Top family-friendly activities in Singapore

Top family-friendly activities in Singapore

Families. They're the best. They support us through our hardest times, and help us celebrate our victories. They are the backbone of our civilization. But sometimes, planning for a family can be tough. Will the kids dig exploring a destination's culture? Will the grown-up want to ride waterslides all week? How do you juggle all the responsibility without physically exploding? Just, ka-boom. No more vacation. No more you.

It's simple, really; just read our picks of the top family-friendly activities in Singapore. You've already clicked through, so the hard part is over. Now? Time for adventure.

Including:

  • Sentosa
  • Gardens by the Bay
  • Universal Studios Singapore
  • Nature Kayaking Adventure at Pulau Ubin
  • Virtual Room Singapore
  • and more!
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Sentosa

Why don't we begin with one of Singapore's most popular tourist destinations? You may already know about Sentosa. In fact, it may already be at the very top of your itinerary. However, if you're unaware of Sentosa's awesomeness, let's explore why it's one of the top family-friendly activities in Singapore.

Sentosa is an island paradise carefully curated to please pretty much everyone. Found just off the coast of southern Singapore, it prides itself on offering 50 unique experiences that'll delight both kids and grown-ups alike. From waterparks to indoor skydiving, plus plenty of relaxing beaches and delightful restaurants, it has anything a vacationing family needs to have a great time. Will you even want to leave? Only time will tell.

Adventurous families should test their mettle on the Giant Swing and Skybridge, which combine fantastic views with death-defying feats! Or settle in for some thrilling entertainment at 4D AdventureLand. That's just a taste; enjoy the full meal when you visit.

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Gardens by the Bay

Does exploring over 101 hectares filled with 1.5 million plants sound like a good time for your fam? If you need some green on your vacation, you can't beat a visit to Gardens by the Bay.

You'll explore indoor and outdoor gardens, lakes, conservatories, huge sculptures, artwork, and more. Its beauty is so widely known that you might even recognize it - many films and TV shows have filmed scenes amid its luscious flora. In fact, with an experience dedicated to the blockbuster movie franchise Avatar on display, you can join in on the cinematic fun!

And be sure to check out the Flower Dome, the world's largest glass greenhouse. Inside, you'll find displays representative of five continents, including 1000-year-old olive trees. And make sure you don't miss Cloud Forest - a display that takes you up into the clouds, with striking mountain views and a diverse range of plants.

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Universal Studios Singapore

Speaking of cinematic fun, it doesn't get much more cinematic than Universal. A titan of the movie industry, you probably see at least one Universal movie every year. With such a massive cast of colorful characters calling the company home, why not go meet them at Universal Studios Singapore?

Kids will love family-friendly rides like Puss In Boots' Giant Journey, Enchanted Airways, and Madagascar: A Crate Adventure. They'll get to meet their favorite characters from Sesame Street, as well as the minions, everyone's favorite weird yellow things. Well, maybe not yours, but your kids love them. Trust us.

For the larger kids, yes, including you adults, there are also a number of fantastic rollercoasters to ride in the Transformers and Jurassic Park universes, and when you're all tuckered out, settle down for some delicious food to refuel.

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Nature Kayaking Adventure at Pulau Ubin

If you want to add a little physical exercise to your family-friendly activities, why not take the fam on a nature kayaking adventure at Pulau Ubin? It's one of the top experiences in Singapore, and you will love it.

Located just off Singapore's northeastern coast, Pulau Ubin is one of Singapore's last remaining villages. As such, they live life a little in the past. And that means plenty of untouched natural beauty, clean air, and good vibes. As you set off on your kayak adventure, you'll take in Pulau Ubin's thriving mangroves, which are home to a variety of flora and fauna like herons and kingfishers.

Of course, the whole thing is guided by an expert, so they'll be able to fill you in on the village's way of life, as well as the different species that call Pulau Ubin home. Good stuff.

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Virtual Room Singapore

Kids love technology these days, and who can blame them? With fully-realized worlds literally in the palm of their hand, we'd be exactly the same if we grew up today. In fact, with gaming being the highest-earning media format on the planet, it looks like plenty of us love technology too. That's why a trip to another reality - a virtual reality - might be just the ticket for the whole family.

Up to four people can adorn their headsets and play together in a number of different games and activities. Solve puzzles, compete to win challenges, and aim to beat the game!

And, with each session only lasting 40-50 minutes, you won't have to worry about your kids' eyes going square. That's not a real thing, by the way - just something our parents made up.

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Puzzle Hunt

And finally, we end our list of the top family-friendly activities in Singapore with a little scavenger hunt. Hunt for clues, solve riddles, and complete your quest at Puzzle Hunt.

With locations in Chinatown and Fort Canning Park, you're spoilt for choice. Team up with the fam to chase down the prize before the other teams do!

But it's not all fun and games; they're learning experiences too! Each offers a unique look into Singapore's diverse culture and history, so even if you don't walk away with the grand prize, you'll walk away with the most important prize of all. Knowledge. Sweet, priceless knowledge.

And that's our list of the top family-friendly activities in Singapore! If you're interested in things to do without the kids, or just want to diversify your vacation portfolio, check out Go City. With our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass, you can experience all the best bits of Singapore for one low price!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do in Singapore's Civic District
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Things to do in Singapore's Civic District

Heading to Singapore's Civic and wondering what things you can do while you're there? In this article, we'll explore the best activities to try out on your visit. So, whether you're looking for culture, fun, or relaxation, we've got you covered. Read on, and discover the Civic District's best bits! Including: National Museum of Singapore Puzzle Hunt in Fort Canning Park The Battlebox The National Gallery Raffles Courtyard and Long Bar and more! Visit the National Museum of Singapore We'll start with one of the joys of taking a vacation - exploring and understanding a new culture. And with a melting pot of so many seemingly disparate cultures found in Singapore, you'll need to explore the state's past, present, and future to get the bigger picture. That's where the National Museum of Singapore comes in clutch. Journey through its galleries, and you'll discover what drives the beating heart of Singapore. Through world-class exhibitions, visually captivating art installations, and an exploration of local festivals, you'll learn about Singapore's rise into one of the most visited places on the planet. And you'll see where it all began. Try a Puzzle Hunt in Fort Canning Park If you're looking for things to do in Singapore's Civic District, put your thinking cap on and try your hand at a puzzle scavenger hunt in the area's Fort Canning Park. Think outdoor escape room mixed with roleplay. Embody the life of a soldier as you search for the secrets to Singapore's army. Hunt for clues, solve riddles, and work your way across the city to see if you can win the ultimate prize. Fun solo, but more fun in a group; it's a great way to get outdoors and see the sights while putting the grey matter to the test. Get historical at the Battlebox Keeping on the military theme, if you like exploring the history and tactics of war, then you should definitely visit The Battlebox. Located on the top-secret site where officers directed the Battle of Singapore in the Second World War, you'll be able to explore recreations of the men, the machinery, and the maps they used to direct the assault. Worm your way through the actual rooms and corridors they walked, and see some authentic wartime artifacts while you're at it. Take a guided tour, or dare to travel the labyrinth of underground tunnels yourself. However you choose to explore The Battlebox, you'll learn how the allies won and discover the tension and drama behind the decision to surrender the much-vaunted 'Singapore Fortress' on 15 February 1942. For history buffs with a penchant for war, it doesn't get much better than that. Image courtesy of Miguel Vidal/Shutterstock Take a look around the National Gallery If you like your culture with a hefty spoonful of brush strokes, then the National Gallery is one of the best things to do in Singapore's Civic District. Held in the city's old City Hall and Supreme Court buildings, the National Gallery offers a massive 64,000 square meters of artwork. You'll find plenty of mainstay exhibitions along with rotating exhibits, including 'Siapa Nama Kamu?', or 'What's your name?'. It explores the life and times of Singaporeans through local art, examining the effect art has on the community. It's a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in art and local culture in one fell swoop. But that's just one of the many fantastic installations you'll find inside this massive space, so head inside and get exploring. And when you're done, pick up a keepsake from one of the many shops you'll find on-site. Get refreshed at Raffles Courtyard and Long Bar After a long day of sightseeing, you might want to put your feet up and enjoy a refreshing beverage. If so, head to Raffles Hotel and check out the Courtyard Bar, where you can get a drink from us. Raffles Courtyard is something else, mimicking a beachside paradise replete with palm trees and tiki tents. It's the perfect place to relax, and take a moment to drink in the city. Of course, that's not the only thing you'll be drinking in, thanks to the complimentary offering you can get with Go City! And hey, if you stay for a few more - no judgments here. See a show at Victoria Theatre and Victoria Concert Hall Another of Singapore Civic District's biggest draws is the Victoria Theatre & Victoria Concert Hall, where you'll find plenty of live performances throughout the year. Having been recently refurbished, you'll be treated to a top-tier experience from the moment you walk in the door. Home to the Singapore Symphony Orchestra. or SSO, we're sure they appreciate the improved acoustics that transforms the theatre's already impressive sound. Check out their site to see when the SSO, or a variety of performers, are playing, and grab a ticket! Game on at Zero Latency If you want thrills, spills, and chills in a virtual space, then Zero Latency has got you covered. This Virtual Reality hotspot features tons of immersive experiences that will have you sweating, laughing, and screaming - in that order. Team up with a crew to slay zombies, robots, and other cannon fodder, or work together to solve puzzles. You can even take part in some sports activities, if Singapore's famous weather swings towards the wetter end. Whichever you pick, you're bound to have a grand time. Relax at The Thai Spa We'll end our guide of things to do in Singapore's Civic District with the ultimate relaxation experience. If you need your back kneaded and your joints cracked, head to The Thai Spa and let them do their thing. Alongside massages, you can try aromatherapy, and even take part in some ancient Thai rituals, if you're feeling adventurous. With a focus on organic goodies, you'll be sure to refresh both your body and soul. So, if you need a break from all your exploring, go knock on their door. And that about does it for our guide to Singapore's Civic District. Looking for more things to do in Singapore? Check out Go City! With our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass, you can experience all the best bits of Singapore for one low price!
Dom Bewley
Singapore River Cruise
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Things to do in Geylang Singapore

Singapore’s Geylang neighborhood is certainly something of a head scratcher. Although descriptions often begin with its status as the country’s legally-recognized red-light district, it is also one of the country’s most culturally diverse areas. Exploring its historic shopfronts is just one of the many things to do in Geylang Singapore, alongside delving into a food scene that includes everything from frog leg porridge to Ramadan treats. Lying to the east of the Kallang River as it flows towards the river cruises of Marina Bay, east-west running Geylang Road remains at the heart of all that goes on in the neighborhood. Providing a sense of old Singapore, before soaring skyscrapers took hold, it’s a street busy with Singaporeans, Malays, Chinese and western expatriates by day and night. Meanwhile unnamed lorongs (lanes) span off to north and south with the promise of all manner of delights. Wondering why Geylang is so popular and on the lips of so many? Here’s our pick of the very best things to do in Geylang Singapore! Check out Geylang’s architectural curiosities There’s probably no better place to start your discovery of Geylang than Geylang Road. Stroll along even the shortest section of its three-kilometer length and you’ll very quickly get a feel of what this neighborhood is all about. And while the low-rise properties which line this major arterial road are sure to have you reaching for your camera, Geylang’s real treasures are to be found on its surrounding streets. There’s nothing quite like picking one at random and seeing what you’ll discover – maybe the Church of Our Lady Queen of Peace or Haig Road Hawker Center. But if you’re looking for a little guidance, the colorfully-painted conserved shopfronts on both sides of Joo Chiat Road rival the Peranakan (Malay-Chinese) Houses of adjoining Koon Seng Road when it comes to the wow factor. For the chance to head inside one of these preserved homes, make an appointment to visit The Intan, a house museum dedicated to recording Peranakan culture for prosperity. The work of one man, its collection is as encyclopedic in scope as it is colorful. Discover Geylang’s artistic side If a visit to The Istan gets you in the mood for more of Geylang’s artistic side, the Eurasian Heritage Gallery is just a couple of blocks south. Created to tell the story of Singapore’s Eurasian community, it succeeds in bringing its history to life in three excellently curated galleries refurbished in 2019. Detailing a heritage which takes in Britain, Portugal, Goa and Macau, the sections on how the community survived the Japanese occupation of the island in World War Two is particularly poignant. More uplifting stories include those of swimmer Joseph Schooling, the first Singaporean to win an Olympic gold medal. Just beyond the official bounds of Geylang, on the banks of the Geylang River, you’ll also find the Goodman Arts Centre. Hosting a wide range of exhibitions and workshops, the center sits within a lush three-hectare site. It also includes a café serving up Australasian dishes with looks perfect for social media and flavors not far behind. Fill your stomach with Geylang’s specialty dishes For a more authentic look at Geylang’s culinary magic, the choices are almost endless. Geylang Serai Market is one of the largest wet markets in Singapore, meaning you can find just about anything you might ever point towards a wok. After you’ve breathed in the rich aroma of nutmeg, cinnamon and lemongrass (serai in Malay), enter the attached bazaar for fabrics, homewares and other dry goods. Carrying a buzz at any time of year, the market outdoes itself each Ramadan, when stalls lit up with decorations and open long into the night help adherents break their fast. Head upstairs to the market’s food court to sample many of the region’s delicacies. Keep an eye out for asam pedas(sour and spicy fish stew), beef rendang (a dry diced beef curry) and goreng pisang banana fritters. Alternatively, follow your nose – literally – to the durian stalls of Sims Avenue. Known as the ‘king of fruits,’ there’s really nothing else like a durian. They were the model for the Esplanade Theatres building on the opposite side of Marina Bay to Gardens by the Bay, and so pungent in aroma they are banned from hotels and aircraft. So why not let a stallholder pick out the perfect durian for you? After all, sampling the custard-like interior is something of a rite of passage when traveling in the region. Nearby, there are several simply-decorated restaurants (think school canteen chic) and more upmarket establishments with specialties including frog leg porridge on their menus. Try G7 Sin Ma or Eminent Frog Porridge to taste this savory stew flavored with soy sauce, ginger, garlic and chili. If you’re looking for a late evening drink, there are also plenty of bars in Geylang – head either along Geylang Road, or along Geylang riverfront. Enjoy Geylang’s green spaces When Stamford Raffles, ‘founder’ of modern Singapore arrived in Geylang, it was an area of coconut palms and coastal marshland. Although no longer awash with greenery, the Geylang riverfront provides a nice contrast to the bustling lanes of the area. Save your shoe leather with Gogreen Bicycle Rentals, the easiest way of taking in all the river’s sights as it doglegs through the neighborhood. Don’t worry though, there are plenty of benches on which to rest up with an ice cream, kelongs (floating platforms) and shelters resembling the kampong (village) huts that once would have been found here. Further north, Geylang East Park’s L-shaped form provides another escape from the hubbub of its nearby roads. Clean, tidy and well-maintained, you could do far worse than stop by for a lunchtime picnic with the daily mix of residents and office workers. Ways to save in Geylang Singapore Save on the top sights and attractions in Singapore with Go City. From the best things to do in Geylang Singapore to nature kayaking adventures in Pulau Ubin, we offer out of this world experiences at less than astronomical prices with our All-Inclusive and Explorer passes!
Alex Birungi

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