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 family knows and loves. Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa, the Singapore Botanic Gardens… you’ve probably visited them at least once, if not multiple times. But what if we told you there are hidden gems in Singapore that even some locals don’t know about? Folks, these secret places have been hiding in plain sight – and you should visit them with the kids, stat!
1. City Sprouts Urban Farm: A hidden gem for urban gardening
In recent years, many local schools in Singapore have closed or merged; Henderson Secondary School in Redhill is one of them. The former school site has been transformed into an urban farming redevelopment known as City Sprouts. Families can participate in activities at this hidden gem in Singapore, including guided tours, educational workshops and volunteering opportunities. Feeling peckish? Head to the canteen, where you can get coffee, kid-friendly brunch options and local dishes. It’s also pet-friendly and has spaces where you can work.
Where: 102 Henderson Road, Singapore 159562
Opening hours: Daily, 9am–6pm
2. SkyVille @ Dawson: A hidden rooftop garden with skyscraper views
Here’s a secret spot where you can watch fireworks! SkyVille @ Dawson’s rooftop garden on the 47th floor offers panoramic city views, a strong breeze and Instagrammable photo spots. The rooftop garden is generally accessible from 7am to 10pm daily. As this is a residential area, keep noise levels down and leave the space clean. While you’re here, check out the playground at 61C Strathmore Avenue. There’s even a trampoline where the kids can bounce around and let loose!
Where: SkyVille @ Dawson, 86 Dawson Road, Singapore 141086
Opening hours: Daily, 7am–10pm
3. Cake Artelier: A hidden cake shop in Bukit Timah
Who says you have to wait for a special occasion to get a cake? Cake Artelier is a speciality cake shop tucked away in Bukit Timah Shopping Centre, with some really neat designs. It creates agar and jelly cakes featuring beautiful details, and you can also order something personalised. The cake shop runs workshops for adults and kids too! Participants can learn how to make beautiful – and tasty – jelly cakes. Yum…
Visits, collections and deliveries are by appointment, so contact Cake Artelier before heading down.
Where: #B1-28, Bukit Timah Shopping Centre, 170 Upper Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 588179
Opening hours: Monday–Saturday, 11am–7pm; Sunday, 11am–6pm. By appointment only.
4. T For Toys: A hidden 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 toy warehouse hidden in Tampines. You can find a wide variety of high-quality yet affordable toys here. Board games, toy cars, storybooks… you name it, they’re all here. If Tampines is too far for you, fret not – T For Toys has an online store too. Just browse, add to cart and et voilà!
Where: #01-02A, Space @ Tampines, 18 Tampines Industrial Crescent, Singapore 528605
Opening hours: Monday–Friday, 12pm–6pm; Saturday and Sunday, 12pm–7pm
5. Void Deck Van Gogh: A hidden art gallery in the heartlands
You don’t need to travel far to see Van Gogh-inspired artwork – just head down to MacPherson! The Vincent Van Gogh Void Deck Community Art Gallery at Block 55 Pipit Road was relaunched in 2024, more than a decade after the original gallery was created nearby. Along with reproductions and artworks inspired by the Dutch painter’s most recognisable works, the walls introduce visitors to Van Gogh, his artistic style and the stories behind his art. This colourful hidden treasure in the Singapore heartlands also makes a fun photo spot. Psst, Social Creatives has created three Void Deck Art Galleries in total.
Where: Block 55 Pipit Road, Singapore 370055
6. CT Hub: Good eats tucked away in this hidden gem
While there are plenty of places in Singapore to get yummy food, you would be remiss to overlook CT Hub 1 and 2. A stone’s throw from Bendemeer MRT Station, the two commercial developments house various food establishments worth trying. Head to Jinkura Izakaya for Japanese comfort food, sashimi and yakitori, or check out newer additions such as Eat@DeVour at the Food Street in CT Hub 2. Besides food, there’s also a rock climbing gym on the first floor of CT Hub 1. As the operating hours vary between businesses, check with the individual establishment before visiting.
Where: CT Hub, 2 Kallang Avenue, Singapore 339407; CT Hub 2, 114 Lavender Street, Singapore 338729
7. Singapore Musical Box Museum: A hidden gem full of history
Did you know that Singapore played a vital role in the development of musical boxes in Southeast Asia during the 19th and early 20th centuries? Learn about this fascinating history at the Singapore Musical Box Museum, which has moved from its former home beside Thian Hock Keng Temple to Circular Road. Its collection includes antique musical boxes and other mechanical musical instruments. If you want to own a musical box or get one as a gift, the museum also has an accompanying shop with a large selection. Visits are by guided tour, and advance booking is recommended.
Where: 37A Circular Road, Singapore 049393
Opening hours: Monday and Wednesday–Saturday, 10am–5pm; closed Tuesday and Sunday. Advance booking is recommended.
8. Little libraries: Hidden gems at void decks for the community
Residents across Singapore have transformed community spaces into little libraries where everyone can read and exchange books. You’re free to take a book home, but to keep the spirit of sharing and reading going, remember to leave some books there too. At places such as HV Little Library, the library has become a communal space where residents gather to sing, eat and hang out. At others, such as the Superhero Library, children from the neighbourhood can read, play and take part in craft activities. Check our full guide to locate a little library near you.
Where: Various locations around Singapore
9. Heritage Collection on Boat Quay: A boutique hidden gem by the river
Heritage Collection on Boat Quay is a boutique “aparthotel” hidden within restored shophouses beside the Singapore River. Go for one of the river-view rooms in the Quayside Wing to enjoy views of Boat Quay and the city skyline. Depending on the room category, amenities may include a kitchenette, washing machine and dryer, making it a convenient option for a longer stay in central Singapore. Do note that the Quayside Wing is currently listed as an adults-only property, so it may be better suited to a parents-only staycation than a stay with the kids. Check the latest age and occupancy requirements before booking.
Where: 76 Boat Quay, Singapore 049864
Check-in and check-out: Check-in from 3pm; check-out by 11am
10. Arwaa Mansion: A photo spot that doesn’t look like Singapore
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when we mention Nassim Road? If your answer is grand mansions, you’re right! Walk along this stretch and you’ll spot many impressive homes, apparently belonging to famous or wealthy residents. 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, reportedly sits on around 110,000 square feet of land. That’s huge! With its ornate gates, columns and sculptures, the mansion’s exterior looks more like something you’d see in Europe than Singapore.
Remember that Arwaa Mansion is a private residence. Admire it only from public areas, avoid blocking the entrance and be respectful of the residents and surrounding homes.
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 suitable for very young children, but if the family is up for the challenge, hike up Puaka Hill and get back in touch with nature! At 74 metres high, Puaka Hill is the highest point on Pulau Ubin. The climb follows a winding, sometimes uneven path, so wear proper shoes and keep younger children close. The view from the top is worth the effort – you’ll be able to admire Ubin Quarry, mainland Singapore and even Malaysia on a clear day.
Where: Pulau Ubin
Good to know: Regular bumboat services generally operate between 6am and 7pm, with no fixed departure schedule. Boats leave when there are enough passengers.
12. Kranji Marshes: A hidden gem for birdwatchers and nature lovers
Did you know you can spot eagles and other raptors in Singapore? Kranji Marshes is a great place to visit if you enjoy looking for birds, insects and other wildlife. It even has shelters and blinds where you can quietly observe the animals without disturbing them. Want a panoramic view of Kranji Marshes and Kranji Reservoir? Make your way up the 15-metre-tall Raptor Tower for a bird’s-eye view! Visit between November and March for a chance to see migratory raptors such as the Black Baza and Japanese Sparrowhawk.
Where: 11 Neo Tiew Lane 2, Singapore 718814
Opening hours: Daily, 7am–7pm
13. Yunnan Garden: A serene hidden gem in the west
Nanyang Technological University may sound very far away to traverse – and it is – but Yunnan Garden is worth the journey. This outdoor heritage space features picturesque pavilions, stone paths, a 5.6-metre-tall waterfall and a large lake. You’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a traditional Chinese garden! There are plenty of paths where you can look out for the different plants found here. Yunnan Garden also surrounds the Chinese Heritage Centre, a national monument dedicated to the history and culture of Chinese communities outside China.
The garden is open around the clock, but visit during daylight hours to appreciate the landscaping and waterscapes safely.
Where: 12 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637721
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
14. Ang Mo Kio Linear Park: A hidden green corridor
Search for “parks in Ang Mo Kio”, and the two most popular results are usually 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. Ang Mo Kio Linear Park runs alongside Ang Mo Kio Avenue 5 and provides a convenient green link through the neighbourhood. It’s pram-friendly, and there are two playgrounds, including an eco-themed playground, where the kids can run around and have fun in the sun.
Where: Along Ang Mo Kio Avenue 5
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
15. Japanese Cemetery Park: A tranquil hidden gem with lots of history
Can’t make it to Japan yet? Japanese Cemetery Park offers one of Singapore’s prettiest alternatives to cherry blossom season. Established in 1891 as a burial ground for Japanese residents in Singapore, it is now also a tranquil place to learn about the history of the Japanese community here. Its best-known feature is a series of floral archways lined with pretty pink bougainvilleas, making it one of Singapore’s most photogenic hidden gems.
Remember that this is still a cemetery. Keep noise levels down, supervise children and be respectful when taking photos.
Where: 22 Chuan Hoe Avenue, Singapore 549854
Opening hours: Daily, 7am–7pm
16. Hampstead Wetlands Park: A hidden gem full of flora and fauna
This 3.2-hectare green sanctuary – around the size of four football fields – is home to a wide range of plants and animal life. Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy peaceful views of the pond. Are you a birdwatcher? Keep an eye out for the birds and dragonflies that live around the wetlands, as well as the park’s Heritage Tree. When you’re done, make your way to The Oval for something to eat while the kids run around the aviation-themed playground.
There is no car park within Hampstead Wetlands Park. If you’re driving, park at the nearest car park at 2 Park Lane and walk approximately 50 metres to the park.
Where: 1 Baker Street, Singapore 799977
Opening hours: Open 24 hours
17. Greenhouse: Dine amid nature at this hidden gem
Unless you’ve been to Dusit Thani Laguna Singapore in Changi, you may not know that Greenhouse exists. This forest-themed restaurant, pictured up top, serves a range of cuisines from its show kitchens. Savour Thai, Indian, Chinese and Japanese dishes while enjoying picturesque views of the golf course through the floor-to-ceiling windows. True to its name, you’ll feel as though you’re dining inside a lush greenhouse.
Greenhouse serves lunch and dinner daily, but its menus and buffet offerings may change. Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend meals.
Where: Dusit Thani Laguna Singapore, 11 Laguna Golf Green, Singapore 488047
Opening hours: Lunch Monday–Saturday, 12pm–2.30pm; Sunday, 12pm–3pm. Dinner daily, 6pm–9.30pm.
18. Keppel Hill Reservoir: A forgotten hidden gem with mysterious vibes
For those looking for an unusual hiking trail to conquer, check out Keppel Hill Reservoir, also known as the “forgotten reservoir”. Located near the slopes of Mount Faber, the reservoir is roughly one-third the size of an Olympic swimming pool and dates back to the early 1900s. The surrounding forest also hides historical curiosities, including a Japanese tomb.
This is not an official developed hiking trail. The route can be muddy, slippery and difficult to follow, while the reservoir has no safety barriers. It is not suitable for toddlers or young children. Wear proper hiking shoes, avoid visiting after heavy rain and never enter the water.
Where: Near Keppel Hill Road, Singapore 098686
Other hidden gems in Singapore
19. Tuas Lamp Post 1: A hidden landmark beloved by cyclists
This secret place in Singapore is a not-so-secret attraction among cyclists. Tuas Lamp Post 1 is the only lamp post in Singapore where people are officially allowed to paste stickers. Despite its name, it isn’t the first lamp post in Singapore or even in Tuas. It gained its nickname after a group of cyclists completed a 50km ride there in 2014. Someone pasted a sticker on the lamp post to commemorate the journey, and other cyclists soon followed. The tradition became so popular that the authorities agreed to let the stickers remain.
Located at the far western end of Tuas South Boulevard, this landmark is best suited to experienced cyclists. The route passes through an industrial area, so take sufficient water, use lights and reflective gear, and plan your return journey before setting off.
Where: Tuas South Boulevard, near the western end of Singapore
20. Singapore’s lonely trees: Mysterious hidden gems with a story
We’re a garden city with millions of trees, yet two “lonely trees” have made their way onto this list of secret places in Singapore. They’ve even got their own pins on Google Maps.
The first, the Lone Tree at Jurong Lake Gardens, isn’t a real tree. This sculpture was created from recycled iron reinforcement bars salvaged from the old Jurong Lake Gardens and is a nod to the area’s industrial past. It now stands amid the grasslands of the beautiful Jurong Lake Gardens.
The other stands at Changi Bay Point and is known as That Lonely Changi Tree because it appears to stand alone beside the beach. When the tide comes in, it can look like a floating tree – and it does seem a little lonely, if you ask us. If you’re driving, park at Changi Beach Car Park 7 and continue to Changi Bay Point on foot or by bicycle. Check tide and weather conditions before visiting, and stay on the designated paths.
Where: The Lone Tree is in the Grasslands at Jurong Lake Gardens; That Lonely Changi Tree is at Changi Bay Point.
More info: That Lonely Changi Tree
Time to round up the family and venture beyond Singapore’s best-known attractions to find these hidden gems!
This article was originally written by Sufyaan Saad in 2022 and updated by Raiz Redwan in 2025, and updated by Andrina Loo in 2026.
