The Best Rides in Singapore

By <a href="#author-bio">Stuart Bak</a>
By Stuart Bak
Published: July 18, 2024
Riders on the Battlestar Galactica rollercoaster at Universal Studios Singapore.

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
  • Riptide Rocket at Adventure Cove water park

 

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

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

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

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

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.

Last But Not Least...

Singapore Flyer

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.

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
Freelance travel writer

Stu caught the travel bug at an early age, thanks to childhood road trips to the south of France squeezed into the back of a Ford Cortina with two brothers and a Sony Walkman. Now a freelance writer living on the Norfolk coast, Stu has produced content for travel giants including Frommer’s, British Airways, Expedia, Mr & Mrs Smith, and now Go City. His most memorable travel experiences include drinking kava with the locals in Fiji and pranging a taxi driver’s car in the Honduran capital.

Continue reading

Mother and Son Near Gardens by the Bay
Blog

Tiny Travelers, Big Fun: Singapore’s Best Activities for Pre-Schoolers

Planning a Singapore trip with under-fives? We’ve got you covered.
GBTB Hero Image
Blog

Your Complete Guide to Singapore in August

Singapore has been attracting visitors since Sir Thomas Stamford Bingley Raffles established a trading post on the island in 1816. Two centuries later, Singapore continues to tick all the boxes. What’s more, Singapore in August is exceptionally explorable. Cultural diversity ensures even hawker centers serve up delicious tasting foods. Orchard Road provides an almost endless shopping extravaganza, while safety is never something you’ll have to worry about. At the same time, history seeps out of every street corner, even the high-tech Downtown area. In short, Singapore is not just a stopover, but a destination in its own right. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Singapore in August. Why August is a good time to visit Singapore Singapore’s weather in August is arguably the best of the year. Although it remains rainy in Singapore in August, rainfall is some of the lowest of any month. Since temperatures average 31°C year-round, and humidity levels around 82%, the other most important factor is sunshine hours. Less rain invariably means more sun, and August in Singapore is one of the sunniest of the year. In fact, along with June, July and September, August is considered one of the best times of year to visit Singapore. Add to this the festivities around National Day, and you’ll experience Singapore at its most celebratory! Things to do in Singapore in August With the weather set fair, a great way to delve into Singapore’s delights is with a Historical Singapore Bicycle Tour. Peddling along the city’s oldest streets, you’ll get your first glimpse of its grandest monuments. Free from the barriers of a vehicle, you’ll also absorb the extraordinary ambience of Chinatown and the Museum District. Thanks to reliable public transport, such as the MRT metro system, nowhere in Singapore is far away. But if in doubt, Big Bus Singapore has stops right throughout the city on its yellow and red hop-on hop-off routes. While in the Museum District, it would be a shame not to visit the National Gallery Singapore. That’s because the gallery contains the largest collection of Singaporean and southeast Asian art of any public institution. Highlights include works by Xu Beihong, Georgette Chen, and Liu Kang. No trip to this part of Singapore in August is complete without visiting Gardens by the Bay. Known for their 18 ‘supertree’ vertical gardens, Gardens by the Bay actually span over 100 hectares. Give yourself plenty of time to explore, since beyond Supertree Grove there’s also the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome greenhouses. The second is the largest in the world, and seeks to replicate a Mediterranean-style climate. Beyond Downtown Singapore A short distance from the Flower Dome, Singapore Cable Car links two very different Singapore attractions. Head south on the Sentosa Line, and you’ll get a bird’s eye view of family-friendly beaches (Palawan is one of the best) and the rollercoasters of Universal Studios Singapore. After all, Sentosa is the home of Singapore’s theme parks, with several to choose between. In the opposite direction, the cable car’s Mount Faber Line takes visitors to Singapore in August to the peak of the same name. Having traveled across lush rainforest, you’ll have the chance to follow forest paths. Alternatively, simply enjoy a cocktail (or two) at the cool bars at the top with uninterrupted views. But for an altogether different take on Singapore, head to Pulau Ubin. Reached via motor-powered bumboats from Changi (itself worth discovering), this tiny island harks back to the time of Raffles. Car-free, the best way to get about is by bike, although it’s also small enough to walk around without becoming exhausted. Sights include stone quarries readopted by nature, mangroves, coconut plantations, and Singapore’s last traditional village (kampong). End your visit with an order of Pulau Ubin’s famed chili crab. There are several charmingly ramshackle restaurants just by the boat jetty. Food and drink in Singapore Deciding what to eat will be your biggest problem when visiting Singapore in August. Because of the city’s cultural diversity, international favorites aren’t hard to find. But it would be a shame to depart Singapore having eaten nothing but burgers and pizza. Luckily, good food isn’t hard to find. Pretty much every neighborhood will have its own hawker center. So important are they, that they’re now listed by UNESCO as part of humanity’s Intangible Heritage. Although menus can be limited – each stall within a center tends to focus on a couple of dishes – your taste buds will thank you for it. Look out for Singapore noodles, laksa, and murtabak, a type of savory pancake. Chinatown is the obvious place to head for authentic Cantonese and Hokkien dishes. Many you’ll never have seen back home. And for the flavors of the Indian subcontinent, there’s only one place to head – the aroma filled alleys of Little India. Unmissable Singapore August events Singapore is a thriving destination for events, and August is no different. While the likes of Paris and Rome are snoozing in a mid-summer daze, Singapore is alive with unique experiences. The biggest event in Singapore in August is National Day, a public holiday on August 9. The days in the run-up see the red and white of the Singaporean flag appear right across the island. The day itself comprises a series of activities. These include a large military parade and live performances from top names. It comes to an end with a magnificent firework display. Should you miss National Day, Singapore Night Festival in the latter half of August is a good alternative. Running for more than a decade, it sees famous buildings decorated in lights. All manner of surprise live elements mark the city’s history and culture. Why not visit Singapore in August with Go City? Take the plunge, and you’ll find Singapore in August a destination that gives back ten-fold. All the same, Singapore does have a reputation for being on the pricey side. The answer? Travel with Go City. Our All-Inclusive and Explorer passes give visitors to Singapore incredible savings on admission to attractions big and small. It means you can do even more on your Singapore vacation without worrying about your bank balance.
Alex Birungi
Singapore Zoo
Blog

Things to do in Singapore

When visiting Singapore for the first time it’s easy to feel a little overwhelmed. It may only be a small island, but it’s packed with activities, attractions, and iconic landmarks. Don't worry. Whatever your budget, and no matter how long you’re staying, we’ve got you covered. We’ve put together a list of our favorite attractions so you can get a real feel for the Garden City. Finding Your Way Around Spend a few hours getting to know the city with a ride on the Big Bus Singapore. It’s a hop-on-hop-off bus, so if you see something you like, jump off and explore. It’ll take you all over the city, pointing out the key landmarks and must-see attractions. By the end of the ride you’ll have a much better understanding of where to go and what to do. You can’t visit Singapore without taking a trip to Sentosa Island. Take the Cable Car Sky Pass and treat yourself to a completely different perspective of the city. It’s only a brief ride, but you won’t want to miss out on this experience. Once you touchdown on Sentosa, hop on the Sentosa Island Bus Tour. A local guide will fill you in on the island's rich history, top things to see and do, and share some local knowledge you won’t find in any guidebooks. Singapore on a Budget Yes, it’s an expensive city, but you don’t need to break the bank to have an amazing time in Singapore. Gardens by the Bay will blow your mind with the natural beauty, technical constructions, and at night, the free light shows. Whether you’re alone, traveling with a partner, or vacationing with the family, the Gardens are a must-see attraction. What’s more budget-friendly than lying at the beach all day, soaking in the rays? Whatever your activity level, there’s a beach for you in Singapore. Tanjong beach is the place to be seen, Siloso beach has incredible watersports, and then you’ve got your pick of picture-perfect islands like Lazarus Island and St John’s. Along with Gardens by the Bay, you’ll find plenty more free light shows around the city at night. If you find yourself in front of Marina Bay Sands before sunset you’ll witness to an unforgettable show, all without paying a dime. Explore the Animal Kingdom Get up close and personal with the local wildlife in the 26-hectare award-winning Singapore Zoo. With over 4,200 animals including white tigers, Malayan tapirs, flying foxes, and many more, it’s a treat for the whole family. Alongside the waterpark rides and surfing opportunities, Adventure Cove Waterpark allows you the opportunity to swim with thousands of tropical fish, as you snorkel and explore the magical reefs. If you want to get even closer, hop in a pool with the majestic stingrays. Don’t worry, they’re perfectly harmless. If you've still got energy left after a busy day exploring, consider taking a night safari. Experience nature like never before in the world’s first nocturnal zoo. Watch cats hunting for fish, plus discover exactly what the animals get up to after dark. With a chance to see leopards, hippos, tigers, hyenas, and bears, a night safari is a perfect end to a wild day. Take a Cruise If you want to slow things down and explore Singapore from a unique perspective, hop on a boat and take a river cruise. Drift down the Singapore river and tick off all the iconic landmarks aboard a traditional bumboat. If you want something a little less traditional, consider splashing into Marina Bay with a DUCKtours Cruise. Traveling in an amphibious vehicle, you’ll feel like James Bond as you drive from the land straight into the water. Shop Until you Drop You’ll need to buy some souvenirs for friends and family and, while you’re at it, why not treat yourself? The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands is a day out in itself. A huge, sprawling complex of luxury shops, restaurants, boutiques, and iconic features, you’ll want to dedicate at least a full afternoon to this experience. Chinatown is home to stunning temples and restaurants, but there are also lots of shopping opportunities too. Find the perfect gift for a loved one, or splash out on yourself and bring home a unique memento to remember your time in The Garden City. If you find yourself in Chinatown and want to learn more while having some fun, Puzzle Hunt in Chinatown is the way to go. Run around finding clues and solving puzzles, all while learning more about the local Chinese culture. Get on your bike If you want to combine sightseeing with a little exercise, take a bike tour of the city. GoGreen Bicycle Rentals offer a two-hour rental so you can get out and explore the green side of the city. It’s a cycle-friendly island, so you’re free to enjoy the many parks, beaches, and promenades in an eco-friendly manner. If you’re still hungry for more peddling, take a two-hour guided Marina Bay Night Bicycle Tour. Not only will you get a good workout, but you’ll gain a truly unique perspective of the city. The city transforms at night, and you’ll be in a unique position to see some of the most captivating secrets of the city. Save on Admission to Top Singapore Attractions Explore the best things to do with a pass for Singapore by Go City®. Select from top attractions with our All-Inclusive and Explorer passes, where you’ll enjoy access to galleries, museums, tours much more. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we’ll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook channels for exclusive competitions, special offers, and events to help you make the most of your travels.
Adam Fraiel

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.