Singapore · Things to do
5 things to do in Singapore with kids
The five best things to do in Singapore with kids are Gardens by the Bay and its Supertrees, the free evening light show at Marina Bay, a beach day on Sentosa, a meal at a hawker centre, and a walk through Chinatown. Everything is on the metro, it is safe and clean, and a long weekend covers all five.
What to do, in order
- 1
Gardens by the Bay
Gardens by the Bay is a waterfront park with the Supertree Grove, a set of tall artificial trees covered in plants. Walking among them is free. The best time is evening, when the trees light up and the heat has eased. Paid extras include the Cloud Forest and Flower Dome conservatories, which are air conditioned and good for hot or wet afternoons, and the skyway between the trees. A light and music show runs at the Supertrees on most evenings, so check the current schedule.
- 2
Marina Bay Sands light show
A free light and water show plays on the waterfront outside the Marina Bay Sands complex each evening, with lasers and projections set to music. It is short, around fifteen minutes, so it suits children. Arrive a little early to get a spot at the Event Plaza or along the promenade, and combine it with a walk past the Merlion and around the bay. The Helix Bridge also gives a good view. After the show, the shopping complex has plenty of food options.
- 3
Sentosa island beaches
Sentosa is a resort island just off the south coast, reached by monorail, cable car or on foot over a boardwalk. Its beaches, including Palawan, Siloso and Tanjong, have calm, sheltered water that suits children and are cleaner than many people expect from a port city. The island also has Universal Studios Singapore and an aquarium, so you can mix beach time and attractions. Go on a weekday morning to avoid crowds, and take sun protection since shade is limited.
- 4
Eat at a hawker centre
Hawker centres are open-air food courts with dozens of stalls, and they are where most Singaporeans eat. Maxwell Food Centre and Lau Pa Sat are well known in the centre, and every neighbourhood has one. Chicken rice, laksa and satay are easy first choices, and most stalls display a hygiene grade. Singaporeans reserve a table by leaving a tissue packet on it, so look for a free table first, then order. Tap water is safe to drink.
- 5
Wander Chinatown
Chinatown is a grid of old shophouses, markets and temples. The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and the Sri Mariamman Temple, the oldest Hindu temple in Singapore, are close together, so you can see both in a short walk. Temples ask visitors to cover shoulders and knees and to remove shoes at the door. Children like the lanterns, the stalls and the food. Come in the morning or late afternoon, and shelter in the covered markets when it rains.
Plan it
- Best time
- Singapore is hot and humid all year, around 30 degrees by day. February to April is generally drier, and November to January is the wettest. Short heavy showers can happen in any month, so plan indoor options.
- How long
- Three to four days covers these five comfortably. Add a day for the zoo, the night safari or the other Sentosa attractions if children want more.
- Getting around
- The MRT metro is fast, clean and air conditioned, and buses cover the gaps. You can tap in with a contactless bank card or a transit card. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are plentiful and inexpensive over short distances.
Good to know
- Carry a light layer. Malls, trains and indoor attractions are strongly air conditioned, and children get cold.
- Plan outdoor sightseeing for morning or after about five in the afternoon. The middle of the day is hot and humid.
- Know the local rules: littering fines are real, and chewing gum sales are restricted.
Frequently asked
Is Singapore good for kids? +
Yes. It is clean, safe and easy to move around, with parks, beaches, a zoo, an aquarium and indoor play options for rainy days. Food is easy for families, and English is widely spoken. Heat and humidity are the main challenge.
How many days do you need in Singapore with kids? +
Three to four days is enough for the main sights, with one day for Sentosa. If you want the zoo, the night safari or a theme park, add one or two days and keep midday for indoor rest.
Is the Marina Bay Sands light show free? +
Yes. The evening light and water show on the waterfront can be watched from the promenade at no cost. Check the schedule for times, and arrive a little before it starts to find a spot with a clear view.
Is tap water safe to drink in Singapore? +
Yes. Tap water meets drinking standards and is safe to drink. Bring a refillable bottle, since the heat means children drink more than usual, and many malls and parks have water fountains.