Welcome to Singapore! Known as the Little Red Dot, Singapore is full of all kinds of surprises and experiences ready to blow your family away. You’ve probably heard of the amazing experience Singapore can provide. The reality is, all of them are true. If you want to discover the best things to do with kids in Singapore, insider tips on the greatest delicacies to try, the most worth activities to invest time in and other secrets to make your visit the best it can be, just keep reading!
Make your next family vacation a breeze
Travel with your kids now and build amazing memories as a family! Get our book, written by parents just like you, that will guide you all the way.
Best Time To Visit Singapore
Singapore is an incredible place to visit all throughout the year. The weather here barely makes any drastic changes, and it’s pretty much always very warm and sunny. On the other hand, there are some differences when visiting at particular times. We’ve made sure to write them out for you:
Spring
Spring in Singapore is always quite hot and humid. It’s a good time to pay it a visit because there aren’t that many tourists around, and prices for accommodation are slightly lower. The Singapore International Jazz Festival (“Ching Ming Festival”) usually comes to town during these months. It’s known to be quite the world-class event, so keep an eye out for when you’re traveling to make sure you don’t miss it. Coming to this festival is one of the best things to do with kids in Singapore because it gives them an opportunity to take in culture in a surprising and quite memorable way.
Summer
Summer is definitely the peak season. Most families and tourists come to the island for their holidays. If you come during summer, make sure you are prepared to see a large concentration of people in all the main attractions and resorts. Since Singapore is quite small in itself, it may feel as though the island is full. Also, Singapore’s summer is quite wet as it tends to rain heavily.
On the bright side, summer is the time when Singapore comes to life the most. Not only because of the tourists but due to the amazing range of festivals they host during the seasons. For example, you can expect to participate in some of the largest events in Singapore like the Giant Singapore Sale, the Dragon Boat Festival, and Singapore’s National Day. Coming to any of these wonderful festivals is definitely among the best things to do in Singapore with kids. You can be sure that they’ll never forget the incredible laser lights shows, fireworks, and extravaganza.
Fall
Even though summer is a pretty intense and a good time to visit Singapore, we have to admit that coming in the fall is probably the best time to visit Singapore. The monsoon season is pretty much gone, and the temperature is nice and warm. Tourists seem to have reduced pretty drastically compared to summertime, so it’s probably the time where it’s best to negotiate and haggle for accommodation prices. The Lantern Festival and Devali are some of the most beautiful festivals that take place in the fall; both of which are excellent options for things to do in Singapore with kids. For adrenaline and car-loving families, you’ll be happy to know that Singapore hosts the Grand Prix as well, so make sure you purchase tickets for it.
Winter
During the dates closer to Christmas, Singapore regains its high tourist intake. The island becomes full again, most commonly to celebrate the massive New Year party Singapore throws every year. Experiencing the new year here is something spectacular, unlike what many people have seen before. If this is something you’re interested in, visiting Singapore can be a great option. Besides that, the Orchard Road Christmas Markets are charming, and among the most favourite things to do among families.
Best Areas To Stay in Singapore
Sentosa Island
Sentosa is a very convenient area in Singapore to stay in for families with children, especially younger ones. Some people consider Sentosa to be a hub that concentrates the most popular things to do with kids in Singapore in one location. Sentosa is home to Singapore’s most famous theme parks such as Universal Studios Singapore, the S.E.A Aquarium, and the Adventure Cove Waterpark. There are many more attractions that focus on this island like the Tiger Sky Tower, the exciting ride Cable Car, and the Crane Dance; one of the world’s largest animation shows with lights and water illusions. you can be sure that if you’re basing yourself here, you’ll never run out of things to do.
Sentosa has some of the most family-friendly all-inclusive resorts and hotels. Most of them are perfect for staycations since they include many activities and itineraries for the kids.
Marina Bay
Marina Bay is definitely the most requested place to stay in all of Singapore. Besides being one of the most beautiful areas in Singapore, it’s incredibly centric and close to all the top attractions and landmarks of the city. In fact, the iconic Gardens by the Bay lives in this amazing neighborhood, so you can expect to wake up to amazing views every morning. Every night, you can be witness to Spectra, the amazing night laser light, choreographed fountain shows on the Event Plaza. The Central Business District, the Civic Quarter and Clark Quay are just a pleasurable, short metro ride away. The legendary Marina Bay Sands Hotel is, of course, found in this pristine location where you’re most welcome to stay at. We talk more about this hotel and how it actually ranks as one of the top child friendly hotels in Singapore. If you’re planning to see the best of Singapore in a short period of time, staying at Marina Bay is a wise choice because of its proximity to Singapore’s most famous landmarks and most beautiful neighborhoods.
Orchard Road
If you’re interested in getting to know the more luxurious side of Singapore, staying at Orchard Road is your safest bet. Orchard Road is known for its extravagant boutiques and expensive hotels. Some people even call it a shopping paradise! Even though shopping may not be among the greatest things to do in Singapore with kids, you’ll find that they’ll enjoy the experience regardless.
The hotels in this area of the city are quite central. They’re only walking distance or a short metro ride away from the main points of interest. This neighborhood has all kinds of restaurants for you to discover. From world-famous to locals’ favorites, you enjoy picking a different one for each meal of the day. We assure you – neither you nor your kids will ever be disappointed!
Colonial/Historical Area
Last but not least, the Colonial District is certainly the most vibrant and original place to stay in Singapore. Located in a central location, staying in the historical area of the city will provide you with a different experience. Although it’s close to the prestigious and dramatic areas of Marina Bay and Quay, it’s also within walking distance of the most fun and lively area of Singapore – Little India! Singapore’s museums such as the National Museum of Singapore, Fort Canning Park, and the National Gallery are the closest to this neighborhood as well. To us, this is probably the best area to stay in Singapore because of the diversity of things to do with the kids nearby. Anything from the typical tourist attractions, luxurious shopping sprees, cultural and educational locations, and even a piece of Singapore’s amazing nature is within just a few minutes.
How To Get Around Singapore
Train
The easiest and most effective way to get around Singapore is definitely by hopping on their MRT (Mass Rapid Transport) system. The metro operates from 5:30 am until midnight, which is perfect because it lets you have the freedom to plan your day without restrictions. The waiting time between trains is as short as two minutes during peak times and doesn’t go beyond seven minutes in off-peak hours. There are five metro lines in the city that take you pretty much everywhere you want to go. Pretty much, every high-demand neighborhood and attraction has its own metro stop. But if not, you can be sure that everything is at a short walking distance from a metro stop anyway.
The best way to use the system is to either purchase a Singapore Tourist Pass, or an EZ-Link Card. The Singapore Tourist Pass is perfect if you’re planning on visiting the area for one or two days. For S$10, you get unlimited train and bus travel for 24 hours. The EZ-Link card works in a top-up system and is user-friendly. All you need to do is swipe it in front of a machine every time you get off and on the bus. The biggest advantage of the EZ-Link Card is that you can use it anywhere – on the MRT, the LRT trains (operated by both SBST & SMRT companies), all public buses, and even taxis. You can purchase them at MRT station customer service desks, or at 7-Eleven.
Car Services and Taxi
Taxis and private car services are available in Singapore. For taxis, the fare system is metered so you won’t have any surprises or be able to haggle for a cheaper price. Keep in mind that taxis are only allowed to pick up customers in designated taxi spots in the city, so make sure to look out for them. From 6 pm, there is a 25% surcharge.
For private car hire, Singapore doesn’t have Uber but has an equivalent alternative called Grab. It works on the same system, so you’ll need to download the app. Grab offers other services besides transport like food or package delivery. Although you get upfront prices before you book the trip, fares tend to increase slightly during busiest times of the day; from 6-9 am during the weekdays, and from 6 pm.
Things To Do In Singapore with Kids
If we were to be entirely honest, no list could ever cover all the incredible things to do in Singapore with kids there are to do. But here are ten of the best activities and places to visit with your family we consider will make your trip the most unforgettable and amazing. From beaches to inspiring museums, to enchanting neighborhoods and Singapore’s legendary ability to encapsulate entire ecosystems in houses of glass, this is the ultimate list to guide you and your little ones through Singapore.
Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is by far the first of the best things to do in Singapore with kids. In the middle of an impressive concrete jungle, Gardens by the Bay are a green safe haven that seems to take you into another planet. Speaking of which, you’ll probably recognize this futuristic park from the award-winning movie Avatar. The Supertree Grove is the most widely-known thing to see in Gardens by the Bay, but there’s so much more to see. Kids love the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome. Both are incredible greenhouse structures that present all different kinds of beautiful flowers, botanical plants, and even waterfalls. The OCBC Walkway is also very popular among families. You’ll get to experience this magnificent exhibit by day, or at night when it’s lit up and giving a laser light spectacle. The East Organization Children’s Garden is the perfect attraction to include in your things to do in Singapore with kids itinerary. It’s an innovative playground with educational programs interactive games and water activities that your kids will love to spend hours in.
Website: Gardens By The Bay
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953
Hours: Sun - Sat 5:00 AM - 2:00 AM
Rhapsody Light
Speaking of enjoying the Gardens by the Bay, one of the best things to do in Singapore with kids is to see the Supertree Grove daily light shows. The iconic solar energy harvesting towers come to life and turn into spectacular pieces of art. Music and sounds take the experience to a whole new level too. But the music and light technologies were designed and made by world-acclaimed and award-winning composers, so you really can’t expect anything less than excellent and soulful entertainment. The interaction between nature and technology in Singapore’s most famously recognized point of interest is truly what makes it stand out so much in the world. The shows run every night at 7:45 pm and 8:45 am. Coming to enjoy the show is the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing!
Website: Rhapsody Light
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953
Hours: Sun-Sat 7.45pm and 8.45pm
Sentosa Beaches
Singapore’s best beaches are in Sentosa. Sentosa is actually an island that’s easily reachable using the Sentosa Intra-Island bus service. Sentosa is usually known as the Asian Playground for its large concentration of kid-friendly activities. You can find anything from theme parks, holiday resorts, and adrenaline-filled things to do. Solely based on its wide array of attractions directed at children, Sentosa is the best place to come to when looking for things to do in Singapore with kids. However, one of the things that many forget to appreciate is its beaches.
Tanjong, Palawan and Siloso Beaches are outstandingly beautiful. Planning a beach day at any of these beaches is the perfect way to spend a relaxed, laid back day. Especially if you’ve been spending the past few days filling your time with high energy activities, sitting at any of these beaches to enjoy the sun, sand and sea is always a great idea. There’s never been a bad beach day in Singapore!
Images of Singapore LIVE
Looking for a fun and exciting way to learn about this island’s history? Images of Singapore is the perfect way to do it. No more unengaging museums and lengthy explanations of history and culture! Images of Singapore takes you on a journey that reveals the nation’s secrets for transformation. They explain how evolved from a humble fisherman town to today’s world-known futuristic city. Don’t take being “taken on a journey” lightly. Live actors will show you around detailed replicas of ancient Chinatown, the Commercial Square, and the Malay Fishing Village. There’s even an old television shop where you’ll be able to see real footage of Singapore since 1945.
You can’t skip on considering Images of Singapore as one of the things to do in Singapore with kids. Your kids as well as you will never forget this incredible experience!
Website: Images of Singapore LIVE
Address: 40 Imbiah Rd, Imbiah Lookout Sentosa, Singapore 099700
Hours: Sun-Sat 10 AM - 7 PM
The ArtScience Museum
The Artscience Museum is an excellent option if you’re interested in doing something that lies outside the typical tourist itinerary. This museum is inside an amazing modern building shaped like a giant lotus flower at the Marina Bay. It’s one of Singapore’s iconic landmarks so you can’t miss it.
Its exhibitions intertwine art and science beautifully, creating exhibitions that are unlike anything you’ve seen before. Their permanent exhibition, Future World, is designed for kids’ entertainment and engagement with digital technologies. For example, their 2D drawings can come to life by transforming into 3D animations projected on the wall. Otherwise, their ever-changing temporary exhibitions never fail to be excellent and original. A common objective of the museum is to bring families together by encouraging play and interaction through the creative use of digital technologies, physical activity, and other artistic skills.
We recommend you to take advantage of their Family Fridays deal, where up to four children can enter the museum for free, with each adult ticket purchased. This museum is genuinely amazing; it’s truly clear why it qualifies as one of the best things to do in Singapore with kids.
Website: The ArtScience Museum
Address: 6 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018974
Hours: Sun-Sat 10 AM - 7 PM
Chinatown Heritage Site
The number of Chinatowns around the world simply cannot be compared to the one in Singapore. The quarter itself is vibrant and colorful; keeping your kids on your feet from the moment you walk in. Walking on the streets in itself is already exciting, but there are plenty of other things you can do. The Chinatown Heritage Centre is a must. It’s an award-winning museum experience where you can see the true living and working conditions of Chinese migrants in the 1950s. Pagoda Street is the perfect place to look for unique souvenirs and artifacts for your home. You can find a world of handmade textiles, Chinese lion puppets, traditional clothing, and lanterns. Children love to have a look around and get lost in the infinite Chinese paraphernalia. For food, the best thing you can do is to walk along the streets and try what delicious things the street vendors have to offer.
Singapore River Cruise
One of the best things to do in Singapore with kids is to see the highlights of the city from the comfort and excitement of a traditional Bumboat cruising through the river. Some of the things you’ll be able to see from this unique perspective are the Boat Quay, Clarke Quay, and Marina Bay. The ride takes about 40 minutes, so it’s great for seeing the best of Singapore with young children. It’s especially convenient for in case your child needs a stroller. Not only that, but kids, in general, will never refuse a boat ride!
We suggest you look into the hopping on the boat for the Laser Show Cruise in the evening. You’ll be in the middle of a spectacular show with water, fountains, and of course – high technology lasers which Singapore is known to master.
Website: Singapore River Cruise
Skyline Luge Sentosa
If you want to treat your children with an exciting and thrilling activity, Skyline Luge Sentosa is one of the best things to do in Singapore with kids. There are four different 650m tracks that extend all around the most scenic spots in Sentosa. The ‘luge’ is the Swiss way of calling a sled, so you can imagine where this is going. You’ll be going down at high speed while looking over the most beautiful parts of Sentosa. For example, you’ll start at the Imbiah Lookout and arrive at the bottom of Siloso Beach. Of course, it’s always a good idea to spend the day at the beach afterward.
Your kids will definitely walk out with a smile on their faces, and will probably ask you to ride it again!
Website: Skyline Luge Sentosa
Address:45 Siloso Beach Walk, Sentosa, Singapore
Hours: Sun-Sat 10 AM - 9:30 PM
Pulau Ubin
If your family is appreciative of natural parks and authentic nature, visiting Pulau Ubin is one of the top options of things to do in Singapore with kids. Pulau Ubin is one of the last kampongs (village) that remain on the island, only a 15- minute boat ride away from the city. It’s one of the most beautiful ways to experience an authentic side of Singapore’s natural environment from 50 years ago. There are all kinds of things to do here for people with different interests. There something for nature lovers, for those wanting to spend a bit more time to relax, or for those wanting to immerse themselves in adventure.
For example, you could discover native plants and produce from Ubin Fruit Orchard. Going on nature walks and hikes to explore the different lookouts is also very popular. Kayaking and mountain biking trails are also available for families more eager in engaging in outdoor sports.
National Museum of Singapore
The National Museum of Singapore is among the most delightful things to do in Singapore with kids. There is a world of hands-on exhibitions, activities, and presentations to keep children over 5 years old entertained for hours. Its permanent exhibition tells the story of Singapore, and how it managed to become one of the most innovative and creative cities in the world. You never really know what to expect with its temporary exhibits. All we can say is that they’re always high quality and worth visiting!
We suggest that if you go in the summer, you check out the Children’s Season. This is a festival that occurs every year, and is dedicated to children’s learning experiences, activities and generally a hub for fun. The National Museum of Singapore happens to be an important host for it!
Website: National Museum of Singapore
Address: 93 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178897
Hours: Sun-Sat 10 AM - 7 PM
What to Eat in Singapore
Singapore has an incredible amount of delicious food and delicacies to offer. From fine dining Peranakan gastronomy to unimaginable street food straight from the exciting vibrant city. Here are our top five things to eat in Singapore we think you and your kids won’t get enough of!
Not sure what restaurant to pick? Take a look at our post about the Best Kid Friedly Restaurants in Singapore. Any of these will guarantee you a memorable experience and encounter with Singapore cuisine.
Dim Sum
Dim Sum is probably the most famous, traditional comfort dish you’ll see in Singapore. It’s a collection of small, varied dishes served in the middle of the table for everyone to enjoy. You’ll most likely see dumplings, shrimp balls, spring rolls and Chinese pastries with all kinds of fillings.
Ordering Dim Sum is the perfect way to start your holiday as you’ll be able to have a taste for everything, and take mental notes of what you like best so you know what to order in the future. It’s also a great way to make everyone happy, as there tends to be something for everyone. It’s very common to find Dim Sum all around Singapore, so in case it becomes your favorite thing to eat, you’ll always be able to find it!
Curry Laksa
Curry Laksa is also something that has quite a good reputation in the world of Singapore cuisine. It’s a noodle soup made with vermicelli, coconut milk, and fish or shrimp, delighting your mouth with the most authentic flavors of Southeast Asia. The coconut milk serves to lower the intensity of the spice, although it’s always possible to increase it if you ask. Curry Laksa is so good that it’s often become a popular family activity to hunt for the best in the city. In terms of meat, you can pretty much expect anything to be inside the bowl. But in general, pork, oysters, and shrimp tend to make the most popular appearances.
Bak Chor Mee
Another noodle soup, yet so incredibly different. It includes minced meat and plays with the flavors of vinegar. You can choose to have the soup in a dry version or traditional, but either option is delicious anyway. Sometimes, a small garnish of fish and Chinese lettuce is added. Bak Chor Mee is a very popular dish in Singapore, so you can most likely find it everywhere. That being said, it may be a good idea to try it in different contexts. For example, to compare how local-loved street stalls do it differently than Michelin star high-cuisine, distinguished restaurants. Every cook has their different ways of making it their own; managing to awaken your senses and please your palate every time.
Satay
Although it’s not native to Singapore, trying Satay while you’re visiting is a definite must. It’s a popular dish along the entire Southeast Asia region, although every country makes sure to do it at least a little bit differently. To make it simple, Satay is a collection of meat grilled in skewers, served with a side of spicy peanut dip. Singapore tends to marinate their meat in tumeric, giving it a unique twist that will charm everyone in the family. It’s quite a dish that’s enjoyed by children since it’s so easy to eat, and it’s not too heavy. Compared to other dishes you might encounter in Singapore, its flavors aren’t overpowering or overwhelming. It also tends to be served with cucumber and onions on the side.
Tau Huay
To finish off the list of best things to eat in Singapore, we thought we’d end on a sweet note. Tau Huay is definitely worth considering as the best dessert on the island. When you first see it, it sort of looks like a pot of yogurt. But it’s actually soy beancurd or very soft tofu that’s been dipped in a succulent sweet syrup, or simply soymilk. It’s often eaten with rice balls, but even if it’s eaten by itself, it’s an amazing way to finish a heavy meal. The texture is light and almost feels like you’re biting into a cloud.
Be careful though! Your kids will absolutely love it, and you’ll never hear the end of it.
It’s a wrap! We hope this guide has helped you get a better idea of all the different kinds of things to do in Singapore with kids, to help you plan the trip of a lifetime. We can be sure that any of the attractions, dishes and destinations we have suggested to you will help you experience Singapore in the best way possible.
We’re interested in knowing what your visit to Singapore as a family has been like! Leave a comment on what you guys got up to, and if you have suggestions or helpful tips for us as well.
