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 & EXHIBITS IN SINGAPORE
1. Children’s Season 2021: Fantastic Critters and Where to Find Them
Go on a hunt for Fantastic Critters this Children’s Season at Singapore’s museums! There are more than 90 exhibitions, programmes, and activities that kids and their families can participate in (so you’re never going to be bored). This year’s festival plays hosts to critters inspired by Singapore’s diverse museums and their collections. The critters are featured in a special activity booklet which the little ones will complete by visiting the museums. Complete a series of activities based on the museums’ collections and artefacts and get rewarded with stickers that can be exchanged for a Fantastic Critters face mask. Happy exploring!
When: Until 31 December 2021
Where: Participating museums and online
2. Museum of Ice Cream
Finally, the Museum of Ice Cream has opened its bright pink doors at Dempsey Hill! 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
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. As well as 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! Also, don’t forget to grab one of the colourful activity booklets (complete with stickers and postcards) and try out the museum trails.
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 – 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
The exhibit – New, Great and Happy: The Amusement “Worlds” of Singapore
Did you know that Singapore was home to many amusement parks from the 1920s till now? Relive fond memories and learn interesting facts about amusement parks on our sunny island in New, Great and Happy: The Amusement “Worlds” of Singapore. Plus, you get to enjoy some classic amusement park games and rides provided by local carnival veteran Uncle Ringo within the exhibition itself!
When: Until 9 January 2022
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 – City Hall: If Walls Could Talk
Travel back in time in this multimedia experience and get front-row seats to defining events in City Hall: If Walls Could Talk. From the swearing-in of the nation’s first president to the unveiling of the national flag, get an insight into pivotal moments of Singapore’s history through augmented content and an interactive digital wall.
When: Ongoing
The exhibit – Keppel Centre for Art Education
This interactive space encourages imagination, creativity and self-led exploration for kids. The little ones can play at 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
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. Psst, the physical festival will be open 6 November onwards. That’s double the Biennale fun, we say!
When: Until 31 December 2022
Where: National Gallery Singapore, 1 St Andrew’s Road, Singapore 178957
6. 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 – Art Encounters: Where Land Meets Sea
Local artist duo Ripple Root returns with Where Lands Meets Sea, a colourful installation that celebrates the history of Kampong Gelam. The exhibition highlights the lives of seafarers and the concept of tanah-air, which translates to homeland in Malay. Psst, one of this duo’s artworks can be spotted at our office building!
When: Until 16 December 2021
Where: Malay Heritage Centre, 85 Sultan Gate, Singapore 198501
7. 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.
The exhibit – Sikhs in Singapore – A Story Untold
Co-created with the Sikh community, this three-part exhibit explains the origin of the Sikhs in Singapore, highlights the exemplary migrants, and offers a glimpse into the experiences of select contemporary Sikhs. Kids can also check out its educational e-resource, made exclusively in tandem with the exhibit.
When: Until 30 January 2022
Where: Indian Heritage Centre, 5 Campbell Lane, Singapore 209924
8. 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.
The exhibit – Through the Eyes of a Child: Art by Quek Hong Shin
Go on a journey through time and discover the cultural icons that defined Singapore way back then! This exhibit showcases memories of yesteryear, which include attap houses and children playing in Chinatown‘s back alleys, as well as the people and places that inspired the artist during his growing up years.
When: Until 26 December 2021
Where: Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre, 1 Straits Boulevard, Singapore 018906
9. ArtScience Museum
You’ll know ArtScience Museum from its iconic home along Marina Bay. As well as 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 – 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
The exhibit – Virtual Realms: Videogames Transformed
For all parent-child gaming duos out there, check out Videogames Transformed! This exhibit spotlights an immersive gaming experience by bringing video games to life in six interactive themes. It transforms your video games from a simple screen to a real-life museum experience, and is definitely one you won’t want to miss!
When: Until 9 January 2022
Where: ArtScience Museum, 6 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018974
10. Pop-Up Disney! A Mickey Celebration
Hop in: we’re going on an adventure with the one and only M-I-C-K-E-Y-M-O-U-S-E! There are seven themed experiences filled with multi-dimensional visual displays at Pop-Up Disney!, where art and the perfect photo ops come together to make magical memories. Other playful surprises to look out for include the giant Minnie Mouse bow sofa in Mickey and Minnie’s Love room, Sorcerer Mickey’s Magic Room that’s filled with fantasy, and the Mickey Loves Singapore thematic room which celebrates all things Singapore. Mickey has come a long way to be here with you in Singapore, so snatch your tickets ASAP!
When: Until 20 March 2022
Where: Pop-Up Disney!, Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre, Level 3, 1 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore 039593
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, Sentosa, 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 towards 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!
The exhibit – Wan Qing Culturefest
Learn more about and celebrate Chinese arts, culture, and heritage in the Wan Qing Culturefest. Visitors can join in various online and offline activities that include dramatised storytelling, craft activities, fun workshops, and even an interactive heritage hunt. The fun and learning can continue at home through the specially curated bilingual activity kit. Plus, Xiao Ging, the memorial hall’s little mascot, and her brother will take you on a time-travel adventure where the littlies can learn about modern women’s changes in fashion, roles, and status.
When: Until 31 December 2021
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’s plenty of indoor options, perfect for when you need to cool off or the weather goes array.
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
The exhibit – Otah & Friends Volume 2: Blast Off
The playful otter and friends are back for more fun adventures following last year’s successful run. In this brand new game experience, you’ll have to race against time to collect seven items that will help launch Otah’s rocket into space. Rummage through colourful spaces such as a library and a classroom to uncover these secret tools! There’s even a secret room if you look hard enough…
When: Until 3 January 2022
The exhibit – Once Upon a Time on the Orient Express
Experience the epitome of luxury travel with this exhibition that brings you back to the 1900s. Take your kids on a time-travelling journey to see how the train’s legacy has shaped the world of travel. Psst, The Orient Express pop-up restaurant even offers a vintage dining experience as you marvel at this exhibition… Double win!
When: Until 5 January 2022
The exhibit – Tulipmania
Tulipmania returns to Gardens by the Bay with this year’s display featuring tulips and their origin as wildflowers in the wilderness of Central Asia (who knew?!). Amidst the flowery display is a traditional yurt handmade by Kazakhstan craftsmen, which opens up to reveal a cosy interior filled with felt textiles, furnishings, and a crackling fire.
When: Until 14 November 2022
Where: Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953
15. Science Centre Singapore
The Science Centre Singapore has exhibits galore for all ages, from the 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 – 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 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 the 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 – UNTAME: Rebooting our World
This festival has specific programmes for all ages – so everyone is well catered for! This year’s theme focuses on building a more sustainable world. There’s everything from engaging hands-on STEAM challenges, parent-child activities, as well as heaps of online fun too!
When: Until 5 December 2021
The exhibit – Da Vinci, The Exhibition
For a healthy dose of fun and education, take the kids to this exhibit to learn about Leonardo Da Vinci and his largest collection of works… Think 50 life-size inventions all with cool displays. Paintings range from music to physics, and there’s even a small section at the end for fun kids’ activities!
When: Until 2 January 2022
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! Psst, only for the month of December 2021, you can join the gallery tour where you’ll be fed with horrifying yet wonderful stories of parasites! You’ll even receive a goodie bag and stand to win the limited edition Body Snatchers tee!
When: Until end October 2022
Where: Lee Kong Chian Natural History Museum, Faculty of Science, National University of Singapore, 2 Conservatory Drive, Singapore 117377
17. Trick Eye Museum
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, 26 Sentosa Gateway, Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore 098138
18. 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
19. 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, Marina South Pier, 31 Marina Coastal Drive Level 2, Singapore 018988
20. Singapore City Gallery at the Urban Redevelopment Authority Centre (CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE)
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
See you at the museum, folks!