8 Unique Things to Do in Johor Bahru Beyond Shopping and Eating

Johor Bahru is often the first stop for Singaporeans seeking a quick getaway. We all know it’s a hub for food, shopping, and pampering — the perfect way to unwind. But, if you’re craving a fresh spin on your usual Johor Bahru experience, there are many more unique things to do in this charming city than just retail therapy and food binges. 

Also read: 10 Group Activity Ideas in Johor Bahru (JB) for Your Next Day Trip

Johor Bahru offers unique activities that are both fun and practical, especially if you’re feeling a little more aunty and uncle than usual because let’s be real, Singaporeans, we love how everything’s cheaper there!).

1. Challenge yourself at an escape room

If you’re up for a thrilling, brain-bending experience, Johor Bahru has several escape rooms that will test your problem-solving skills and teamwork. Gather your friends or family and head to one of the many themed escape rooms in the city like Lost in JB, where you’ll need to decipher clues, crack codes, and complete tasks to “escape” within a set time. 

It’s the perfect activity for those seeking a fun and interactive challenge beyond the usual shopping and dining. Whether you’re escaping from a haunted mansion or solving a high-stakes heist, these rooms provide a thrilling, action-packed experience for all ages!

2. Get new spectacles or contact lenses

Yes, you heard that right. It might not sound like the typical holiday activity, but getting a fresh pair of specs or trying out contact lenses in Johor Bahru can be a surprisingly good deal for Singaporeans. 

Many optical shops in the malls offer promotions on everything from progressive lenses to blue-light-blocking lenses and even contact lenses. KSL City Mall, in particular, is home to many stores of different price points, giving you plenty of options to find a pair that fits your budget and style. Some shops even offer same-day service, meaning you can walk out with your new pair in just a few hours. 

If updating your look or trying something new is on your mind, Johor Bahru’s optical shops have you covered — and at a fraction of the price in Singapore!

3. Attend an artsy workshop

Looking for a hands-on, creative experience? Johor Bahru is bursting with artsy workshops to help you unleash your inner artist. Whether you’re into the ancient Japanese art of kintsugi (where you repair broken ceramics with gold) or you want to craft a tiny garden in a terrarium-making workshop, you’ll find a therapeutic escape from the usual hustle of life in Singapore. 

Get your hands dirty and leave with a new skill — and possibly a masterpiece!

4. Take wedding photos in an unconventional location

If you’re looking for unique wedding photos but don’t want to break the bank with destination shoots in places like Paris, Johor Bahru has some beautiful, unexpected spots for a romantic photo session. 

From stylish indoor studios to charming outdoor locations with natural settings, Johor Bahru offers great options without the hefty price tag in Singapore. It’s an affordable and creative way to capture your special day — you may even end up with better shots than you’d get in a typical bridal hotspot!

5. Strike a pose at a self-photo studio

No wedding? No problem! For my happily single friends (and everyone in between), Johor Bahru’s self-photo studios are the perfect way to snap Instagram-worthy shots in a fun, stylish setting. 

With high-tech equipment, beautiful backdrops, and fun props, these studios are designed for you to look your best. Visit places like Kacha Kacha Studio or Fotowith, where you can even walk away with physical prints to keep as memories of your Johor Bahru adventures.

Also read: Johor Bahru (JB) Day Trip Itinerary That Singaporeans Love

6. Stop by the dentist

It’s not the most glamorous part of your vacation, but a visit to the dentist in Johor Bahru could save you a bundle. Many Singaporeans are quietly taking advantage of affordable yet high-quality dental services across the border. 

Whether it’s routine cleaning, teeth whitening, or even root canal treatment, dental care in Johor Bahru can be a fraction of the price in Singapore. Some clinics even offer same-day appointments, so you can easily squeeze in a quick visit while you’re in town.

TripZilla Tip: Always check for reviews and accreditations before visiting any clinic.

7. Play with exotic animals

For our Singaporean animal lovers, Johor Bahru offers some unique pet cafes and farms where you can get up close and personal with a variety of exotic animals. One standout spot is D.A Little Farm, a charming and quirky destination where you can cuddle with adorable fennec foxes, interact with playful prairie dogs, and even meet curious raccoons. 

Whether you’re an animal enthusiast or simply looking for something different, Johor Bahru’s pet cafes and farms are sure to bring a smile to your face!

Also read: Top 7 Animal Cafes in Johor Bahru: Where Pets and Pastries Meet

8. Stock up on medicine & health essentials

If you need anything from painkillers to allergy meds or vitamins, Johor Bahru’s pharmacies are a savvy stop for us Singaporeans. You’ll find a wide variety of products — including exclusive Malaysian health supplements that might not be available back home. It’s a practical (and budget-friendly) way to stock up on your health essentials for the months ahead.

TripZilla Tip: While the prices are tempting, avoid going overboard. Stick to what you need and will use — no need to hoard!

So there you have it — Johor Bahru isn’t just about shopping and eating. Whether you’re getting new spectacles, snapping fun photos, or enjoying an animal encounter, there’s always something unexpected and unique to do just across the causeway in Johor Bahru. 

Next time you find yourself across the causeway, why not try something new and explore these unique activities? You’ll be surprised at what you discover!