Are you new to Singapore, or you simply want to enjoy the very best of this dazzling city? We’ve picked 50 of the best things to do with kids for your next family day out!
Singapore is arguably the best city in the world for families, with its year-round tropical weather, delicious child-friendly restaurants and unbelievable attractions for kids. Even when the dreaded haze hits, we still have awesome indoor play centres to hang out in with our kids. All of that, and that’s before we mention all of Singapore’s best attractions and fun things to do with kids!
We’re so proud to call Singapore home that we don’t want you to waste precious time faffing about working out what to do. So, we’ve carefully curated a list of 50 things to do with kids in Singapore – the very best activities, attractions and family-friendly destinations. There’s so much to do and no time to waste, so let’s get cracking!
TOP 50 THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN SINGAPORE
1. Gaze at nature at Gardens by the Bay
Singapore is a city synonymous with lush tropical growth, with Gardens by Bay being its finest example. Get outdoors and gaze up in awe at the impressive Super Trees en route to the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest. The giant waterfall in the Cloud Forest will take your breath away, and there is always something new to see at the ever-changing Flower Dome. Don’t miss the free Far East Organisation Children’s Garden water play area, which is so fab it warrants a whole separate visit.
Where: Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953
2. Spend a day at Sentosa
The “State of Fun” is so jam-packed with family-friendly activities that you’ll need a week to tick them off your list. Our top tips? Check out S.E.A. Aquarium for magnificent manta rays and sharks and ducking into the eel cave and getting the chance to touch the starfish at the rock pools. Water-enthusiasts will love Hydrodash and adrenaline-junkies should head to the Skyline Luge. Psst – plan your visit in advance with our handy guide to Sentosa!
3. Go behind the silver screen at Universal Studios Singapore
Okay, so Universal Studios Singapore should be filed under the Sentosa banner above, but South East Asia’s only Hollywood theme park is such a hot ticket that it deserves its own dedicated mention. Go behind the silver screen and witness movie magic as you explore an array of awesome zones from Hollywood through to Sci-Fi City, and kid fave Madagascar. Hot tip: upgrade to the express pass to avoid ride queues!
Where: Universal Studios Singapore, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269
4. Meet the animals at Singapore Zoo
Renowned as one of the best zoos on the planet, Singapore Zoo is so cleverly designed that it feels like open wilderness. You’ll see what we mean when you walk beneath orangutans swinging in vines, look across a moat at white Bengal tigers or spy through glass at swimming pigmy hippos. The entire family will fall in love with all the furry (and scaly) animals here! Already visited the zoo? Don’t forget there’s also the River Safari and Night Safari to have on your list for more animal spotting!
Where: Singapore Zoo, 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826
5. Get island hopping
You don’t have to travel by plane to have a change of scene in the Little Red Dot. Oh no, there are plenty of fabulous islands just waiting to be explored and most within an easy ferry trip. Step back in time with a visit to Pulau Ubin to discover Singapore of days gone by and the last surviving kampong. After pristine sandy beaches? Have Lazarus Island on your list. Keen to avoid a ferry? Coney Island is an easy peasy stroll along Punggol Promenade Nature Walk and a super fun day out with the kids!
6. Spy parrots at Jurong Bird Park
Anyone who grew up in Singapore will remember childhood trips to the Jurong Bird Park to see the parrot show. Opened in 1971, this institution holds the enviable title of Singapore’s first attraction. Work your way through all the feather-tastic exhibits on offer, from Lory Loft, Jungle Jewels, Waterfall Aviary, Penguin Coast and Pelican Cove. You’ll spy over 5000 birds! For a special treat, our kids love eating local delights while meeting the cheeky parrots…
Where: 2 Jurong Hill, Singapore 628925
7. Visit Singapore’s best kid-friendly museums
After indoor options? You’re really spoilt for choice when it comes to museums for the kids in Singapore – there’s a heap! Start at the Science Centre Singapore with interactive exhibits across 14 impressive galleries. Whilst you’re here, stop off to enjoy the Omni-Theatre next door or hit up Kidsstop to impress the littlies. Across town, you’ll find kid fave ArtScience Museum with its futuristic, hands-on activities to keep everyone busy. Want to explore Singapore’s history? Take your pick from Asian Civilisations Museum, National Museum of Singapore, alongside a whole host of other fab options.
8. Stroll around the Singapore Botanic Gardens
Given the abundance of lush green spaces in Singapore, you’d be forgiven for not realising that it’s a teeming metropolis of almost 5.5 million people. Our favourite green oasis, the Singapore Botanic Gardens, is Singapore’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the lush tropical rainforest, through the spectacular National Orchid Garden and gander at the resident swans and turtles. Don’t miss the lovely Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden (closed Mondays) for the most awesome treehouse slide (don’t forget your bucket and spade for the sandpit). Check our guide for the perfect day out at Botanic Gardens!
Where: 1 Cluny Road, Singapore 259569
9. Be inspired at an Art Gallery
It’s not just the museums which are a great thing to do with the kids in Singapore. Have the art galleries on your list, too! The very grand National Gallery Singapore (which is worth a visit for the building alone), has an amazing dedicated kids’ space – Keppel Centre for Art Education. We also love The Artground over at Goodman Arts Centre which has a whole host of creative activities and exhibits for the kids (and one of our favourite fam-friendly cafes, Cafe Melba, next door!)
10. Ride the Singapore Flyer
Treat your fam to a bird’s eye view of Singapore from aboard the Singapore Flyer. As the world’s second-tallest Ferris wheel, it has a somewhat circus appeal to little kids (and is rather exciting for us too!). You’ll have fun pointing out the Lion City’s iconic sights, from Marina Bay Sands to Merlion Park and beyond.
Where: 30 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039803
11. Visit a nature reserve
As well as having an endless list of amazing green spaces and parks (it ain’t called the Garden City for nothing!), Singapore is also home to four incredible nature reserves. You can go crocodile spotting in Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve (yep, you read that right!), or even hike Singapore’s highest peak (it might be modest, but it’s still a workout!). For coastal views, head down to Labrador Park which is part of the renowned Southern Ridges. And perhaps the best till last – MacRitchie Reservoir for picture-postcard views (and many a monkey!).
12. Hit the beach
Who doesn’t love hitting the beach? Always scoring high on our list of things to do with the kids in Singapore, a beach day is a firm family fave. Whether you want to pack a picnic and hit the beautiful East Coast Park for some beachside fun, or head on over to Changi Beach Park and stroll the Boardwalk – Singapore beach days are the best. And of course, our favourite beach pick, Sentosa, has three stretches of white sand to pick from!
13. Check out a Singapore park or two!
One of our fave things in Singapore has to be the fabulous parks – they’re everywhere! From Pond Gardens and River Plains for the kiddos to explore in Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park, to scooting perfect terrain (and one of the best playgrounds) at West Coast Park – the only tricky part is choosing one!
14. Head out on a Singapore Guided Tour
A Singapore River Cruise will have you touring the traditional way: on board a quintessentially Singaporean bumboat. The 40-minute journey will float you past the lively restaurant district of Clarke Quay, alongside Boat Quay’s colourful shophouses, past the Merlion and to super-sleek Marina Bay Sands. If you can keep the kids awake, catch the light show trip at 7.45pm.
Where: Jetties from Robertson Quay to Marina Barrage (we went to Clarke Quay)
Otherwise, DUCKtours’ remodelled WWII Vietnamese war craft will take you touring on both land and sea! Extra points for the amazed look on your kids’ faces as you plunge into the river. Fun!
Where: #01-330, Suntec City 3 Temasek Boulevard;
15. See Singapore by bike
As well as tonnes of great walks, Singapore is a brill option for a cycle ride for the whole fam. Whether you fancy whizzing on wheels beachside along the 15km stretch of East Coast Park or heading to the north of Singapore to take on the Northern loop (with a stop off at Admiralty Park obvs). Don’t have your own set of wheels? Never fear, there are some brill bike-sharing options to choose from. Not sure about cycling with a littlie on board? Here are our top tips to make that biking trip a breeze.
16. Let the kids run riot at an outdoor playground
As well as loving the parks because they are just wonderful, we also love them to keep the kiddos busy on the awesome playgrounds they house. From slides galore up at Admiralty Park to something for everyone over at Fort Canning Park, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the range of playgrounds to explore across Singapore.
17. Ride ponies at Bukit Timah Saddle Club
If you’re looking to escape the high-rise city life of Singapore, head out to Bukit Timah Saddle Club. It’s a true sanctuary where you are instantly transported to farm ‘like’ life. The kids can wander around the stables admiring the horses and then have a pony ride for $10 (Sundays only at 10am). Feast on delish grub at Marmalade Pantry or Riders Café too!
Where: 51 Fairways Drive, Singapore 286965
18. Cool off at water play
We all know things can get on the sweaty side in this tropical Singapore climate, so add one of these free water play spaces to your list of top things to do with the kids when the heat gets a bit too much. Did we mention they are free?!
19. Visit a temple
We are blessed with such a diversity of cultures and religions in the Little Red Dot, and what better way to get the kiddos clued up than by visiting one of the many beautiful temples across Singapore? Gather the fam and embark on a temple trail!
20. Get back to nature at a farm
You might not realise it, but Singapore has loads of great farms that are perfect for the kids to explore. Alongside your classic farmyard animals (we’re looking at you cows and goats!), there are other tropical treats in store including frogs over at Jurong Frog Farm. Some even offer amazing staycays if you want to really have a break from city life!
21. Take to the skies in a Cable Car
Although there are many ways to make it across the water to Sentosa, one of our faves has to be the Cable Car. It’s great fun for the whole family and makes the best game of i-spy with everything to spot from cityscapes to boats, and even the fairytale castle over at Universal Studios Singapore!
22. Be dazzled by lights
If you can keep the kiddos up late, then they are in for a treat with the light display over at Marina Bay Sands. That’s not all; there’s also the ever-popular Garden Rhapsody over at Supertree Grove in Gardens by the Bay. Thought this place was magical in the day? Wait until you see it at night, it has the wow factor for both littlies and mums and dads!
23. Shop at a wet market
Another Singapore rite of passage has to be buying goodies at a wet market. Get the kids to spot all the fruit and veggies they know, and then try your best to clue them up on the ones they don’t (good luck!). Not only is it a treat for the senses, but it’s also a bargain so you might end up coming more often!
24. Hit the shops on Orchard Road
Whether you’re a fan of shopping or not, Orchard Road is a must-have on your Singapore bucket list. Even without entering one of the numerous malls along this stretch (and credit to you if you can resist!), it’s still a fun walk with loads of sights for the kids to enjoy. Check out our Orchard Road guide for the full lowdown.
25. Activities galore at Jewel Changi Airport
Thought the airport was only for flying? Wrong! It’s a destination in itself without even setting foot in the departure lounge. The Jewel has an array of kid pleasers from the Hedge Maze to Foggy Bowls (strange but amazing) at Canopy Park. Whilst you’re here, don’t miss the airport with a whole host of play spaces (and a massive indoor slide!).
Where: Jewel Changi Airport, 78 Airport Blvd., Singapore 819666
26. Wow views at Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
Looking for views? You can’t beat the panoramas from way up high at the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark. The kids will love spotting all the iconic sights (we’re talking F1 track, Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Flyer…and more!). There are also loads of dining options if you’re after dinner with a view too.
Where: Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956
27. Feast at a Hawker Centre
Another must for any Singapore bucket list, a Hawker Centre! It’s a sight to behold, and that’s before you’ve even started to think what to order (here’s the lowdown on the local faves to help!).
28. Search for history at these sights!
Singapore has loads of history, and whilst the museums are a great way to discover it, you can also get outdoors to see some pretty cool historical sites. From the Battlebox at Fort Canning Park to the Dragon’s Teeth Gate Rock over at Labrador Nature Reserve, there’s plenty to keep the kids engaged and teach them a thing or two. Winning!
29. Wrap up warm at Snow City
If you’re missing colder climates, then head off on a snowy adventure over at Singapore’s Snow City. Wrap up warm (or hire some winter woollies!), and you can enjoy the novelty of feeling chilly without the need to blast the aircon!
Where: Snow City, 21 Jurong Town Hall Rd, Singapore 609433
30. Walk the river
Although we love getting a bumboat along Singapore’s great river, it’s also a perfect stretch for a family river walk. Start at Robertson Quay and meander all the way to Marina Bay passing many a landmark en route. Do the kids love to scoot? Bring the scooters along – it’s great scooting territory!
31. Get your skates on
Whether you’re keen to hit the ice or show off your inline skills, skating in Singapore is fab with endless options to choose from. Even if the weather isn’t on brief, you’ve got indoor options aplenty to enjoy too!
32. Visit a library
Whether you’re a member or not, Singapore’s libraries are open to all. They are also amazing for the kids with dedicated kid-friendly sections with a vast selection of books and cosy seating to while away an hour or two. Our faves are the swish [email protected], and the tree-themed wonderland over at the Central Library of Singapore.
33. Get wet at Wild Wild Wet
As the largest waterpark in Singapore, there’s more than enough to keep the kiddos and grown-ups entertained over at Wild Wild Wet in Pasir Ris. From vertical drop slides for the fearless, to more sedate (but super fun!) toddler splash areas to keep bubs busy, you can easily make a day of it!
34. Discover fam-friendly dining at Dempsey
Dempsey Hill is a hidden gem within easy reach of Orchard Road. This tropical oasis is made up of former military barracks, carefully renovated into an array of art galleries, independent stores, and amazing cafes. Kids will have a ball checking out the outdoor playgrounds at The Pantry, Baker & Cook, Tiong Bahru Bakery or Huber’s (and we could go on). The difficulty will be picking one! Psst – this is a very popular spot, so head in early, especially on the weekend.
35. Explore Singapore’s Park Connector Network
Fancy trying a few parks but not sure how to get between them? That’s where Singapore’s nifty Park Connector Network comes into play. You’ll never need your iPhone map again (well not too often at least), with easy and picturesque car-free routes to get you from Park A to Park B in no time.
36. Banish rainy day blues at an indoor playground
If the weather isn’t on your side and you’re faced with a downpour, never fear – you’re well catered for with the indoor playgrounds on offer. Whether it’s soft play suitable for the toddlers, right through to older kids, you’ll find it right here in Singapore. Psst – we’ve got lots more rainy day ideas to save your sanity when it pours!
37. Have an adventure in Little India
Little India is such a treasure trove when it comes to a family day out. From the brightly painted and Insta-famous buildings to the delish food on offer everywhere, the kids are sure to be in awe and feel they’ve been transported a lot further away than sunny Singapore.
38. Explore Chinatown
For its modest size, Singapore comes up trumps when it comes to the range of neighbourhoods out there to explore. And one of our faves has to be Chinatown. From the street stalls to the stunning temples, there are sights to behold at every corner.
39. Climb to dizzying heights!
In need of rainy day plans? We hear you! Add rock climbing to your list for a fab family day out. Kiddos will love scaling new heights for a big confidence boost, as well as mastering a truck load of coordination skills. You can even get involved too!
40. Go for a hike
On a rain-free day, there’s no better fun to be had than getting the fam out for a stroll or hike. If you’re bringing bubba and therefore a stroller, then you’ll be pleased to hear there’s still plenty of great pram-approved routes to tackle. Looking for something more strenuous? Then take a peek at these hikes, sure to work up a sweat!
41. Meet the dinosaurs at Changi Jurassic Mile
Whether you’ve got big dino fans in the house or not, Changi Jurassic Mile is sure to impress everyone with more than 20 prehistoric creatures taking up residence along this 1 km track. The tallest dinosaur stands at a whopping five metres! Whilst you’re in this part of town, be sure to have Jewel Changi Airport on your list too for a great fam day out!
42. Go to the theatre
There’s something special about going to the theatre, and it’s a real treat for the whole family. Take your pick from Esplanades – Theatres by the Bay (as impressive on the inside as it is on the outside), or catch the latest musical over at Sands Theatre. We also love the Singapore Repertory Theatre, which is often home to some great kid-friendly shows.
43. Go on a heritage trail
To really understand the history and culture of the place we call home, opt for one of the fab heritage trails across Singapore. Not only will you get outdoors exploring a new neighbourhood, but you’ll also learn a load of facts to impress friends (we’re looking at you mum and dad). There’s plenty to keep the kids occupied on these routes too, and they will be learning along the way – even if they don’t realise it!
44. Get out on the water
If you fancy taking to the open seas (or river for that matter), why not try kayaking? Suitable for littlies (with parents), right the way through to us oldies, it’s a great way to explore. After something more active? How about trying a spot of surfing? Granted, there are not the waves of famous surf spots elsewhere, but it’s still a lot of fun with the kids. Or, from seven years old, the kiddos can try their hand at sailing over at Changi Sailing Club. All aboard!
45. Check out hip ‘hood Tiong Bahru
Thought this popular neighbourhood was just for the cool kids? Think again! Tiong Bahru has plenty of family appeal from the incredible playground complete with a runaway train, through to kid-friendly restaurants galore. Plus, loads of hidden green spaces to take a breather. Don’t leave without checking out the world-famous hawker centre and wet market – you’re in for a treat. Good luck leaving empty-handed!
46. Go Longkang fishing
If you really want to teach the kids a thing or two about past times in Singapore you’ll be hard-pressed to beat Longkang fishing. A tradition from days gone by where kampongs were the place to call home, longkang was a popular way of using nets to catch fish and tadpoles. It’s something different for the kids (who are sure to be huge fans), and will teach them a thing or two about Singapore traditions. Winner!
47. Snap the Peranakan houses at Joo Chiat
If you’re into the ‘gram, you’ll instantly recognise the colourful Peranakan houses over at Joo Chait and Katong. Alongside getting your photo fix with the kiddos, this neighbourhood has so much more in store – from cool family-friendly eateries to lovely independent stores. If the weather isn’t on your side, there are some great indoor play spaces too!
48. Get musical at the Victoria Concert Hall
Not only is this a stunner of a building, but it’s also home to some extremely talented musicians. If you’ve got a budding Mozart at home, or just fancy something a little different, then a performance at the very grand Victoria Concert Hall could be right up your street.
Where: Victoria Concert Hall, 9 Empress Pl, Singapore 179556
49. Visit East Coast Park
Although East Coast Park crops up in a lot of other things to do in Singapore, we think it deserves a mention in its own right as it is blooming fabulous. With everything from an all-singing, all-dancing playground at Marine Cove to beachside vistas (perfect for sandcastle making), it’s a fabulous family day out. It’s also massive, a ginormous 15 km in fact. Whether you bike, skate, scoot, or walk, have it on your things to do list, pronto.
50. Explore a new neighbourhood
Although we’ve mentioned a few favourite neighbourhoods already in our list of things to do in Singapore, it’s fair to say there’s plenty more where they came from. If you want to get back to nature, then opt for beautiful Punggol up in Singapore’s North East. Or, check out an oldie but a goodie in Ang Mo Kio, home to beautiful Bishan – Ang Mo Kio Park. You could easily fill most weekends neighbourhood hopping in the Little Red Dot!
Love this list of things to do in Singapore with kids? Check out this whopping list of family-friendly restaurants!
