As a traveler who has visited Singapore twice, I can attest to the fact that it is an incredible destination that has something to offer to everyone. Singapore is known for its skyscrapers, bustling streets, delicious food, and vibrant culture. But did you know that there are also many free things to do in this beautiful city-state?
Yes, you read that right! You don’t need lots of money to have fun in Singapore! There are plenty of free things to see and do that are totally worth it. I’ll tell you about some of the best free stuff you can do in Singapore, so you can have an amazing trip without spending a lot of money.
Parks and Gardens
Singapore is often called the “Garden City” due to its numerous parks and gardens. The best part? Many of these parks and gardens are free to visit.
Gardens by the Bay
One of the most famous parks in Singapore is Gardens by the Bay. Visitors can explore themed gardens like the Cloud Forest (not free) and Flower Dome (not free). But it is free to explore the incredible Supertree Grove and take in its towering vertical gardens.
The Supertree Grove is particularly impressive, with its “trees” that are covered in plants and light up at night. The gardens also offer stunning views of the city skyline – making it a great spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. For a visual night treat, Garden Rhapsody (Gardens by the Bay light show) is held every night with free admission, at 7:45 pm and 8:45 pm.
Botanic Gardens
The Singapore Botanic Gardens is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This park is free to enter and is home to a vast collection of plants and flowers. One of the highlights of the park is the National Orchid Garden, which has over 1,000 species and 2,000 hybrids of orchids on display.
It’s a great place to visit early in the morning as the park opens at 5 am and the light is perfect for capturing incredible photos.
Merlion Park
The city’s most recognizable feature is the Merlion, a mythical creature with the head of a lion and body of a fish. This statue has become an iconic symbol of Singapore and it can be found at the waterfront near Marina Bay.
When we visited, there were so many tourists visiting the park to take pictures of this famous symbol. There are also food stalls near it so you can grab a bite to eat and enjoy the view of Marina Bay.
Cultural Enclaves
Singapore is a melting pot of cultures, with a diverse mix of people from all over the world. This cultural diversity is reflected in the many ethnic enclaves that can be found throughout the city. These neighborhoods are not only a great way to experience different cultures. But, they also offer a glimpse into Singapore’s rich history.
Chinatown
Chinatown is a lively area where many Chinese people live in Singapore. There are famous places like the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and the Sri Mariamman Temple. You can also go to busy markets in Chinatown to buy things like gifts or traditional Chinese medicine.
Little India
Little India is another fun neighborhood in Singapore that has lots of colorful sari shops. There also also yummy Indian restaurants, and fancy Hindu temples. You can visit the famous Mustafa Centre, a mall that’s open 24 hours a day and sells things like jewelry, electronics, and spices. You can also check out the Sri Veeramakaliamman Temple, which is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Singapore. See also the cool street art around Serangoon Road for free.
Kampong Glam
For a taste of the Malay culture, head over to Kampong Glam. Kampong Glam is known for its hip cafes, trendy boutiques, and street art. This historic neighborhood is the heart of Singapore’s Malay community and is home to the beautiful Sultan Mosque.
You can also find here Haji Lane on Arab Street. This narrow lane is lined with colorful shophouses that are filled with quirky boutiques, hip cafes, and street art. It’s a great place to wander and explore, and you’ll find many hidden gems tucked away in this charming alleyway. However, the stops open late around 11am so it’s best to come after that. But for a morning quiet walk, it’s a great spot.
Be sure to try the delicious Middle Eastern cuisine that can be found in Arab Street. From shawarmas to falafels to baklavas, there’s a wide variety of tasty treats to try.
Museums and Galleries
The National Museum of Singapore is the country’s oldest museum and it houses a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions. The ‘Singapore History Gallery’, tells the story of Singapore through interactive displays.
The ‘Living Galleries’ explores different aspects of contemporary life in Singapore. The museum also hosts a wide range of workshops, talks, screenings and other events for visitors to enjoy.
The Singapore Art Museum is the best place to see modern and contemporary art from all over the world. They have cool exhibitions like ‘Future World: Where Art Meets Science’ that have interactive art made by modern artists and tech experts.
You can also see a free big light show called ‘Symphony of Light’ in the museum courtyard. The art museum also offers a variety of educational lectures and workshops for visitors to participate in.
Conclusion
Singapore is a city-state that offers a plethora of free activities that are worth exploring. From its beautiful parks and gardens to its vibrant cultural enclaves and world-class museums and galleries, visitors can experience the best of the city without breaking the bank. Singapore’s cultural diversity is evident in the many ethnic neighborhoods that showcase its rich history and traditions.
Whether you are a first-time traveler or a returning visitor, there’s always something new to discover in this beautiful city-state. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore Singapore on a budget!
