Do you know the Little Red Dot like the back of your hand? Think again! We present the best secret places in Singapore for all the family that you should know about…
This Little Red Dot has loads of attractions that every fam knows and loves. Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa, Botanic Gardens… you’d have visited them at least once or multiple times. What if we told you there are hidden gems in Singapore even the locals don’t know? Folks, these places have been hiding in plain sight – and you should visit these secret places in Singapore with the kids, stat!
Urban hidden gems in Singapore
1. City Sprouts Urban Farm: Hidden gem of urban gardening
In recent years, many local schools in Singapore have been forced to close and merge; Henderson Secondary School in Redhill is one of them. The site was transformed into an urban farming redevelopment known as City Sprouts. Families can participate in many activities in this hidden gem in Singapore, such as guided tours, educational workshops, and volunteering opportunities. Feeling peckish? Head to the canteen, where you can get coffee, kid-friendly brunch options, and the best local delicacies. It’s also pet-friendly and a perfect space to work!
Where: 102 Henderson Road, Singapore 159562
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2. Skyville @ Dawson: Hidden gem rooftop garden with skyscraper views
Here’s a secret spot where you can watch fireworks! Skyville’s sky garden on the 47th floor offers unobstructed views, a strong breeze, and Instagrammable background spots. As this is a residential area, we suggest you lower your volume if you plan to stay here past 10pm. Oh, and of course, keep the site clean. While you’re here, check out the cool playground at 61C Strathmore Avenue. There’s a trampoline where you can bounce around and let loose!
Where: Skyville @ Dawson, 86 Dawson Road, Singapore 141086
3. Cake Artelier: Hidden gem cake shop in Bukit Timah
Who says you have to wait for a special occasion to get a cake? Cake Artelier is a specialty cake shop tucked in Bukit Timah Shopping Centre and has some really neat designs. They’ve got agar and jelly cakes with beautiful designs but you can always hit them up to order something personalised. The cake shop runs workshops for adults and kids too! Participants will get to learn how to make beautiful (and tasty!) jelly cakes. Yum…
Where: #B1-28, Bukit Timah Shopping Centre, 170 Upper Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 588179
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4. T For Toys: Hidden gem toy warehouse with affordable toys
Toys are a child’s best friend. However, with inflation kicking everyone in the butt lately, we’re feeling the pinch and thinking twice about splurging on toys. Enter: T For Toys, a huge warehouse hidden in Tampines. You can find a wide variety of toys here, which are high quality yet affordable. Board games, toy cars, storybooks… you name it, they’re all here. If this is too far for you to visit, fret not – T For Toys has an online store too. Just browse, add to cart, and et voila!
Where: #01-02A, Space @ Tampines, 18 Tampines Industrial Crescent, Singapore 528605
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5. Void Deck Van Gogh: Hidden gem of art in the heartlands
You don’t need to travel far to see Van Gogh’s paintings up close – just head down to Macpherson! The void deck of Block 56 Pipit Road was “defaced” with the Dutch painter’s most recognisable works. On top of the reproductions, the walls also educate the public about Van Gogh, his artistic style, and how his artworks came to be. This lovely hidden treasure in the Singapore heartlands makes a colourful photo spot for your OOTDs. Psst, there are three Void Deck Art Galleries in total.
Where: 56 Pipit Road, Singapore 370056
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6. CT Hub @ Kallang Avenue: Good eats and cool cafes tucked away in this hidden gem
While there are plenty of places in Singapore to get yummy food, you would be remiss to skip CT Hub 1 and 2. A stone’s throw away from Bendemeer MRT Station, the two commercial developments feature various food establishments that you should try. From decadent croissants courtesy of Brotherbird Bakehouse to affordable Japanese cuisine at the cosy Jinkura Izakaya, there’s something for everyone here. I hit up Cahaya for delish Halal food if I’m in the area. Besides food, there’s also a rock climbing gym on the first floor of CT Hub 1.
Where: CT Hub, 2 Kallang Avenue, Singapore 339407
7. Singapore Musical Box Museum: Hidden gem full of history
Did you know that in the 19th century, Singapore played a vital role in the progress and development of musical boxes in Southeast Asia? Learn the history behind the music box at the Singapore Musical Box Museum, a hidden gem residing beside Thian Hock Keng Temple. If you want to own a music box or get it as a gift, the museum has an accompanying shop with a large variety.
Where: 37A Circular Rd, Singapore 049393
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8. Little libraries: Hidden gems at void decks for the community
Residents turn community spaces into little libraries where everyone can read. You are free to take the books home, but to keep the spirit of reading going, make sure leave some books there too. For some, like the HV Little Library, the library has become a communal spaces where residents gather to sing, eat, and hang out. For others like the Superhero Library, that’s where kids in the neighbourhood read, play, and get into some crafting activities. Check our guide to locate a little library near you.
Where: Various locations.
9. Heritage Collection on Boat Quay: Boutique hidden gem by the river
We at HoneyKids love a good staycay, and this boutique “aparthotel” on Boat Quay is one place you ought to stay. Fork out a bit more and go for the Stamford Studio or Raffles Loft rooms at the Quayside Wing. You’ll get a private balcony to take a scenic view of the Singapore River, Marina Bay, and Civic District skylines. The rooms are also fully equipped with a kitchenette, washing machine, and dryer. Within walking distance is Dopa Dopa Creamy, where you can enjoy artisanal ice cream made with natural ingredients.
Where: 76 Boat Quay, Singapore 049864
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10. Arwaa Mansion: This photo shoot spot is a hidden gem that doesn’t look like Singapore
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when we mention Nassim Road? If your answer is colonial mansions, then you’re right! Walk down this stretch, and you’ll spot many bungalows, apparently belonging to famous and/or wealthy people. The secret place in Singapore we’re highlighting is Arwaa Mansion. The property, owned by Prince Jefri Bolkiah, a member of Brunei’s royal family, sits on a land area of about 110,000 square feet. That’s huge! According to TikTok, the area surrounding this mansion will transport you to Rome. Thus, it’s a good place for photo shoots. So if you’re planning to do that, head to the field next to the mansion.
Where: 8 Nassim Road, Singapore 258434
Nature’s hidden gems in Singapore
11. Puaka Hill in Pulau Ubin: A Natural hidden gem with breathtaking views
This one might not be for the little ones but if the fam is up for the challenge, take a hike up Puaka Hill and get back in touch with nature! The view from the top is worth the view – you’ll be able to admire the breathtaking views of Ubin Quarry, Singapore, and even Malaysia. Puaka Hill is the highest point in the island of Pulau Ubin so make sure you’re ready to sweat it out!
Where: Pulau Ubin
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12. Kranji Marshes: A hidden gem for birdwatchers and nature buffs
Did you know you could spot eagles in Singapore? Kranji Marshes is a great place to check out if you’re a fan of spotting cool critters and other wildlife – they even have hideout shelters for you to chill out at and watch the wildlife in peace at this national park. Want a panoramic view of the Kranji Marshes and Kranji Reservoir? Make your way up the 15-meter-tall Raptor tower for a birds-eye view!
Where: 11 Neo Tiew Lane 2, Singapore 718814
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13. Yunnan Garden: A Serene hidden gem in the west
Nanyang Technological University sounds very far away to traverse (it is), but it’s worth it to explore this hidden garden in Singapore. The outdoor heritage space features picturesque pavilions, stone paths, an iconic waterfall, and a vast lake. You’ll feel as if you’re in China as soon as you step foot! There are plenty of trails where you can discover the different types of plants found here. Yunnan Garden also houses the Chinese Heritage Centre, where you can learn a lot about Chinese culture.
Where: 12 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637721
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14. Ang Mo Kio Linear Park: A green corridor hidden gem
Search “parks in Ang Mo Kio”, and the two most popular results are Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park and Ang Mo Kio Town Garden West. Well, here’s a lesser-known park that you should take note of. It’s pram-friendly, and there are two playgrounds (one is an eco-playground) where the kiddos can go around and have fun in the sun.
Where: Along Ang Mo Kio Avenue 5
15. Japanese Cemetery Park: A beautiful and tranquil hidden gem with lots of history
If you can’t afford a trip to Japan, here’s the closest cherry blossom alternative you can visit. Japanese Cemetery Park was established in 1891 as a burial ground for the Japanese based in Singapore. The main attraction here is the floral archways, which are lined with pretty pink bougainvilleas. It’s deffo a hidden gem AND an IG-worthy photo spot in Singapore – check out our full guide! Just don’t visit this secret place in Singapore during the Hungry Ghost Festival!
Where: 22 Chuan Hoe Avenue, Singapore 549854
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16. Hampstead Wetlands Park: A hidden gem full of flora and fauna
This 3.2-hectare green sanctuary, AKA the size of four football fields, is home to a wide range of plant and animal life. Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy amazing views of the pond. Are you a bird watcher? See if you can catch a glimpse of the birds around the wetlands. Keep your eyes peeled for the Heritage Tree too! When you’re done, just make your way to The Oval for nosh and let the kids run around the aviation-themed playground.
Where: 1 Baker Street, Singapore 799977
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17. Greenhouse: Dine in nature at this hidden gem
Unless you have been to Dusit Thani Laguna over at Changi, you may not know Greenhouse’s existence. This forest-themed restaurant (pictured up top) serves up multi-ethnic cuisines from five show kitchens. Savour dishes such as spicy Thai pork noodles, freshly baked naan, and nigiri sushi with a picturesque view of the Masters Course. Per its name, you’ll feel like you’re dining in a greenhouse.
Where: 11 Laguna Golf Green, Singapore 488047
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18. Keppel Hill Reservoir: A forgotten hidden gem with mystical vibes
For those looking for a new hiking trail to conquer, check this one out. Keppel Hill Reservoir, AKA “the forgotten reservoir”, is located near the slopes of Mount Faber. The area is roughly one-third the size of an Olympic swimming pool and has remained unspoilt for as long as it’s been around – since 1905, apparently! There are two routes that’ll lead you to the area itself. Once you get into the reservoir, walk a little further, and you’ll come face to face with a Japanese tomb. This secret place in Singapore also hides a secret bunker within the abandoned reservoir.
Where: 11 Keppel Hill, Singapore 098686
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Other hidden gems in Singapore
19. Lamp post number one: A hidden gem landmark beloved by cyclists
This secret place in Singapore is a not-so-secret an attraction among the cyclists. It is the only place in Singapore where you are legally allowed to paste stickers on public property, like a lamp post. Tuas Lamp Post 1 is not even the first lamp post in Singapore or in Tuas, but it got its name after a group of cyclists completed their 50km island ride there. In celebration, someone pasted a sticker on the lamp post and soon, other cyclists started doing the same. It was so popular that authorities decided to keep it as it is — a rare and fun little spot to commemorate a round-the-island ride.
Where: 999 Tuas S Blvd, Singapore 637055
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20. Lonely trees: These mysterious hidden gems have lots of meaning
We’re a garden city with over seven million trees, yet there are two lonely trees that have made their way to this list of secret places in Singapore. They’ve even got their own Google pin on the maps. The first Lone Tree is not a real tree but one made out of recycled iron bars. It’s a nod to the industrial origins of Jurong, which is now the beautiful Jurong Lake Gardens. The other lonely tree stands at Changi Bay Point and is known as That Lonely Changi Tree all because is stands in the middle of the beach. When the tide is in, it looks like a floating tree and it does look a little lonely, if you ask me. If you drive, park at Changi Car park 7, it’s a short walk from there.
Lone tree: more info
That Lonely Changi Tree: more info
Time to round up the fam and venture into the unknown to explore these hidden gems in Singapore!
This article was originally written by Sufyaan Saad in 2022 and updated by Raiz Redwan in 2025.
