Top Attractions to Visit in Singapore with Kids
Singapore is an ideal family destination with its world-class attractions, clean streets, and family-friendly amenities. This vibrant city has much to offer young travelers, from exciting theme parks and interactive museums to lush parks and awe-inspiring animal sanctuaries. Here’s a 5-day itinerary with top attractions, a guide on the best time to visit, and answers to common FAQs to make your family vacation smooth and memorable.
Universal Studios Singapore (USS):
Location: Sentosa Island
Overview: Universal Studios Singapore is a world-renowned theme park offering seven themed zones, from Ancient Egypt to Hollywood Boulevard. Kids can meet favorite characters, including Minions, Transformers, and characters from Madagascar, and enjoy thrilling rides and shows.
Highlights for Kids:
Sesame Street Spaghetti Space Chase: A fun indoor ride suitable for young children.
Transformers The Ride: An exhilarating 3D ride that immerses kids in a battle between Autobots and Decepticons.
Shrek 4-D Adventure: A multi-sensory experience where kids feel like they’re part of Shrek’s fairy-tale world.
Gardens by the Bay:
Location: Marina Bay
Overview: Known for its futuristic architecture and lush landscapes, Gardens by the Bay offers a blend of nature and technology, with the Supertree Grove, Flower Dome, and Cloud Forest. It’s a vibrant space where kids can explore exotic plants, misty mountains, and interactive exhibits.
Highlights for Kids:
Supertree Grove: These towering tree-like structures come to life in the evening with a spectacular light and sound show, Garden Rhapsody.
Children’s Garden: This water play area has fountains, splash pools, and climbing structures.
Cloud Forest: A misty indoor mountain with cascading waterfalls and lush greenery that feels like a fantasy world.
Singapore Zoo:
Location: Mandai
Overview: Singapore Zoo is world-famous for its open-concept enclosures that allow kids to observe animals up close. With over 300 species of animals, the zoo offers plenty to see, including interactive shows and feeding sessions.
Highlights for Kids:
Rainforest KidzWorld: A dedicated children’s area with a petting zoo, water playground, and pony rides.
Animal Shows: Watch the Sea Lion, Elephant, and Rainforest Fights Back shows, which are educational and entertaining.
Feeding Sessions: Kids can hand-feed animals like giraffes, elephants, and goats, making for memorable encounters.
S.E.A. Aquarium
Location: Sentosa Island
Overview: S.E.A. Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world, home to over 100,000 marine animals. Kids can explore the underwater world, learning about marine life from the giant open ocean habitat to colorful coral reefs.
Highlights for Kids:
Open Ocean Habitat: An enormous tank that simulates an open ocean experience, filled with stingrays, groupers, and hammerhead sharks.
Touch Pool: An interactive area where kids can touch starfish and other sea creatures.
Ocean Restaurant: A unique dining experience with views of the aquarium’s largest tank, allowing kids to dine with a view of marine life.
KidZania Singapore:
Location: Sentosa Island
Overview: KidZania is an interactive indoor theme park where children can role-play over 60 careers in a kid-sized city, from pilots and doctors to chefs and firemen. This unique setup combines learning and play, helping kids gain insights into the working world.
Highlights for Kids:
Fire Station: Kids can dress up as firefighters, ride a mini fire truck, and practice putting out “fires.”
Airline Pilot Simulator: A realistic setup where children can experience flying a plane in a simulated cockpit.
Culinary School: Kids can play chef and learn to prepare simple dishes like sushi or pizza.
Science Centre Singapore:
Location: Jurong East
Overview: The Science Centre offers a fun, interactive environment for kids to learn about various scientific concepts, from physics to biology. With hands-on exhibits and workshops, it’s both educational and entertaining.
Highlights for Kids:
Waterworks: A water play area where kids can learn about water cycles and conservation while having fun.
Ecogarden: A unique outdoor garden that teaches kids about Singapore’s native plants and ecology.
Kinetic Garden: An interactive exhibit focused on physics, with large outdoor displays and hands-on installations.
Jurong Bird Park:
Location: Jurong
Overview: Jurong Bird Park is one of Asia’s largest bird sanctuaries, home to over 400 species of birds. Kids can explore aviaries, enjoy bird shows, and even feed some of the park’s residents.
Highlights for Kids:
Lory Loft: Kids can hand-feed colorful lories in this large, multi-level aviary.
Bird Shows: Don’t miss the High Flyers Show and Kings of the Skies show, showcasing the natural abilities of different bird species.
Waterfall Aviary: A scenic aviary with a 30-meter-tall waterfall, home to free-flying birds from around the world.
ArtScience Museum:
Location: Marina Bay Sands
Overview: The ArtScience Museum offers immersive exhibits that combine art, science, technology, and culture. The museum is known for its innovative installations and rotating exhibits, often featuring interactive displays that engage kids.
Highlights for Kids:
Future World Exhibit: A permanent, digital installation where kids can interact with virtual worlds, including light projections and moving art.
Digital Light Canvas: An interactive light display where kids can leave digital “footprints” and create art as they move.
Workshops: The museum often offers family-friendly workshops where kids can learn about digital art and technology
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Best Time to Visit Singapore with Kids:
Singapore’s tropical climate ensures it’s warm and humid throughout the year, with a fairly consistent temperature range of 24°C to 31°C (75°F to 88°F). Although the weather is relatively stable, there are certain times of the year that are ideal for families traveling with kids due to reduced rainfall, seasonal events, and family-friendly activities. Here’s an in-depth look at the best times to visit Singapore with children and the highlights of each season.
5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Singapore:
Day 1: Arrival & Marina Bay Sands
- Morning: Arrive in Singapore and check into your family-friendly hotel, such as Marina Bay Sands, which offers a luxurious stay with access to an incredible rooftop infinity pool overlooking the city.
- Afternoon: Start with a visit to Gardens by the Bay. Kids can explore the Supertree Grove, Flower Dome, and Cloud Forest with exotic plants and interactive displays.
- Evening: Don’t miss the Garden Rhapsody Light Show at Supertree Grove, a captivating display of synchronized lights and music that kids and adults will love.
Day 2: Sentosa Island Adventures
- Morning: Begin the day with a scenic cable car ride to Sentosa Island, a thrilling journey for young travelers with amazing views of the city and ocean.
- Afternoon: Spend time at Universal Studios Singapore, where kids can meet favorite movie characters and enjoy themed rides like those inspired by the Minions and Jurassic Park.
- Evening: End the day with a visit to S.E.A. Aquarium or enjoy the Wings of Time show, a spectacular performance featuring laser lights, fountains, and pyrotechnics, perfect for families.
Day 3: Singapore Zoo & River Safari
- Morning: Visit Singapore Zoo, famous for its open-concept enclosures that allow kids to see animals like lions, elephants, and zebras up close in their natural habitats.
- Afternoon: Head to the River Safari for a boat ride to observe animals from rivers worldwide, including pandas, manatees, and river otters.
- Evening: Conclude the day with a Night Safari, a unique adventure introducing children to nocturnal animals like big cats, hippos, and leopards in a natural nighttime setting.
Day 4: Science Centre & KidZania
- Morning: Spend the morning at the Science Centre Singapore, where kids can explore interactive exhibits on space, physics, and ecology, along with hands-on workshops.
- Afternoon: Head to KidZania Singapore, an indoor theme park where kids can role-play different professions, from pilots to chefs, providing a fun, educational experience.
- Evening: Take a leisurely stroll around Clarke Quay and enjoy a riverside meal at a family-friendly restaurant, a relaxing end to an exciting day.
Day 5: Jurong Bird Park & Shopping at Orchard Road
- Morning: Start the day with Jurong Bird Park, Asia’s largest bird sanctuary, where kids can enjoy colorful aviaries, daily bird shows, and close encounters with birds like penguins, flamingos, and parrots.
- Afternoon: Explore Orchard Road for some shopping and sightseeing. This bustling district offers a mix of luxury brands, quirky stores, and kids’ boutiques.
- Evening: End your trip with a meal at one of Singapore’s vibrant hawker centers, where the whole family can sample local cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
FAQs:
1. What are the best areas in Singapore to stay with kids?
Some great family-friendly areas include Marina Bay, Sentosa Island, and Orchard Road. These areas offer convenient access to major attractions, kid-friendly amenities, and family-oriented hotels.
2. How easy is it to get around Singapore with children?
Singapore’s public transport system is efficient and clean, making it easy for families to explore the city. The MRT and buses are stroller-friendly, and taxis are readily available.
3. Are there food options suitable for children?
Yes, Singapore offers a wide range of food options, from Western fast food to local dishes. Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus, and hawker centers provide a variety of dishes that kids enjoy.
4. Is Singapore Zoo suitable for young kids?
Yes, Singapore Zoo is very family-friendly, with paved walkways, stroller rental services, and interactive exhibits for young children. There are also water play areas where kids can cool off.
5. Do we need to buy tickets in advance for attractions?
It’s recommended to book tickets in advance for popular attractions like Universal Studios, Singapore Zoo, and KidZania to avoid long queues and ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.
6. Are there stroller rental services at major attractions?
Yes, many major attractions like Sentosa and the Singapore Zoo offer stroller rentals. However, bringing your own stroller might be more convenient if you plan to use it frequently.
7. What’s a good packing list for Singapore with kids?
Pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and a small stroller for young children. Also, bring swimwear for water attractions and plenty of water bottles to stay hydrated.
8. Can we drink tap water in Singapore?
Yes, tap water in Singapore is safe to drink, so bringing a reusable water bottle is a good idea, especially in the humid climate.
9. What’s the best way to handle the hot weather with kids?
Plan indoor activities during midday and visit outdoor attractions early or later in the day. Cooling neck towels and handheld fans can also help keep kids comfortable.
10. Are there medical facilities and pharmacies available?
Yes, Singapore has excellent healthcare services, and pharmacies are widely available. Family-friendly hospitals and clinics are also accessible throughout the city.
Conclusion:
Singapore is a fantastic destination for families, with a wealth of attractions and amenities catering to young travelers. This 5-day itinerary covers the best of Singapore's family-friendly attractions, ensuring an adventure-packed yet manageable experience for parents and kids alike. Whether exploring nature at the Singapore Zoo, learning at the Science Centre, or enjoying theme parks on Sentosa Island, Singapore is ready to welcome your family with open arms.
