Free Things To Do In Singapore

The Singapore Botanic Gardens offers a serene retreat with lush greenery, unique tropical plants, and tranquil lakes, perfect for a peaceful walk or picnic. You can explore the Rainforest, Healing Garden, and numerous scenic trails that highlight Singapore’s rich biodiversity. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also home to the famous National Orchid Garden, showcasing over 1,000 species of orchids. Entry is free, and it’s an ideal spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Location: 1 Cluny Road, Singapore

Gardens by the Bay is a stunning futuristic garden with the iconic Supertree Grove, towering structures covered with ferns, orchids, and climbing plants. While some areas are ticketed, you can freely wander through the outdoor gardens and enjoy the spectacular floral displays. Evening visitors can catch the enchanting Garden Rhapsody light and sound show for free. This immersive garden experience is a must-see for its creative landscapes and magical atmosphere.

Location: 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore
When to go there: The Garden Rhapsody light show begins at 7:45 PM and 8:45 PM.

The Buddha Tooth Relic Temple in Chinatown is a majestic four-story temple that houses what is believed to be Buddha's left canine tooth. Visitors can learn about Buddhist beliefs and view intricate statues and relics, including a 3,500 kg stupa made of gold. The temple offers free daily tours where you can delve into fascinating mythologies and stories. It’s a culturally enriching experience and a chance to appreciate Singapore’s Buddhist heritage.

Location: 288 South Bridge Road, Chinatown, Singapore

Marina Bay Sands’ Spectra Light and Water Show is a captivating free light show set against Singapore's iconic skyline. This 15-minute performance combines water fountains, light projections, and sound, creating a mesmerizing visual display every evening. The show takes place at the Event Plaza, allowing visitors to enjoy it from various viewpoints around the bay. It’s an unmissable experience that adds a magical touch to Singapore nights.

Location: Event Plaza at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
When is it: 8:00 PM to 9:00 PM every day.

The Esplanade hosts a variety of free music performances and art events, making it a vibrant cultural hotspot. Visitors can enjoy live concerts by local musicians and catch contemporary dance performances, all without any entry fee. The Esplanade's outdoor theater and concourse stages offer a beautiful riverside setting with a view of Marina Bay. It’s a fantastic place to soak in Singapore’s dynamic arts scene.

Location: 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore
When to go there: A Sunday is essentially a string of free concerts.

Fort Canning Park offers a historic and scenic hike through lush trails, ancient ruins, and colonial structures. Known as the "Forbidden Hill," it has historical significance as a site for ancient Malay kings and British colonial developments. Walk through historical sites like the Battlebox, the 9-Pound Cannon, and the Spice Garden. The park’s scenic paths are free to explore and offer great views of the city.

Location: River Valley Road, Singapore
When to go there: The park is open 24/7

The Southern Ridges is a 10 km network of trails connecting some of Singapore’s best parks, offering stunning views of the city and harbor. The Henderson Waves bridge, a distinctive wave-like structure, is a highlight along the route. Along the trails, you’ll encounter lush forested areas, scenic lookouts, and diverse wildlife. The walk is free and a must for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

Location: Southern Ridges, starts from Mount Faber Park to Kent Ridge Park, Singapore

Singapore’s iconic Merlion statues are scattered across the city, with the most famous one at Merlion Park overlooking Marina Bay. Other Merlions can be found in places like Sentosa and Mount Faber, each with unique backgrounds and settings. Take a Merlion “treasure hunt” and capture photos of all the statues for a memorable experience. This fun activity is free and allows you to explore various parts of the city.

Location: Various locations, including Merlion Park, Sentosa, and Mount Faber

Singapore's East Coast and Sentosa beaches offer relaxing escapes with golden sands, blue waters, and recreational facilities. You can swim, sunbathe, or try activities like beach volleyball or cycling along the coast. Sentosa's Tanjong Beach is a popular spot for picnics and beach games, while East Coast Park is known for its scenic trails and waterfront eateries. It’s a perfect way to unwind without spending much.

Location: East Coast Park and Sentosa Island, Singapore
When to go there: Visit the beach in the noon if you feel like soaking in some sun or in the evening if you want to wander around the pristine waters.

Singapore’s ethnic enclaves—Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam—are vibrant neighborhoods with unique cultural experiences. Stroll through Chinatown’s markets, explore Little India’s colorful temples, and visit Kampong Glam’s Sultan Mosque. Each area offers insights into Singapore’s multicultural heritage, with free festivals and traditional markets to enjoy. These neighborhoods are fantastic for cultural immersion and exploring diverse traditions.

Location: Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Glam, Singapore
When to go there: Any time of the day.

Marina Barrage is a multi-purpose dam with scenic waterfront views, where you can enjoy kite flying, picnics, and panoramic city views. The rooftop garden offers a breezy open space for families and photographers. It’s also an eco-friendly venue with educational tours on Singapore's sustainable water practices. This open green area is a perfect spot for relaxation and leisure activities.

Location: 8 Marina Gardens Drive, Singapore
When to go there: The park is open from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

Haw Par Villa is a unique theme park featuring over 1,000 statues and 150 dioramas depicting Chinese folklore and Confucian beliefs. Known for its "Ten Courts of Hell," the park offers an intriguing glimpse into traditional moral teachings and Chinese mythology. Visitors can explore the vivid scenes for free, making it a fascinating stop for history and culture enthusiasts. The park’s unusual visuals provide an unforgettable cultural experience in Singapore.

Location: 262 Pasir Panjang Road, Singapore

The Singapore City Gallery offers an insightful look at Singapore's urban transformation and future development plans. Through interactive exhibits, you can explore 3D models and multimedia displays showcasing the city’s evolution over the decades. This free gallery is perfect for those interested in architecture, urban planning, and Singapore’s growth as a global city. It’s both educational and visually impressive.

Location: 45 Maxwell Road, The URA Centre, Singapore

ION Orchard’s 56th-floor observatory offers a stunning free view of Singapore’s skyline, including Marina Bay and Orchard Road. The observatory gives visitors a bird's-eye perspective of the bustling city from a comfortable and scenic viewpoint. You can take the elevator up and enjoy the sights, with informative digital displays offering background on prominent landmarks. This is an amazing way to see the city from above without any cost.

Location: 2 Orchard Turn, Orchard Road, Singapore

East Coast Park, a sprawling waterfront park, is a popular spot for picnics, cycling, and beach activities. The park features shaded picnic tables, BBQ pits, and scenic pathways perfect for a day out with family and friends. You can relax by the sea or take a refreshing dip at the beach. It’s a peaceful escape from city life, offering ample outdoor activities for free.

Location: East Coast Parkway, Singapore

The Singapore Really Really Free Market is a unique community event where people can exchange goods, services, and talents at no cost. From clothes to books to free massages, visitors can give or take items freely in the spirit of community sharing. Held periodically, this pop-up market has something for everyone, emphasizing sustainability and community spirit. It’s an unconventional yet fun way to spend a few hours.

Location: Various pop-up locations, Singapore (check listings for updates)

Singapore hosts free movie screenings at various parks, including Marina Bay, where you can enjoy a family-friendly movie outdoors. Bring a blanket and some snacks, and settle in for an entertaining evening under the stars with iconic city views. This event is usually hosted on weekends and showcases popular films for all ages. It’s a wonderful way to relax and enjoy cinema in a beautiful setting.

Location: Various parks and Marina Bay, Singapore
When to go there: Third or fourth weekend of the month. Checkout MovieMob's Facebook page for more details.

Throughout the year, Singapore celebrates a range of vibrant festivals like Chinese New Year, Diwali, and Hari Raya, which are open to the public. These festivals feature colorful street decorations, cultural performances, and traditional markets that are a delight to experience. You can join the celebrations and immerse yourself in the diverse traditions and festivities for free. It's a perfect way to see Singapore’s multicultural heritage come to life.

Location: Various locations depending on the festival
When to go there: You can find information about some of the most vibrant festivals in Singapore here. Keep a check on their social media pages as most information is updated there.

Chek Jawa, a wetland area on Pulau Ubin, is a treasure trove of biodiversity, featuring mangroves, coastal forests, and sandy shores. You can explore the boardwalks and learn about the area's marine and terrestrial ecosystems through information panels. Chek Jawa is also a great spot for birdwatching and viewing marine life during low tide. It’s a fascinating destination for nature lovers and is completely free to visit.

Location: Pulau Ubin, Singapore
When to go there: The park is open from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM.

Gallop Kranji Farm Resort and other small farms around Singapore offer a fun, family-friendly experience where you can interact with farm animals. These farms have ducks, goats, and rabbits, and provide a hands-on experience in an agricultural setting. It’s an educational outing that lets kids and adults alike enjoy the rustic side of Singapore. Entry is generally free, with charges only for special activities.

Location: Various farms around Kranji, Singapore

The Chinese and Japanese Gardens, situated within Jurong Lake Gardens, are serene green spaces with traditional pagodas, bridges, and landscaped gardens. You can stroll along the paths, take in the tranquil views, and enjoy the cultural sculptures inspired by Asian design. It’s a perfect location for quiet reflection, photography, and peaceful walks. Both gardens are free to enter, offering an oasis of calm in Singapore.

Location: 1 Chinese Garden Road, Singapore

Gillman Barracks is an artsy enclave with contemporary galleries showcasing free exhibitions by local and international artists. The barracks host frequent art shows and events where you can view thought-provoking art installations and exhibits. It’s a haven for art lovers interested in modern and experimental works. The galleries are open to the public, making it a wonderful stop for free cultural enrichment.

Location: 9 Lock Road, Singapore

The Treetop Walk in Macritchie Reservoir Park offers an exhilarating view of the rainforest canopy and surrounding wildlife. This 250-meter suspension bridge is an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts, providing sightings of birds, monkeys, and other native wildlife. The 10-kilometer trail leading to the bridge is popular for hiking, offering a refreshing break from the city. Entry is free, with scenic views rewarding those who reach the bridge.

Location: Macritchie Reservoir Park, Singapore
When to go: It is always best to visit it in the mornings and evenings otherwise it’s extremely hot during the afternoons.

The Singapore Symphony Orchestra hosts free concerts at various outdoor venues across the city, including the Singapore Botanic Gardens. Enjoy classical music under the open sky, with performances ranging from symphonies to contemporary compositions. These concerts provide a relaxing and cultural experience, allowing people of all ages to appreciate high-quality music for free. It’s a memorable way to unwind in a beautiful setting.

Location: Various locations, including Singapore Botanic Gardens
When to go: Time is decided by the orchestra. It is advised to reach earlier than the scheduled time to get preferred seats.

Kampong Lorong Buangkok is Singapore’s last surviving village, offering a glimpse into traditional kampong (village) life. Walk around this quaint neighborhood and see traditional wooden houses, which contrast with the modern urban landscape. It’s a nostalgic experience that takes you back to Singapore's pre-development days, making it an interesting historical visit. Exploring the village is free, and it’s a fascinating spot for photography.

Location: Kampong Lorong Buangkok, Singapore
When to go: One can visit the village anytime all around the year.