Things to do in Singapore

Singapore packs an astonishing range of experiences into a small island—hawker centres, world-class museums, futuristic gardens, and family-friendly pa…

Singapore packs an astonishing range of experiences into a small island—hawker centres, world-class museums, futuristic gardens, and family-friendly parks all sit within easy reach. The food, the shopping, and the outdoor spaces each draw their own crowds, and there is always something to do.

Start with the food. Lau Pa Sat and Maxwell Food Centre are iconic hawker centres where you can eat your way through local classics like chicken rice and satay. For a different vibe, Tiong Bahru Market mixes a lively food court with a traditional wet market. When you need a break from eating, the city's green spaces deliver: Supertree Grove and Cloud Forest at Gardens by the Bay are unlike anything else, while East Coast Park offers a sandy beach, cycling paths, and water sports. Families will find plenty of indoor options too, from KidZania Singapore's role-playing city to the Singapore Zoo's rainforest habitats.

Frequently asked questions about Singapore

What are the must-try local dishes in Singapore?

You'll want to try chicken rice, satay, and chili crab. Hawker centres like Maxwell Food Centre and Lau Pa Sat are great places to start—Maxwell is especially famous for its chicken rice. Don't skip the dessert stalls either; try ice kacang or chendol.

What are the best free things to do in Singapore?

Many of Singapore's top attractions are free. Supertree Grove at Gardens by the Bay is free to walk through, and the nightly Spectra - A Light & Water Show at Marina Bay is free to watch. You can also stroll across The Helix Bridge or explore the historic streets of Chinatown without spending a cent.

Is Singapore a good destination for families with kids?

Absolutely. Singapore Zoo is a rainforest zoo with tram rides and trails that kids love. Indoor playgrounds like KidZania Singapore and Kiztopia @ Marina Square offer hours of role-play and soft play. For outdoor fun, East Coast Park has a skate park and water sports, and Wild Wild Wet is a full water park with slides and a lazy river.

Where can I find the best shopping in Singapore?

For high-end brands, head to ION Orchard or Marina Bay Sands. If you prefer street shopping, Bugis Street is a lively stretch with dozens of apparel shops and souvenirs. VivoCity is one of the largest malls and also has restaurants and a cinema, making it a good all-round option.

What are some unique outdoor experiences in Singapore?

Gardens by the Bay is a must—Supertree Grove's towering vertical gardens light up at night, and Cloud Forest has a stunning indoor waterfall. For a more active outing, East Coast Park offers cycling and water sports, while Fort Canning Park is a historic hilltop green space that hosts concerts and plays.

Things to do in Singapore

Department StorePhoto of Mustafa Centre — Department Storevia Google Maps

Mustafa Centre

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Buddhist TemplePhoto of Buddha Tooth Relic Temple — Buddhist Templevia Google Maps

Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

Tang dynasty–style temple housing religious relics, with ornate rooms & a tranquil rooftop garden.

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Shopping MallPhoto of Westgate — Shopping Mall

Westgate

Energetic retail complex featuring a variety of fashion & lifestyle stores, eateries & playground.

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Shopping MallPhoto of Orchard Central — Shopping Mallvia Google Maps

Orchard Central

Posh mall since 2009 offering concept stores, outdoor dining & a roof garden with art installations.

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Wildlife ParkPhoto of River Wonders — Wildlife Parkvia Google Maps

River Wonders

Zoo & aquarium with a river theme offering boat rides, freshwater fish & animals, including pandas.

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Korean RestaurantPhoto of DRIM | Korean Steak House | Mandarin Gallery — Korean Restaurant

DRIM | Korean Steak House | Mandarin Gallery

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Shopping MallPhoto of Tampines Mall — Shopping Mall

Tampines Mall

Vibrant, contemporary mall offering global retail shops, restaurants, a movie theater & supermarket.

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ParkPhoto of Fort Canning Park — Park

Fort Canning Park

A well-known historical landmark, this grassy hilltop park hosts events such as concerts & plays.

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Observation DeckPhoto of SkyPark Observation Deck — Observation Deck

SkyPark Observation Deck

Hotel's observation deck on the 56th floor offering panoramic city views & 2 upscale restaurants.

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Shopping MallPhoto of Bugis+ — Shopping Mall

Bugis+

Modern 10-story mall with global chain stores, casual eateries, a cinema & a pool hall.

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Shopping MallPhoto of Junction 8 — Shopping Mall

Junction 8

Spacious mall with a supermarket, boutiques, casual restaurants/food vendors & a movie theater.

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Italian RestaurantPhoto of Mamma Mia Trattoria E Caffè (Suntec City) — Italian Restaurantvia Google Maps

Mamma Mia Trattoria E Caffè (Suntec City)

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Shopping MallPhoto of Takashimaya Shopping Centre — Shopping Mallvia Google Maps

Takashimaya Shopping Centre

Shopping mall featuring international brands, dining options & the Takashimaya department store.

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Western RestaurantPhoto of XW Plus Western Grill - Raffles City — Western Restaurant

XW Plus Western Grill - Raffles City

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Food CourtPhoto of Newton Food Centre — Food Courtvia Google Maps

Newton Food Centre

Lively market with numerous stalls & hawkers offering seafood & local specialities.

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Shopping MallPhoto of Paragon — Shopping Mallvia Google Maps

Paragon

Modern 6-level shopping mall featuring international designer retailers, plus dining options.

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Shopping MallPhoto of Waterway Point — Shopping Mallvia Google Maps

Waterway Point

4 floors’ worth of shops & restaurants, plus a movie theater, in a contemporary waterfront mall.

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GardenPhoto of Butterfly Garden — GardenOur original photo

Butterfly Garden

Lush butterfly garden featuring 40 species, a grotto waterfall & flowering plants in an airport.

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Shopping MallPhoto of Causeway Point — Shopping Mall

Causeway Point

Spacious & modern mall featuring hundreds of shops, plus a large food court with international eats.

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Community CenterPhoto of Our Tampines Hub — Community Center

Our Tampines Hub

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