Free Things To Do In Singapore
Singapore doesn’t have to cost much. You’d be forgiven for believing that it does, given that dazzling city-state’s reputation for shopping and Michelin-star dining.
But like most global metropolises, there are many things to do in Singapore that are free for those willing to dig beneath the surface and discover some extraordinary cultural, architectural and green spaces.
Whether it’s free parkland, fresh market produce or cultural festivals, Singapore’s most enduring attractions don’t come with a price tag.
Here are our favourite places and experiences that won’t cost you a thing.
Nature and Outdoor Activities
1. Explore the Rail Corridor
Imagine a pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly greenway 24km long, running from Kranji in the northwest to Tanjong Pagar in the southeast. The Rail Corridor will consist of old railway tracks and embankments in parts, scattered trees and shrubbery, bituminous strips and verges, with views of nature, remnants of heritage, and cosy cafes along the way. This is a place where you can flee from the city, and yet remain within it. This is the new Rail Corridor.
2. Visit the Botanic Gardens
More a tropical paradise and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the beautifully landscaped Singapore Botanic Gardens – which ring into their suburbs and even have free access for locals to their National Orchid Garden – offer free spots for paddle-boating on Swan Lake, and the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden (but you don’t have to be escorted by kids). It’s a place to commune with nature, and monitor lizards.
3. Take a Walk at MacRitchie Reservoir
If you are into walking, MacRitchie Reservoir is the nicest place for a long stroll in the city, where the TreeTop Walk and, if you’re patient, a resident or two Malayan colugo (flying lemur), as well as macaque and long-tailed monkeys, will make this a one-stop shop to fulfil all your local wildlife aspirations.
Art and Culture
1. National Gallery Singapore
To get your culture fix, visit the National Gallery Singapore, a temple of Southeast Asian art; citizens and permanent residents are allowed in for free, and with a gargantuan set of artworks on show, you’ll soon forget what you came in for.
2. Singapore Art Museum (SAM)
SAM is home to contemporary art, and if you’re into the contemporary artsy scene, it’s the place to go. Because they have a rotating schedule and occasionally offer free days to the public, it’s a slightly different museum experience every time – like a box of chocolates, you never know what you’re gonna get.
3. Visit Public Art Installations
Singapore’s streets is a large canvas. And they are – the site-specific commissions along the waterfront at Marina Bay Sands; the curious sculptures on Orchard Road and Civic District; what might be the biggest art walk in the world. There is art everywhere and it is free.
Historical Sites
1. Former Ford Factory
Go back to the start in the Former Ford Factory museum, dedicated to the Second World War. It’s here that the British eventually surrendered to the Japanese. It’s a grim but – somehow – essential trip to the past.
2. Kampong Glam
Kampong Glam is a lively Malay heritage district where the spectacular Sultan Mosque and the Malay Heritage Centre lie. It’s a culture trip with a real sense of history and colour.
3. Chinatown Heritage Walk
Walk through Chinatown and its historic district with a heritage centre as well as traditional street markets; old and new make it an interesting place to wander.
Family-Friendly Activities
1. Keppel Centre for Art Education
Another excellent venue for taking young kids out is the Keppel Centre, which is part of an art education facility and has lots of interactive exhibitions and hands-on activities.
2. Admiralty Park
Admiralty Park provides the largest expanse of greenery in north Singapore. With a total of 26 slides and an inclusive playground, Admiralty Park is a sanctuary for the family, equipped with nature trails and play grounds for all age groups.
3. Coastal PlayGrove
Coastal playGrove, with its water play area and the tallest outdoor play structure in the country, offers a perfect venue for kids to let loose while parents chill out, in what used to be the Big Splash area.
Unique Experiences
1. Stargazing at Upper Seletar Reservoir
Stargazers and star walkers, Upper Seletar Reservoir is for you – climb up the imposing Singapore Space Centre’s Rocket Tower for a lifestyle experience not just out of this world but far above it.
2. Sembawang Hot Spring Park
Did you know that Singapore has a natural hot spring? Sembawang Hot Spring Park has foot baths and educational exhibits in the spa area, featuring the history of the spring water. A wonderful way to relax and learn.
3. Changi Jurassic Mile
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Alternatively, there is the Changi Jurassic Mile, a dinosaur park consisting of life-sized models of dinosaurs – great for children and families; in fact, all ages can cycle there.
Events and Festivals
1. National Day Celebrations
Celebrate Singapore’s birthday on 9 August (National Day)! National day celebration! Sing the national day anthem! Eat popcorns! Watch the fireworks! Join the parade! Enjoy yo’ day lah! Happy national day, Singapore!
2. Singapore Night Festival
The Singapore Night Festival turns the city into a fairyland each year, as part of a major arts festival.
Free Things To Do In Singapore
You don’t have to break your wallet to enjoy Singapore.
It’s never been easier to have a good time in the city, what with its leafy public squares and pulsating cultural venues, its architectural highlights and child-friendly attractions, all of them free-of-charge.
Get a health boost, feed your cultural curiosity, or just get the kids out of the house: you can do it all in Singapore – for free.
From hidden places to see to world-famous sights, there is a little bit of everything in this beautiful beach town.
Now, go. Discover some of the best of Singapore, for free!
Check out some of our other related articles and guides below:
- Best Cheap Things to Do in Singapore (2024)
- Best Things to Do in Singapore (2024)
- Best Indoor Activities in Singapore (2024)
- Best Outdoor Activities in Singapore (2024)
- Best Adventurous Things to Do in Singapore (2024)
- Best Fun Things To Do In Singapore (2024)
- Best Recreational Activities in Singapore (2024)
- Best Relaxing Things to Do in Singapore (2024)
- Best Things to Do Alone in Singapore (2024)
- Best Unique Things To Do In Singapore (2024)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you have any questions about free things to do in Singapore, you can refer to the frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the best Free Things To Do In Singapore below:
Are these activities suitable for all ages?
Indeed! Whatever your age: toddler, senior, lover of history, nature or art – there is something to interest you!
Are these activities available year-round?
Yes, most of the above mentioned activity can be enjoyed all year long, but some special occasions like National day Celebrations can just be enjoved on a specific date.
Do I need to book in advance for any of these activities?
These places do not usually require you to book ahead, but check official websites for changes and updates.
Is there any cost involved in these free activities?
All the activities mentioned here are free (the visitor would not need to spend anything). There may, however, be elements that the visitor could pay for, but this is not the main experience of the place.
Can these activities be enjoyed solo or in groups?
Why not? Perfect whether you’re travelling solo or with others, the choice is yours.
