Top 34 Fun Things to Do in Singapore — Including Free Activities!

Singapore is a small place, there’s little (pun intended!) doubt about that. However, in this country that we lovingly call the Little Red Dot, the selection of amazing sights and fun activities is endless! From snazzy malls and kitschy theme parks, to natural attractions and delicious fare, there’s surely something for every type of traveller.

Without further ado, check out these fun things to do in Singapore on your next visit. Or if you’re a local, then there might be some that you have yet to try! Either way, we hope you have a great time.

1. The airport is your playground at Jewel Changi Airport

Visitors can do many fun things in Singapore — one of which is available right at the moment when they set foot in the airport. Opened in April 2019, Jewel Changi is one of the newest attractions in Singapore. Marvel at the impressive HSBC Rain Vortex, the world’s largest indoor waterfall, and treat yourself to a spectacular light show in the evening that happens hourly, starting from 7.30pm! 

Walk through the expansive Canopy Walk on the top floor of the dome-shaped structure and traipse on the bouncy sky nets, and be treated to an aerial view of the attraction. With over 280 shopping and dining outlets, you will definitely be spoilt for choice at Jewel Changi Airport! o

Also read: 14 Things to Do at Changi Airport That Most Travellers Don’t Know About

2. Have fun with technology at Funan Mall

From a rooftop edible garden to an indoor bike path, Funan Mall is your one-stop futuristic mall that is not like any other! 

Drop by at local label Love Bonito’s shop and snap some of your Insta-worthy pictures on their Augmented Reality (AR) runway or immerse yourself in the realm of Virtual Reality (VR) by enjoying a gaming and cinematic experience in Golden Village’s VR pods. Featuring novel and interesting retail concepts, Funan also leverages digital innovations, such as a cryptocurrency e-payment system at the KOPItech food court, to bring to you a never-like-before shopping and entertainment experience. With so many exciting things to do, Funan Mall should definitely be on your to-visit list especially if you’re a tech junkie. 

3. Test your bravery and jump off the AJ Hackett bungy

Treat yourself to an incredible experience that would satisfy all thrill-seekers with AJ Hackett Sentosa, the winner of ‘Best Attraction for Adrenaline Junkies‘ in the TripZilla Excellence Awards 2019.

Home to the world’s highest bungee jump, this iconic tower will blow your mind. Apart from that, the tower also boasts some of the best 360-degree views of the city!

Also read: 10 Fun and Adventurous Activities in Singapore for the Thrill-Seekers

4. Live the high life at Marina Bay Sands

Enjoy the stunning panoramic view of the city skyline from the world’s largest and highest infinity pool – 57 levels above the ground – at the Marina Bay Sands. Thereafter, treat yourself to some high-end luxury shopping at The Shoppes, where you will find some exclusive collections from top brands such as Louis Vuitton and Gucci. If you are feeling lucky (and rich), you might want to also make a visit to the Marina Bay Sands Casino!

Also read: 18 Best Hotels with Swimming Pools in Asia for Your Next Vacation

5. Rough it up with nature at Pulau Ubin

Accessible only by a bumboat ride from mainland Singapore, Pulau Ubin is one of the last few places in Singapore where you can still see a kampung (‘village’ in Malay). Enjoy the rustic charm of this island sanctuary and explore the abandoned quarries either on foot or on a bike. 

Pulau Ubin is the perfect place for nature lovers looking to get a respite from the bustling and hectic city life. If you are lucky, you might also encounter wild boars! 

6. Explore the Trick Eye Museum Singapore with your loved ones

Wander through the six zones of the museum riddled with optical illusions and perfect for the quirky Instagram picture you need to brighten up your social media feed! Step inside the paintings and be part of the attraction as you recreate photos with your creativity and imagination.

You will have a fun time at the Trick Eye Museum Singapore, which also won ‘Best Family Attraction (Singapore)‘  in the TripZilla Excellence Awards 2019! With stimulating sound effects and vibrant light technology, people of all ages can enjoy this space.

7. Take a walk along the boardwalk and bask in the quiet calm of Coney Island

Also known as Pulau Serangoon, Coney Island is an island located off Punggol, in the North Eastern region of Singapore. While the lone Coney cow that once inhabited the island has passed on (*tears*), there are many other amazing sights to behold on this beautiful and serene Island.

Follow the trails and walk through lalang fields, or just stop by a bird shelter to do some bird-watching. You might even stumble upon the dilapidated and mysterious Haw Par Beach Villa buildings that were left behind by the Haw Par brothers, who rose to fame decades ago with the medicated elixir that is Tiger Balm.

8. Experience hell in Haw Par Villa without dying

Forget about the more “mainstream” fun things to do in Singapore and opt to visit this unconventional attraction instead. Located along Pasir Panjang Road, Haw Par Villa houses over 1000 statues and 150 giant dioramas relating to various Chinese mythology, folklore, legends and history. Walk through the infamous “10 Courts of Hell” and relive scenes from famous Chinese literature; such as the Journey to the West and Madame White Snake. While promising to be both interesting and educational (and definitely kitschy), Haw Par Villa may be slightly intimidating for the faint-hearted. Nonetheless, you should not miss out on this chance to learn more about the different iconic Chinese folklore and figures in Singapore!

9. Visit some of the local farms and hop on some of the free farm tours at Kranji Countryside

There are many farms in the Kranji Countryside that are open to the public for farm tours, where visitors can buy some fresh locally-farmed produce back home. Explore the Bollywood Veggies farm and dine at their in-house restaurant, Poison Ivy, where you will get to taste and enjoy their very own farmed produce. 

Then, head to the Hay Dairies Goat Farm to learn more about goat’s milk – from teats to bottle. It is highly recommended that you also get yourself a refreshing bottle of fresh goat milk to taste – it’s not as funky as you’d expect. 

10. Be inspired at the Singapore Art Museum

Ever since its opening in 1996, the Singapore Art Museum has built an impressive collection of contemporary art pieces by artists from Southeast Asia. While the main museum sites are currently closed for renovation works, there are other ongoing mobile museum sites around Singapore and temporary exhibitions too.

The newest addition is the SAM at Tanjong Pagar Distripark, a new space that will feature exhibitions and art experiences by local and international artists. This new attraction is aligned with the museum’s intention to diffuse arts into various heritage neighbourhoods, enabling people of all ages and backgrounds to discover contemporary art and be inspired by different perspectives about the present-day world and the future beyond. Be sure to check it out if you have the time!

11. Uncover the important historical connections between Asia and the rest of the world at the Asian Civilisations Museum

Dedicated to preserving the rich and diverse artistic heritage of Asia, the Asian Civilisations Museum is home to some of the most interesting exhibits that will give you a glimpse into the different ancestral cultures of early Singaporeans. Learn about the early history of Asia as you go back in time to explore over 5,000 years of civilisation, from over 2,000 artefacts from different parts of Asia. You might even end up spending a day at the Asian Civilisations Museum without realising it!

12. Take a stroll through Singapore’s history in the National Museum

The National Museum has various exhibits, each focusing on an aspect of Singapore’s history. From significant stories such as the origins of the Labour Movement, to quirky anecdotes about the history of food packaging in Singapore, National Museum has it covered. Always wanted to know the hidden stories of Singapore? Here’s your answer.

Also read: 17 Museums in Singapore You Might Not Be Aware Of

13. Marvel at modern art at the National Gallery

Housed in a beautifully restored monument, the National Gallery upholds Singapore’s heritage while incorporating global and contemporary elements into it. With frequent collaborations with international museums, and new exhibitions abound in National Gallery at every turn.

14. Get to know the Peranakan culture in Singapore with its very own Peranakan Museum

Peranakan refers to an ethnic group descended from Chinese settlers who came to the Malay archipelago between the 15th and 17th centuries. With a grand collection of Peranakan items, the Peranakan Museum is the best place to learn about this uniquely Southeast Asian culture.

Note: The Peranakan Museum is currently closed for renovations. Stay tuned!

15. Chow down local delights (and the world’s cheapest Michelin-starred meal) at the many hawker centres

A plate of soya chicken rice from Liao Fan Hong Kong Soya Sauce Chicken Rice & Noodle costs just S$3-4 a plate! Located at Chinatown Complex Market and Food Centre, where it is also home to many stalls serving up food such as Mala hot pot to Nasi Briyani, you can definitely have your fill here without breaking the bank. 

The Old Airport Road Food Centre located Old Airport Road can claim fame to be noodle central with its hokkien mee, char kway teow, lor mee and ban mian stalls that see perpetual queues. 

Maxwell Food Centre doesn’t pale in comparison with its equally strong picks of chicken rice, popiah, dim sum, as well as finger food like goreng pisang.

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

16. Ascend to the highest point in Orchard Road to catch an incredible glimpse of Singapore’s city skyline at ION Sky

This modern indoor observation deck offers panoramic views of the metropolis, complete with telescopes and fun facts. What better way to enjoy Singapore than to do so right in the heart of the city itself, on the highest vantage point?

17. Shop and take IG-worthy photos at Haji Lane

Beyond the quirky cafes and bars, Haji Lane is filled with indie shophouses and murals at every corner, lending a colourful aesthetic to the streets. Here you’ll be able to find everything you need — a new outfit, a new bag, or some souvenirs to bring home with you. Alternatively, you could just snap a picture with the myriad of murals on the walls.

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

18. Immerse yourself in Peranakan culture in Katong

If the colourful buildings don’t draw you to it, the shops in this hood certainly will. Beyond just admiring the Peranakan shophouses from afar, you can chill at one of the many cool cafes or indulge in some rib-sticking Nyonya goodies.

19. Learn more about Buddhism at the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple

With many religious relics including Buddha’s left canine tooth, this temple is not only a place of worship, but also a place of wonder. The temple, modelled after Tang Dynasty architecture, showcases its namesake on the temple grounds.

Note: Due to COVID-19, only certain areas of the temple will be open to fully vaccinated visitors for worship until further notice.

20. Be awed by Sultan Mosque’s grandeur

Named after Sultan Hussain Shah, the 18th Sultan of Johor, the Sultan Mosque leaves visitors in awe with its golden domes. This national monument is perhaps one of Singapore’s most iconic religious buildings, dedicated to the Muslim community. Did you know that North Bridge Road had to bend around the mosque during the reconstruction, as it extended beyond Arab Street?

21. Visit Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple, the Sri Mariamman Temple

Located in the heart of Chinatown lies the Sri Mariamman Temple, which remains to be Singapore’s oldest Hindu temple to date. It is best known for its colourful and intricately carved 6-tiered tower over the temple gates. In fact, the oldest parts of the temple have existed since 1843!

Today, the three-storey temple has expanded and is well-equipped with amenities to serve the Hindu community in Singapore. Fun fact: the design of this temple is modelled after the Dravidian architecture, which is similar to Cambodia’s famous Angkor Wat.

22. Dine at Michelin-starred restaurants

JAAN

Located at the top of Swissôtel The Stamford, JAAN is a Michelin-recommended restaurant that boasts a panoramic view of Singapore’s cityscape. This 40-seater restaurant serves contemporary British cuisine by Chef de Cuisine Kirk Westaway. 

Some of the iconic dishes include the Potato Soup with Black Truffle Bouillon and Fish and Chips.

Odette

Nestled within National Gallery Singapore, Odette is an upscale Michelin-starred French restaurant. To top it off, Odette has also made it to the list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, an achievement coveted by many.

Also read: 11 Overlooking Restaurants & Bars in Singapore With the Best Views

23. Unwind at one of Singapore’s award-winning bars

Besides its thriving nightlife, Singapore is also home to one of the world’s best bars. Take a night off to unwind and chill at one of these award-winning bars. 

Native

Native creates cocktails with ingredients and products sourced from the region. It is the passion project of award-winning bartender Vijay Mudaliar. Over here, you can expect to find Singaporean DJs and musicians showcasing their talents at the bar. It’s probably one of the best places to catch a glimpse of Singapore’s music scene. 

Operation Dagger

Situated in the corner of Ann Siang Hill, Operation Dagger will bring you a mix of low-key electronic and hip-hop music that creates the perfect ambience for a chill out night with your friends. You can look forward to exploring unique concoctions of house-made drinks and special fermented creations. 

Do try the omakase cocktail options when you’re there, specially picked by the bartender. Most importantly, go with an open mind to sample new drinks!

24. Go wild at some of Singapore’s most thrilling theme parks

Amongst the wide array of family-friendly attractions in Singapore, visiting a theme park is one of the best ways to spend a day out with your family. Whether you’re looking to take on a thrilling roller coaster or have a good splashing time, there is surely something for you. 

Universal Studios Singapore

This is most probably one of the most recognisable Singapore tourist spots. Universal Studios Singapore is the first Hollywood movie theme park in Southeast Asia, featuring movie-themed zones like Shrek and Transformers. Take on a challenge by going on the Battlestar Galactica, the world’s tallest pair of duelling roller coasters. 

Besides these thrilling rides, there are also kid-friendly rides in the Far Far Away zone. Over here, you can find junior roller coaster rides, a 4D adventure, and animated shows. 

Wild Wild Wet

When you talk about the fun places in Singapore, you definitely can’t miss this one! With more than 15 water activities for children and the young at heart, Wild Wild Wet is perfect for a splashing good time with your whole family. Reopened in 2012 after undergoing renovations, Wild Wild Wet has now expanded to over twice its original size with new rides. 

Do go on the Ular Lah when you’re there, which is a family-friendly super flume ride that all you adrenaline junkies will love! 

25. Have a roaring good time at the Tiger Beer Brewery

Explore where Singapore’s iconic Tiger beer is manufactured on this exciting Tiger Brewery Tour where you’ll get to discover the interesting history of Tiger beer. On this tour, you’ll get to see how the beer is being made step-by-step, packaged, and then get to have a taste of their beer. Do stop by the Tiger Tavern and guzzle down this golden pilsner that cannot be made any fresher. 

26. Explore the verdant corners of Singapore

The Lion City is not just all about its cityscapes and tall buildings. Here are a few parks in Singapore where you can reconnect with nature, spot wildlife in their natural habitats, and do some fun things for a good family bonding time! 

Singapore Botanic Gardens

Known as one of the oldest parks in Singapore, the Singapore Botanic Gardens is home to more than 10,000 species of plants. It is also one of the premier orchid research and breeding centres. When you’re there, you can also look out for a variety of jungle creatures like monitor lizards. 

Bukit Timah Nature Reserve

Besides being the oldest and largest forest reserve in Singapore, Bukit Timah Nature Reserve also boasts 40 per cent of the nation’s flora and fauna. There is also an abundance of outdoor activities, namely: rock climbing, mountain biking, and hiking trails for all skill levels. So for all the outdoor adventure enthusiasts, this is for you! 

The Chinese and Japanese Gardens

Built on the two islands on Jurong Lake, The Chinese and Japanese Gardens may not be as popular as Gardens by the Bay or Jewel Changi Airport these days, but it remains iconic and Instagram-worthy site of the West in Singapore. 

The 13.5-hectare garden was developed in the 1970s to attract visitors to Jurong while retaining nature within what used to be a highly industrial area. Stroll through the various parts of the garden, and if you’re lucky enough, you might even be able to spot kingfishers! 

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

27. Shop for bargains at Bugis Village

Calling out all you shopaholics! Bugis Village is definitely one of the best places to visit in Singapore. It’s conveniently located right opposite Bugis MRT Station. 

Comprised of many small shops selling a wide array of clothes, souvenirs, bags, and more, there is surely something for everyone. If you’re buying a few pieces or more, put your haggling skills to the test for the best prices!  

28. Discover some of the hippest hang-outs

More than the touristy Marina Bay Sands or Gardens by the Bay, there is so much you can explore in some of the hippest areas in Singapore. Head out to these neighbourhoods just right outside the city centre to discover another side of Singapore! 

Tiong Bahru

One of Singapore’s oldest estates – the Tiong Bahru neighbourhood is home to many hipster cafes, indie boutiques, and iconic wall murals. With so much to explore in the area, we can see why it is a favourite haunt of many local artists and culture lovers. 

Some of the local favourites are BooksActually to hunt for a good read, or pop by Forty Hands for some good ol’ big breakfast and your coffee fix. 

Joo Chiat Road

Situated in the East of Singapore, Joo Chiat Road is known for emerging as one of the first few heritage towns. In fact, most locals identify the area to be synonymous with the Peranakan culture since the early days. Today, Joo Chiat Road is a cultural blend of established heritage shophouses and trendy shops and eateries. 

29. Meander down Singapore’s river and admire the city skyline in a River Taxi

The iconic Singapore River landmarks are one of the best places to visit in Singapore and the best way to tour around would be to hop on one of the River Taxis! There are many landmarks that are easily accessible by road, but the river taxi cruise experience completes the experience. 

During the cruise, there will be a running commentary to share with you more about the stories behind the landmarks you pass by. The River Taxi is the perfect opportunity for you to see Singapore from a fresh perspective.

30. Bask yourself in nature’s glory at the Lee Kong Chian National History Museum 

Have an immersive experience at the Lee Kong Chian National History Museum by discovering the wide variety of different life forms on Earth across 15 zones. Each zone represents the major branches of the Tree of Life, focusing on Southeast Asian flora and fauna. 

Over here, you get to see what sauropod dinosaurs looked like, and travel back in time to the early days of Earth’s creations. Making a trip down to the museum is definitely a great activity for both kids and adults to learn more about various natural specimens together.   

31. Visit the “last Kampong” in Singapore before it’s too late

It’s hard to believe it, but before Singapore morphed into the sleek city that it is today, it was what was described as a “sleepy fishing village”. Today, these villages (or kampong in the Malay language) have all but been demolished to give way to modern housing estates, save for one: Kampong Lorong Buangkok.

Located in the northeast, this village is almost like a museum in its own right, thanks to its houses with zinc roofs, which dates as far back as the ’50s, flanked by overgrown greenery. It’s currently in danger of suffering the same fate as the other kampongs in mainland Singapore, so do make a beeline for it before it’s gone.

32. Chill out and party at Sentosa’s beach bars

Off the coast of mainland Singapore, Sentosa is a mini paradise with sandy beaches and emerald waters. Lined up alongside are some of the island’s lively beach bars, where beachgoers can opt to either sip on some cocktails while suntanning on daybeds or hanging out with their friends while soaking in the swimming pool.

Parties also run all year-round, so you are guaranteed to have a time of your life while revelling in the evening festivities.

Also read: The Most Scenic Beach Bars in Singapore

33. Learn more about science at the Singapore Science Centre

Ever aspired to become the next Isaac Newton or Albert Einstein? The Science Centre Singapore is just the place for you! Aimed to make science accessible and engaging, visitors can take part in a multitude of indoor activities as they immerse themselves in a multisensory experience to learn more about the applications of science and technology in everyday life.

The complex also houses the Science Centre Observatory, which is one of the few observatories in the world located next to the equator, providing views of both the northern and southern celestial hemispheres to be observed at the same time. Every Friday, visitors can head down for their stargazing sessions to catch a glimpse of the mesmerising starry night views with their loved ones.

34. Interact with animals at the multifaceted Mandai Wildlife Reserve

Bet you didn’t know that Singapore is home to the world’s first night safari and Asia’s only river-themed wildlife park! Tucked away in northwestern Singapore is the Mandai Wildlife Reserve — an integrated nature and wildlife landmark made up of the Singapore Zoo, Jurong Bird Park, Night Safari, and River Wonders. Marvel at the glorious flora and fauna, and even get a chance to interact with the animals during the wildlife tours, feeding sessions and more. From pandas to manatees, their cute charms will surely make you fall in love with them over and over again.

Also read: Here’s What to Expect at Lakeside Gardens, Singapore’s Newest National Park

And there you go — all the top fun things to do in Singapore! Do you have any suggestions for us? Go ahead and sound off on our Facebook page!