Sarah Jane Lee
Image credit: NParks
When asked where the best place on the island is, Singaporeans readily respond with “east side, best side”. It’s no surprise, considering the variety of attractions and experiences the east has to offer. However, westies can agree that their side of Singapore exceeds expectations by leaps and bounds, too. Check out these 10 things to do on the west side of Singapore that leaves little room for debate: The west is the best.
1. Glide, spin & twirl along Singapore’s only Olympic-sized ice rink
Image credit: The Rink
Lace up, skates on, and get ready to have the time of your life at The Rink. Singapore’s first and only Olympic-sized skating rink gives you the freedom to glide in style without having to compete for space with neighbouring skaters. Grab your friends for a delightful time away from Singapore’s humid weather as you skate your stress away!
Image credit: Capitaland
Need help travelling across the rink? You can rent penguin, seal, or snowman aids to make your ice skating experience a less terrifying one! Whether you’re a first-time skater or a pro, prepare for your own rendition of Disney On Ice. Hopefully without the tumbling and falling, of course.
Where: 2 Jurong East Central 1, #03-11 JCube, Singapore 609731
2. Wander around Jurong Lake Gardens, a west side gem
Image credit: Gigi
If you’re looking for things to do on the west side of Singapore that will have you surrounded by nature, this is the perfect choice for you. Get in touch with mother nature’s finest features at Jurong Lake Gardens, whose highly accessible location gives you good reason to visit this spot. As Singapore’s new national garden in the heartlands, this landscape is decked with paths, community spaces, and amenities perfect for a day out.
Image credit: NParks
Jurong Lake Gardens also boasts one of Singapore’s public dog runs, where adorable canines can run wild with excitement! Dog owners (and obsessive dog lovers) may enjoy this blissful sight on their Sunday morning stroll around the park. Who would ever say no to meeting new furry friends?
3. Take a dip at Jurong East swimming complex
Image credit: ActiveSG
For that midday respite from Singapore’s blistering weather, take a dip in the pool at Jurong East swimming complex. This complex was the first pool to offer a lazy river, wave pool, and thrilling slides all in one place. Why will you travel far when you’ve got your very own west side Wild Wild Wet?
Image credit: ActiveSG
Both young and old can enjoy the various features of the swimming complex, including a jacuzzi, water slides, and a competition pool. There’s definitely something for everyone at Jurong East swimming complex — a must-visit when you’re feeling the heat in the city’s western parts!
Where: 21 Jurong East Street 31, Singapore 609517
4. Treat yourself to retail therapy at IMM
Image credit: IMM Official Facebook Site
Singapore’s many shopping malls and retail outlets make retail therapy possible anywhere, anytime. However, if you’re looking to stretch your dollar, the west is where you ought to go and IMM is the place to be.
Image credit: IMM Official Facebook Site
This mall is home to more than 90 outlet stores offering up to 80% discount all year round. Adidas, Calvin Klein, Furla, and Michael Kors are but some of the many brands you can treat yourself to on this side of the city — all while getting the best deals to boot! Children can enjoy IMM’s wet and dry playgrounds on Level 3 while their parents shop the day away. Singapore’s west side has many strong suits, and shopping’s just one of them!
Where: 2 Jurong East Street 21, Singapore 609601
5. Get your fill at Boon Lay power nasi lemak
Image credit: Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak Official Facebook Page
If there’s one thing we can be sure of, it’s that Singaporeans enjoy a good meal. Established in 1971, Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak is already an institution of sorts in the local culinary scene. As its name would suggest, its signature dish catapulted this food place into fame. Unsurprisingly, their fragrant rice and fresh ingredients have kept customers coming back for more each time. Westies, you now have a reason to bring your friends over to the ‘hood thanks to Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak.
6. Embrace history at Reflections at Bukit Chandu
Image credit: Visit Singapore
Reflections at Bukit Chandu is a World War II interpretative centre housed in a restored black and white colonial bungalow. It rests near the former battle site — the Battle of Pasir Panjang. It was built for visitors to reflect upon Singapore’s heritage. The artefacts and exhibits at the centre present Singapore’s wartime experiences and pay homage to the country’s past struggles.
Image credit: Visit Singapore Official Site
Take a stroll around the tranquil area as you gain new insights and experiences with these historical exhibitions. There’s much to learn about Singapore and how it came to be the nation that it is today.
Where: 31-K Pepys Road Singapore 118458
7. Treat yourself to some Fu Yuan handmade dim sum
Image credit: Tara B
While this nondescript dim sum shop is hidden in a Clementi coffee shop, it sure packs a punch when it comes to authentic dim sum flavours. It is affordable; not to mention, the handmade dim sum will satiate your dim sum cravings in just a few bites, but we promise you’ll come back for more. Among the specialties, their liu sha pau (salted egg yolk pau) and char siew pau (BBQ pork pau) are crowd favourites. Prepare for an explosion of flavours in your mouth with the assortment of classic dim sum dishes.
Where: 710 Clementi West Street 2, Singapore 120710
8. Let your creative juices flow at Thow Kwang dragon kiln
Image credit: Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle Official Facebook Site
Looking for unusual spots and unique things to do in the west of Singapore? Hop on over to Thow Kwang Dragon Kiln, one of the oldest surviving brick-built kilns in Singapore for wood-firing. Take your turn on the potter’s wheel and sign up for hands-on workshops to try your hand at creating your very own ceramic pieces!
Image credit: Thow Kwang Pottery Jungle Official Facebook Site
Better yet, they have a paw stamping workshop to personalise your pet’s bowl. You can even carve out their name and choose a colour!
Where: 85 Lor Tawas, Singapore 639823
9. Lose track of time at Bollywood Veggies
Image credit: Bollywood Veggies Official Facebook Site
Located at Neo Tiew Road and set in the rustic environment of the northwest Kranji Countryside, Bollywood Veggies is an urban farm that offers an experience like no other. Nature lovers can enjoy world-class biodiversity with many birds, fish, frogs, snails, and insects in the outback acres. There is also a Food Museum, where you can learn about the history of Singapore’s food culture.
Image credit: Bollywood Veggies
Furthermore, its Poison Ivy Bistro menu features delicious, healthy options for all palates to relish on a sunny afternoon. If you’re looking for a quick getaway from the bustling city crowds, Bollywood Veggies provides a tranquil haven.
Despite the claims of “east side, best side”, these exciting experiences that lie in the west of Singapore should certainly be on your list of things to do when visiting the area. It’s a whole new world on the other side of Singapore, and one you shouldn’t miss out on!
