From visiting theme parks, to sampling world-class cuisines,and shopping, you’ll never run out of things to do in Singapore. But the problem is, many of these activities don’t come cheap. The good news is, if you’re savvy enough, you’ll discover many activities that you can do that won’t blow a hole in your wallet —some of them are even free! Here’s a list to get you started.
Catch A Free Concert
Singapore boasts our very own orchestras, wind bands, and music ensembles, who sometimes perform at public places, so that you and your loved ones can appreciate their talents and enjoy a concert experience for free.
Top Tip: You can catch a free live performance at the Esplanade concourse every evening, and every weekend and public holiday at the Esplanade Outdoor Theatre. What’s more, you get to enjoy the music against the scenic backdrop of Marina Bay!
Take A Hike
Singapore certainly lives up to its name as the “Garden City”. Aside from the many nature parks around the country, there are also hiking trails you can try, offering the dual benefits of exercising and appreciating the country’s flora and fauna. Best of all, many of these are free! Important reminder: Don’t forget to bring mosquito repellent and drink lots of water when hiking!
Top Tip: If you’re a thrill seeker, head to the TreeTop Walk at MacRitchie Reservoir, a 250-metre free-standing suspension bridge that allows you to get a bird’s-eye view of the treetops — and maybe even catch a glimpse of the rare flying lemurs native to the park. New to hiking, or prefer a simpler terrain? Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, which is home to hundreds of animals including migratory birds, has flat and shaded trails, making it ideal for those who are not used to hiking.
Get Your Sweat On
The Health Promotion Board offers a lineup of complimentary fitness classes and sports on different days of the week, as part of its MOVE IT programme.
Top Tip: Depending on your fitness level, you can try yoga, Pilates, or kickboxing, or any of the free classes that are part of the MOVE IT programme. Or if you’d rather go to the gym, head to one of ActiveSG’s gyms, ActiveGYM™, which charges a flat rate of $2.50 per single entry for adults and $1.50 for students or senior citizens.
Go For A Swim Or A Picnic On The Beach
Feeling the heat and just want to take a refreshing dip? Singapore has public swimming pools for everyone. Entrance fees range from $1-$2 for adults, and $0.50-S$1 for children and seniors. Want to relax on the beach? Head to Sentosa’s three beaches where you can swim and sunbathe for free (admission fee may apply, depending on your mode of transport to Sentosa).
Top Tip: If you’re heading to Sentosa’s beaches, avoid the weekends because the area can get pretty crowded. It’s also best to go early, around 8-9am when it’s cooler, and there are fewer people.
Explore Street Art
Aside from iconic buildings and historic districts, Singapore has great street art. Pick a day with good weather and wander around the streets of Tiong Bahru, Haji Lane, Telok Ayer and Joo Chiat.
Go Cycling
Enjoy Singapore’s many beautiful parks and park connectors. Try the 3.5-km Changi Airport Connector, where you and the family can cycle, skate, jog, or walk to and from Jewel Changi Airport and airport terminals. It also connects you to East Coast Park or any point in the Park Connector Network. You can rent bikes for $6/h for kids, $8/h for adults from GoCycling.
Top Tip: Check out Changi Jurassic Mile, Singapore’s largest permanent display of life-sized dinosaurs. Hub & Spoke Cafe offers pay-per-use shower facilities, if you need a quick shower after your cycling adventure.
Go For More Greenery
Where can you find fabulous plants and world-class architecture? At Gardens by the Bay, of course! Home to 1.5 million plants, this attraction is worth visiting again and again, because you probably won’t be able to see everything in one visit. You can wander around the outdoor gardens and SuperTrees for free, but entrance to the Flower Dome or Cloud Forest will set you back $12 for adults, and $8 for children and seniors, while entrance fee for Flower Fantasy costs $10 for adults, $5 for children and seniors.
Top Tip: For a fantastic view of the SuperTrees and the surrounding areas, go up The SuperTrees Observatory ($10/adult; $6/child or senior) and the OCBC Skyway ($8/adult, $5/child or senior). All rates quoted are for Singapore residents.
As with anything involving outdoor exploration, please put on sunscreen, comfortable clothes and appropriate footwear. Bring lots of water for hydration for a day of exploration!
