Singapore with Kids: 9 Unforgettable Family-Friendly Attractions
Singapore, known as the Lion City, is a dream destination for families. This vibrant island nation blends thrilling attractions, cultural experiences, and mouthwatering cuisine, ensuring an unforgettable adventure for both kids and parents. Whether you're visiting for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, here’s your ultimate guide to the top 10 things to do in Singapore with kids.
1. Universal Studios Singapore: A Thrilling Adventure for the Whole Family
Begin your family adventure at Universal Studios Singapore, a world-class theme park located on Sentosa Island. Spanning 49 acres, it features seven themed zones inspired by blockbuster movies, including Hollywood, Far Far Away, and Ancient Egypt. With exciting rides, live shows, and beloved movie characters, it’s the ultimate destination for kids and adults alike.
Must-Try Attractions for Kids
Transformers: The Ride – The Ultimate 3D Battle
Join Optimus Prime in an action-packed 3D battle against the Decepticons. This immersive motion-simulator ride combines realistic graphics, thrilling movements, and special effects for an unforgettable adventure.
Shrek 4-D Adventure (Far Far Away)
Step into Shrek’s fairytale world in this 4-D experience filled with motion seats, water sprays, and in-theater effects. Feel the adventure come to life!
Madagascar: A Crate Adventure
Sail through the animated world of Madagascar in this indoor boat ride, encountering Alex, Marty, Melman, and Gloria as they escape from the zoo.
Battlestar Galactica: HUMAN vs CYLON
This dueling roller coaster features two intertwined tracks—choose between high-speed loops (CYLON) or a traditional coaster (HUMAN) for an exhilarating experience.
Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure
Brave the prehistoric jungle on a thrilling white-water raft ride, encountering dinosaurs, sudden drops, and an exciting splash at the end.
📍 Location & How to Get There
- Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269
- By MRT: Take the North-East Line (Purple) or Circle Line (Yellow) to HarbourFront MRT Station. From there, board the Sentosa Express monorail to Waterfront Station.
- By Cable Car: Take the Singapore Cable Car from Mount Faber for a scenic journey to Sentosa Island.
- By Bus: Board Bus RWS8 from VivoCity or HarbourFront Bus Interchange to Resorts World Sentosa.
⏳ How Much Time to Spend There
Plan to spend at least 6–8 hours at Universal Studios Singapore to fully enjoy the rides, shows, and attractions. If you want to experience everything without rushing, consider a full-day visit.
🌟 Local Tip
Arrive before opening time to avoid long queues at popular rides like Transformers: The Ride and Battlestar Galactica. Download the Universal Studios Singapore app to check real-time ride wait times and show schedules. Don't forget to pack ponchos for water rides like Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure—they're pricier inside the park.
2. Singapore Zoo: A Wild Encounter with Nature
The Singapore Zoo is a world-renowned wildlife park known for its open-concept enclosures that mimic natural habitats. Home to over 2,800 animals from 300 species, this 26-hectare park offers an immersive and educational experience for families. From orangutans swinging in the treetops to majestic white tigers, every corner of the zoo promises an up-close encounter with wildlife.
Must-Try Attractions for Kids
🦧 Orangutan Breakfast
Dine with free-ranging orangutans at this one-of-a-kind breakfast experience, where kids can learn about these intelligent primates while enjoying a delicious buffet meal.
🦁 Big Cat Country
See majestic lions, agile leopards, and powerful jaguars up close in a habitat designed to resemble their natural environment, offering an unforgettable experience for young animal lovers.
🦓 Wild Africa Zone
Take a journey through the African savanna, spotting zebras, giraffes, and white rhinos while learning fascinating facts about these incredible creatures from zoo guides.
🐘 Elephants of Asia
Watch elephants in action as they interact with their keepers in a daily educational show, highlighting their intelligence, strength, and playful personalities.
🦘 Rainforest Kidzworld
A mini amusement park within the zoo, featuring a petting zoo, pony rides, a water play area, and an interactive farm experience designed for young explorers.
📍 Location & How to Get There
- Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826
- By MRT & Bus: Take the North-South Line (Red) to Khatib MRT Station and board Mandai Khatib Shuttle (15-minute ride).
- By Taxi/Car: Approx. 30 minutes from central Singapore; parking is available on-site.
⏳ How Much Time to Spend There
Set aside at least 4–5 hours to explore the main exhibits and catch animal feeding sessions and shows. For a full experience, including interactive zones, plan for a full day.
🌟 Local Tip
Arrive early in the morning when animals are most active. Buy tickets online in advance to skip the queue, and bring sunscreen and mosquito repellent for a comfortable visit.
3. ArtScience Museum: Creative Exploration for Curious Minds
Fuel your children's imagination at the iconic ArtScience Museum, a stunning lotus-shaped architectural marvel located at Marina Bay Sands. Opened in 2011, this unique museum seamlessly blends art, science, technology, and culture through interactive, ever-changing exhibitions designed to inspire and amaze curious young explorers.
Must-Try Attractions for Kids
🎨 Future World Exhibition
Dive into immersive digital playgrounds filled with interactive projections, vibrant lights, and captivating multimedia installations encouraging creativity, imagination, and artistic expression.
🌌 Crystal Universe
Wander through a dazzling infinity room of twinkling LED lights representing the vastness of the cosmos, creating mesmerizing photo opportunities and unforgettable memories.
🌊 Sketch Aquarium
Watch kids' drawings come to life as digitally animated sea creatures swimming across giant screens, offering an engaging and personal art-meets-science experience.
🌳 Sliding Through the Fruit Field
Slide down a colorful digital playground where fruit projections magically respond to movement, creating playful interactions that blend art and motion perfectly.
✨ Light Ball Orchestra
Touch colorful illuminated spheres that respond with synchronized sounds and glowing lights, encouraging playful collaboration, music appreciation, and sensory exploration.
📍 Location & How to Get There
- Address: 6 Bayfront Avenue, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore 018974
- By MRT: Take Downtown Line (Blue) or Circle Line (Yellow) to Bayfront Station (Exit D), then walk 5 minutes to the museum.
- On Foot: Easily accessible on foot from Marina Bay Sands mall and surrounding attractions like Gardens by the Bay.
⏳ How Much Time to Spend There
Allocate around 2–3 hours at ArtScience Museum, giving kids enough time to engage thoroughly with the interactive exhibits without feeling rushed.
🌟 Local Tip
Purchase tickets online for discounted prices and to avoid waiting lines, especially during weekends and holidays. Check the exhibition schedule beforehand, as displays frequently change, ensuring a fresh experience every visit.
4. S.E.A. Aquarium: Dive into an Underwater Wonderland
Bring your little ocean enthusiasts to S.E.A. Aquarium at Resorts World Sentosa, one of the world’s largest aquariums, opened in 2012. Home to over 100,000 marine animals from over 800 species, this aquarium provides an awe-inspiring underwater experience sure to amaze and educate kids of all ages.
Must-Try Attractions for Kids
🐠 Open Ocean Habitat
Marvel at the colossal viewing panel displaying sharks, rays, and schooling fish swimming gracefully together, replicating the vastness of the ocean.
🐬 Dolphin Island
Interact with playful Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins through supervised experiences designed to foster appreciation, care, and conservation efforts for marine mammals.
🌊 Shipwreck Habitat
Discover fascinating marine creatures like sharks and groupers swimming among an authentic sunken ship, igniting kids’ imagination and curiosity about ocean mysteries.
🐙 Sea Jellies Gallery
Experience the magical beauty of illuminated jellyfish floating gracefully in neon-lit tanks, creating a mesmerizing and calming underwater spectacle.
🦀 Touch Pool Experience
Enjoy interactive close-up encounters with sea stars, sea cucumbers, and gentle marine creatures, providing kids hands-on education and memorable experiences.
📍 Location & How to Get There
- Address: 8 Sentosa Gateway, Resorts World Sentosa, Singapore 098269
- By MRT: Take the North-East Line (Purple) or Circle Line (Yellow) to HarbourFront MRT Station, then Sentosa Express monorail to Waterfront Station.
- By Foot: Easy stroll via Sentosa Boardwalk from VivoCity shopping mall, approximately 15 minutes.
⏳ How Much Time to Spend There
Spend around 3–4 hours at S.E.A. Aquarium, allowing ample time to leisurely explore the fascinating marine habitats and attend educational shows and feeding sessions.
🌟 Local Tip
Visit during weekdays or early morning hours for fewer crowds. Check the daily schedule ahead of time and catch the aquarium’s educational feeding sessions. Don’t miss the mesmerizing Ocean Gallery, perfect for unforgettable family photos.
5. Gardens by the Bay: A Futuristic Nature Escape
Spanning 101 hectares in the heart of Singapore, Gardens by the Bay is an iconic horticultural park that blends nature, technology, and sustainability. This award-winning attraction features futuristic supertrees, climate-controlled conservatories, and stunning floral displays, making it an unforgettable experience for families. Whether you're exploring the lush Cloud Forest, walking through the Flower Dome, or watching the dazzling light show, this nature park is a must-visit for kids and adults alike.
Must-Try Attractions for Kids
🌳 Supertree Grove & OCBC Skyway
Walk beneath towering 50-meter-tall Supertrees, covered in over 158,000 plants, and take a breathtaking aerial stroll on the OCBC Skyway, offering panoramic city views.
🌿 Flower Dome
Step into the world’s largest glass greenhouse, featuring vibrant flower displays and rare plants from Mediterranean and semi-arid climates, giving kids a fun and educational botany lesson.
☁️ Cloud Forest
Enter a misty tropical wonderland, home to the world’s tallest indoor waterfall (35m), a lush mountain covered in exotic plants, and a thrilling cloud walk experience.
🐲 Floral Fantasy
A magical fairy-tale-inspired indoor garden with hanging floral arrangements, moving art pieces, and a dreamy atmosphere, perfect for kids who love whimsical landscapes.
🎆 Garden Rhapsody Light Show
A mesmerizing nighttime spectacle, where the Supertrees light up in sync with music, creating an enchanting LED and sound experience under the stars.
📍 Location & How to Get There
- Address: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore 018953
- By MRT: Take the Downtown Line (Blue) or Circle Line (Yellow) to Bayfront MRT Station (Exit B) and follow the underground linkway to the gardens.
- By Bus: Several buses stop near the gardens, including 400 and 402, with a short walk to the entrance.
⏳ How Much Time to Spend There
To explore the main attractions, plan to spend 3–4 hours here. If you want to relax, take photos, and enjoy the evening light show, consider half a day.
🌟 Local Tip
Visit in the late afternoon to experience both daytime beauty and the Garden Rhapsody light show at 7:45 PM & 8:45 PM. Bring a wide-angle camera for the best Supertree photos.
6. Science Centre Singapore: A Hands-On Learning Adventure
The Science Centre Singapore, established in 1977, is a dynamic, hands-on museum designed to make learning science and technology fun and interactive for kids. With over 1,000 exhibits across 20 themed galleries, a massive outdoor water play area, and a state-of-the-art observatory, this is the perfect place for curious young minds to explore.
Must-Try Attractions for Kids
🧪 The Mind's Eye
An interactive exhibit where kids can explore optical illusions, visual tricks, and perspective-shifting puzzles, challenging the way they see the world.
🌊 Waterworks
A huge outdoor water play area where children can learn about water cycles, pressure, and energy while cooling off in fountains and mini waterfalls.
🌌 Science Centre Observatory
Step into one of the few public observatories in the world near the equator, offering stunning views of planets, stars, and constellations through high-powered telescopes.
🦖 Professor Crackitt’s Light Fantastic Mirror Maze
A whimsical maze of mirrors and lights, where kids can navigate through twists and turns while learning about light reflection and refraction.
🔬 Phobia: The Science of Fear
A fascinating exhibit exploring why humans feel fear, featuring immersive rooms like a claustrophobia simulator and a virtual reality height experience.
📍 Location & How to Get There
- Address: 15 Science Centre Road, Singapore 609081
- By MRT & Bus: Take the East-West Line (Green) to Jurong East MRT Station, then board bus 66 or 335 to the Science Centre.
- By Taxi/Car: About 25 minutes from central Singapore; parking is available on-site.
⏳ How Much Time to Spend There
A half-day visit (4–5 hours) is recommended to explore most of the exhibits and outdoor areas. For a more relaxed experience, plan for a full day.
🌟 Local Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s a lot of walking. Bring extra clothes for kids if they plan to play in the outdoor Waterworks area.
7. Sentosa Island: Singapore's Ultimate Family Playground
Once a military fortress, Sentosa Island has transformed into Singapore’s premier family entertainment hub, featuring beaches, theme parks, adventure sports, and world-class attractions. Whether you’re looking for thrills, relaxation, or educational experiences, Sentosa has it all!
Must-Try Attractions for Kids
🏄♂️ Adventure Cove Waterpark
A tropical water paradise featuring Southeast Asia’s first hydro-magnetic coaster, thrilling water slides, a lazy river, and a snorkeling lagoon with tropical fish.
🎭 Trick Eye Museum
A unique optical illusion museum, where kids can interact with 3D art pieces to create fun and creative photo opportunities.
🌿 Mega Adventure Park
An adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventure park, featuring zip lines, obstacle courses, and bungee jumping, perfect for adventurous families.
🛷 Sentosa Luge & Skyride
Race down a 650-meter-long track in a gravity-powered luge cart, then take the Skyride chairlift back up while enjoying breathtaking island views.
🌴 Palawan Beach & Kids' Play Area
A calm, family-friendly beach with shallow waters, playgrounds, and suspension bridges, offering a relaxing break from all the adventure.
📍 Location & How to Get There
- By MRT: Take the North-East Line (Purple) or Circle Line (Yellow) to HarbourFront MRT Station, then board the Sentosa Express Monorail.
- By Cable Car: Take the Singapore Cable Car from Mount Faber or HarbourFront Tower 2.
⏳ How Much Time to Spend There
Dedicate a full day to enjoy multiple attractions, or choose half a day for specific activities like the beach or adventure park.
🌟 Local Tip
Buy Sentosa Fun Passes online to save money on multiple attractions. Visit on weekdays for shorter queues and a more relaxing experience.
8. Orchard Road: A Shopping & Entertainment Wonderland
Stretching 2.2 kilometers, Orchard Road is Singapore’s shopping paradise, packed with luxury boutiques, family-friendly malls, and entertainment spots. Beyond shopping, kids can enjoy interactive toy stores, fun cafes, and unique play zones.
Must-Try Attractions for Kids
🏢 Ion Orchard Mall
A futuristic shopping mall with luxury brands, kid-friendly stores, and a stunning rooftop observation deck offering panoramic city views.
🎠 Toys "R" Us at Forum The Shopping Mall
A massive toy store featuring the latest toys, interactive play zones, and a dedicated section for collectible figurines and board games.
🍦 Charlie Brown Café
A Peanuts-themed café, serving delicious desserts, milkshakes, and sandwiches, featuring Snoopy and friends as part of the cozy decor.
🏀 Timezone Arcade at 313@Somerset
A huge arcade and gaming center, offering a mix of virtual reality games, carnival-style activities, and racing simulators.
🎶 Street Performers & Outdoor Entertainment
Catch live street performances, music acts, and talented buskers along Orchard Road, providing fun entertainment for the whole family.
📍 Location & How to Get There
- By MRT: Take the North-South Line (Red) to Orchard MRT Station.
- By Bus: Multiple bus routes run along Orchard Road, including 36, 111, and 123.
⏳ How Much Time to Spend There
Spend 2–3 hours exploring malls and entertainment spots, or half a day if you want to include dining and play areas.
🌟 Local Tip
Visit in the evening when the street lights up beautifully, and check out Christmas decorations during the holiday season for a magical experience.
9. Hawker Centers: A Culinary Adventure for Families
Singapore’s hawker centers are vibrant food courts offering authentic local dishes at affordable prices. Perfect for families, these open-air dining hubs serve delicious street food in a casual setting.
Must-Try Dishes for Kids
🍚 Hainanese Chicken Rice
A kid-friendly, mild-flavored dish, featuring tender poached chicken, fragrant rice, and a tasty ginger-soy sauce dip.
🍢 Satay Skewers
Grilled chicken, beef, or lamb skewers, served with a sweet peanut sauce, making them an easy and fun finger food for kids.
🍜 Laksa (Mild Version)
A creamy coconut noodle soup with shrimp and fish cakes, available in a less spicy version for younger children.
🥞 Kaya Toast & Soft-Boiled Eggs
A classic Singaporean breakfast, featuring toasted bread with kaya (coconut jam), served with soft-boiled eggs and soy sauce.
🍧 Ice Kachang
A colorful shaved ice dessert, topped with syrups, jelly, red beans, and sweet corn, perfect for cooling down in Singapore’s tropical heat.
📍 Best Hawker Centers for Families
- Lau Pa Sat (Downtown)
- Maxwell Food Centre (Chinatown)
- Newton Food Centre (Featured in “Crazy Rich Asians”)
⏳ How Much Time to Spend There
Spend 1–2 hours trying different dishes and soaking in the lively hawker culture.
🌟 Local Tip
Look for hawker stalls with long queues—they often serve the best food! Bring cash, as some stalls don’t accept cards.
Singapore is truly a paradise for families, offering an exciting blend of adventure, education, and entertainment for kids of all ages. Whether your little ones are thrill-seekers, animal lovers, or future scientists, the Lion City has something to spark their curiosity and create unforgettable memories. From the futuristic wonders of Gardens by the Bay to the exhilarating rides at Universal Studios Singapore, every moment spent here is an adventure waiting to be discovered.
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