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!
Secret urban spots in Singapore
1. City Sprouts urban farm
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, brunch options, and Asian delicacies. It’s also pet-friendly and a perfect space to work!
City Sprouts, 102 Henderson Road, Singapore 159562
2. Skyville @ Dawson: Rooftop garden for 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!
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…
Cake Artelier, #B1-28, Bukit Timah Shopping Centre, 170 Upper Bukit Timah Road, Singapore 588179
4. T For Toys: Affordable toy warehouse
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 presence too. Just browse, add to cart, and et voila!
T For Toys, #01-02A, Space @ Tampines, 18 Tampines Industrial Crescent, Singapore 528605
5. Void Deck Van Gogh
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.
Van Gogh Street Gallery, 56 Pipit Road, Singapore 370056
6. CT Hub @ Kallang Avenue: Secret F&B spots in an industrial area
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.
CT Hub, 2 Kallang Avenue, Singapore 339407
7. Singapore Musical Box Museum
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.
Singapore Musical Box Museum, 37A Circular Rd, Singapore 049393
8. Barbary Coast: San Francisco-inspired bar
To the folks who are not living an alcohol-free lifestyle, this is one place you must visit. Barbary Coast is a two-storey drinking hole that transports you to San Francisco. We highly recommend Ballroom, which occupies the second floor. It has an extraordinary cocktail menu that pushes flavours and experiences beyond what you’re used to. You’ll never guess where we’re headed for date night this weekend!
Barbary Coast, 16 North Canal Road, Singapore 048828
9. Heritage Collection on Boat Quay: Boutique hotel 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.
Heritage Collection on Boat Quay, 76 Boat Quay, Singapore 049864
10. Arwaa Mansion: Secret photo shoot 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 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 hidden gem 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.
Arwaa Mansion, 8 Nassim Road, Singapore 258434
Secret nature spots in Singapore
11. Puaka Hill in Pulau Ubin
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 Pulau Ubin so make sure you’re ready to sweat it out!
12. Kranji Marshes
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. 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!
13. Yunnan Garden
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.
Yunnan Garden, 12 Nanyang Drive, Singapore 637721
14. Ang Mo Kio Linear Park
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.
Ang Mo Kio Linear Park, along Ang Mo Kio Avenue 5
15. Japanese Cemetery Park
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 bougainvillaeas. It’s deffo a hidden gem AND an IG-worthy photo spot in Singapore – check out our full guide!
Japanese Cemetery Park, 22 Chuan Hoe Avenue, Singapore 549854
16. Hampstead Wetlands Park
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.
Hampstead Wetlands Park, 1 Baker Street, Singapore 799977
17. Greenhouse
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.
Greenhouse, 11 Laguna Golf Green, Singapore 488047
18. Keppel Hill Reservoir
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. There’s also a secret bunker within the abandoned reservoir.
Keppel Hill Reservoir, 11 Keppel Hill, Singapore 098686
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 2024.
