your poses and go nuts creating the wackiest visual narratives at the various themed galleries. We’ve taken too many hilarious photos at this kid-friendly museum to count.
Where: Trick Eye Museum, Southside Interim Market Singapore, 80 Siloso Road, Singapore 098969
19. Marina Bay Sands
Thought The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands were just about, well, shops? Think again! Make a beeline for the amazing light sculpture and LED floor, all part of Digital Life Canvas, a collaboration with teamLab. Expect some pretty impressive light imagery. Think birds flying through the light sculpture while fish dart about beneath your feet, and flowers blooming underfoot. It’s all part of the fun!
Where: The Shoppes, Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, #B2-50, Singapore 018956
20. Singapore Maritime Gallery
Sea voyagers, sailors, and those curious about the sea, the Singapore Maritime Gallery is where you can learn about Singapore’s maritime heritage. Keep a lookout for 10 fun facts as you explore the place. Don’t forget to pick up an activity booklet so that you can discover more through quizzes, puzzles, and other fun stuff.
Where: Singapore Maritime Gallery, Level 2, Marina South Pier, 31 Marina Coastal Drive, Singapore 018988
21. Sustainable Singapore Gallery at Marina Barrage
Learn more about Singapore’s efforts to create a livable and sustainable country for all at the Sustainable Singapore Gallery. Housed on the second floor of Marina Barrage, this 1,618 square-metre modern and interactive gallery is divided into six zones. Each zone addresses the various sustainability themes this tiny dot is working on, such as climate change and food waste management. You’ll leave the gallery with lessons learned and a stunning view of the barrage. Psst, head down towards the later part of the afternoon so that you’ll get to see a pretty sunset!
Where: Sustainable Singapore Gallery, Level 2, Marina Barrage, 8 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018951
22. Singapore City Gallery at the Urban Redevelopment Authority Centre
If you’ve ever wished for the ability to see into the future then you’re in luck. Head over to the Singapore City Gallery exhibit, where you’ll find the fascinating story of Singapore’s massive urban renewal and also get a look at the future plans for our small, but mighty city. Kids will love getting a bird’s eye view of large-scale architectural models where they will keep busy trying to find their home on the island-wide model! Our personal highlights? Interacting with the old and new streetscapes while discovering the history behind some of Singapore’s heritage gems at the ‘A Brush With History’ exhibit. Plus, take a journey through Singapore’s hidden urban systems in ‘How Our City Works’. Family winner for sure.
Where: The URA Centre, 45 Maxwell Road, Singapore 069118
23. Changi Chapel and Museum
Here’s another museum in Singapore that delves into the country’s history. The Changi Chapel and Museum is a commemorative site that highlights the personal stories, courage, and resilience of prisoners of war (POWs) and folks who were interned in Changi prison camp during the Japanese Occupation. When you’re done with the exhibitions, wander around the chapel built by the POWs during their internment. Appreciate how quiet and peaceful the chapel is during your visit.
Where: Changi Chapel and Museum, 1000 Upper Changi Road North, Singapore 507707
24. Changi Experience Studio at Jewel Changi Airport
Take the fam down to Jewel Changi Airport and check out the Changi Experience Studio! Made up of ten interactive zones, you can learn all things Changi as well as get the chance to go behind the scenes and take part in simulations of airport activities. Or, make a day of it and check out the camps and workshops taking place, like the Airport Emergency Service Experience (where you get to meet Changi’s very own firefighters!) or the exciting Champions of the Smart Airport RoboMaster workshop.
Where: Changi Experience Studio, Level 4, Jewel Changi Airport, 78 Airport Boulevard, Singapore 819666
25. Hell’s Museum at Haw Par Villa
You don’t need to wait for Halloween to give the kiddos a little scare – just take them to Hell’s Museum. Stretched over 3,800 square meters, visitors will learn more about death and dying through the 10 Courts of Hell. It’s all very graphic here, not quite a kid-friendly museum, and defo not recommended for littles under nine years old. But it’ll be good to give them a little scare while parents might have a hell of a time!
Where: Hell’s Museum, Haw Par Villa, 262 Pasir Panjang Road, Singapore 118628
26. Air Force Museum
If your little people are big fans of airplanes, then this museum is right up their alley. Located next to Paya Lebar Air Base, the Air Force Museum provides a hands-on experience that brings the story of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) to life. Learn about the history and mission of the RSAF through interactive displays and games at the indoor gallery. Then, head outdoors and get up close with various fighter jets, missiles, and anti-craft systems.
Where: Air Force Museum, 400 Airport Road, Singapore 534234
27. Museum of Ice Cream
When you’re at Dempsey Hill, see if you can spot the Museum of Ice Cream‘s bright pink doors. Spend 90 minutes at the happiest place in Singapore as you interact with 14 fun, quirky installations that include a dragon playground inspired by the one at Toa Payoh and a tunnel filled with over 10,000 bananas in shades of yellow, red, and pink. The kiddos will definitely enjoy jumping around the Inflatable, a bright pink bouncy castle, and Sprinkle Pool, probably the most anticipated installation. Plus, enjoy unlimited servings of delicious ice cream at dedicated stations.
When: Ongoing
Where: Museum of Ice Cream, 100 Loewen Road, Singapore 248837
See you at the museum, folks!