19 Hidden Gems in Singapore You Need to Uncover

Attractions like Gardens by the Bay and Jewel Changi are but a fraction of Singapore’s prized tourist hotspots. Have you ever wondered what lies beyond our urban jungle in the “outskirts” of our little island? The answer: A plethora of hidden gems in Singapore waiting to fill your Instagram feed. 

If you’re looking for date ideas or a Sunday Funday adventure, make your way to these off-the-beaten paths for a dose of something refreshing. From abandoned bunkers to a dinosaur playground, these hidden gems in Singapore beckon to be explored! 

Also read: 22 Photoshoot Locations in Singapore That You Never Thought Of

Coolest hidden gems in Singapore

1. KidsSTOP

While Singapore has no shortage of world-class attractions and experiences, one particular family-friendly location that deserves more time in the limelight is KidsSTOP, one of the best edutainment attractions in the Little Red Dot.

Voted Most Popular Attraction for Children (Singapore) in the 2023 TripZilla Excellence Awards, KidsSTOP features a plethora of unique and exciting experiences and activities, each designed to stimulate young, curious minds. It encourages learning by experience in a safe, conducive environment, punctuated by a variety of interactive zones and themed exhibits.

For both kids and those who are young at heart, KidsSTOP offers itself as a must-visit attraction where one can discover the wonders of science and let their imagination run wild!

2. Punggol Beach

A serene stretch of land masks Punggol Beach’s dark history. Despite the aesthetic layout of boulders lined across the undisturbed sand bed, this was the site of 1942’s Sook Ching Massacre. As grim as its history may be, this landmark sits calmly in the outskirts of Punggol with its brilliant sunsets. A memorial plaque reminds visitors of its place in the National Heritage Board’s historical sites. 

Address: Punggol Promenade

3. Tiong Bahru Air Raid Shelter

Tucked cosily behind coffee shops and in the basement of Block 78 Guan Chuan Street is the last place you’d expect to find the Tiong Bahru Air Raid Shelters. It opened in 2012 for the first time to the public, and its dingy corridors are subtly compelling for the local adventurer.

Occupying an area of 1,500sqm, this hidden gem in Singapore can accommodate a whopping 1,600 persons. Plus, it is the last pre-war civilian air raid shelter still standing today. Dive into Singapore’s history as you wander the corridors of the shelter — but don’t let its ominous appearance deceive you! 

Address: 78 Guan Chuan Stret, Singapore 160078

4. Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery

Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery sits outside Bishan’s bustling central, making it a safe haven for individuals seeking time away from their hectic lifestyle. With its extravagant architecture and breathtaking Pagoda of Ten Thousand Buddhas, this landmark is bound to fascinate believers and visitors alike. 

Fun fact: The monastery has developed extensively over the years thanks to brothers Aw Boon Hor and Aw Boon Par. They are also the brains behind the Tiger Balm and Haw Par Villa’s prominence.

Address: 88 Bright Hill Road, Singapore 574117

5. Kampong Lorong Buangkok

Kampong Lorong Buangkok is a remnant of kampong living in modern-day Singapore. Also known as Kampong Selak Kain, it achieved this Malay title for people having to hoist their sarongs up during a heavy downpour. 

In the face of a rapidly developing Northeast area, this village may be the very last of Singapore’s mainland villages. Take a nostalgic stroll through this emblem of Singapore’s early days — who knows how long we’ll be able to keep it before redevelopment works step in. 

Address: 7 Lorong Buangkok, Singapore 547557

6. Little Guilin

Also known as Singapore’s own Xiao Guilin, this picturesque landmark reminds visitors of Guilin in China with its iconic granite rock in the middle of a lake. With serene waters reflecting the natural rock cliffs, Little Guilin attracts wedding photoshoots, photographers and avid hikers alike. 

This disused granite quarry sits comfortably between nature and Bukit Batok’s surrounding neighbourhoods. It’s definitely among the hidden gems in Singapore that we recommend for Instagram-worthy shots and a tranquil morning stroll!

Address: Bukit Batok East Avenue 5, Singapore 650242

Also read: 23 Nature & Hiking Trails in Singapore To Discover on Your Weekends

7. Berlayer Creek Boardwalk

Located right outside Labrador MRT Station, Berlayer Creek Boardwalk is one of the hidden gems in Singapore that you can access easily. Coming out from Exit A, you will find a sheltered pavilion where the trail begins. The mangrove boardwalk is a shady spot perfect for strolling in hot weather. Along your walk, you may see monitor lizards, various species of mangrove crabs, otters, and kingfishers. 

The boardwalk connects to Labrador Park. Emerging from the other side of the trail, you will pass by the brick-red Berlayer Point Lighthouse and the Dragon Teeth’s Gate: a replica of a granite outcrop which formerly stood at the gateway to Keppel Harbour. 

Address: 200m of Port Road. Access from Labrador MRT Station or Labrador Park. 

8. Raffles Marina Lighthouse

Erected at the top of Raffles Marina Club’s breakwater stands Singapore’s only lighthouse not owned and operated by the Maritime Port Authority of Singapore. Raffles Marina Lighthouse, standing at 12 metres tall, flashes every 10 seconds with a beam that reaches up to 15 metres. 

Resembling an Australian-esque lighthouse — a common sight when travelling Down Under — this nautical icon has been making waves in the recent years. If you’re looking to wind down after a hectic day, visit this coastal attraction to catch Singapore’s amazing sunsets at dusk. 

Address: Raffles Marina, 10 Tuas West Drive, Singapore 638404

9. Japanese Cemetery Park

A beautiful floral archway and lush greenery may make you forget that you’re actually stepping into a Japanese cemetery. Resting in a quiet residential neighbourhood near Hougang, the ground is home to approximately 1,000 Japanese civilians and soldiers from the early 20th century.

The Japanese Association of Singapore maintains this ground, which became a memorial park in 1987. In addition to the quaint Prayer Hall, Japanese war memorials and even Heritage Trees by the National Parks Board can be found in this place. 

Address: 22 Chuan Hoe Ave, Singapore 549854

10. Fu Shan Dinosaur Playground

Everyone has heard of the Dragon Playground, but did you know that there’s a dinosaur-themed playground in Fushan Garden? The Fu Shan Dinosaur Playground is tucked away in a Woodlands HDB estate and stands out for its life-like dinosaur structures designed by Hong Hai Arts in 1997. 

This is one of the best hidden gems in Singapore to relive your childhood. Here, you can slide down a blue sauropod or clamber up the back of a green stegosaurus. The playground’s colourful dinosaur structures are sure to unleash your imagination, regardless of whether you’re a child or an adult. 

Address: 81 Woodlands Street 81, Singapore 730827

Also read: One Unique Attraction in Each Singapore Neighbourhood to Check Out

11. Seah Im Bunker 

This historical landmark rests at the foot of Mount Faber and just behind Seah Im Carpark. The bunker is shrouded behind leaves and natural greenery, hence making it feel like you’re on the set of Indiana Jones or Tomb Raider. The bunker was supposedly used to hold prisoners of war (POWs) and ammunition for the British.

Despite its eventful history, you will only be met with a vacant space and dilapidated remains. Those daring to explore this area should definitely bring torchlights (plural) and a buddy. Make sure to tread the areas safely as its densely forested area can make for slippery trails and walking paths!

Address: Keppel Hill

12. Bollywood Veggies

Make your way to this hidden gem in Singapore for a countryside experience unlike any other. Tucked away in Kranji, you can embark on a guided tour around the farm. Feast your eyes upon an array of plants and fruits amongst a variety of local produce. It’s not often that you get to see firsthand how your favourite ingredients end up on the supermarket shelves.

Also, the scene out of Bollywood Veggies is a breath of fresh air from the common sights in our metropolitan. So, do come ready with your camera to capture snippets of this idyllic sanctuary!

Address: 100 Neo Tiew Road, Singapore 719026

13. Peranakan shophouses along Koon Seng Road

Well-preserved Peranakan shophouses in a kaleidoscope of colours pepper the eclectic Koon Seng Road. Here, you can immerse in the vibrant nuances of a multiethnic community that dates back to the 15th century as you explore the area on foot. Stop in your tracks to admire the intricate facade adorned with elaborate motifs that once housed the Peranakans. It will take you by surprise that some of the families who made this area their home still live here.

What you see today in the neighbourhood is an amalgamation of old-world charm and touches of modernity — a stunning juxtaposition. Nonetheless, a wave of nostalgia will sweep over you as you stroll past every nook and cranny. 

14. Wessex Estate

Nestled in a forested area near One-North, Wessex Estate is one of the best hidden gems in Singapore for those who want to travel back in time. The estate is a cluster of black and white walk-up apartments and semi-detached houses built in the 1930s and 1940s for British servicemen stationed in Singapore. 

Aside from admiring the quaint black-and-white colonial houses, you can see an abandoned water tank on a hilltop along Woking Road. The tank is dangerous to climb, but its grungy vibe will definitely make for some eye-catching photos. 

To end your visit, stop by the Colbar Cafe for a hearty meal. This cafe, the only F&B establishment in the estate, dates back to 1953 and used to be popular among British troops. It serves a mix of affordable Asian and Western food. Furthermore, the cafe has an eye-catching crayon-blue and white interior that will brighten up your IG feed. 

Also read: 15 Hidden Cafes in Singapore That Are Worth the Road Trip

15. Jurong Hill Park

Jurong Hill Park is a serene green space next to where Jurong Bird Park used to be. Standing on top of the highest point in Jurong, the park’s 18-metre-tall Lookout Tower offers panoramic views of Jurong Port and Singapore’s skyline. 

The park and its tower have hosted many foreign dignitaries and heads of state. Below the tower, there is a Garden of Fame that holds trees planted by notable visitors such as Deng Xiaoping, Singapore President Benjamin Sheares, and Queen Elizabeth II. 

Address: 60 Jurong Hill, Singapore 628926

Also read: 22 Picnic Spots in Singapore That Are Perfect for an Enjoyable Day Out

16. Kranji Marshes

Kranji Marshes is a quiet bird-watching spot on the northwestern shore of Kranji Reservoir. This is one of the best hidden places in Singapore for nature lovers. The marshland is home to over 170 species of birds, 54 species of butterflies, and 33 species of dragonflies. Some birds you might see here include the white-bellied sea eagle, changeable hawk eagle, and purple swamphen. 

There is also the Raptor Tower where you can enjoy sweeping views of the marshland and spot swamp birds with a pair of binoculars. 

Address: 11 Neo Tiew Lane 2, Singapore 718814

17. Smith Marine Floating Kelong Restaurant

No, you don’t have to leave Singapore to eat at an authentic kelong restaurant (like the ones commonly found in coastal Malaysia and Indonesia). The Smith Marine Floating Kelong Restaurant offers a unique dining experience where customers can feast on fish freshly caught from the farm. It’s best to bring along your friends and family; the restaurant only serves set menus with seven, nine, or 10 courses. While you wait, you can play pool or board games for free. 

To get to the restaurant, you must first pre-book a table. On the day of your reservation, you’ll hop on a ferry at Changi Point Ferry Terminal which will take you to the restaurant. The whole experience takes three hours, so save this hidden gem in Singapore for a slow weekend. 

18. Singapore Quarry

Singapore Quarry is a slice of tranquil paradise located a 10-minute walk from The Rail Mail along Upper Bukit Timah Road. The abandoned quarry boasts sheer cliffs and lush greenery which are reflected in its emerald waters. There is a viewing platform that extends above the water, allowing you to get up close with the quarry’s breathtaking beauty. 

Keep your eyes peeled for kingfishers, turtles, and monitor lizards. This hidden gem in Singapore is teeming with interesting wildlife that are seldom seen in our concrete jungle. 

Also read: ​​25 Nature & Hiking Trails in Singapore to Discover on Your Weekends

19. Everton Road

Everton Road is one of the hidden places in Singapore with plenty to explore for those in the know. Its most famous attractions are the nostalgic wall murals depicting scenes from Singapore’s past. Take a walk down memory lane by appreciating the detailed paintings of street vendors, traditional barbers, and provision shops. The Everton Road murals are the work of local artist Yip Yew Chong, who has painted murals in Chinatown, Kampong Glam, and other areas. 

Other things to do near Everton Road include seeing the Art Porters Gallery and buying classic Nyonya pastries from Ji Xiang Everton. The Art Porters Gallery is a contemporary art gallery housed in a beautifully preserved shophouse. It showcases work from regional and international artists in a minimalistic white space. Located a five-minute walk from Everton Road, Ji Xiang Everton is a renowned confectionery known for its handmade ang ku kueh, which come in eight flavours.  

Also read: ​​20 Best Things to Do in Tiong Bahru — Singapore’s Hipster Enclave

Besides towering skyscrapers and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, these hidden gems in Singapore lay hidden in the heart of neighbourhoods and nature. While some of these locations may be off-the-beaten-path, they will definitely transport you to a place and time outside the hustle and bustle of Singapore’s urban living.