Gardens by the Bay is an iconic horticultural attraction in Marina Bay, Singapore, that spans 101 hectares. It is best known for the futuristic Supertree Grove, where towering tree-like structures are interconnected by an aerial walkway. Visitors can take an awe-inspiring stroll at the OCBC Skyway, suspended 22 meters above ground, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding flora and cityscape. The park’s climate-controlled conservatories – the Flower Dome and Cloud Forest – showcase exotic plants from Mediterranean and tropical regions. One can expect to spend a couple of hours to half a day marveling at the vast biodiversity and garden artistry on display. Outdoor gardens are free to explore, while entry to the conservatories requires a ticket.
Perched atop the 57th floor of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, the SkyPark offers a stellar 360-degree view of Singapore’s skyline, Marina Bay, and beyond. Visitors can experience the grandeur of the city from this unparalleled vantage point, which also features the world's largest rooftop Infinity Pool, exclusive to hotel guests. For non-staying visitors, a ticket grants access to the observation deck where you can catch a breathtaking sunset or marvel at the vibrant city lights at night. The SkyPark spans three hotel towers and is large enough to park four and a half A380 planes. Visitor's stay usually ranges from an hour to take in the sights and snap some photos to a few hours if they also dine or enjoy a cocktail at the rooftop restaurants and bars.
The ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands is an iconic lotus-inspired building hosting touring exhibitions from around the world. Its galleries combine art, science, culture, and technology to create unique, immersive experiences. The museum features permanent exhibits like Future World, which is a collaboration with teamLab, as well as a rotation of temporary exhibitions exploring various themes. The museum's interactive and digital displays encourage hands-on engagement, making it an educational and fun visit for all ages. Depending on the exhibitions, visitors tend to spend anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours exploring the futuristic space.
The Singapore Flyer is a giant observation wheel that offers a constantly moving panorama of Marina Bay’s skyline, the city’s landmarks, and even neighboring countries of Malaysia and Indonesia on a clear day. The 30-minute ride in one of the 28 air-conditioned capsules ascends to the peak where visitors can enjoy 360-degree views from the 165-meter high wheel. You can opt for a standard ride or indulge in a premium experience with a glass of champagne. The Flyer is not just about the view; it's also about the journey and the sensation of flying high above the bustling city.
No trip to Singapore is complete without a visit to its national icon, the Merlion, a mythical creature with the head of a lion and the body of a fish. Situated at the waterfront in Merlion Park, the statue stands at 8.6 meters tall and is strategically placed to overlook Marina Bay. While the park itself is a small area, it offers excellent photo opportunities with the Merlion as well as panoramic views of the bay and the city skyline. Visitors also enjoy the light shows in the evenings, which illuminate the surrounding area. As a public space, the park is open 24 hours, and guests can spend anywhere from 15 minutes to 1 hour here, making it a quick and delightful stopover on their Marina Bay itinerary.
Also known as 'The Durian', due to its distinctive spiky architecture resembling the tropical fruit, Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay is Singapore's premier performing arts venue. This architectural icon hosts a wide range of performances, including music, dance, theatre, and comedy shows. Inside, visitors can find concert halls, theatres, and studios, alongside art exhibitions and installations. The rooftop terrace offers an additional vantage point for striking views of the Marina Bay waterfront. Visitors might drop by for a free outdoor performance or spend an entire evening enjoying a ticketed event inside the theater. It's a cultural center that can quickly become the highlight of a trip.
The Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade is a 3.5-kilometer walkway that wraps around the bay, offering scenic views coupled with the gentle ocean breeze. It's a popular spot for an evening stroll, jog, or taking in the sparkling skyline. Along the pathway are a variety of restaurants and cafes where you can rest and grab a bite. The promenade also provides unobstructed views of the stunning Spectra - a light and water show. This free-to-public show features a display of water fountains, laser effects, and visual projections choreographed to an orchestral soundtrack. For a relaxed visit, anticipate spending an hour or two soaking in the ambiance and sightseeing.
The Helix Bridge is a striking pedestrian bridge linking Marina Centre with Marina South in the heart of Marina Bay. With its unique helical structure, it is both an engineering marvel and a work of art, providing a picturesque gateway to various attractions in the area. The bridge features four viewing platforms that offer unparallel perspectives of the Singapore skyline and Marina Bay Sands. By day, the Helix Bridge offers a sunny promenade; in the evening, it becomes a romantic spot as it lights up in a vibrant array of illumination. Visitors can cross the bridge as a quick 5 to 10-minute walk or linger longer to enjoy the ambiance and take photos.
The Red Dot Design Museum is a boutique museum that showcases the latest trends in international design with a collection of over 200 award-winning design works. This museum is a hub for those interested in cutting-edge industrial, product, and communication design. Each exhibit is a winner of the Red Ice Design Award, representing the forefront of contemporary design. The museum also incorporates MAAD, the Market of Artists And Designers, where visitors can purchase uniquely designed goods. Visitors typically spend up to an hour in the museum, admiring the creativity and innovation on display.
Spectra is a free nightly outdoor light and water show displayed in the backdrop of Marina Bay Sands. The show features an impressive compilation of water fountains, lasers, projector visuals, and orchestral music set against the canvas of Singapore's night sky. During the 15-minute performance, spectators are taken on a magical journey that symbolizes the growth of Singapore, from a historical port town to a bustling modern metropolis. The best views are from the waterfront promenade or the Event Plaza at Marina Bay Sands. Spectra shows happen twice a night during the week, with a third show added on Fridays and Saturdays.
