Singapore is a futuristic city that blends nature and technology beautifully. Although it only covers an area of 735 square kilometers, Singapore is a city-state that is packed with innumerable attractions, both natural and manmade. Over the years, it has become a popular holiday destination in Southeast Asia, especially for families. The reason for this is that Singapore has several family-friendly attractions, especially for those traveling with kids. From visiting parks and open spaces to exploring museums and theme parks, Singapore is loaded with interesting activities and attractions. Here we present some of the best things to do in Singapore with kids.
I. Visit Theme Parks in Singapore with Kids
Universal Studios
Universal Studios is a Hollywood-inspired theme park on Singapore’s Sentosa Island. Divided into six zones, Universal Studios is where you get to explore the world of your favorite Hollywood movies and characters. From terrific rollercoasters and rides to fun attractions, Universal Studios has something for people of all ages. There are plenty of restaurants and retail shops for your exploration.
Adventure Cove Waterpark
Another place where you can have fun at Sentosa Island is Adventure Cove Waterpark. A waterpark filled with thrilling slides, splashy pools, laidback attractions, and scores of adventures, there is never a dull moment at Adventure Cove. Tidal Twister, Spiral Washout, Pipeline Plunge, Dueling Racer, and Riptide Rocket are some of the popular attractions here. This is also a water park that offers snorkeling experience.
Mega Adventure Park
If you are a family that loves thrills and adventure, a visit to Mega Adventure Park is not to be missed. Located in Sentosa Island, this adventure park offers five fun, adventurous activities, namely MegaBounce, MegaZip, MegaClimb, MegaJump, and MegaSail. From ziplining above the lush canopy of forests to jumping from the height of 15 meters, a visit to this park is packed with adrenaline-rush.
II. Tour the Animal Attractions in Singapore with Kids
Singapore Zoo
Spanning across an area of 69 acres, Singapore Zoo is a part of the city’s Mandai Wildlife Reserve and the oldest public zoo in the country. Opened in 1973, one of the most intriguing Singapore Zoo facts is that it is home to more than 4000 animals, belonging to 300 species. Due to the zoo’s conservation efforts, 34% of the species here are endangered. An open concept zoo, you will get to experience animal encounters, feeding sessions, and other interesting things at the Singapore Zoo.
Night Safari
Another part of the Mandai Wild Reserve, the Night Safari, is the first nocturnal wildlife park in the world. As the name suggests, the Night Safari is where you will get to see nocturnal animals in their natural environment. There are several walking trails here that will lead you to the inhabitants of this park. Some of the animals you will see at the Night Safari is spotted hyena, sloth bear, Malayan flying fox, possum, white tiger, Indian rhinoceros, etc.
S.E.A. Aquarium
One of the largest aquariums in the world, the S.E.A Aquarium has more than 800 species of aquatic animals and is a popular part of most Singapore packages. The 100,000+ aquatic animals here are divided into different zones that represent almost 50 types of underwater habitats. Some of the habitats you will get to see here are Open Ocean Habitat, Coral Garden, Shipwreck Habitat, Strait of Malacca and Java Sea, Laccadive Sea, and more. The fish species you will see here are jellyfish, alligator gar, black sea cucumber, clown fish, and more.
River Wonders
Known as River Safari before, River Wonders is another animal attraction located right next to the Singapore Zoo. This river-themed wildlife park is spread around an area of 12 hectares and gives you the chance to enjoy the different river habitats around the world, including Rivers Nile, Mississippi, Amazon, etc. While you will find a variety of animal species here, the Giant Panda is the star of this place.
III. Pop in the Gardens and Outdoor Spaces in Singapore with Kids
Singapore Botanic Gardens
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Singapore Botanic Gardens was opened in 1859. With acres of green, open space dotted with a variety of plants and unique sculptures, visiting Singapore Botanic Gardens is one of the best things to do in Singapore with family. The highlight of this place is the Orchid Garden, which is home to more than 1000 varieties of orchid plants along with more than 2000 varieties of hybrids.
Gardens by the Bay
Sprawling over an area of 101 hectares, the Gardens by the Bay is a futuristic garden right in the middle of the city. Apart from its greenery, what makes Gardens by the Bay unique is its numerous attractions, including its themed gardens, conservatories, lakes, connecting waterways, aerial bridges, and more. SuperTree Observatory, Cloud Forest, Floral Fantasy, Kingfisher Wetlands, and Flower Dome are a few of its attractions.
Merlion Park
If you are seeking a relaxing and laidback evening in the city, a visit to Merlion Park is one of the best things to do in Singapore. Located on Singapore’s Fullerton Road, Merlion Park is where you will find the statue of the country’s icon. The largest statue of the Merlion, with the head of a lion and body of the fish, is located here. It measures 8.6 meters in height and 70 tonnes in weight. The mouth of the Merlion spouts water, making it look more ethereal.
East Coast Park
The East Coast Park is the perfect place to hang out with family and friends in Singapore. The highlight of the place is the beach where you can relax and enjoy the view of the ocean. You can also indulge in beach and water sports here. Apart from this, there is the Marine Cove Playground, two massive play areas for kids of different age groups. There is also the Coastal PlayGrove Playground, which has long, metallic tube slides, water play area, sand pits, natural play garden, and climbing activities.
IV. Pay a Visit to the Museums and Educational Experiences in Singapore with Kids
Trickeye Museum
Image Credit: trickeye.com
TrickEye Museum is a unique museum where art blends with virtual reality to give you some mind-blowing illusions. This museum uses 3D optical illusion along with AR technology to give you some fun and interactive art. A visit to the Trickeye Museum would give you access to the AR Effect Room, Aqua Trickeye, Eco Garden, and Rainbow Garden. Kids would have a fun time posing for some funny and intriguing pictures at this museum.
National Museum of Singapore
The National Museum of Singapore is the place where you will get to know about the country’s 700-year long history, making it one of the important Singapore tourist attractions. Enclosed within a beautiful Neo-classical building with a modernist touch, this is the oldest museum in the city. But the museum has adapted to the growing times, and the displays here are immersive with a touch of modern technology. Apart from the permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts numerous temporary exhibits.
Science Center Singapore
Kids love when they get to learn through play, and the Science Centre Singapore is the right place for the same. Teeming with exhibitions, hands-on activities, and workshops, there are no dull moments for kids here. A few of the interesting exhibitions here are Time – embrace Ageing, Ecogarden, Climate Changed, E3, Phobia2: The Science of Fear, The Mind’s Eye, The Tinkering Studio, and more. This center also offers star gazing, informal science programs, and other interesting things.
Singapore Discovery Centre
The Singapore Discovery Centre is an interesting edutainment center in the city. Through interactive and hands-on exhibits, this center gives you an insight into the history and future of the country along with its culture. Through the Lens of Time, Black Lake Facility, Sandbox, Crossfire Paintball, etc., are a few of the attractions of this center. You can also enjoy fun experiences like pedal boating, escape room adventures, and more here.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Singapore safe for families and kids?
Yes. Singapore is one of the safest countries in the world. The crime rate is extremely low. The city is clean, and there are plenty of attractions for families with kids in this city.
2. What should I pack when traveling to Singapore with kids?
Pack comfortable, cotton or linen clothes for your kids to beat the heat. Sunglasses, sunscreen, hats, water bottles, and comfortable shoes are also a must to ensure that your kids are comfortable while trying out the things mentioned above. If you are traveling with babies or toddlers, diapers, wet wipes, and formula are some things you might have to carry.
3. How to travel within Singapore with kids?
The Singapore public transportation is the best and the safest way to travel in the city, even with kids. Public transportation, be it buses, MRT, or taxis, are stroller-friendly and so are the numerous attractions in the city.
4. Do the attractions in Singapore offer a discounted price for kids?
Yes, many of the Singapore attractions offer a discounted price on the entry tickets for kids. Most of these attractions offer low rates for children till the age of 12 years. Universal Studios Singapore, River Wonders, Singapore Zoo, S.E.A. Aquarium, Adventure Cove Waterpark, and Science Center offer a special price for children’s entry tickets.
5. Are there are any free family-friendly attractions in Singapore?
Yes. You do not have to pay entry fee for attractions like Sentosa Beaches, East Coast Park, Singapore Botanic Gardens, certain sections of the Gardens by the Bay, Merlion Park, Marina Barrage, and more.
Conclusion
With summer vacations starting in a few months for kids, it is the right time to start your Singapore holiday plan. Do visit the places mentioned here to give yourself and your kids a memorable holiday in Singapore.