One Unique Attraction in Each Singapore Neighbourhood to Check Out

With the turn of a new year comes new travel plans as we continue to follow our wanderlust. While it is tempting to book another overseas trip, don’t count out local attractions just yet. This Singapore neighbourhood guide will give you a peek at some of the lesser-known, unique attractions across the island. 

Also read: 8 Places in Singapore That Will Make You Feel Like You Are Overseas!

Places to chill at in Singapore and what to do

1. Roll back the years in Toa Payoh

Start your journey at Toa Payoh Dragon Playground and admire the unique playground which was constructed way back in 1979. The playground uses terrazzo tiles to create a dragon design which has resulted in a visually appealing aesthetic. Unfortunately, this design was discontinued; making this playground one of the last of its kind. 

With families often gathering here to relax after a long day of school or work, swing by in the evenings to crowd watch and feel like a kid again. 

Address: 28 Lor 6 Toa Payoh, Singapore 310028

2. Play a life-sized board game in Seletar

If you’ve been to Europe or read Harry Potter, you’d know about giant chess boards. Well, the Aeroplane Playground at Seletar Aerospace Park does have something similar. 

Here, visitors can play ludo on a huge board where players are the pieces. So, grab a couple of friends and head over to one of the best places to chill in Singapore. After a few games, check out the lifestyle enclave within the aerospace park that is home to unique dining options.  

Address: 2 Park Ln, Singapore 798386 

Also read: 10 Airbnbs & Vacation Rentals Where You Can Live Out Your ‘Harry Potter’ Fantasies

3. Delve into mythology in Clementi

Featuring over 1,000 statues depicting Chinese folklore, Haw Par Villa is an Asian cultural park located in Clementi. 

Okay, this one might not be the best place to chill given that some of the displays can be frightening. But, the park reflects Asian art, history, and philosophy, and is certainly worth visiting for a look into a lesser-known side of Singapore.

Address: 262 Pasir Panjang Rd, Singapore 118628

4. Channel your inner Ron Swanson in Holland Village

Located in Holland Village, Bynd Artisan is not just a typical retail store selling leather notebooks. The novelty of this craft store is its legacy and artisanal excellence in creating personalised products. To top it off, they offer customers a chance to express their creativity and essentially create their own products. 

Grab a few friends or that special someone and sign up for one of their bookbinding workshops!  

Address: 44 Jln Merah Saga, #01-54, Singapore 278116

Also read: 12 Hands-On Workshops in Singapore For Art And Craft Lovers

5. Walk into a camera in Kampong Glam

Kampong Glam is home to the Vintage Camera Museum, aka Asia’s biggest camera museum and the world’s largest camera-shaped building! From the start, visitors are treated to a unique experience as the entrance is a giant camera lens. Safe to say, this cool attraction is a great place to visit if you’re in Singapore.

The museum is home to over 1,000 cameras, including replicas of the world’s largest camera and quirky spy cameras. Also, the museum has a rich collection of photographs that trace the history of photography. Notably, it has a replica of the world’s first photograph and the Apollo 11 moon landing.

Address: 8C Jln Kledek, Singapore 199263

6. Take a dip in the only hot spring in town in Sembawang

Sembawang Hot Spring Park is the country’s sole hot spring park (that’s accessible to the public). Now it might seem strange that a hot spring is popular given Singapore’s warm climate, but you’ll be surprised. 

Visitors flock to this popular hotspot to get their fix of relaxation with a foot bath. With an ideal temperature of 40℃, the hot spring relieves pain and is beneficial for the skin. This makes it a perfect weekend activity to relax after a stressful week (though be prepared for packed crowds).

Pro tip: There is no car park at the hot spring park itself, but there are several public car parks along Sembawang Road and Yishun Avenue 7.

Address: Along Gambas Avenue, Singapore 756952

Also read: Sembawang Heritage Trail: 3 Routes to Discover the Coastal Town’s Storied Past 

7. Gaze at the stars in Woodlands

This Singapore neighbourhood guide goes beyond the terrestrial by exploring the mysterious realm of space. At Woodlands Galaxy CC, budding astronauts and stargazers can take a tour of space. The observatory allows visitors to peer through an enormous telescope to look at stars, planets, and sometimes even meteor showers.

Address: 31 Woodlands Ave 6, Singapore 738991

Fun places in Singapore to get your heart pumping

8. On your marks, get set, go… to Bukit Timah

When thinking about fun places in Singapore, locals will surely mention The Karting Arena in Bukit Timah. For F1 fans, this 500-metre track is a great way to feel the thrill of racing. Visitors can opt for a fun karting experience or challenge their friends in a grand prix. Either way, get ready for some adrenaline-pumping action!

Pro tip: You’ll need a driver’s license or an international driver’s license to use the 50km/h karts. 

Address: 200 Turf Club Road, #01-01B The Grandstand, Singapore 287994

Also read: An F1 Guide: Where Are the Best Racing Tracks Around the World?

9. Be a human cannonball in River Valley

Singapore’s first indoor trampoline park, AMPED Trampoline Park in River Valley promises fun for all ages. The facility has over 460 square metres of interconnected trampolines, a foam pit, and even a party room. 

On top of that, jumping on a trampoline burns a lot of calories, so you’ll be having fun while exercising!

Pro tip: All jumpers are required to wear grip socks, so bring your own or purchase them at the counter.

Address: 46 Kim Yam Road, The Herencia Level 2, Singapore 239351

10. Imitate Max Goof and do a kickflip in Bedok

Since this Singapore neighbourhood guide is full of firsts, head over to the first and largest skatepark in the country! The Xtreme SkatePark in Bedok is an all-inclusive skate park that has hosted the Singapore Extreme Championship since 2009. 

With street courses, a combo bowl, and a 3.6-metre-deep bowl, the park is suitable for all skill levels. And even if you don’t skate, watching pros carry out mind-boggling stunts makes for a great experience.

Address: 1 East Coast Terrace, Singapore 458912

11. Learn how to roller skate in Pasir Ris

If skateboarding seems too difficult, head to Pasir Ris where HiRoller Singapore might be a better option. At Singapore’s biggest skating rink, visitors can choose from inline or quad skates depending on their experience with skating. More than that, the disco lights and old-school theme make this a perfect place to bring a date.

Pro tip: It’s recommended that you wear protective gear such as helmets and guards in case of a fall.

Address: 1 Pasir Ris Cl, Level 5 E!Hub, Singapore 519599

12. Unleash your rage in MacPherson

As you explore Singapore and indulge in some of her more famous attractions, you might miss out on The Fragment Room in MacPherson. This room allows visitors to release their frustrations and anger in a caveman-esque manner: by smashing things. A simple system of entering, donning protective gear, and destroying various household appliances leaves visitors with instant gratification.

Address: 490 MacPherson Rd, Singapore 368198

Also read: 9 Activities to Destress in Singapore After a Long Day at the Office

14. Descend into the unknown in Marsiling

If a “haunted” palace isn’t enough for you, head to Marsiling Tunnel, an underground World War II tunnel not for the faint-hearted. This ominous tunnel is pitch black, has sinkholes, and feels right out of a horror film. With rusty pipes, pungent metallic scents, and ankle-deep mud, be prepared for an adventure unlike any other.

Pro tip: Bring multiple light sources and wear long sleeves and pants as the terrain is quite rugged. 

Address: Admiralty Rd W, Along Marsiling Crescent

Explore Singapore and taste the finer things in life

15. Indulge in french pastries in Tiong Bahru

As its name suggests, Tiong Bahru Bakery is located in Singapore’s oldest housing estate: Tiong Bahru. It’s said that this quaint bakery serves the best French pastries across the island and is a must-try. Customers will be spoilt for choice with the variety of croissants, viennoiseries, and danish tarts on offer.

Pro tip: The bakery gets pretty crowded during the weekends, so getting your pastries to-go might be the better option.

Address: The main Tiong Bahru Bakery branch is located at 56 Eng Hoon Street, #01-70; various other outlets are located across the island.

Also read: 10 Best Bakeries in Singapore That Everyone Should Try in Their Lifetime  

16. Grab an Oishī brunch in Katong

For food lovers, Katong is known for its trendy cafes and cold brews. With East Coast Road dotted with popular cafes, one can be forgiven for overlooking Neptune. 

This Japanese-inspired sleek brunch cafe has a great collection of Western and Asian dishes, such as pork chorizo and portobello. Guests can choose between al fresco dining or indoor dining and enjoy a refreshing cup of blended coffee. 

Address: 237 East Coast Rd, Singapore 428930

Also read: 10 Best Brunch Cafes in Singapore That Locals Rave About

17. Embark on a gastronomic adventure in Chinatown

On top of being one of the best places to chill at in Singapore, Chinatown is home to a plethora of culinary delights. Liao Fan Hawker Chan is perhaps the crème de la crème when it comes to a local favourite: chicken rice. Don’t take it from me, just take a look at the Michelin star that the stall once held between 2016 and 2018.

Address: 78 Smith St, Singapore 058972

Also read: 10 Best Hawker Centres in Singapore That Locals & Travelling Foodies Swear By

18. Taste the best roti prata in town in Bishan

Locals love roti prata and have long tried to find the best prata stall in the country. While this debate might never be solved, Sin Ming Roti Prata is one place that can lay claim to this title as it has perfected the prata and the quintessential curry. 

Apart from dozens of permutations of pratas, the stall offers their signature coin prata, murtabak, briyani, and nasi goreng. 

Address: 24 Sin Ming Rd, #01-51, Singapore 570024

Also read: 15 Best Hawker Dishes in Singapore and Where to Find Them

19. Enjoy food straight from a farm in Kranji

Bistro Gardenasia is a quaint farm-to-food bistro surrounded by the Kranji countryside and is certainly off the beaten track. The beautiful natural environment gives this bistro a serene ambience with amazing views (especially during sunsets). 

With popular dishes such as Gardenasia Fish Soup and the Char-grilled Ribeye Hor Fun, one won’t be disappointed.

Address: 240 Neo Tiew Cres, Singapore 718898

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

20. I scream for ice cream in Dempsey

As you explore Singapore and its fascinating local delights, save some room for dessert in Dempsey. At the Museum of Ice Cream, visitors are treated to an unlimited supply of ice cream. If that doesn’t amaze you, the giant sprinkle pool where you can “swim” will! 

Learning about the history of ice cream while enjoying a cone of ice cream makes for a great date.  

Pro tip: The museum gets pretty crowded in the afternoons and weekends, so consider purchasing their night tickets instead.

Address: 100 Loewen Rd, Singapore 248837

Also read: 10 Uniquely Fun Activities in Singapore That Are Totally Off the Beaten Path

Take great photos in these Instagrammable spots in Singapore

21. Head over to Tampines for your next IG shoot

To cap off this Singapore neighbourhood guide, here are a few more spots for great photo ops. In a nondescript part of Tampines, there are a group of HDB blocks that sport a medieval look. The monochrome designs are Tudor-inspired and provide some of the best backgrounds to snap a chic picture. 

Address: Blk 419 Tampines Ave 9, Singapore 520419

22. Swim with the fish on Sisters’ Islands

We often believe that snorkelling works best in coral reefs and rule out Singapore as a location for this activity. However, Sister’s Islands has a dedicated marine park with two dive trails to observe coral reefs and sandy habitats. Unfortunately, the island is temporarily closed for maintenance till 2024. 

In the meantime, Pulau Hantu, Sentosa Island, and Kusu Island are great alternatives.

Pro tip: The dive trails from Sister’s Islands are only open to divers with experience. To check out the minimum requirements, click here. 

23. Get up and close with the animals in Lim Chu Kang

When one thinks of the fun places in Singapore, popular attractions like Universal Studios and Sentosa Island stand out. But if you want to have a new experience, Hay Dairies Goat Farm and Viknesh Dairy Farm are must-visits. Hay Dairies is Singapore’s only goat farm where one can pet a goat (no, not Lionel Messi) for free. 

Entry to both farms is free-of-charge. Visitors can also purchase feeds and fresh milk to bring home.  

Addresses:

• Hay Dairies Goat Farm: 3 Lim Chu Kang Lane 4, Singapore 718859
• Viknesh Dairy Farm: Lim Chu Kang Lane 8A, Singapore 719607

Also read: 10 Farms in Singapore to Visit for a Taste of the Countryside

24. Go back in time and experience life in Hougang

Go back to where it all began by visiting Kampong Lorong Buangkok: Singapore’s last kampong (village or hamlet). This little village in Hougang is one of the last traces of Singapore’s humble beginnings. From zinc roofs and overhead electric wires to standing electric fans, there is a feeling of nostalgia. 

One will forget about the cityscape of Singapore when they’re here, despite being surrounded by high-rise HDBs. The rural slow-paced setting is a nice way to learn about our heritage while reminiscing about the good old days. 

Address: 23E Lor Buangkok, Singapore 547578 

Also read: 20 Underrated Things to Do in Singapore If It’s Not Your First Time

While the novelty of a holiday is difficult to replicate at home, there are many opportunities to make great memories. As you explore further with this Singapore neighbourhood guide, you’ll find dozens of lesser-known places just waiting to be discovered. With an entire new year ahead of you, set aside some time to visit these attractions and other hidden gems!