After the Park: Singapore’s Top Free Finds Next to Universal Studios

The adventure continues outside Universal Studios, and your bank account will thank you!

Published: April 23, 2026
Friends by a Ride at Universal Studios

Universal Studios Singapore is the dream destination for blockbuster excitement, but the fun doesn’t end when you step outside those famous gates. Whether you’re recharging after loop-the-loops or looking for new sights minus the queues and ticket lines, Sentosa and the Harbourfront area are packed with memorable experiences that won’t cost you a cent. We’ve rounded up our favourite free activities within a stone’s throw of the park—think art walks, hidden beaches, and lush escapes—to make sure your Singapore adventure keeps going (while your budget stays intact). 

Our favourite free things to do near Universal Studios Singapore include: 

  • Sentosa Nature Discovery 
  • Palawan Beach 
  • Sentosa Boardwalk 
  • Fort Siloso Skywalk 
  • Southernmost Point of Continental Asia 
  • Siloso Beach Walk Art Installations 
  • Keppel Bay and Marina Promenade 
  • VivoCity Rooftop Amphitheatre & Sky Park 
  • Imbiah Trail 
  • Labrador Nature Reserve 

Sentosa Nature Discovery 

Feel like stretching your legs (and your mind)? Sentosa Nature Discovery offers a refreshing change of pace from the theme park buzz. Set at Imbiah Lookout, this interactive trail doubles as a living gallery. It’s where giant “insect” sculptures line the paths, and outdoor exhibits highlight Sentosa’s jungle secrets with hands-on displays everyone can enjoy—no admission fees needed. 

Swap the crowds for native butterflies and birds: the 1.8km trail is family-friendly, with bridges, boardwalks, and even a canopy walk. Curious types will love the info stations revealing the island’s prehistoric past and its present-day critters. If you’re after a free eco-adventure, this is a peaceful green alternative just minutes from thrill rides and popcorn stands. 

Palawan Beach 

You don’t need to spend to soak up those tropical vibes on Sentosa’s most playful beach. Palawan is a short stroll from Universal Studios and feels like a classic island day out: think palm trees, golden sand, and shallow, calm waters great for a paddle or just relaxing under the sun. 

There’s plenty to see (and snap a pic of) here for free. Watch ships sail by, take a walk over the wobbly suspension bridge to a little islet (where you’ll find signs proclaiming it the ‘southernmost point of Continental Asia’), or hit one of the shaded benches for a spectacular sunset. Family groups, couples, or solo wanderers all find a favorite spot on Palawan—making it Singapore’s communal backyard and a budget-friendly break from rollercoasters. 

Sentosa Boardwalk 

Who says getting to Sentosa can’t be part of the adventure? The Sentosa Boardwalk runs from VivoCity mall to the island entrance, with covered walkways, travelators, and—most importantly—lush landscaping and unbeatable harbour views. It’s free to enter on foot, so you can savour sea breezes and skyline panoramas without paying a cent. 

The boardwalk is especially magical at sunset, when the city glows and boats slip by against an orange sky. There are always art installations and tropical plants to keep the stroll interesting, plus occasional pop-up performances or markets. If you love a leisurely walk, this might just be your new favourite way to reach Universal Studios (and you’ll have earned those theme park snacks). 

Fort Siloso Skywalk

Man Walking Along Fort Siloso Skywalk

Need a hit of adventure without the entrance fee? The Fort Siloso Skywalk is your answer. This 11-storey-tall, 181-metre-long bridge towers above the canopy, giving you a bird’s eye view of Sentosa’s western tip—absolutely free. It ends at historic Fort Siloso, so you get both thrills and a dash of heritage in one go. 

Step out onto the see-through sections if you dare, or simply enjoy the gentle sway and the cool sea breeze. Panoramic views take in Singapore’s southern coast, the busy shipping lanes, and even Indonesia on clear days. It’s a fun, unique detour and a must-see for anyone who loves big views without big spends. 

Southernmost Point of Continental Asia 

Here’s one for the travel brag book: tick off a visit to the Southernmost Point of Continental Asia—literally steps from Palawan Beach and completely free. Cross the wooden rope bridge and you’ll reach a tiny islet with twin viewing towers that rise above swaying palms and offer panoramic views of the South China Sea. 

It’s a fun, postcard-worthy landmark that feels delightfully remote even though you’re only minutes from Universal Studios, and the whole spot radiates relaxed, island holiday energy. Sunset lovers especially shouldn’t miss this: the golden hour from the lookout is a photographer’s dream. It’s a memory to collect on your Singapore adventure—zero cost, all reward. 

Siloso Beach Walk Art Installations 

Take a break from rollercoaster highs with a stroll along Siloso Beach Walk, where creativity meets the coastline. This sandy stretch offers more than just sunbathing and volleyball; it’s peppered with art installations, quirky sculptures, and fun selfie spots that add a playful edge to every walk. 

Admire wave-inspired murals or snap a shot by the giant metallic dolphins—each artwork reflects Singapore’s joy for blending nature, community, and culture. The vibe feels chilled and friendly, with space to rollerblade, cycle, or just enjoy beachside people-watching. Plus, hammocks dot the walk if you fancy a free mid-afternoon siesta under the trees. 

Keppel Bay and Marina Promenade 

For anyone craving a glimpse of Singapore’s stylish side, the Keppel Bay and Marina Promenade is a must. Just a short stroll from HarbourFront or VivoCity, this sleek development features an elegant boardwalk lined with luxury yachts, breezy cafés, and contemporary architecture that sparkles by day and shimmers at night. 

You don’t need a yacht to join the vibe—simply wander the marina, enjoy a cool breeze, and count the sailboats. The waterside path is perfect for amateur photographers (the “Reflections at Keppel Bay” apartments make for a futuristic backdrop) and dreamers who want to imagine life on the high seas. As evening falls, the gentle glow of docked yachts transforms the promenade into one of Singapore’s prettiest, most peaceful hangouts. 

VivoCity Rooftop Amphitheatre & Sky Park

VivoCity

Singapore’s biggest shopping mall hides a surprise above the crowds—VivoCity’s rooftop amphitheatre and Sky Park is a secret urban oasis that’s absolutely free to visit. Glide up the escalators and you’ll discover sprawling green lawns, water features, and panoramic city views, all with a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. 

Kids (and adults) love the open-air playground and splash zones, while local couples and small groups gather here at sunset for unbeatable photos over Sentosa’s skyline. Head up for a breather after shopping, or stake out a spot for a midweek picnic. No mall purchase required—just good vibes, a warm breeze and city scenes spread at your feet. 

Imbiah Trail 

Secret rainforest moments await just around the corner from Universal Studios, tucked along the Imbiah Trail. This lush walking path weaves through the heart of Sentosa’s jungle, shaded by towering palms and filled with tropical birdsong. It’s nature with zero entry fee and zero need for hiking boots. 

As you wander the well-kept path, you’ll discover hidden waterfalls, butterfly gardens, and informative signboards on the native flora and fauna. The entire area feels wild and peaceful, providing a natural detox after a day of theme park excitement. Don’t be surprised if you cross paths with slow-moving monitor lizards or vibrant birdlife—these are regular visitors, here for the cool canopy and forest quiet. 

Labrador Nature Reserve 

Just across the water from Sentosa, Labrador Nature Reserve is a heritage hotspot and wild escape all in one. This free-entry park offers heritage trails, jungle boardwalks, and World War II-era bunkers—so there’s plenty of space for both history nerds and explorers to roam. 

Majestic sea views, shaded jogging paths, and regular sightings of resident hornbills are just part of the appeal. Wind your way to the rocky seaside cliffs for a fresh breeze and peaceful moments surrounded by greenery. Pack a snack and let the tranquility recharge your batteries before heading back into the city. 

 

And there you have it! Universal Studios Singapore might be your main event, but with these free experiences just steps away, the adventure—and your memory-making—keeps rolling. Whether it’s nature, art, or urban wanderings you’re hungry for, there’s something nearby to make you smile and stretch your travel dollars even further. Now get out there and explore—all you need to bring is your curiosity! 

Enjoyed this? Check out Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Singapore Passes or Things to Do Near Universal Studios Singapore  

Step up your sightseeing with Go City®   

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   

See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started!   

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Is Singapore Expensive to Visit
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Is Singapore Expensive to Visit?

With its melting pot of diverse cultures living in harmony, and a wealth of experience opportunities, Singapore is one of the world's best vacation destinations. With so many cultures in one place, no two days will be the same. You'll be sampling eastern cuisine one day only to hold up the bar at an Irish pub the next. So, with so much to do, see, and try, you might wonder how much it will all set you back. Well, wonder no more, because we're about to answer all your most burning questions. Is Singapore expensive to visit? What kind of budget should you plan for, and how can you keep costs down? Read on after the jump. Including: When to visit Where to stay How to get about the city Where to eat and drink What to do and more! When to Visit If you want to warm your chilled bones in the colder months, Singapore is a great place to miss the freeze. Temperatures year-round vary between the mid-70s to almost 90°F, so you'll be comfortable in your summer best. However, one thing to bear in mind is the country's climate. Singapore is what we call a 'tropical paradise'. While that may fill your mind with exotic fruits and palm trees, what it actually means is that those high temperatures are partied up with frequent heavy rainfall. Monsoon season takes place between November and January, so if you're not bothered by a few inches of rain, you'll likely get the best deals on flights if you plan to go around then. Likewise, if you head there between June and August, you'll pay a premium as it's the country's busiest time of year. Flights-wise, your best bet to get a good deal is to plan ahead. Booking flights months or even a year in advance means you'll likely get the best prices as well as your pick of the seats. Check out sites like Skyscanner to compare airlines, flight times, and prices all in one handy place. Where to stay Accommodation is usually the biggest expense on any vacation. But it needn't be. Savvy shoppers, or at least those of you who don't need the lap of luxury, will find a ton of budget-friendly options in Singapore. Families might not want to stay in a hostel, but solo travelers or groups of friends might luck out on shared accommodation, with some going as low as around $20 a night. It won't be romantic and won't have all the bells and whistles of a classy hotel, but you'll get a bed, a bathroom, and bag space for your carry-on. Alternatively, if you're looking for that 5-star experience, you'll need to multiply that nightly amount by 10 at least, because top hotels start at around $220 a night. That might not seem like a lot compared to quality hotels in other countries, but all these costs add up. To summarise, accommodation in Singapore is only as expensive as you make it, so consider that when planning your visit. Attractions Of course, when considering if Singapore is expensive to visit, we have to talk about attractions! The city is a veritable playground of things to see and do, from floral extravaganzas to theme parks. But, with so much to see, costs will inevitably begin to add up. Well, put your fears at rest, dear reader. Pick up an All-Inclusive Pass or an Explorer Pass and let Go City handle the rest. With the former, you can pick the number of days you want and visit as many of Singapore's best attractions as you want. With the latter, pick up to 7 of the city's experiences and see them at your own pace. Whichever you pick, you could save up to 50% on entry, so pick a pass, skip the queue, and enjoy all of Singapore's best bits in one affordable place! Transportation Another often-significant vacation expense is travel. Some cities have public transport systems that leave much to be desired, forcing you to rent a car or pay for myriad cabs throughout your stay. Thankfully, Singapore is not one of those cities, as it boasts a fantastic interconnected series of buses and trains that will help you navigate to every experience your heart desires. And best of all, it's cheap too! For as low as $10, you can pick up a Singapore Tourist Pass for unlimited travel around the city. Get a 1-day pass or one that covers you for up to 3 days. It's easy peasy and won't break the bank. And, when you're trying to minimize costs and squeeze your cents, it's a godsend. Food and drink Given the diversity of cultures on display in Singapore, one of the country's biggest draws is its cuisine. Local dishes are married with cuisines from across the eastern world and beyond, so no matter your predilections, your appetite is sure to be sated. And, thankfully for your bank, fine dining can be had on a budget. Street food lovers can wander to any market and find brilliant local dishes like chicken rice, laksa, and char kway teow for under 5 bucks. Shopping mall food courts have similar deals, but more on shopping later. Alternatively, if you fancy Michelin-starred bites, you will have to pay a comparable amount to countries like the US and UK. Meals at top joints will set you back about $40 - 200 per person, so you're certainly paying for the privilege. However, if you want to wet your whistle, things aren't so simple. Singapore is a traditionally conservative country with strict laws on alcohol consumption. So, while you'll find a thriving rooftop bar scene that makes the most of the country's climate and surroundings, you'll need to fork out a little extra to sip some suds. Beers typically come in at around $8-10, which will be fine for those of you traveling from New York or London, but can seem exceedingly pricy when compared to other cheaper neighborhoods. The good news is that happy hours and drinks deals are relatively common, so examine the menu before making a purchase to get the best boozy bang for your buck. Shopping Finally, it's time to talk about shopping. Many consider Singapore to be a shopping haven, with handfuls of malls, markets, and boutiques more than willing to take your coin. If you're big into designer brands and luxury items, head to the aforementioned malls, or high streets like Orchard Road, to get the very biggest labels. Prices are negligibly better than in the west, but you may also find items you simply can't get on our shores. Alternatively, if you're in the market for authentic clothing, handcrafted jewelry, or other knickknacks, Singapore's markets are the way to go. Prices are more than affordable, and the items you'll find will be more unique than anything in a shop window. So, is Singapore expensive to visit? Yes and no. Hopefully, we've given you the tools and tips to work to a budget. Now stop worrying and enjoy your vacation!
Dom Bewley
The Mekong River zone at River Wonders wildlife park in Singapore.
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Singapore Zoo and River Wonders Guide Plus Backstage Pass

The Mandai Wildlife Reserve in northern Singapore is an epic tract of rainforest and wetland that just happens to contain some of the island’s finest natural attractions. We’re talking Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, Bird Paradise and more, all well worth a day trip (or two, or three) out of the city. Here we take a look at River Wonders and Singapore Zoo, including how to get there, what to see and how a Singapore pass from Go City can save you money when visiting these and other local attractions. Check out our whistlestop guide to Singapore Zoo and River Wonders below. Singapore Zoo Singapore Zoo has a whole host of credentials to its name. Not only is it one of the most popular attractions on the island, it’s also frequently voted one of the best on the planet (up there with titans like London and San Diego) thanks to its open-concept environment and world-leading focus on conservation and biodiversity. Zones at the zoo include Fragile Forest, a whopping 20,000 cubic meter biodome housing a tropical rainforest habitat that’s alive with the chatter of hundreds of cute and curious jungle critters. Here, golden-headed lion tamarin monkeys peep through the canopy, colorful eclectus parrots and majestic Malayan flying foxes soar from treetop to treetop, and timid lesser mouse-deer forage on the forest floor. Head to the plains of Wild Africa where you might encounter an inquisitive giraffe, shy white rhino or hair-raising pack of African painted dogs as well as some of the savannah’s legendary big cats. The RepTopia reptile house is where it’s at for regal horned lizards, cool and colorful panther chameleons, showstopping electric blue geckos and other such slithering, cold-blooded pals. And you can get up close and personal with Antipodean animals of all shapes and sizes in the Australasia zone. There’s even a dedicated island where orangutans are able to roam freely in the treetops. And that, frankly, is just for starters. Singapore Zoo Fast Facts Age: half a century – the zoo first opened back in 1973 Size: 69 acres Number of species: 300+ Number of animals: 4,200+ including lions, elephants, monkeys, reptiles and birds Annual visitors: approximately two million River Wonders River Wonders is just exactly what it sounds like: a watery tropical paradise, where meandering walking trails and boat rides allow you to meet some of the many beasties you’d expect to find living in and around rivers – everything from ferociously cute red pandas to the giant Mekong catfish. This is Asia’s first (and so far only) river-themed wildlife park, and it also just happens to be home to the world’s largest freshwater aquarium. There are a few ways to explore the various zones of River Wonders. You’ll be relieved to learn you can do it on foot without the need for waders. But you can also book the Amazon River Quest boat ride, designed to simulate a journey down the Amazon, where animals like tapirs, leopards and giant anteaters can be spotted around the water’s edge. Check out other epic zones including the Amazon Flooded Forest, a ginormous freshwater aquarium that’s home to manatees, giant river otters and red-bellied piranhas. The Ganges River is where you’ll find the rare Indian gharial – a relative of crocodiles and alligators – the frog-faced softshell turtle, and the fearsome goonch catfish (aka the giant devil catfish), a river monster with razor-sharp teeth and a taste for human flesh. Come face to face with cute tamarins in Amazonia Encounters and don’t miss your chance to say hey to the inhabitants of the Pavilion Capital Giant Panda Forest, among them the eponymous big guys, plus their diminutive red panda pals. Cute! Backstage Pass Add-ons to general admission at River Wonders include the Backstage Pass, which gets you access to Manatee Mania. Here’s where you can get really close to these magnificent marine mammals, taking part in their training sessions and even having a go at hand-feeding them during meal time. Find out more, including ticket prices here. River Wonders Fast Facts Age: the Giant Panda Forest opened in 2012 with the rest of the park following in 2014. Originally known as RIver Safari, it changed its name to River Wonders in 2021. Size: 30 acres Number of species: 260+ Number of animals: 11,000+ land and aquatic critters including manatees, giant river otters, pandas, leopards and catfish. Annual visitors: approximately one million Tickets A Singapore pass from Go City includes general admission to all four of the wildlife parks at Mandai. That’s Singapore Zoo, River Wonders, Bird Paradise and the Night Safari. Passes allow you to visit as many attractions as you like over several days, and also include other Singapore big-hitters like the Gardens by the Bay, Universal Studios and the SkyHelix Sentosa. In other words, you can save up to 50% on Singapore attractions if you plan to visit a lot. Find out more about the different Singapore pass types and buy yours here. Alternatively you can buy tickets – including multi-park passes – direct via the Mandai Wildlife Reserve website. This is also where you should book add-ons not included with Go City, such as the Amazon River Quest boat ride and River Wonders Backstage Pass. Opening Hours Singapore Zoo: 8.30am-6pm. Last admission at 5pm. River Wonders: 10am-7pm. Last admission at 6pm. For opening times of individual attractions within the park check here. Getting There Take the red North-South MRT line from downtown and disembark at Khatib station, exit A. From here, a shuttle bus runs to and from the Mandai Wildlife Park. Save on attractions and activities in Singapore Save on admission to Singapore attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Gardens by the Bay Singapore
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How Many Days in Singapore is Enough

Find out how long you need in Singapore to experience the city's top things to do!
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