Riders on the Battlestar Galactica rollercoaster at Universal Studios Singapore.

The Best Rides in Singapore

By Stuart Bak

Adrenaline junkies rejoice! If there’s one thing Singapore isn’t short of, it’s a world-class thrill ride or six, from the frankly terrifying rollercoasters at Universal Studios to the towering Singapore Flyer observation wheel that overlooks Marina Bay. So saddle up and get ready for the time of your life as we reveal the best rides in Singapore, including:

  • Battlestar Galactica at Universal Studios Singapore
  • The Sentosa SkyHelix
  • The Singapore Flyer
  • The Sentosa cable car
  • AJ Hackett’s giant swing and bungee rope
  • The Skyline Luge
  • Riptide Rocket at Adventure Cove water park
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Universal Studios Singapore

Let’s not beat about the bush: around 90% of the best rides in Singapore are to be found at Universal Studios (USS) on Sentosa Island. There are nearly 30, so to list all of them here would take waaay too long, but here are three of our faves to give you a little taster...

Battlestar Galactica

Hold on to your hats: this one’s a beast. Based on the much-loved sci-fi TV series, it sees an evil Cylon robot coaster do battle with its human nemesis as the dueling rides twist, turn, intertwine and come within inches of colliding several times over. Cylon is the faster and more frightening of the two, an inverted rollercoaster that includes a corkscrew, a cobra roll and a (literally) hair-raising zero-gravity drop. The Human ride is – and we use this term advisedly – slightly more sedate; a traditional rollercoaster with no inversions but reaching higher speeds of up to 56mph. At 139 feet, these are the highest dueling rollercoasters on the planet, so it's fair to say that neither is recommended for the faint of heart.

Puss In Boots’ Giant Journey

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Emerge from the ivy-clad turret and go in search of Mother Goose’s golden eggs with our heroes Puss and Kitty on this exciting family-friendly rollercoaster that will leave the kids screaming for more. You’ll find it inside the Shrek-themed Far Far Away Land, where King Harold’s Castle and the Enchanted Airways coaster are also popular attractions. Be aware that this kid-friendly zone is among the busiest in the park, so be prepared to queue or, better still, get there early!

Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure

There are hungry dinos galore on the loose at this Jurassic World-inspired facility where a drenching is all but guaranteed. Board your circular raft and ride the rapids past cute animatronic mum-and-baby stegosauruses and into the restricted zone, where hissing velociraptors and radio reports of an escaped T-rex will have you quaking in your boats. Will you escape uneaten and unsoaked? Spoiler alert: yes, you will and no, you won’t.

Sentosa’s Other Hot Tickets

Sentosa Cable Car

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The very act of getting to Universal Studios requires you first to get to Sentosa. And what better way to do so than aboard the iconic Singapore cable car, one of the island’s more gentle rides, to be sure, but also one of its most essential. Awestruck passengers soar 200 feet above sea level on an epic 15-minute journey over the bay, taking in sweeping views of lush tropical foliage and Sentosa’s fine beaches along the way. You can even book a private sunset ride with dinner and drinks!

Sentosa SkyHelix

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In case it isn’t already apparent, the majority of Singapore’s best rides are to be found on the island playground of Sentosa, and the SkyHelix is no exception, with its sky-high vantage point on Imbiah Lookout affording stunning views across the bay to the Southern Islands. This one’s a favorite with Instagrammers seeking the ultimate sunset snap as the rotating gondola spins skywards, reaching heights of around 260 feet above sea level.

Riptide Rocket

Also on Sentosa, the Adventure Cove water park comes with a fish-filled reef and stacks of rides, the most thrilling of which is the Riptide Rocket, a ride every bit as electrifying as its name suggests. This one is best done in pairs, with floats designed to maximize the speed with two people on board as you whip around gravity-defying loops and over stomach-churning drops before being ejected at very high speed (and no doubt still screaming) into a giant splash pool at the bottom.

AJ Hackett Sentosa

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Ever fancied bungee jumping above the palm-fringed golden sands of a tropical beach paradise? Well, now’s your chance! AJ Hackett’s Sentosa attraction on sunny Siloso Beach is strictly for those with a head for heights. Get your bearings on the SkyBridge, a knee-trembling 150 feet above terra firma, before braving the bungee or having a go at the main event: a giant swing for up to three people that soars over the Siloso sands at potentially lunch-losing speeds of up to 120kph.

Skyline Luge

Your Sentosa luge experience starts with a gentle ride to the top of the hill aboard the Skyline cable car, a sedately relaxing experience that does little to prepare you for the hair-raising hairpins you’re about to enjoy/endure on the way back down. Three-wheeled luge karts whiz you down your pick of four exciting tracks – each over 600 meters in length – and kids can ride tandem with parents or go it alone if they meet the minimum height and age requirements. Choose the Expedition Trail’s tunnels and twists as you speed through tropical rainforest or dodge fire-breathing beasts along the terrifyingly tight turns of the Dragon Trail. Better still: do both!

Last But Not Least...

Singapore Flyer

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One of the tallest observation wheels in the world, the Singapore Flyer is – gasp! – not on Sentosa but in Marina Bay. Its vantage point (and height) affords 360-degree views right across Singapore and (ahem) Sentosa, and even as far as Indonesia and Malaysia on clear days. The wheel soars to a nerve-jangling 541 feet;, which is not far off half the height of the Empire State Building or Eiffel Tower so, yeah, pretty high. Book a ticket that includes a glass of champagne or Singapore Sling if you think you might require a little something to steady your nerves.

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best rooftop bars in Singapore
Blog

Best Rooftop Bars in Singapore

If there's one thing that's better than sipping on a refreshing beverage and feeling fruity on a warm summer's day, it's doing all of that on a rooftop. Rooftop bars have only grown in popularity in recent years, with the lovely spots popping up on top of skyscrapers, car parks, and even office buildings. We love them, and we know you love them. It's why you're here, after all. So, what about Singapore? Does it have rooftop bars? Yes! Yes, it does. So, if you're heading there this year and want some recommendations, you're in for a treat. We've chosen the best rooftop bars in Singapore and put them in this handy list. Please sit back and discover our picks for the best rooftop bars in Singapore...right...about...now. Including: 1-Arden Levant Sky Lido Atico Lounge SKAI Bar and more! SKAI Bar SKAI Bar is many things, but one of those is not short. In fact, at 70 stories high, it's the tallest rooftop bar on this list. Does that make it one of the best rooftop bars in Singapore? We'll let you be the judge. Overlooking Marina Bay, fun-seekers will be treated to a host of wines from all over the planet. Really, wine is their thing, so if you don't know your Pinot Noir from your Pinot Grigio, or a Rapace sounds like something a DJ would use, then perhaps SKAI Bar isn't the rooftop bar for you. Sky Lido If you're looking for space to stretch out, then Sky Lido has 6,000 glorious square feet of the stuff. And, with all that space, you'll need something to fill it up. How about some food prepared by gourmet chef Gabriel Cher? Yep, that'll do. With everything from pasta to pizza on offer, you can make an evening of it. Plus, we still haven't mentioned the drinks. Divine, take our word for it. With a list longer than your arm, highlights include the signature cocktails prepped by the specialists. Go see, go eat, and go drink. Then, sit back and lounge the evening away. Atico Lounge Sitting tall at 56 stories high, the Atico Lounge gives you fantastic views of the island while you get to sip on some fantastic drinks. To us, that looks like every rooftop bar box ticked. Its drinks offering come from all over the world. Expect Italian Negronis, Japanese Highballs, and Caribbean Purple Rains all to share the stage. And, with pumping music to keep the night going, you can drink long into the early hours. Just make sure to drink some water before you bed down, or you'll suffer an absolutely epic hangover. 1-Arden If you like a little class with your rooftop endeavors, then 1-Arden is the spot for you. Sitting pretty at 51 stories, you'll also get a fantastic view from its massive windows. Truly a summer spot if ever there was one. You'll also be treated to a delightful drinks menu, featuring the best Australian wines money can buy, as well as cocktails made with ingredients from the adjacent garden. Sustainable and swanky? It doesn't get much better than that. Level 33 If you're a fan of the amber nectar, then Level 33 might be more on your...level. This microbrewery/rooftop bar not only provides delightful views of the Marina Bay and Financial Centre, but it also lets you sip on some beautiful craft beers. Many of them are brewed on-site, so you'll likely be trying some beers that are new to you. But variety is the spice of life, so give thanks to the beer gods, drink the amber goodness, and give praise to them. Yay. Kinki Restaurant & Bar If you're in the market for some locally-inspired cocktails, then look no further than Kinki Restaurant and Bar. Exiting the elevator, you'll discover a chic rooftop bar full of booze-mixing opportunities. The Gin Assam Boi is one such local culprit, made with gin, rum, and a dash of sweet pineapple juice. Or, take a punt on the Aurora Polaris, which combines the botanical delights of local gin with a dash of lime and a helping of grapefruit juice. Refreshed? You will be. Inebriated? Most likely. Mr. Stork Rooftop Bar 39 floors above the ground, you'll find the comically-named Mr. Stork Rooftop Bar. But don't let the name fool you, because babies aren't even allowed up here. Nothing but adults and great cocktails as far as the eye can see. Thanks to a combination of great views of the skyline and a multitude of fruity cocktails to keep you cool, some may say Mr. Stork's is one of the best rooftop bars in Singapore. Will you agree? Only time, and a timely visit, will tell. Levant If you're hankering for a snack and love the rich, healthy morsels found in the Mediterranean, then Levant is arguably one of the best rooftop bars in Singapore. Alongside some Mediterranean-themed cocktails like the Greek Forest, you'll also have a menu of Mezzo-style bites to help see off those hunger pangs. And, with views of the Tanjong Pagar neighborhood to keep you company, you'll be all set for an evening of deserved R & R. And those were our picks for the best rooftop bars in Singapore? Want to make the most of your vacation? Why not check out the amazing repertoire of destinations that Go City has on offer? With our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass, you can work Singapore's best attractions around your vacation itinerary! So, what are you waiting for?
Dom Bewley
Water Sports
Blog

Water Sports in Singapore

By Mia Russell Beat the heat of Singapore’s perpetual summer and hit the water! Garden City is renowned for having some of the best museums, restaurants, and shopping in the world, but the city also has some fantastic water sports to enjoy. Encircled by water, the island state has some beautiful beaches like Palawan and Changi. Spending the day relaxing on one of these spectacular beaches is a must. But if you prefer getting active, there is a range of fun water sports to enjoy. Whether it's exploring Singapore’s islands on a kayaking adventure or scuba-diving on the brightly colored reefs, here are some exciting water sports to enjoy in Singapore. 1. Kayaking Kayaking in the calm waters around Singapore’s many islands is a fantastic way to spend a few hours. This fun, family-friendly activity is ideal for all fitness levels and ages, and you don’t need any sailing experience. Experienced guides will teach you the basics and show you some of Singapore’s secret spots along the coast. Venture to Pulau Ubin and explore the magnificent mangrove forest. Keep an eye out for wildlife like otters, mangrove lizards, and long-tailed macaques. Visit one of the island’s floating fish farms (kelongs) and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch of locally-farmed sea bass and mussels. You can even try your hand at kayak fishing and catch your own lunch! Use your pass to enjoy a Nature Kayaking Adventure at Pulau Ubin. Explore the beautiful coastline of Pulau Ubin and Pulau Ketam on this fantastic tour and soak up the spectacular natural scenery. Where: Pulau Ubin 2. Windsurfing Sailing meets surfing in this adrenalin-rushing sport. If you haven’t tried the sport before, take a basic windsurfing course or rent a board to show off your jumping, looping, and spinning skills. The Aloha Sea Sports Centre at East Coast Park offers courses for all skill levels and the Constant Wind Sea Sports Centre at Changi Beach has top-notch equipment to rent. Where: East Coast Park / Changi Beach 3. Stand-up paddleboarding If you prefer a less intense water sport, try stand-up paddling (SUPPING). This easy, relaxing sport involves standing on a longboard and paddling with a double-bladed oar. The whole family can enjoy paddling on calm waters and it's a great upper-body workout. Try stand-up paddling at the Aloha Sea Sports Centre at East Coast Park, the Constant Wind Sea Sports Centre at Changi, and the Ola Beach Club in Sentosa. Where: East Coast Park / Changi Beach / Sentosa 4. Sailing Soak up one-of-a-kind views of the city with the wind in your hair and salt on your lips from the bow of a sailboat. If you’re an experienced sailor, head to Marina Bay, where you can rent a boat from the DBS Marina Bay Sailing Program. Sail around the Central Business District and take in the breathtaking city skyline. Don’t despair if you don’t know how to sail. You can jump on one of the many boat cruises offered at Marina Bay and enjoy the same experience without the hard work! Where: DBS Marina Bay Sailing Program, Marina Bay 5. Wakeboarding Love high-energy, adrenaline-rushing fun? Try wakeboarding to get all of that and more. This invigorating water sport involves surfing on a specifically designed board while being towed by a high-speed craft. The best place to hit the water on a wakeboard is at Singapore Wake Park at East Coast Park. The park features a lagoon with three cable-ski systems for all skill levels from novices to experts. Glide along at gentle speeds and work your way up to mastering obstacles and jump ramps. You’ll find some great package deals offered at the park and there are professional wakeboarders on hand to help you with the basics. Where: Singapore Wake Park 6. Flyboarding Want to experience the thrill of ‘flying’ above water? Head to Sentosa’s Ola Beach Club for a thrilling, heart-pumping hydro-flying experience. Flyboarding involves standing on a board connected by a long hose to a watercraft. Pressurized water is forced through jet nozzles at the bottom of the board to shoot the rider high into the air. You don’t need any experience to try this exhilarating water sport - certified instructors will show you the basics and you’ll be soaring through the air in no time! Where: Ola Beach Club, Sentosa 7. Jet-skiing Another fantastic water sport to enjoy in Singapore is jet skiing. You can rent a jet-ski or book a ride with an instructor at the Puteri Harbour and head out for some wet and wild fun around the city. If you haven’t jet-skied before, a professional instructor will guide you through the basics. Remember to always wear a lifejacket and keep the engine shut-off clip attached to your waist. Where: Puteri Harbour 8. Pedal boating If prefer a gentler pursuit on the water, try pedal boating. Enjoy a tranquil ride on the calm waters of Discovery Lake without even getting wet! Pedal boating is a lovely way to spend some time with family and friends on the water. You can rent pedal boats from the Sports Hub Water Sports Centre near Discovery Lake at the Singapore Discovery Centre. Help keep Discovery Lake clean and join the Waterways Watch Society in picking up litter on the water while paddling around the lake. Where: Sports Hub Water Sports Centre, Discovery Lake at the Singapore Discovery Centre 9. Bodyboarding / Surfing Singapore isn’t known for having big swells and curling barrels, but you can hit waves to bodyboard and surf at the Stingray half-pipe surfing facility at Splash-N-Surf in the Singapore Sports Hub. This specially designed wave house creates artificial waves for all skill levels. Start on the slower 32 km/h waves if you’re a beginner or catch the faster 48 km/h waves and show off your skills. Where: Singapore Sports Hub 10. Dragon boating Try your hand at this incredible 2,000-year Chinese watercraft tradition. Head to the Kallang River with a group of friends and join the Singapore Dragon Boat Association for some paddling fun. Experienced trainers will guide you through an orientation program and some introductory classes before you hit the water with your team. Once you get the hang of it, you can rent dragon boats from the DBA or the Singapore Sports Hub’s Water Sports Centre. Where: Singapore Sports Hub 11. Scuba diving Dive beneath the surface on a scuba-diving adventure and explore the multi-hued corals and rich marine life off Pulau Hantu. A 30-minute boat ride away from the mainland, Pulau Hantu features two islands – Hantu Kecil and Hantu Besar. The islands are surrounded by gin-clear waters teeming with sea life. Keep an eye out for turtles, manta rays, butterflyfish, and parrotfish. If you aren’t a qualified scuba diver yet, take a course with a certified PADI instructor and venture into the magical underwater world. You can also rent diving equipment and underwater cameras. Another way to explore the wonders of the ocean is a snorkeling adventure on Rainbow Reef at the Adventure Cove Waterpark. Use your pass to gain free access to the park and snorkel along the brightly colored Rainbow Reef and see thousands of vibrant fish up close. Where: Pulau Hantu
Cara Merren

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