Looking for an outdoor adventure with the fam? Here’s our pick of kid-friendly riverside walks in Singapore for the entire fam-gang.
One thing’s for sure: Singapore isn’t short on is amazing hikes and walks. The Little Red Dot packs a punch when it comes to beautiful parks and kid-friendly places to explore amongst the great outdoors. But if you feel like you’ve been repeating the same old well-trodden paths recently, then take a look at these river walks in Singapore. Turns out, there’s plenty of riverside vistas to choose from, and not just the ever-popular walk along Robertson Quay (but don’t worry, that’s still included – it’s always going to be a fave!). So, pop on your walking boots and head to one of these Singapore riversides – or check out these pram-friendly walks too!
OUR FAVE RIVER WALKS IN SINGAPORE
1. Alexandra Canal Walk
Although the most popular Singapore river walk starts at Robertson Quay (see below for more on this sight-heavy stretch), there’s much more to explore back towards Redhill along Alexandra Canal. If you set off in this direction, you’ll find a much quieter, yet still pretty, riverside walk. Stop off for a splash at the Alexandra Canal water play area (closed at the min, but keep your eyes peeled for re-opening news). Looking for a coffee stop? You’re not too far from Tiong Bahru with its barista joints galore. There’s a whole host of food and drink options en route too, with Great World City and Valley Point malls, as well as Zion Hawker Centre. You won’t go hungry!
Top tip: Don’t miss Alexandra Linear Park. Although it starts just after the canal ends, it’s worth the extra stroll for the treasure trove of fabulous HDB playgrounds on offer. We counted six, and we probably missed a few. Our ultimate fave is the incredible Alice in Wonderland themed playground at Dawson Vista. It’s amazing!
Where: Start at Robertson Quay and follow the Alexandra Park Connector along Alexandra Canal to Alexandra Linear Park.
2. Singapore River Walk
This is THE river walk in Singapore, so it’s likely that you’ve been to, or at least heard of, this famous stretch. Either way, we still love it as a great family day out. There’s more than enough to keep the kiddos busy with loads to tick off the sightseeing list. Our favourite things to look out for include the colourful Alkaff Bridge, the bumboats, and of course, the otters for lots of entertainment! We’re not going to lie, this one also makes our list for its amazing food and drink options on offer, all with riverside views. And bonus, pretty much all are kid-friendly, yay! If that wasn’t enough, a short walk from the river is Fort Canning’s super-duper Jubilee Park playground which is well worth a visit too.
Top tip: Caught out in one of Singapore’s unpredictable showers? Never fear, you’ve got your fair share of shopping malls on this stretch with Great World City and Clarke Quay Central nearby. The latter has the perfect indoor play area, Joy of Toys, so rain won’t ruin the fun!
Where: Start at Robertson Quay and then stroll to Clarke Quay and Boat Quay.
3. Jubilee Walk
The Jubilee Walk is an 8km walk created to commemorate Singapore’s 50th anniversary of independence, showcasing landmarks both old and new. It also features some incredible riverside views along the way, so make sure your camera is fully charged for this one! If you have the time, it’s worth doing the whole walk, but if little legs accompany you, then the riverside section is a great option. Start at the Fullerton Building and get your snap of the magnificent Merlion with that seriously cool Marina Bay Sands backdrop. Then it’s back on the sights trail to tick off the F1 Track, Youth Olympic Park, and the super cool Helix Bridge. We’re not done there though! Head on over to the ArtScience Museum, or, for some retail therapy, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands. Take your walk even further over to Gardens by the Bay, then cool off at the water play. The official end of the walk is Marina Barrage, the perfect picnic spot!
Top tip: We love this handy print out kids’ walking guide for this route. Not only will it keep the kids busy spotting all the sights, it’s jam-packed with facts, so you’re sure to learn a thing or two as well!
Where: Start at Fullerton Building for the riverside section (the 8km walk starts from the National Gallery), and end at Marina Barrage.
4. Stadium Riverside Walk
The Stadium Riverside Walk has it all and is sure to be a hit with the fam. Start with a lap around the 888-metre 100Plus Promenade running track. It’s shaded too – always a bonus! Downstairs you’ll find Kallang Wave Mall if you want to hit the shops (it’s also home to the super fun climbing wall at ClimbCentral). Step outside, and you’re straight into Kallang Riverside Park which occupies both sides of the river. It’s a popular spot for dragon boats and canoeists so the kids can enjoy spotting their favourite boats. Plan your walk in the direction of Tanjong Rhu Suspension Bridge and head to the top of the Lookout Tower. You can then follow the river all the way to Gardens By the Bay East for some of the best views of the Singapore skyline. Looking for a break en route? Grab a table at Kontiki – a great lunch spot with its American comfort food and riverside vistas.
Top tip: Keen to keep walking? Good news is that Gardens By the Bay East links up with our fave East Coast Park, so your strolling doesn’t need to end here. You can also pay a visit to the Keppel Marina East desalination plant and public space (think Marina Barrage in the East!)
Where: Exit at Stadium MRT for the Stadium Riverside Walk.
5. Punggol Waterway Park and Riverside Promenade
Already ticked the above rivers off of your walking list? Then venture further east to family-friendly and fun-filled Punggol – it’s jam-packed with river and coastal walks! First up: Punggol Waterway Park. This stretch is perfect for strolling or cycling and is split into four zones, so there’s loads to explore. The recreation zone is sure to keep the kids busy with water play and sandpits. Up next, check out Punggol Promenade Walk. The riverside section boasts some pretty views over the Serangoon River. Look out for the famous Lorong Halus Bridge nearby too. If you’re after food options, make a beeline for Punggol East Container Park. Although the name might not sell it, these shipping containers-come-pop-up restaurants are super fun and the perfect pitstop. Need your coffee fix? Head to Whisk & Paddle for a riverside view with your latte.
Top tip: Fancy making a day of it? Include a trip to nearby Coney Island for further waterside exploring!
Where: It depends on which walk you plan, but the starting point is often Punggol MRT Station. From there, you can connect to the LRT (Riviera LRT stop for the riverside section of the Promenade Walk).
6. Pasir Ris Mangrove Boardwalk
What’s that? Further fun out East? You betcha. South of Punggol you’ll find another gem for families in the form of Pasir Ris. It’s worth the effort to get here with plenty of waterside walks which end conveniently close to an amazing playground in Pasir Ris Park. Winner! Be sure to explore the Mangrove Boardwalk and look out for the mud lobsters, as well as our old favourites, the monitor lizards. There’s a great viewing point along the boardwalk to take in the Tampines River and spot more wildlife. Another popular option is a stroll along the coast for that much-needed sea breeze, and of course, sea views. Okay, it’s not exactly a river, but all rivers lead to the ocean, right?!
Top tip: If the kids need more persuading to make it here, you also have the very fun Wild Wild Wet @ Downtown East – close enough to cool off post-walk!
Where: Pasir Ris MRT. It’s a bit of a stroll to the action, but there are several buses that take you very close, departing from Pasir Ris MRT.
7. Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve
Want to really get back to nature? The Sungei Buloh Wetlands is the place to be. This sprawling wetland centre might be tricky to get to, but it offers endless exploring fun. With many accolades to its name due to its importance as a wildlife habitat, we have this place firmly on our list as a Singapore favourite. Be warned though – it’s big! Your best bet is to check out the visitor’s centre to plan your route. There’s also been a crocodile spotting (yes, crocs!), which adds to the adventure as far as our kids are concerned. If you miss the crocs (and breathe a sigh of relief), you won’t be disappointed with the rest of the wildlife on offer. Or those views over towards Malaysia…
Top tip: There’s actually plenty to explore in the Kranji neighbourhood, and better still, a handy shuttle to take you between some of the must-see sights. Think Bollywood Veggies (for the food!) and Hays Dairies Goat Farm (a kid-pleaser!)
Where: Taxi is your best bet to get here, or opt for the Kranji Countryside Express shuttle.
8. Ulu Pandan Park Connector
For all the Westies out there, check out the Ulu Pandan Park Connector. This long stretch runs alongside the Pandan River all the way from Buona Vista through to Pandan Reservoir. It’s a good one for a family cycle too, with Singapore’s first elevated cycle park connector which is sure to impress the kiddos. Alternatively, pack the scooter as this is prime scooting territory. En route, look out for the cast-iron railway bridge (you might recognise it from Instagram!), and if you make it all the way to Pandan, then be sure to explore. Granted, it doesn’t win in the beauty stakes, but it’s still great for otter and monitor lizard spotting.
Top tip: Whilst you’re in the area, pay a visit to nearby Jurong Lakeside Gardens, which is very picturesque. Get your cameras ready for the ‘gram too. Not only does it sport some stunning vistas, but it’s also home to one of our favourite playgrounds in the West. Double win!
Where: This very much depends on your starting point. There are various entry points along the 7km route – visit the NParks website for more details. For Jurong Lakeside Gardens, hop-off at Lakeside MRT Station.
So, there you go, even more incentive to embrace the great outdoors with the whole fam! In need of further inspo? Check out our fam-friendly hiking guide, and these pram-friendly walks for the littlies.
