Indoor playzones for different ages, outdoor splash pads, themed activity spaces, plus a cafe for adults to chill. Is there anything this playscape didn’t think of?
Just when we thought playgrounds in Singapore couldn’t get any cooler, the Shangri-La hotel takes it up a notch with the unveiling of Buds by Shangri-La. Tucked in a quiet corner at level one, this 2,150 square metre playscape is divided into a variety of indoor and outdoor playzones to cater to different age groups and interests.
First up, is the Explorer Zone where older tots (four years and above) will have a blast at the massive ball pit that’s connected to climbing structures and bouncy bridges made from sturdy ropes. Junior can also go on the many slides – straight, spiral, tunnel and parallel – you name it they have it.
The Explorer Zone is further divided into different themes. The bright and boisterous-looking fire mountain play area offers kiddies endless hours of cannon ball air blaster fun (watch your back – and your butt!). Little science geeks will love the space station-themed play area that also has (yes, you guessed it) more cannon ball air blaster stations, a climbing structure, plus a tunnel slide.
Tiny tots aged four and below are not forgotten at Buds, thanks to the cosy toddler corner. Here junior can try out age-appropriate swings and slides; a piano floor; soft wall buttons that make animal sounds when you press them; a ball pit, plus vintage kiddie rides.
It’s activities galore at Buds, with dedicated spaces for budding artists to make a splash; a music studio for young performers; and a fully-equipped cooking classroom for you mini masterchef. By the way, there’s also an interactive party room perfect to hold junior’s next birthday bash!
The fun continues as you venture outdoors to the wet play area that boasts a giant pirate ship structure little ones can climb and slide down from. If that’s not enough, there are also splash pads, water sprays and and a massive water bucket that tips over when it’s filled to the brim. In other words, some good ol’ splishing and splashing to cool down during a warm day.
What makes Buds by Shangri-La the perfect family spot, in our books, is that it’s also designed with parents in mind. After a day of running after your energizer bunnies, there really is no better feeling than to kick back at the in-house cafe for a latte and some light bites. Got older kids? Leave them to explore the various zones independently, while you catch up with other mummy and daddy friends, or sit back with a book (or just to enjoy some quiet time!). There’s also a nursing room within the vicinity and the playscape does have childminders, so rest assured that someone has eyes on your little monkey at all times!
22 Orange Grove Road, Singapore 258350; www.rediscovernew.shangri-la.com;
Open: Daily, 9am to 9pm (outdoor area closes at 7pm).
Price: Free for hotel guests staying in the Themed Family Suites and Family Deluxe Rooms. Other hotel/apartment guests, visitors to the restaurant and spa: $28 per child (four to 12 years old); and $18 (below four years old), inclusive of one adult. Non-hotel guests: $48 per child (four to 12 years old); and $28 (below four years old), inclusive of one adult. All charges are for a three-hour block. Classes and special activities are charged separately.
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